Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene has experienced a dynamic transformation over the past decade, evolving into one of the most diverse and innovative brewing landscapes in the United States. From historic giants with generations of legacy to bold newcomers pushing boundaries with every pour, the Keystone State is home to a vibrant community of brewers dedicated to quality, creativity, and community. This list celebrates 30 of the most exceptional breweries across Pennsylvania, ranked not just by popularity, but by a combination of craftsmanship, beer quality, stylistic variety, taproom experience, and overall reputation.
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Each brewery featured here has earned its place through a strong portfolio of offerings, a consistent track record of consumer satisfaction, and a unique identity that sets it apart. Whether you’re a fan of crisp lagers, juicy hazy IPAs, wild ales, or barrel-aged stouts, this guide offers something for every palate. We’ve also factored in check-ins, reviews, awards, venue atmosphere, and notable recent developments as of this year to give you the most up-to-date snapshot of Pennsylvania’s finest breweries.
#30 – D.G. Yuengling & Son
Established in 1829, D.G. Yuengling & Son stands as America’s oldest operating brewery, rooted in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. This sixth-generation, family-owned enterprise has maintained its independence while expanding its reach to 26 states as of 2025. Yuengling’s flagship Traditional Lager, along with offerings like Light Lager, Black & Tan, Golden Pilsner, and FLIGHT, consistently earn high ratings, reflecting their commitment to quality. The brewery’s diverse portfolio caters to a wide range of tastes, from rich porters to crisp pilsners. Yuengling’s popularity is evident through substantial check-ins and reviews across various platforms, bolstered by a robust distribution network. The Pottsville taproom offers visitors a historic ambiance, enhancing the overall experience. Recognized with awards such as the IFEA Pinnacle Award for Best Sponsor Partner, Yuengling’s reputation is further solidified by its consistent presence in beer-related publications. With annual revenues estimated between $100–$500 million, Yuengling exemplifies commercial success without compromising on quality.
#29 – Free Will Brewing Co.
Established in 2012 by Dominic Capece and John Stemler, Free Will Brewing Co. has become a cornerstone of Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene. Located in Perkasie, the brewery has expanded from its original basement setup to a 35,000 sq. ft. facility, including a dedicated sour cellar. Free Will’s diverse portfolio features standout beers like the West Coast-style Kragle IPA, the Techno IPA, and the robust Ralphius Imperial Stout. Their offerings span a wide range of styles, from hazy IPAs to barrel-aged sours, showcasing their commitment to variety and quality. With over 600,000 ratings on Untappd, Free Will has cultivated a strong and engaged following. Their taprooms in Perkasie and Lahaska offer inviting atmospheres, featuring live music, food trucks, and events like “Sour Sundays.” As of 2025, Free Will Brewing continues to innovate and contribute significantly to the state’s vibrant craft beer community.
#28 – Second Sin Brewing
Second Sin Brewing Company, established in 2019 in Bristol, Pennsylvania, by longtime friends Mike Beresky, Phil Harris, and Jake Howell, has swiftly garnered acclaim in the craft beer community. Their commitment to quality is evident in their diverse portfolio, boasting over 370 beers with an impressive average rating of 4.09 on Untappd . Signature brews like the award-winning “Burgerstaxx” Hazy IPA, which clinched first place at the 2024 Pennsylvania Farm Show, and “Tables, Lagers, & Chairs,” a gold medalist in the Untappd Community Awards, highlight their brewing prowess. Expanding their reach, Second Sin opened a new taproom in Newtown in 2023, complementing their original Bristol location. Their taprooms offer a welcoming ambiance, enhancing the overall beer-tasting experience. Recognized among Pennsylvania’s top breweries, Second Sin continues to impress with its innovative brews and dedication to excellence.
#27 – Imprint Beer Company
Founded in 2018 by Ryan Diehl and Richard “Sid” Sidman, Imprint Beer Co. in Hatfield, Pennsylvania, quickly gained acclaim for its innovative and high-quality brews. The brewery boasts an impressive portfolio, with over 1,600 unique beers and more than 500,000 ratings, reflecting a strong and engaged customer base. Their diverse offerings include hazy IPAs, rich stouts, and the popular Schmoojee series of fruited sours, catering to a wide range of palates. The taproom experience is enhanced by the GNARCADIUM, a retro arcade, and Imprint Pizza Co., providing a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere for visitors. Imprint’s reputation is further solidified by multiple accolades, including seven gold, eight silver, and one bronze in the Untappd Community Awards.
