The Top 30 Breweries in Massachusetts Ranked

Massachusetts is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries offering a wide range of unique and flavorful brews. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just looking to try something new, this state has a lot to offer. From small-town breweries to larger craft beer producers, Massachusetts has established itself as a destination for anyone who enjoys a good pint. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best breweries in Massachusetts that stand out for their quality, creativity, and commitment to brewing excellence.

Whether you’re in search of a crisp lager, a bold IPA, or something completely different, Massachusetts breweries are known for pushing the boundaries of flavor. Many of these spots offer tours, tastings, and a chance to meet the passionate people behind the beers. So if you’re planning a trip or simply want to know where to find the best brews, this list will help guide you to the top breweries in the state.

#30 – Brewery Silvaticus

Brewery Silvaticus, nestled along the Powwow River in Amesbury, Massachusetts, offers a unique blend of Belgian farmhouse ales and German-style lagers. Housed in a historic mill building, the brewery’s rustic charm is complemented by its commitment to traditional brewing methods and innovative techniques. Patrons can enjoy a variety of beers, from the crisp and refreshing Quintessential German Pilsner to the rich and smooth Oblivion Schwarzbier. The brewery also offers a selection of bottle-conditioned beers, such as the Etymology Saison, showcasing their dedication to authentic styles. With a cozy taproom and an inviting outdoor beer garden, Brewery Silvaticus provides a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts to relish their craft. The brewery’s focus on quality and tradition has earned it a loyal following, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Massachusetts’ craft beer scene.

#29 – Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co.

Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co., founded in 2015, has quickly become a staple in Massachusetts’ craft beer scene. With locations in Waltham and Fenway, the brewery offers a diverse range of beers that cater to various tastes. Their flagship Cloud Candy New England IPA is known for its tropical fruit notes and hazy appearance, making it a favorite among IPA enthusiasts. Other popular offerings include the Cosmic Distortion double IPA, bursting with juicy flavors, and the Mango Lassi sour IPA, which combines fruitiness with a tart finish. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their rotating seasonal brews and limited-edition releases. Beyond beer, Mighty Squirrel fosters a sense of community by hosting events and collaborating with local businesses. Whether you’re a local or visiting, a trip to one of their taprooms promises a memorable experience filled with great beer and good company.

#28 – Wachusett Brewing Company

Wachusett Brewing Company, established in 1994, is a cornerstone of Massachusetts’ craft beer community. Located in Westminster, the brewery has built a reputation for producing a diverse range of beers that cater to various palates. Their flagship Blueberry Ale, a wheat beer infused with subtle blueberry notes, has become a regional favorite and remains central to their portfolio . In addition to the Blueberry Ale, Wachusett offers a variety of other popular brews. The Green Monsta IPA, with its balanced hop profile, appeals to IPA enthusiasts, while the Wally Juice, a hazy IPA, introduces a twist with its blood orange infusion . The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their expanding lineup, which includes seasonal releases and limited-edition beers. Beyond their core offerings, Wachusett Brewing Company has become a destination for beer lovers, hosting events and fostering a community centered around craft beer appreciation. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their brews, a visit to Wachusett promises a memorable experience.

#27 – Second Wind Brewing Company

Second Wind Brewing Company, located in the heart of historic downtown Plymouth, Massachusetts, has become a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts. Established in 2018, the brewery offers a diverse range of beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing lagers, all brewed on-site. Their flagship Buckshot New England IPA is a standout, known for its hop character and balanced bitterness. The brewery also offers a selection of fruited sours, such as the Power Sour: Ecto Cooler, which combines citrus and berry flavors for a refreshing experience. Beyond the beer, Second Wind Brewing fosters a welcoming atmosphere with its pet-friendly outdoor beer garden and regular events, including live music and food trucks. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Second Wind Brewing provides a memorable experience for all who appreciate quality craft beer.

#26 – Tin Bridge Brewing Co.

