The Beer Scene in Lancaster, PA, is Worth a Visit

Lancaster Brewing Company, PA.Photo by Sara Melissa Frost

There are several breweries spread throughout Lancaster County, PA, and brewing goes way back in this part of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Brewing in Lancaster originated with the region’s original British settlers in the early 1700s through the introduction of rustic, flavorful ales brewed in the back rooms of inns and taverns. German immigrants later introduced lager style brewing, building a thriving industry that, by 1810, produced over 200,000 barrels of beer annually. This accounted for 7 percent of all beer brewed in the United States.

Today, Lancaster is a hot spot for beer enthusiasts, and below are a few of the many places you can visit to get your beer, whether you're into IPAs, lagers, or pilsners.

1. Lancaster Brewing Company

Inspired by 300 years of local brewing history, the Lancaster Brewing Company is proud to brew in the heart of Lancaster County, alongside scores of old-world craftsmen, independent farmers, working the more than 5,300 local farms, and their Amish neighbors. You can also get a guided tour of their brewery. Lancaster Brewing Company has three locations.

Popular beers: Double Chocolate Milk Stout, Hop Hog IPA, Lancaster Lager

Address: 302 N Plum St, Lancaster, PA 17602

2. Spring House Brewing

This spot in downtown Lancaster is featuring a rotating lineup of Spring House brews, plus the occasional visitor. They also own The Taproom, a spot offering brewery-fresh taste in the heart of the city. Taps change often.

In addition to housing their brewery operations, the antique warehouse also features a flagship taproom and butchery, a retro arcade, and a dog-friendly patio.

Seasonal beers: Tentacles - Cherry Hazy IPA, Braaaiins! - Pumpkin Ale, Robots Attack! - Pineapple Hazy IPA

Address: 209 Hazel Street Lancaster, PA 17603, 25 W King St, Lancaster, PA 17603 (Taproom)

3. Our Town Brewery

This new addition to the Lancaster beer scene was founded last year with a simple mission; to serve the best-tasting beer, with fresh, thoughtful food to compliment it. All in a setting that is dynamic but also comfy. The owners Rob Tarves and Rob Patz found their passion for beer while studying at Penn State University. The two friends are all about using fresh, innovative beer and a thoughtful food program to connect people in Lancaster through Our Town Brewery.

Popular beers: Pocketful of Songs, Pull up a Chair, Sidewalk Cafe, Ain't A Cloud In The Sky

Address: 252 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA 17603

4. The Beer Wall on Prince

The Beer Wall on Prince Street, Lancaster, PAPhoto by Sara Melissa Frost

Another newbie to the beer scene is Beer Wall. Located in the heart of Downtown Lancaster, Beer Wall On Prince wants to add to the rich restaurant community already established in the area. They opened in November 2020, and here you can tap the beer yourself through their self-service taps. Their motto is that craft beer is about collaboration and not competition. Beer Wall was created from a college project by owner, Josue Matos, and he also has another location in Reading, PA.

Popular beers: Fat Tire, Metric, Summer Shandy, Raspberry Lime Tart Ale

Address: 114 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603

5. Mad Chef Craft Brewing

At Mad Chef Craft Brewing in East Petersburg, the owners pride themselves on being a culinary influence brewery that will feed all your senses with good food, beer, and entertainment. This community spot offers trivia every Monday and other events every Friday. Mad Chef Craft Brewing regularly host live bands as well.

Popular beers: OH Face, Paradiso Saison, The Golden Falcon

Address: 2023 Miller Road East Petersburg, PA 17520

These are only a handful of the options you have when it comes to breweries in Lancaster, PA. With the variety of beer options available in this county, you are sure to find something that will fulfill any craving you might have.

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