Philadelphia, a city steeped in American history and culture, is renowned as the birthplace of U.S. freedom. Beyond its iconic landmarks and the hallowed Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia boasts a rich, often overlooked history: beer making. The story of Philadelphia and beer is intertwined, dating back to the 1680s.
As the seeds of revolution were sown, taverns sprouted across the city, becoming hubs for discourse and camaraderie. By the mid-20th century, Philadelphia Proper was home to an astonishing 100 breweries, a testament to the city’s love affair with the amber nectar. The tumultuous Prohibition era temporarily dampened the brewing spirit, but the flame was rekindled in the 1980s. Today, Philadelphia’s vibrant local beer scene has earned it the moniker "America’s Beer Drinking City," a title proudly worn.
If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Philadelphia history, and perhaps a unique and inexpensive date idea, look no further than the city’s thriving brewery scene. The following 11 breweries represent the best of what Philadelphia has to offer, each deserving of a visit and, without a doubt, a sample flight or two. Embark on a journey through the flavors and stories of The Top 11 Breweries to Visit in Philadelphia.
1. Urban Village Brewing Company
Nestled in the trendy Northern Liberties neighborhood, Urban Village Brewing Company is a relative newcomer to Philadelphia’s brewing landscape, having opened its doors in 2017. This brewpub has quickly gained a loyal following for its "tank-to-table" craft beers. This means that the beer you’re drinking is as fresh as possible, having travelled directly from the brewing tanks to your glass.
Urban Village’s beer selection is as diverse as the city itself, ranging from robust scotch ales to refreshing hibiscus sour saisons. Complementing the brews are artisan flatbread pizzas, made from scratch and drawing crowds of their own, especially during happy hour. From 5-7 p.m., Monday through Friday, you can indulge in half-price pizzas and $3 beers. As the weather warms, the outdoor lounge beckons with its inviting firepits, perfect for enjoying a pint under the stars.
Address: 1001 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, USA
Phone: +1 267-687-1961
2. Yards Brewing Company
Yards Brewing Company, a name synonymous with Philadelphia beer, has a history rooted in humble beginnings. Originally located in a garage in Manayunk, Yards recently made a significant upgrade, relocating to a sprawling 70,000-square-foot space in Northern Liberties. This massive warehouse-meets-biergarten is a haven for beer lovers.
With 20 beers on tap, primarily English-style ales, Yards offers a taste of tradition with a modern twist. Award-winning chef Jim Burke crafts beer-friendly food to satisfy your hunger, while indoor gaming and an outdoor space with cornhole provide entertainment. Brewery tours are available every 30 minutes for $5 per person, offering a glimpse into the magic behind the brews.
Address: 500 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, USA
Phone: +1 215-525-0175
3. Evil Genius Beer Company
Don’t let the quirky branding and whimsical beer names fool you; Evil Genius Beer Company in Fishtown is serious about its brews. This popular local hangout boasts a cool, lively vibe with exposed brick, indoor and outdoor seating (including comfortable sofas), and a selection of card games to enjoy while you sip.
Evil Genius is known for its off-the-wall beer names like Purple Monkey Dishwasher (a choco-peanut butter porter), #SorryNotSorry (a peach IPA), and You’re Killing Me Smalls (a summer raspberry shandy). The tasting room, affectionately known as "The Lab," features a constantly rotating selection of seasonal brews. The expansive artisanal food menu is equally impressive, offering a range of delectable dishes to complement your beer.
Address: 1727 N Front St, Philadelphia, PA 19122-3203, USA
Phone: +1 215-425-6820
4. Manayunk Brewery and Restaurant
Manayunk Brewery and Restaurant boasts one of the largest outdoor decks in Philadelphia, offering stunning views of the Schuylkill River. This is the perfect spot to enjoy a few pints in the open air. On cooler days, the inside offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Manayunk Brewery crafts a rotating selection of small-batch lagers, porters, IPAs, and more, claiming to have brewed over 600 different beers over the years. The fresh food menu includes a sushi bar and kid-friendly options. The brewery also hosts a variety of daily events and music performances, from Saturday night DJs to live jazz brunch on Sundays.
Address: (Address not provided in the original article)
5. Dock Street Brewery and Restaurant
Dock Street Brewery and Restaurant in West Philadelphia pays homage to the city’s old seaport district, which was once the nation’s largest beer producer in the 1700s. Today, Dock Street Brewery serves up a wide range of beers poured directly from the tanks, ensuring maximum freshness.