Tin Bridge Brewing Co., located in Westfield, Massachusetts, is a family-owned microbrewery known for its creative and flavorful beers. The brewery offers a diverse selection of brews, including the Peanut Butter Porter, a robust porter with peanut butter notes, and the Double Citra, a double New England IPA brewed and dry-hopped with Citra and Galaxy hops. Their Green Machine NEIPA, featuring Columbus, Simcoe, and Citra hops, is another popular choice among patrons. Tin Bridge Brewing Co. also offers unique creations like the Blueberry Graham Cracker Pie, an ale with graham cracker pie crust, cinnamon, vanilla, and blueberry puree, and the Cookies & Cream imperial stout with Oreo and vanilla beans. With a welcoming taproom and a rotating selection of beers on tap, Tin Bridge Brewing Co. provides a memorable experience for craft beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this brewery is worth a visit for its quality brews and friendly atmosphere.

#25 – Cape Cod Beer

Cape Cod Beer, established in 2004 in Hyannis, Massachusetts, stands as the Cape’s original craft brewery. Known for its commitment to quality and community, the brewery offers a range of beers that cater to diverse palates. Their flagship Cape Cod Red is a well-balanced amber ale with caramel and toffee malt notes, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The Beach Blonde Ale, a light-bodied golden ale with a hint of toasted malt, provides a refreshing option for those seeking something crisp. For IPA enthusiasts, the Cape Cod IPA delivers a citrusy hop bite with a subtle malt finish. Seasonal offerings like the Cape Cod Summer, an unfiltered wheat beer with banana and clove flavors, showcase the brewery’s versatility. Beyond the beer, Cape Cod Beer fosters a welcoming atmosphere with its taproom, beer garden, and regular events, making it a must-visit destination for craft beer lovers exploring Massachusetts.

#24 – Buzzards Bay Brewing

Buzzards Bay Brewing, located in Westport, Massachusetts, blends traditional farming with craft brewing. Situated on a 500-acre farm, the brewery emphasizes using local ingredients, including hops and barley grown on-site, to create a range of beers that reflect the region’s character. Their flagship Buzzards Bay IPA offers a balanced profile with notes of citrus and malt, appealing to a broad audience. Other notable selections include the Golden Flounder, a crisp blonde ale, and the Moby D, a traditional Altbier with a smooth finish. The brewery’s commitment to quality and community is evident in their welcoming taproom and outdoor spaces, where visitors can enjoy live music and local food trucks. Buzzards Bay Brewing stands out for its dedication to crafting beers that resonate with both locals and visitors seeking authentic Massachusetts flavors.

#23 – Stone Cow Brewery

Stone Cow Brewery in Barre, Massachusetts, offers a unique blend of craft brewing and farm life. Situated on a working dairy farm, the brewery provides a rustic setting where visitors can enjoy a variety of beers made with locally sourced ingredients. Their selection includes options like the Cows Out Milk Stout, known for its smooth finish, and the Roll in the Hay American IPA, which offers a balanced hop profile. Seasonal brews, such as the Meadow Sweet Strawberry Sour, showcase the brewery’s commitment to using fresh, local produce. The taproom and outdoor seating areas provide a relaxed environment for guests to enjoy their drinks. With its combination of quality beer and a welcoming atmosphere, Stone Cow Brewery stands out as a destination for those exploring Massachusetts’ craft beer offerings.

#22 – Medusa Brewing Company

Medusa Brewing Company, located in Hudson, Massachusetts, is known for its wide range of craft beers and welcoming taproom. Their lineup includes the Laser Cat Imperial IPA, which offers a bold hop profile, and the Soft Machine, a hazy IPA with a smooth finish. For those who prefer lighter options, the Duchovni Pilsner provides a crisp and clean taste. The brewery’s commitment to quality and variety has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Beyond the beer, Medusa Brewing Company hosts events and offers a casual atmosphere for patrons to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or new to craft brews, Medusa Brewing Company offers something for everyone.

#21 – Democracy Brewing

Democracy Brewing, located in downtown Boston, is a worker-owned brewery and pub that opened its doors on July 4, 2018. Their mission is to recreate the traditional public house by brewing quality beer and fostering a sense of community. The brewery offers a variety of beers, including the Worker’s Pint, a light ale, and the Consummate Rioter, an American IPA known for its hop-forward profile. Other selections include the Suffragette pale ale and the 1919 Strike Stout, an oatmeal stout served on nitro. With a rotating selection of 8-10 beers on tap, Democracy Brewing provides options for various tastes. The brewery’s commitment to quality and community has made it a notable spot in Boston’s craft beer scene. Whether you’re a local or visiting the city, Democracy Brewing offers a welcoming environment to enjoy a pint.