#26 – Collusion Tap Works
Collusion Tap Works, established in 2016 in York, Pennsylvania, exemplifies innovation in the craft beer scene. Helmed by Jared Barnes, a brewer with international training from the Siebel Institute and Doemens Academy, the brewery has garnered accolades from prestigious competitions like the World Beer Cup and the Great American Beer Festival. With over 1,000 unique brews to its name, Collusion showcases a diverse portfolio, including standout offerings like the “Homunculus” Imperial IPA and the “King Cuddly” fruited sour series. The brewery’s 24 taps feature a rotating selection of beers, ciders, and meads, reflecting its commitment to variety and quality. The taproom experience is enhanced by a seasonal menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, providing a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. Collusion’s reputation is further solidified by its active engagement with the craft beer community and consistent high ratings across various platforms . As of 2025, Collusion Tap Works continues to be a dynamic force in Pennsylvania’s brewing landscape, celebrated for its creativity and excellence.
#25 – Sly Fox Brewing Company
Founded in 1995 by the Giannopoulos family in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, Sly Fox Brewing Company has grown into a prominent craft brewery with a strong reputation for quality and innovation. They were pioneers in the Mid-Atlantic region, being the first craft brewery to install a canning line in 2006, and their Pikeland Pils became the first canned craft beer to win a medal at the Great American Beer Festival in 2007. Their diverse beer portfolio includes popular offerings like Helles Golden Lager, Grisette, and Slugger Pilsner, catering to a wide range of tastes. With over 100 different beer varieties crafted since their inception, Sly Fox has amassed a substantial volume of positive ratings, reflecting consistent consumer satisfaction. Their taprooms in Pottstown, Wyomissing, Malvern, and Pittsburgh provide inviting spaces for patrons to enjoy their brews, complemented by food and community events. As of 2025, Sly Fox continues to be a respected name in Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene, combining tradition with innovation.
#24 – Weyerbacher Brewing Company
Founded in 1995 by Dan and Sue Weirback in Easton, Pennsylvania, Weyerbacher Brewing Company has become renowned for its bold, full-flavored beers. Transitioning from a humble livery stable to a 30,000-square-foot facility, the brewery has built a diverse portfolio exceeding 500 beers and nearly 1 million ratings on Untappd. Signature offerings like Merry Monks (Belgian Tripel), QUAD (Belgian Quadrupel), Blithering Idiot (English Barleywine), and Sunday Morning Stout (bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout) have garnered acclaim, with Sunday Morning Stout recognized as one of Pennsylvania’s top-rated beers. The brewery’s taproom, The Jester’s Court, features over 20 rotating taps, including experimental and cellar-aged selections, providing a unique venue experience. In 2024, Weyerbacher earned three Untappd Community Awards, including a Gold medal, reflecting its sustained excellence. As of 2025, under the ownership of Savant Beverages LLC, Weyerbacher continues to innovate, offering a range of seasonal and small-batch brews that uphold its legacy of quality and creativity.
#23 – Ever Grain Brewing Co.
Established in 2016 by lifelong friends Norm and Larry, Ever Grain Brewing Co. in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, has quickly become a standout in the state’s craft beer scene. The brewery boasts a diverse portfolio of over 300 beers, including the award-winning “Fluffhead” Hefeweizen and the popular “Joose Juicy” NEIPA. Their beers consistently receive high ratings, reflecting a commitment to quality and innovation. The spacious 10,000-square-foot taproom, transformed from an automotive repair bay, features a 75-foot bar and an inviting outdoor beer garden, offering patrons a unique and enjoyable venue experience. Ever Grain’s dedication to excellence has earned them accolades, such as the Best Can Design award for their “Moire Eel” Double IPA. With a strong presence on platforms like Untappd and active community engagement, Ever Grain continues to solidify its reputation as a top-tier brewery in Pennsylvania.