Staples like the Rye IPA are always on tap, alongside seasonal favorites such as the Winter Haze pale ale. Brewery tours are offered on Saturdays (2-4 p.m.), with tickets including a pint glass and sticker. Next door, the newly opened cannery and tasting lounge offers light bites and craft cocktails.
Address: 701 S 50th St, Philadelphia, PA 19143, USA
Phone: +1 215-726-2337
6. Second District Brewing
Located in South Philly’s Newbold neighborhood, Second District Brewing is a converted garage-turned-brew-pub with a laid-back atmosphere. During warmer months, the doors open up to the streets, creating an inviting and vibrant space. The interior features a concrete-poured bar and dark wood accents.
Head brewer Ben Potts, a veteran of Tired Hands Brewery and Dogfish Head Brewery, crafts a wide range of beers, including the Bancroft Beer pilsner, Stumpfbier lager, and Resilience IPA. Happy hour (Monday-Friday, 5-7 p.m.) offers $2 off all pints and select food items, many of which are vegetarian- and vegan-friendly.
Address: 1939 S Bancroft St, Philadelphia, PA 19145, USA
Phone: +1 215-575-5900
7. 2nd Story Brewing Co.
After a day of exploring Philadelphia’s historic sites, unwind at 2nd Story Brewing Co., Old City’s only brewery. This establishment prides itself on brewing a variety of quality beers on-site, "handcrafted and handed down" like a good story. True to its name, the brewing magic happens on the second floor of their Chestnut Street location.
2nd Story offers an expansive menu at the downstairs tasting room and restaurant, with dishes like Fondue Fries, Scallops On Scallops, and the Big & Boozy Adult Sundae.
Address: 117 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
Phone: +1 267-314-5770
8. Love City Brewing Company
Housed in a former railway-parts factory in Callowhill, Love City Brewing Company opened in 2018 and has quickly become a popular destination. Love City brews an impressive roster of beers, including their signature Love City Lager and seasonal offerings like Totally Wired Coffee Brown Ale and the banana-flavored Suspect Device Tripel. Flight options are available.
For those who prefer something other than beer, Love City is also known for its hand-crafted cocktails. Entertainment includes puzzles, board games, and darts. Food trucks are often on-site. Designated drivers will appreciate the adjacent parking lot.
Address: 1023 Hamilton St, Philadelphia, PA 19123-3703, USA
Phone: +1 215-398-1900
9. Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
With 16 locations in total, Iron Hill opened its newest location in the heart of Center City in late 2018. They pride themselves on scratch-made beer brewed on-site, such as the White Iron Wit, Pig Iron Porter, and Ore House IPA, and an approachable food menu designed to pair perfectly with their beers.
The brewery’s long bar and numerous booths make it a great place for after-work drinks. It also has a family-friendly restaurant element.
Address: 1150 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
Phone: +1 267-507-7365
10. Goose Island Brewhouse
This Chicago-based brewery opened a transplant location in Philly’s Fishtown neighborhood in 2018. The sizable locale, designed by the same firm that designed the flagship, features a rustic-chic vibe, ample seating, TVs for watching sports, and a huge green space with lawn games.
On tap are 28 Goose Island beers, some of which are Philly specials like the Magic Gardens Pils and Scoop’s Session. The menu of traditional pub fare is also uniquely Philly and locally sourced. Happy hour offers discounted brews and small plates.
Address: 1002 Canal St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, USA
Phone: +1 215-560-8181
11. Crime and Punishment Brewing Co.
A microbrewery inspired by 19th Century Russian literature? Crime and Punishment Brewing Co. serves up distinctive craft beers in Philadelphia’s historic Brewerytown neighborhood. The spot has a clean, industrial feel with Russian/Slavic decor.
The food menu is also right on theme with kielbasa, pierogies, and mushroom stroganoff. Ample metered parking is available on the streets. Visiting The Top 11 Breweries to Visit in Philadelphia is incomplete without this unique brewery.
Address: 2711 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USA
Phone: +1 215-235-2739
This guide to The Top 11 Breweries to Visit in Philadelphia offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant and diverse beer scene. From historic establishments to innovative newcomers, Philadelphia’s breweries offer something for every beer lover. So, raise a glass to the city that helped shape America, one pint at a time!