#20 – Dorchester Brewing Company

Dorchester Brewing Company, located in Boston’s Dorchester neighborhood, has been a staple in the local craft beer scene since 2016. Known for its diverse range of brews, the brewery offers popular selections like the Outer Limits New England IPA and the Neponset Gold Golden Ale. Seasonal offerings, such as the Beantown Stout Series: Vietnamese Coffee, showcase their commitment to variety and quality. Beyond beer, the brewery features a rooftop beer garden with views of the Boston skyline and even the Museum of Bad Art, providing a unique experience for visitors. With its combination of quality brews and a welcoming atmosphere, Dorchester Brewing Company stands out as a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts in Massachusetts.

#19 – Seven Saws Brewing Company

Seven Saws Brewing Company, based in Holden, Massachusetts, was founded in 2017 by four friends aiming to create a welcoming space centered around quality beer and community. Their flagship brew, Seven, is a New England IPA known for its hazy appearance and citrusy flavor, crafted with Apollo, Citra, Vic Secret, and Simcoe hops. Other notable offerings include Flywheel, a pale ale with hints of watermelon and stone fruit, and Fire Road, a red rye ale featuring a spicy, malty profile with an oak finish. The brewery operates two locations: the main taproom at 112 Industrial Drive in Holden and the SkyDeck Lounge at 603 Pleasant Street in Paxton. Both venues offer a rotating selection of craft beers, wines, hard ciders, and non-alcoholic beverages, along with events like live music and food trucks. Seven Saws Brewing Company stands out for its dedication to crafting diverse beers and fostering a sense of community among patrons.

#18 – Bright Ideas Brewing

Bright Ideas Brewing, located in North Adams, Massachusetts, has been serving craft beer enthusiasts since 2016. Situated on the campus of the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA), the brewery offers a unique setting for visitors. Their beer lineup includes options like the New England Roots IPA, a hazy IPA dry-hopped with Citra and Mosaic hops, and the Quaffable Waffle: Banana, a pastry stout brewed with waffles, bananas, maple syrup, vanilla, cacao nibs, and milk sugar . The taproom is family-friendly and dog-friendly, allowing guests to bring their own food and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere . Regular events, including live music and trivia nights, add to the community vibe . With its commitment to quality beer and a welcoming environment, Bright Ideas Brewing has become a notable spot in Massachusetts’ craft beer scene.

#17 – Coastal Mass. Brewing

Coastal Mass Brewing, based in Beverly, Massachusetts, offers a dynamic craft beer experience. The brewery’s cozy, coastal-inspired taproom is the perfect place to enjoy their small-batch, handcrafted brews. Coastal Mass Brewing’s rotating lineup includes hop-forward New England IPAs, refreshing fruited sours, and more, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Their innovative approach to brewing has earned recognition, including being named one of the best new breweries by USA Today in 2019. With a focus on quality and community, Coastal Mass Brewing offers a relaxed atmosphere for locals and visitors alike to connect and enjoy well-crafted beers. Whether you’re new to the area or a local regular, Coastal Mass Brewing is a great spot to try distinctive brews.

#16 – Long Live Roxbury

Long Live Roxbury is a brewery and taproom located at 152 Hampden Street in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood. As the Boston outpost of Providence’s Long Live Beerworks, it offers a rotating selection of hop-forward beers, crisp pilsners, fruited sours, and rich stouts . The taproom features an open layout with views into the brewing space, creating a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. Guests can enjoy live jazz music every Thursday evening, adding to the lively ambiance . The brewery is open six days a week, offering both in-house pours and beer-to-go. With its commitment to quality beer and community engagement, Long Live Roxbury has become a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts in the area.

#15 – Cisco Brewers

Cisco Brewers, established in 1992 in Nantucket, Massachusetts, is renowned for its unique blend of brewery, distillery, and winery, all situated on the same property. Founded by Randy and Wendy Hudson, the brewery began as a small home brewing operation and has since evolved into a beloved island institution. Visitors to Cisco Brewers can enjoy a diverse selection of handcrafted beers, spirits, and wines, all produced with a focus on quality and local ingredients. The brewery’s scenic location offers a relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy their drinks along with live music, food trucks, and great views. Cisco Brewers has become a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a memorable experience in Nantucket. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or simply looking to unwind in a beautiful setting, Cisco Brewers provides a welcoming environment for all.