#22 – Warwick Farm Brewing
Warwick Farm Brewing, nestled on a 22-acre farm in Jamison, Pennsylvania, exemplifies the farm-to-glass ethos in the state’s craft beer scene. Founded by Scott Seiz and Tom Taber, the brewery has gained acclaim for its high-quality beers, such as the “DDH Electric Countach” and “Hills of Hops & Haze” IPAs, both recognized for their exceptional can designs. The brewery’s diverse portfolio spans New England IPAs, imperial stouts, lagers, and seasonal sours, reflecting its commitment to variety and innovation. The 5,000-square-foot taproom offers panoramic views of the Bucks County countryside, complemented by a spacious beer garden and regular food truck events, enhancing the overall visitor experience. In 2024, Warwick Farm Brewing secured four Craft Beer Marketing Awards, including the Platinum Crushie for “Coolest Taproom or Beer Garden,” highlighting its excellence in both brewing and branding. As of 2025, the brewery continues to be a top destination for craft beer enthusiasts seeking quality brews in a picturesque setting.
#21 – Broken Goblet Brewing
Established in 2014, Broken Goblet Brewing in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, has become a standout in the state’s craft beer scene. Known for its diverse and innovative beer portfolio, the brewery offers a range of styles, including the award-winning “Carle the Great” Russian Imperial Stout, “Harmonic Overtones” New England IPA, and “Norma” Coffee Bock. With over 56,000 ratings on Untappd and an average score of 3.77, Broken Goblet demonstrates both quality and popularity among beer enthusiasts. The brewery’s 15,000-square-foot facility doubles as a vibrant entertainment venue, hosting live music, comedy shows, and themed events, enhancing the overall taproom experience. In 2022, Broken Goblet merged with Trauger Brewing and Lucky Cat Brewing to form the Mutual Respect Brewing Collective, further expanding its reach and collaborative efforts. As of 2025, Broken Goblet continues to push boundaries, offering a unique blend of craft beer and entertainment that solidifies its reputation as a top-tier brewery in Pennsylvania.
#20 – Grist House Craft Brewery
Founded in 2014 by homebrewing enthusiasts Brian Eaton and Kyle Mientkiewicz, Grist House Craft Brewery in Millvale, Pennsylvania, has become a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s craft beer scene. The brewery’s diverse portfolio includes standout favorites like the juicy and aromatic “Hazedelic Juice Grenade” New England IPA. With over 250,000 ratings on Untappd and an average score of 4.0, Grist House showcases both brewing quality and widespread popularity. Its welcoming, family- and dog-friendly taproom features a spacious outdoor beer garden and regularly hosts food trucks and community events. In 2025, the brewery expanded into a historic Cold War-era Nike Missile Command Center in Collier Township, transforming it into a 55,000-square-foot production facility complete with a new taproom and barrel-aging program. Grist House’s inventive spirit, paired with a strong community focus and dedication to craft, continues to solidify its place as one of Pennsylvania’s top-ranked breweries.
#19 – Pizza Boy Brewing Co.
Established in 2011 by Al Kominski in Enola, Pennsylvania, Pizza Boy Brewing Co. has become a standout in the state’s craft beer landscape. Operating from a 10,000-square-foot facility, the brewery boasts over 100 beers on tap, offering a diverse range from hazy IPAs and coffee-infused stouts to barrel-aged sours and wild ales. Notable brews include the “Sunny Side Up” Double Coffee Stout, crafted with locally sourced coffee, and the “Murren River” IPA, a 100% Citra-hopped beer known for its citrus-forward profile. With an average rating of 3.87 across over 700,000 Untappd check-ins, Pizza Boy demonstrates both quality and popularity . The brewery’s taproom, shared with Al’s of Hampden restaurant, offers a family-friendly atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a rotating selection of house-made and guest brews, complemented by a full menu of pizzas and Italian favorites . Pizza Boy Brewing Co.’s commitment to innovation and community engagement solidifies its reputation as a top destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Pennsylvania.
