An established Upland taproom that justifies crossing the city line — RC's beer map extends west.
This guide covers Rancho Cucamonga, but beer doesn't respect city limits, and Upland — directly west along Foothill — holds an established brewery that's worth the short drive. Last Name Brewing has been at it long enough to be a fixture, which in Inland Empire craft beer terms means it survived the shakeout years that closed lesser taprooms.
Established matters in beer. A brewery that's been pouring for years has dialed-in recipes, a staff that knows the lineup, and a taproom culture that formed on its own rather than being installed. That's a different experience from chasing new openings, and some weeks it's exactly what you want.
The taproom is at 2120 W Airport Dr in Upland. Pair it with Claremont Craft Ales one town further west and the afternoon plans itself.
Nearby & related
Breweries
Claremont Craft Ales
The college town two cities west keeps a brewery worth the trip — the far anchor of a westward beer run.
Breweries
Rowdy's Brew Co.
An independent taproom in the industrial district — where RC's actual beer scene lives.
Breweries
Solorio Brewing Company
An independent brewery with its name on the door, pouring in RC's industrial district — where the real beer scene lives.