#14 – Castle Island Brewing Co.

Castle Island Brewing Co., located in Norwood, Massachusetts, was founded in 2015 with a mission to create approachable, high-quality beers. Known for its commitment to community and flavor, the brewery offers a variety of beers, including flagship options like the Castle Island IPA. Their Norwood taproom features a rotating selection of 18 different beers, plus hard seltzers and wine. Guests can also enjoy food from their in-house partner, Bardo’s, offering award-winning bar pizza and sandwiches. The brewery regularly hosts events like trivia and live music, adding to its lively atmosphere. In 2019, Castle Island expanded to South Boston, where they opened a second location in a historic building. With both locations offering great beer, food, and a welcoming environment, Castle Island Brewing Co. has become a favorite spot for craft beer lovers in Massachusetts.

#13 – Greater Good Imperial Brewing

Greater Good Imperial Brewing Company, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, specializes in high-alcohol craft beers, with most of their brews featuring an ABV of 8% or higher. Founded in 2015, the brewery focuses on bold, flavorful beers that stand out in the craft beer scene. Their flagship beer, Pulp Daddy, is a hazy New England IPA with an 8% ABV, while other popular options include the BIGG Summer, a tropical New England IPA brewed with pineapple, and the Greylock IPA, a 12% ABV double to triple IPA. In addition to great beer, Greater Good fosters community engagement through their “Acts of Greater Good Initiative,” which donates a portion of taproom sales to local non-profits. Their Worcester taproom offers a rotating menu, live music, and outdoor seating, making it a great spot to enjoy their high-ABV brews and support local causes.

#12 – Wormtown Brewery

Wormtown Brewery, founded in 2010 in Worcester, Massachusetts, began in a small ice cream shop and has since grown into a community-driven brewery with two taprooms. Their flagship beer, Be Hoppy IPA, is a Left Coast-style IPA known for its citrus-forward flavors and moderate bitterness. Other popular offerings include Be Juicy, a New England IPA, and Don’t Worry, a hazy IPA with tropical fruit aromas. Wormtown Brewery emphasizes using locally sourced ingredients to ensure freshness and quality in their beers. Their Worcester taproom offers a nice atmosphere with live music, weekly events, and a rotating selection of beers and food from local vendors. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Wormtown Brewery provides a welcoming space to enjoy craft beers and connect with the community.

#11 – Lamplighter Brewing Co.

Lamplighter Brewing Co., established in 2016, is a renowned brewery located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Housed in a former auto repair shop, the brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, including New England IPAs, barrel-aged sours, and Brett IPAs. Their flagship beers, such as Birds of a Feather, Rabbit Rabbit, and Radio Waves, showcase their commitment to quality and innovation. The brewery features two taproom locations: the original Broadway Taproom and the newer Cambridge Crossing (CX) Taproom, both offering a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts. In addition to their beer offerings, Lamplighter Brewing Co. is home to Pepita Coffee Co., providing a unique combination of craft beer and specialty coffee in a nice setting.

#10 – Notch Brewing

Notch Brewing, founded in 2010, is a Massachusetts-based brewery known for its focus on session beers—low-alcohol, easy-drinking lagers and ales inspired by traditional German and Czech styles. With taprooms in Salem and Brighton, Notch offers a variety of beers, including their flagship Left of the Dial session IPA and the Zwickel. Their Salem location features a lively taproom and beer garden, while the Brighton taproom provides a traditional beer hall ambiance with an expansive outdoor biergarten. Notch Brewing is committed to community engagement, hosting events such as live music, workshops, and movie nights, creating a welcoming environment for beer enthusiasts and newcomers alike

#9 – Aeronaut Brewing Company

Aeronaut Brewing Company, founded in 2014, is a craft brewery located in Somerville, Massachusetts. Known for its innovative approach, the brewery blends science and tradition to create a diverse range of beers, including IPAs, sours, and lagers. Flagship beers like Lemonatti and Hop Hop & Away highlight their commitment to creativity and quality. Aeronaut has two locations: its original taproom in Somerville and a seasonal beer garden in Allston. The Somerville taproom features a lively atmosphere with live music, food vendors, and regular events. The Allston beer garden offers a relaxed outdoor setting perfect for enjoying their craft brews. In 2023, Aeronaut merged with Dorchester Brewing Company to form the Tasty Liquid Alliance, aiming to push the boundaries of craft beer innovation. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Aeronaut provides a welcoming spot to enjoy great beer and connect with the community.

