3-Day Itinerary for Exploring Pennsylvania’s Craft Breweries

Pennsylvania boasts one of the most diverse and rich craft beer scenes in the country. Whether you’re in the urban hubs of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh or enjoying the scenic charm of Lancaster and Hershey, this 3-day itinerary will guide you through some of the best breweries in the state. Get ready to explore iconic beers, discover hidden gems, and experience Pennsylvania’s dynamic beer culture.

Day 1: Philadelphia Brewery Tour

Morning: Arrival and First Brewery Visit

• Arrival: Arrive in Philadelphia and check into your hotel. Consider staying at The Logan Philadelphia or The Kimpton Hotel Monaco for easy access to Philadelphia’s top breweries.
• Brewery Visit: Start your brewery tour at Philadelphia Brewing Company.
  • Location: 2440 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125
  • Experience: Begin your tour with the smooth Kenzinger Ale and the Belgian-style Walt Wit. Philadelphia Brewing Company embodies the spirit of the city with its diverse selection of craft beers.
  • Philadelphia Brewing Company Website

Lunch: Local Dining

• Location: Head to The Old Eagle Tavern in Manayunk for hearty pub fare paired with local brews. It’s a cozy spot to enjoy lunch after your first stop.
  • Location: 1709 Shawmont Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19128

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

• Brewery Visit: Visit Yards Brewing Company.

  • Location: 500 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
  • Experience: Known for its Brawler Pale Ale and Philadelphia Pale Ale, Yards is a great place to taste classic American-style beers in a fun and laid-back environment.
  • Yards Brewing Company Website

• Brewery Visit: Head to Dock Street Brewery.

  • Location: 701 E. Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147
  • Experience: A local favorite in South Philly, Dock Street offers a great selection of IPAs and seasonal brews. Their Dock Street Pilsner and Oktoberfest Lager are must-try beers.
  • Dock Street Brewery Website

Evening: Dinner and Entertainment

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Foodery for some fresh food and local beer pairings.

  • Location: 837 N. 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
  • The Foodery Website

• Entertainment: After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife around Fishtown, a neighborhood known for its craft beer bars, live music, and unique pubs.

Day 2: Lancaster and Hershey Brewery Tour

Morning: Travel to Lancaster

• Travel: Drive from Philadelphia to Lancaster (approximately 1.5 hours).
• Brewery Visit: Start your Lancaster brewery tour at Lancaster Brewing Company.
  • Location: 302 N. Plum St, Lancaster, PA 17602
  • Experience: Enjoy their Shady Lane Pale Ale and the seasonal Harvest Ale. Lancaster Brewing Company is known for its traditional German-style lagers and hearty ales.
  • Lancaster Brewing Company Website

Lunch: Local Dining

• Location: Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Grain & Vine in downtown Lancaster. They offer a great selection of craft beer and locally inspired dishes.
  • Location: 210 N. Queen St, Lancaster, PA 17603

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

• Brewery Visit: Visit Weyerbacher Brewing in Easton, PA (on your way to Hershey).

  • Location: 905 Line St, Easton, PA 18042
  • Experience: Known for its bold flavors and high-alcohol beers, Weyerbacher’s Imperial Stout and Dublin Stout are favorites.
  • Weyerbacher Brewing Website

• Brewery Visit: Head to Troegs Independent Brewing in Hershey.

  • Location: 200 E. Hershey Park Drive, Hershey, PA 17033
  • Experience: Visit this Hershey-area brewery known for its Nugget Nectar IPA and Jubelale. Troegs is celebrated for its innovative and balanced brews.
  • Troegs Independent Brewing Website

Evening: Dinner and Relaxation

• Dinner: Dine at The Hershey Pantry, a cozy spot for fresh food paired with Troegs’ delicious beers.

  • Location: 801 E. Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033
  • The Hershey Pantry Website

• Relaxation: Take a stroll through the scenic town of Hershey, famous for its chocolate and relaxing vibe.

Day 3: Pittsburgh Brewery Tour

Pennsylvania Wines & Wineries-River along foliage lit bank

Morning: Travel to Pittsburgh

• Travel: Drive from Hershey to Pittsburgh (approximately 3 hours).
• Brewery Visit: Start your Pittsburgh brewery tour at Allegheny City Brewing.
  • Location: 507 Foreland St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
  • Experience: Enjoy a selection of well-balanced and innovative beers, including Aviator IPA and Ghost City Pale Ale.
  • Allegheny City Brewing Website

Lunch: Local Dining

• Location: Head to Penn Brewery, an iconic brewery in Pittsburgh offering classic German-style brews.
  • Location: 800 Vinial St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
  • Penn Brewery Website

Afternoon: Brewery Visits

• Brewery Visit: Visit East End Brewing Company for a variety of locally inspired ales.

  • Location: 147 Julius St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
  • Experience: Try their Big Hop IPA and seasonal brews while exploring their brewery in Pittsburgh’s historic district.
  • East End Brewing Company Website

• Brewery Visit: Stop by Voodoo Brewing Company for some eclectic and experimental brews.

  • Location: 205 E. 9th Ave, Homestead, PA 15120
  • Experience: Voodoo’s beers, like the Voodoo Love Child IPA, are known for their bold flavors and creative ingredients.
  • Voodoo Brewing Company Website

Evening: Dinner and Entertainment

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Butcher and the Rye, a trendy restaurant known for its unique menu and great beer selection.

  • Location: 212 6th St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
  • Butcher and the Rye Website

• Entertainment: Wrap up your brewery tour by checking out Pittsburgh’s nightlife, including craft beer bars and live music venues like The Spirit Lounge.

