Philadelphia Breweries

From the mid-19th through the early 20th century, more than 90 breweries operated in Philadelphia proper, and another 100 were used in the city's environs. One area northwest of Philly, located on the banks of the Schuylkill River near the Girard Avenue Bridge, became known as Brewerytown. As Brewerytown grew, area producers of German-style beers and American lagers expanded into the nearby Kensington and Fishtown neighborhoods and beyond.

The brewery boom ended in 1920 when Prohibition brought on the decline—and near demise—of virtually all of Philadelphia's beer producers. Most of them remained shuttered beyond the repeal of Prohibition in 1933.

Craft breweries have reclaimed the region's reputation by brewing some of the world's best beer. Special designations from the national press include Philadelphia's appearance in Wine Enthusiast's "Five Best Beer Cities," GQ's "The 5 Best Beer Cities in America," and Frommer's "World's Best Cities for Beer."

The 10-day Philly Beer Week is the country's most significant beer week. Visitors can tour the facilities and sample the beer by following the "Breweries, Brewpubs, and Craft Beer Trail of Greater Philadelphia." Available on visitphilly.com, the self-guided trail features about 40 regional breweries and tasting rooms. In addition to experiencing the breweries themselves, beer lovers can walk into the hundreds of bars that keep local brews stocked and on tap or partake in the brew-focused events that fill the calendar.

Philly's Beer Scene: A Guide to Must-Visit Breweries

Philadelphia's craft beer scene thrives, with diverse breweries offering innovative brews and unique experiences. Here are some must-visit spots for beer enthusiasts:

Crime and Punishment Brewing Co.

• Location: Brewerytown
• Vibe: This unique brewpub is housed in a former police station and embraces a Russian literary theme.
• Must-Try: Their experimental beers, like the Rasputin Imperial Stout or the Crime & Punishment IPA, are always a hit. Pair them with hearty Russian-inspired fare for a truly memorable experience.

Dock Street Brewery and Restaurant

• Location: West Philadelphia
• Vibe: Housed in an old firehouse, Dock Street offers a cozy and eclectic atmosphere, perfect for enjoying wood-fired pizza and a cold brew.
• Must-Try: Their diverse selection includes traditional ales and experimental styles like the Bubbly Wit or the Spanglish Fly. Don't miss their weekly movie nights!

Manayunk Brewery

• Location: Manayunk
• Vibe: This canal-side brewpub offers a lively atmosphere and beautiful views, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists.
• Must-Try: Their constantly rotating tap list ensures there's always something new to discover. Pair your beer with stone-oven pizza, sushi, or other delicious menu items.

Philadelphia Brewing Company (PBC)

• Location: Kensington
• Vibe: PBC is housed in a historic brewery building, offering a glimpse into Philadelphia's rich brewing history.
• Must-Try: Take a Saturday tour to learn about the brewing process and sample their classic beers like Kenzinger or Walt Wit.

Yards Brewing Company

• Location: Spring Garden
• Vibe: Yards' spacious tasting room is a hub for beer lovers, offering a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of English-inspired ales.
• Must-Try: Their flagship Brawler Pugilist Style Ale has seasonal offerings like the Philly Pale Ale or the Love Stout.

Free Will Brewing Company

• Location: Perkasie
• Vibe: Free Will has a modern, industrial-chic vibe and is known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff.
• Must-Try: Sour beer fans won't want to miss their innovative creations, while those who prefer traditional styles will also find plenty to love.

Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company

• Location: Croydon
• Vibe: This award-winning brewery boasts a relaxed and inviting taproom, perfect for sampling their creative and flavorful beers.
• Must-Try: Their County Line IPA and Tribute Belgian Tripel are fan favorites, and their seasonal offerings always impress.

Victory Brewing Company

• Location: Multiple locations throughout the Philadelphia area
• Vibe: Each Victory location has its unique atmosphere, but all offer a welcoming environment for enjoying their well-loved beers.
• Must-Try: Their HopDevil IPA is a classic, and their Golden Monkey Belgian Tripel is a delicious treat.

No matter your taste in beer, you're sure to find something.

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