#8 – Widowmaker Brewing

Widowmaker Brewing, established in 2017 in Braintree, Massachusetts, has quickly become a standout in the South Shore craft beer scene. Known for its bold, hazy IPAs and creative stouts, the brewery offers a diverse lineup that appeals to a wide range of beer enthusiasts. Flagship brews like Blue Comet, a 7.1% ABV New England IPA, and Candymaker, a 7% ABV peanut butter stout, showcase their commitment to quality and innovation. The brewery operates a spacious taproom at 220 Wood Road in Braintree, featuring a modern, industrial design and a rotating selection of beers. In addition to their core offerings, Widowmaker frequently collaborates with other breweries, resulting in unique and limited-edition releases. Their beer garden, open seasonally, provides a relaxed outdoor setting for guests to enjoy their craft beers. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Widowmaker Brewing offers a welcoming environment to experience some of the best craft beer in the region.

#7 – Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers

Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers, founded in 2011 by the Hendler brothers, is a family-owned brewery located in Framingham, Massachusetts. Dedicated exclusively to brewing lagers, they blend traditional German brewing techniques with American innovation. Their flagship beer, Hoponius Union, is a hop-forward India Pale Lager that has garnered national recognition. Other notable offerings include House Lager, a crisp and clean Helles Lager, and Blood Orange Wheat, a refreshing fruit-infused radler. In addition to their core lineup, Jack’s Abby frequently releases seasonal and specialty beers, such as the Framinghammer Baltic Porter, which has been aged in bourbon barrels to enhance its rich flavors. The brewery’s beer hall in Framingham offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their diverse range of lagers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Jack’s Abby provides a unique experience for lager enthusiasts.

#6 – Vitamin Sea Brewing

Vitamin Sea Brewing, founded in 2019, is a craft brewery located in Weymouth, Massachusetts. The brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, including hazy IPAs, stouts, and cold brew coffee-infused brews. Their flagship beer, Double Summer, is a hazy double IPA with an 8.2% ABV, known for its tropical fruit flavors and smooth finish. Other popular offerings include Au Jus, a 7.8% ABV hazy IPA, and Thermal Depression, a New England IPA with a balanced hop profile. Vitamin Sea Brewing operates two locations: the original Weymouth taproom at 30 Moore Road and a seasonal beer garden in Plymouth at 98 Water Street. The Weymouth location features a spacious taproom with a rotating selection of beers and a seasonal outdoor patio. The Plymouth location offers a cozy atmosphere with views of Plymouth Harbor and a menu of local cuisine. Both locations are family- and dog-friendly, providing a welcoming environment for all guests. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Vitamin Sea Brewing offers a unique experience for craft beer enthusiasts.

#5 – Samuel Adams Boston Brewery

Samuel Adams Boston Brewery, established in 1988, is the birthplace of the iconic Samuel Adams beer. Located in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, it has played a pivotal role in the American craft beer movement. Visitors to the brewery can enjoy guided tours, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, including the brewhouse, sour barrel-aging rooms, and more. The brewery’s taproom features a rotating selection of fresh beers, including the flagship Boston Lager, along with seasonal brews like Summer Ale and Winter Lager. Samuel Adams also operates a taproom at 60 State Street in downtown Boston, complete with 20 draft lines and a rooftop deck for a unique beer-tasting experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to craft beer, the Samuel Adams Boston Brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere and the chance to explore their rich brewing legacy while enjoying great beer.

#4 – Night Shift Brewing

Night Shift Brewing, established in 2012, has become a prominent name in Massachusetts’ craft beer scene. Originating from a small kitchen in Somerville, the founders transitioned their passion into a full-fledged brewery in Everett, Massachusetts. Known for their diverse range of beers, Night Shift offers everything from hazy IPAs like Fluffy and Santilli to the light and crisp Nite Lite lager. Their seasonal and limited-edition brews, such as Pumpkin Piescraper and Teddie Beer, showcase their creativity and commitment to quality. The brewery operates multiple locations, including the Everett taproom and the Lovejoy Wharf location in Boston, providing spaces for patrons to enjoy their beers and participate in various events. Night Shift Brewing’s dedication to innovation and community engagement has solidified its reputation as a staple in the Massachusetts craft beer industry.