  • The Spirit Lounge Website

This 3-day itinerary will take you through some of Pennsylvania’s finest breweries, allowing you to experience the diverse range of flavors and innovative styles the state has to offer. From the vibrant urban brewery scene in Philadelphia to the tranquil countryside of Lancaster, and finally the historic beers of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is the perfect destination for any craft beer enthusiast. Enjoy your craft beer adventure in the Keystone State!

While you’re in Pennsylvania exploring its amazing craft beer scene, there’s no shortage of fun things to do, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and vibrant nightlife. Here’s a guide to some of the best activities you can enjoy while in the Keystone State:

Weddings in Pennsylvania-City on the river

Outdoor Activities

1. Hike in the Pocono Mountains

• Description: The Pocono Mountains offer some of Pennsylvania’s best hiking trails, including those at Hickory Run State Park and Lehigh Gorge State Park. Enjoy the scenic beauty of waterfalls, forested trails, and river views.
• Website: Pocono Mountains

2. Explore the Amish Country in Lancaster

• Description: Take a scenic drive or horse-drawn buggy tour through Lancaster County to experience the quiet charm of the Amish culture. Visit markets, local farms, and quaint villages for a taste of Pennsylvania’s rural life.
• Website: Lancaster County Tourism

3. Visit the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon

• Description: Located in the Tioga County area, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon offers stunning vistas, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation activities. It’s a hidden gem for nature lovers.
• Website: Pennsylvania Grand Canyon

Sports and Recreation

4. Catch a Philadelphia Phillies Game

• Description: If you’re in Philadelphia, head to Citizens Bank Park for a Philadelphia Phillies baseball game. The city’s baseball atmosphere is electric, with great food, drinks, and an exciting crowd.
• Website: Philadelphia Phillies

5. Skiing and Snowboarding in the Poconos

• Description: During the winter months, the Poconos offer top-tier skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Camelback Mountain and Blue Mountain.
• Website: Camelback Mountain

6. Attend a Pittsburgh Steelers Game

• Description: If you’re in Pittsburgh, the atmosphere at a Pittsburgh Steelers football game at Heinz Field is incredible. The fans are known for their passion, and the energy at the stadium is palpable.
• Website: Pittsburgh Steelers

Cultural and Artistic Experiences

7. Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art

• Description: One of the most famous museums in the country, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is home to thousands of works of art, including the iconic Rocky Steps where you can take a photo in front of the museum.
• Website: Philadelphia Museum of Art

8. Explore the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall

• Description: Take a tour of Independence Hall and see the iconic Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, two of America’s most important historical landmarks.
• Website: Independence National Historical Park

9. Tour the Gettysburg National Military Park

• Description: History buffs can visit the Gettysburg National Military Park to learn about one of the most significant battles of the American Civil War. The site offers guided tours and educational exhibits.
• Website: Gettysburg National Military Park

Food and Drink Experiences

10. Enjoy a Craft Beer Tour in Philadelphia

• Description: Explore Philadelphia’s vibrant craft beer scene, home to some of the country’s best beer bars and breweries. Consider joining a local brewery tour to sample a variety of beers and learn about the city’s brewing history.
• Website: Philly Beer Tours

11. Taste Pennsylvania Dutch Cuisine

• Description: When in Lancaster, enjoy some delicious Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, including dishes like shoofly pie, scrapple, and potpie. Visit local markets and restaurants for an authentic experience.
• Website: Lancaster Dining

12. Visit the Hershey Chocolate World

• Description: Take a fun trip to Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey, PA. The experience includes interactive exhibits, chocolate-making demonstrations, and plenty of chocolate to taste and purchase.
• Website: Hershey Chocolate World

Relaxation and Sightseeing

13. Cruise on Lake Erie

• Description: Spend a relaxing afternoon on Lake Erie with a scenic boat tour. Whether you enjoy a ferry ride or rent a boat, this is a peaceful way to take in the natural beauty of the area.
• Website: Lake Erie Cruises

14. Wander Through the Longwood Gardens

• Description: One of the country’s most beautiful botanical gardens, Longwood Gardens offers peaceful paths, breathtaking floral displays, and stunning fountains, making it a perfect place to unwind.
• Website: Longwood Gardens

Beers & Breweries in Pennsylvania-Flowered walkway

Pennsylvania offers a diverse range of activities for all types of visitors. Whether you’re hiking in the Pocono Mountains, visiting historical sites like Independence Hall, enjoying sports in Philadelphia, or sampling craft beer at local breweries, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do. So, make the most of your visit by exploring the state’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and vibrant food and drink scene!

1. Valley Forge Beer and Cider Festival

• Date: December 4, 2024
• Location: Oaks, PA
• Details: This festival features a variety of beers, ciders, and wines, along with food trucks and live entertainment. Attendees can participate in an ugly sweater contest and enjoy a meet-and-greet with Santa.
  PA Bucket List

2. Kennett Brewfest Winterfest

• Date: February 22, 2025
• Location: Kennett Square, PA
• Details: While not in December, this upcoming festival offers unlimited tastings from various breweries, live music, and food vendors. Early bird pricing is available through December 31, 2024.
  Kennett Brewfest

For a comprehensive list of beer festivals in Pennsylvania, you can visit BeerFests.com. Additionally, Festival Guides and Reviews provides a detailed guide to festivals across the state.

Please note that event details are subject to change; it’s advisable to check the official websites for the most current information.