After returning home from a military deployment, 28-year-old Todd Baldwin found himself contemplating his next moves. His desk job left him feeling unfulfilled and he wanted a change. He brewed beer as a hobby and loved the process.
Baldwin decided to open a brewery.
Making it Happen
With the location selected, all he needed was a loan for $250,000. That proved difficult, as loan officers weren’t comfortable giving that kind of money to someone his age. Determined, Baldwin opened several credit card accounts and within a few days, he had maxed them all out to secure his project.
On July 4, 2014, Baldwin opened his 4,000-square-foot brewery. He named it Red Leg as a nod to the field artillery soldiers who wore red stripes on the leg of their uniforms during the Civil War.
All the Right Moves
Over the next decade, Baldwin made several smart business moves that helped set him apart. His was the first brewery in Colorado Springs to can its beer. He also curated a community-centered atmosphere that drew people to the establishment.
During the pandemic, Red Leg Brewing Company was well-positioned to get through the shutdown. Because its beer came in cans, Red Leg was easily able to transition to a to-go system of operation. Baldwin didn’t lay off a single employee.
Bigger and Better
When Colorado Springs loosened zoning restrictions for breweries, Baldwin purchased land near the Garden of Gods. He procured a loan for $10 million and set about designing and building a facility unlike anything in the Colorado Springs area.
In July of 2021, Red Leg Brewing opened a 2 ½-acre multipurpose complex. In the center is the 14,000-square foot brewery with 20 rotating taps that include its award-winning beer along with guest taps. There is also an expansive rooftop deck with views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range.
The outdoor space includes a large beer garden complete with long tables, outdoor games, and a stage for live music events or movies. If you find yourself hungry, there are five on-site dining options housed in shipping containers. There are also shipping containers housing a cocktail bar and a bike shop with rentals.
Fun for Everyone
As a father himself, it was important to Baldwin that his facility was family-friendly. There are several non-alcoholic beverage choices, along with kid-friendly food options. It is also a dog-friendly establishment. Make sure to read the kid and pet policies before your visit.
“We are in the business of creating memories for people and we’re very proud of that,” Baldwin says.
Red Leg is much more than just a brewery. Their philosophy is Where Community & Culture Meet and they go above and beyond to ensure that locals and tourists alike have an enjoyable experience. They host weekly events such as live music, movie nights, makers markets and seasonal experiences.
Philanthropy
Baldwin is passionate about giving back to his community. Red Leg hosts fundraisers, supports several charities, and has given back over $100,000 to help the community thrive. This generous spirit is just one of the many ways that Red Leg shows its love and appreciation for our great city.
Website: https://redlegbrewing.com/
Facebook + Instagram: @RedLegBrewCo