#3 – Harpoon Brewery

Harpoon Brewery, founded in 1986 in Boston, Massachusetts, was the first brewery in the state to be granted a permit to manufacture and sell alcohol in over 15 years. Known for its flagship beer, Harpoon IPA, introduced in 1993, the brewery quickly became a key player in the American craft beer scene. Over the years, Harpoon expanded its offerings to include a variety of seasonal and year-round beers, such as the UFO Hefeweizen series and the Dunkin’ Coffee Porter, created in collaboration with Dunkin’ Donuts. In 2014, Harpoon transitioned to an employee-owned company, fostering a strong sense of community and commitment among its staff. Visitors to the Harpoon Beer Hall in Boston’s Seaport District can enjoy a diverse selection of beers, take guided tours, and experience the lively atmosphere that has made Harpoon a staple in Massachusetts’ craft beer industry.

#2 – Trillium Brewing Company

Trillium Brewing Company, founded in 2013 by JC and Esther Tetreault, started as a small operation in Boston’s Fort Point neighborhood. The brewery’s name, inspired by the Trillium flower, reflects its focus on simplicity, balance, and community. Since its beginnings, Trillium has grown to multiple locations, including Fort Point, Fenway, Canton, and a farm in North Stonington, Connecticut, where they focus on regenerative agriculture. Known for its hop-forward IPAs like Congress Street IPA and DDH Trailside IPA, Trillium is also recognized for its barrel-aged and wild ales, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and quality. The brewery even ventured into craft spirits, offering cocktails at select locations. With a focus on hospitality and community, Trillium Brewing has become a significant part of Massachusetts’ craft beer scene, drawing both locals and visitors eager to experience their exceptional beers and welcoming atmosphere.

#1 – Tree House Brewing Company

Tree House Brewing Company, founded in 2011, began as a small home brewing operation in a barn in Brimfield, Massachusetts. Since then, it has grown into one of the most acclaimed breweries in the United States, known for its hop-forward IPAs like Julius, Green, and Haze. Operating multiple locations, including Charlton, Deerfield, Sandwich, Tewksbury, and Saratoga Springs, Tree House offers a variety of beers, spirits, and coffee. The brewery emphasizes quality and community, providing a welcoming environment for visitors. Despite not distributing its products, Tree House has garnered a dedicated following, with lines often forming during peak times. Its commitment to excellence has earned it recognition from platforms like Untappd and Beer Advocate, solidifying its reputation in the craft beer industry.

Massachusetts Beer Scene: Where History Meets Hops

Massachusetts has a long brewing history, going back to the colonial era. In fact, some of the earliest American breweries were founded in Boston. But after Prohibition and years of consolidation, the state’s beer scene went quiet—until the craft beer boom brought it roaring back.

Today, Massachusetts is one of the top states for craft beer lovers. It’s home to award-winning breweries like Tree House, Trillium, and Night Shift, along with hundreds of smaller spots that range from laid-back taprooms to experimental nano-breweries. Boston, Worcester, and the Berkshires each have their own vibe, but the entire state takes beer seriously.

What sets Massachusetts apart is the mix of history, innovation, and quality. Whether you’re into juicy New England IPAs (which the region helped pioneer), farmhouse ales, or lagers, you’ll find something worth trying. And with more beer festivals, brewery trails, and tasting events popping up every year, it’s a great place to plan a beer-focused trip.

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FAQs About Massachusetts Beer

How many breweries are in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has over 200 craft breweries, with more opening every year.

What beer style is Massachusetts known for?
The New England IPA (hazy, juicy, and aromatic) took off in Massachusetts and helped put breweries like Tree House and Trillium on the map.

Are Massachusetts breweries open year-round?
Most are, although hours may shift during winter. Many breweries also have indoor spaces for colder months.

Do breweries in Massachusetts allow kids or pets?
Policies vary, but a lot of breweries are family- and dog-friendly—especially those with outdoor space. Always check first.

What are the best beer events in Massachusetts?
The Massachusetts Brewers Fest in Boston and Brew Woo in Worcester are two of the bigger events, but there are plenty of local festivals throughout the year.