Meet the Stars of the 2025 I Heart Pluto Pub Crawl

❤ Dark Sky Brewing Co. 

About

Dark Sky Brewing Co., located in the heart of Flagstaff, AZ, is a craft brewery known for its adventurous and ever-changing beer lineup. Inspired by the city’s designation as the world’s first International Dark Sky Place, the brewery embraces creativity, regularly experimenting with unique ingredients and styles. Since opening in 2014, Dark Sky Brewing has become a local favorite, offering a cozy taproom, a lively beer garden, and a rotating selection of small-batch brews.

Drink: Planet 9 Paloma

Our mouths are watering just looking at this tall glass of fruity flavor. This stellar twist on the classic Paloma recipe is made with Peach Street Distillers Agave, Squirt soda, lime, and a dinosaur gummy. One sip will have you on cloud (or should we say planet?) nine! 

Guest Star: Dr. Gerard van Belle, Astronomer

Dr. Gerard van Belle is an expert in stellar astrophysics, specializing in the study of star sizes, shapes, and atmospheres. As an astronomer at Lowell Observatory, he utilizes cutting-edge interferometry techniques to unlock the secrets of distant suns. His research helps shape our understanding of how stars evolve, making him a key figure in modern observational astronomy.

❤ Hops on Birch

About

Nestled in Flagstaff’s historic downtown area, Hops on Birch was founded in 2012. It was opened with a big vision in mind: to offer some of the best craft beer, wine and service in Arizona. Hops offers unique beers from breweries from across Arizona and the US. They have also always been known for being extremely dog friendly and having a beautiful patio.

Drinks

• Planet X Blue: Blueberry agave wine with a splash of sprite served over ice (Limited; available while supplies last)

• Planet X Red: Watermelon agave wine with a splash of sprite served over ice.

• Son of Saturn: Sparkling wine with a splash of Cran-Cherry juice, served in a champagne flute.

• Vulcan Lager: A crispy, light, brew that makes for easy drinking. Turns your ears pointy! 

Guest Stars: 

• Todd Gonzales, Lowell Education Manager
  

  Todd Gonzales is the Education Manager at Lowell Observatory, dedicated to making space science engaging and accessible for all. Through interactive programs, hands-on activities, and public outreach, he helps bring the wonders of the universe to visitors of all ages. His passion for astronomy education ensures that every guest leaves with a deeper appreciation for the cosmos and the legacy of discovery at Lowell.
  

• Misha Pipe, NAAOP Coordinator 

Misha leads Lowell Observatory’s Native American Astronomy Outreach Program (NAAOP).  Modeled after the Astronomical Society of the Pacific (ASP)’s Project ASTRO, the NAAOP pairs astronomers with elementary and secondary school teachers from several native peoples in Northern Arizona to create a fun and engaging STEM-centric curriculum.

❤ Rendezvous at the Monte Vista Hotel

About

Located in the historic Monte Vista Hotel, Rendezvous blends classic charm with modern mixology. This inviting lounge offers expertly crafted cocktails, locally roasted coffee, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re sipping a morning espresso or an evening old fashioned, Rendezvous delivers a warm and stylish downtown Flagstaff experience!

Drink: Spaceballs!!!

This refreshing, sweet cocktail that includes Midori Japanese Melon Liqueur, Cantaloupe Liqueur, Japanese Vodka, Lychee, Pineapple Juice, Yuzu, Lemon, and a homemade hibiscus-agave syrup, rimmed with fun dip, and completed with edible glitter. Prepare to launch your taste buds into the stratosphere! 

Guest Star: Dr. Anna Engle, Astrophysicist

Dr. Anna Engle is an astrophysicist at Northern Arizona University’s Astrophysical Materials Lab, where she studies the properties of materials in extreme space environments. Her research helps advance our understanding of how dust, gases, and other cosmic materials interact with stellar and planetary systems. By investigating these fundamental components of the universe, Dr. Engle is helping to unlock the secrets of star formation and the evolution of galaxies.

❤ Drinking Horn Meadery

About

Created in small batches using the best ingredients and natural processes, Drinking Horn’s authentic recipes strive to get back to the roots of one of human kind’s earliest libations. On the evening of February 17, this cozy, laid-back venue fit for a viking’s feast will be participating in the Pluto Pub Crawl. Stop by to sample their assortment of flavored meads and mead-based cocktails!

Drink: Sleipnir Fossa

For this custom cocktail (named after Odin’s famous 8-legged steed), the mead masters at Drinking Horn begin with their brilliant gem-red colored Unicorn Blood Mead on the bottom, add a floater of Bluetooth Mead on top, and then rim the glass with nostalgia-inducing Pop Rocks. Drinking Horn will also have live music from 8-10pm during the Pub Crawl.

Guest Star: Peter Knowlton, Research Assistant

Peter has been a research assistant at Lowell since May of 2023. He studies young stars and planet formation, specifically the impact of binary star systems on their protoplanetary disks. He also hosts monthly Astronomy on Tap events at Mother Road Brewery, featuring special guest speakers and trivia. Peter hopes to attend graduate school next year, with the goal of becoming a professional astronomer who prioritizes science communication alongside research. 

❤ Lumberyard Brewing Co. 

About

Housed in one of the last standing buildings of Flagstaff’s Lumber era,  Lumberyard Brewing Company has been brewing award winning beers for people who love to drink it since 2010. With a full menu, large patio, and tons of drink specials and weekly events, Lumberyard Brewing has something for everyone.

Drink: Pluto Yard Jar 

This blue dream is made with vodka, Blue Curacao, peach schnapps, lime juice, grenadine, Starry Lemon Lime soda, and finished off with a sugared rim! Pair it with an out-of-this-world Pluto Burger: a 1/3 lb fresh Burger patty topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, crispy jalapeños, and moon cheese aioli, dusted with jalapeño Cheeto crumbs, lettuce, tomato and onion on a toasted Brioche Bun. Comes with your choice of side!

Guest Star: Dr. Larry Wasserman, Planetary Scientist

Larry is a renowned planetary scientist with a deep expertise in astrometry and the study of small bodies in the solar system. With decades of research at Lowell Observatory, he has contributed to our understanding of asteroids, comets, and Kuiper Belt objects. His passion for discovery and precision in tracking celestial objects has made a lasting impact on planetary science.

❤ The Annex Cocktail Lounge

About

The Annex Cocktail Lounge in Flagstaff, Arizona, is a stylish and cozy spot known for its expertly crafted cocktails and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a great place to relax, the Annex delivers a top-tier drinking experience in the heart of downtown.

Drink: TBA

Guest Star: Jeff Gonyea, Space/STEM Author and Educator

Jeff is a dedicated advocate for science literacy, bringing space exploration to life through his books, outreach, and educational initiatives. His work sparks curiosity and excitement about the universe, making complex concepts accessible to learners of all ages.

❤ Historic Barrel + Bottle House 

About

Historic Barrel + Bottle House is a must-visit for craft beer lovers in Flagstaff. This inviting taproom offers a rotating selection of expertly brewed beers, handcrafted cocktails, and a delicious menu of elevated pub fare. With its rustic-chic ambiance and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to relax with friends and enjoy some of the best drinks in town.

Drink: Pluto Sunset

Fans of easy sipping will love this sunny, refreshing drink! Made with Reposado tequila, acid adjusted orange juice, Cointreau, and grenadine, the Pluto Sunset is sure to be the perfect end to your day.

Guest Star: Dr. Taylor Kutra, Postdoctoral Fellow

Taylor specializes in young binary star systems, using cutting-edge data to explore the origins of planets in these fascinating environments. Taylor’s journey from the cities of Vancouver and Squamish in Canada to the serene mountain town of Flagstaff is as compelling as her research.

❤ Mother Road Brewing Company

About

Mother Road Brewing Co. is a beloved Flagstaff brewery inspired by the spirit of adventure and the historic Route 66. Known for award-winning brews like Tower Station IPA, this community-focused brewery offers a welcoming taproom, delicious craft brews, and a laid-back vibe. As one of our most loyal community partners, Mother Road has produced an original custom craft beer for every year of the I Heart Pluto Festival since the very first one in 2020! 

Drink: Boldly Go – Experimental India Pale Ale 

Boldly Go is not a typical IPA. It is a double IPA brewed with “quadro” triticale, Tropics™-engineered yeast, Abstrax™ Skyfarm Guava, and Alora™ hops. For those less familiar with brewing jargon, Boldly Go is a wonderfully light, easy-to-drink brew with a delicious fruity finish! 

Guest Star: Dr. Jennifer Hanley, Planetary Scientist

Jennifer specializes in the chemistry and atmospheres of icy worlds. Her research explores the extreme conditions of Mars, Europa, and other distant bodies to better understand their potential for habitability. Through laboratory experiments and data analysis, she helps unravel the mysteries of our solar system’s most intriguing destinations.

❤ The McMillan Bar and Kitchen

About

The McMillan offers a vibrant blend of classic comfort food and creative cocktails in the heart of Flagstaff. With a menu that ranges from fresh, seasonal dishes to expertly crafted drinks, this local gem provides a welcoming atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grabbing a bite with friends or enjoying a night out, McMillan’s relaxed vibe and delicious offerings make it a must-visit spot.

Drink: New Horizons

Take your taste buds on a cosmic journey with McMillan’s “New Horizons” cocktail! This vibrant drink features vodka and apricot liqueur, perfectly balanced with fresh lemon and agave. The addition of blueberry and butterfly pea flower tea pearls gives it a stunning, otherworldly twist, making each sip as visually striking as it is delicious. Cheers to new adventures—and New Horizons!

Guest Star: Dr. Tyler Richie-Yowell

Dr. Richey-Yowell joined Lowell Observatory in 2022 as a postdoctoral researcher, focusing on the early evolution of low-mass stars—those smaller than our Sun—and their impact on orbiting planets. Using both ground- and space-based instruments in the UV, optical, and infrared, she studies the complex atmospheres of stars and the potential for habitable exoplanets. With the 4.3-meter Lowell Discovery Telescope, Dr. Richey-Yowell is unraveling the mysteries of stellar evolution to deepen our understanding of these fascinating systems.