#18 – Levante Brewing Company
Founded in 2015 in West Chester, Pennsylvania, Levante Brewing Company has rapidly distinguished itself in the craft beer scene through its commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement. With over 523,000 ratings on Untappd and an average rating of 3.97, Levante’s diverse portfolio includes standout brews like the flagship “Cloudy & Cumbersome” New England IPA and the award-winning “Tickle Parts” IPA, both of which have earned Grand Gold at the Frankfurt International Beer Trophy. The brewery’s offerings span a range of styles, from hazy IPAs and fruited sours to crisp lagers and barrel-aged stouts, catering to a wide array of palates. Levante’s West Chester Taproom and Levante Stables in Downingtown provide inviting spaces for patrons to enjoy their beers, often accompanied by local food trucks and live music. Through its dedication to crafting exceptional beers and fostering a vibrant community, Levante Brewing Company continues to elevate the craft beer experience in Pennsylvania and beyond.
#17 – Voodoo Brewery
Founded in 2005 in Meadville, Pennsylvania, Voodoo Brewing Company has evolved into one of the state’s most dynamic craft breweries. Known for its bold and eclectic beers, Voodoo offers a diverse portfolio that includes the flagship “Good Vibes” West Coast IPA, the fruit-infused “Voodoo Love Child” Belgian Tripel, and the cult-favorite “ManBearPig” imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels. With over 567,000 ratings on Untappd and an average rating of 3.94, Voodoo demonstrates both quality and popularity among beer enthusiasts. The brewery’s commitment to excellence has earned it numerous accolades, including Best Beer in Tampa Bay at the 2025 Battle of the Breweries for its “Lacto-Kooler” sour ale. Voodoo’s taprooms, such as The Compound in Meadville and locations in Pittsburgh, Erie, and Scranton, offer unique atmospheres that blend industrial charm with vibrant artwork, providing patrons with memorable experiences. As an employee-owned company, Voodoo Brewing continues to innovate and expand, solidifying its reputation as a leader in Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene.
#16 – Rusty Rail Brewing Company
Established in 2013 in Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania, Rusty Rail Brewing Company has transformed a historic 1911 manufacturing building into the state’s largest brewpub. Spanning 120,000 square feet, the facility boasts a spacious taproom, 23 luxury suites, and event spaces accommodating up to 300 guests. The brewery offers a diverse beer portfolio, including the flagship “Fool’s Gold” Imperial Peanut Butter Hefeweizen, “All Good” Hazy IPA, and the seasonal “Fading Sun” Blood Orange Hazy IPA. Their commitment to quality has earned them accolades, such as two medals at the 2017 Best of Craft Beer Awards. With over 327,000 ratings on Untappd and an average rating of 3.69, Rusty Rail demonstrates both popularity and excellence. The brewpub provides a unique experience with its historic ambiance, scratch-made food, and regular live music events, solidifying its reputation as a top destination in Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene.
#15 – Yards Brewing Company
Founded in 1994 by Tom Kehoe and Jon Bovit, Yards Brewing Company has become a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s craft beer scene. Known for its commitment to quality, Yards offers a diverse portfolio that includes the flagship Philadelphia Pale Ale, the robust Brawler English Mild, and the historically inspired Ales of the Revolution series, based on recipes from figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. With over 100,000 barrels produced annually, Yards demonstrates both popularity and excellence. Their 70,000-square-foot facility at 500 Spring Garden Street houses a spacious taproom with 20 rotating taps and a full-service kitchen, providing a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. In 2025, Yards celebrated its 30th anniversary with events like the Real Ale Invitational, showcasing its dedication to traditional brewing methods and community engagement. Yards’ blend of innovation, tradition, and local pride solidifies its reputation as a leading brewery in Pennsylvania.
#14 – New Trail Brewing
Founded in 2018 by Mike LaRosa in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, New Trail Brewing Company has swiftly emerged as a leader in the state’s craft beer scene. Renowned for its commitment to quality, the brewery offers a diverse portfolio that includes the flagship “Broken Heels” Hazy IPA, the robust “Barrel Aged Moonlit” stout, and the environmentally conscious “Replenish IPA,” which supports reforestation efforts. With over 773,044 ratings on Untappd and an average rating of 3.95, New Trail demonstrates both popularity and excellence. Their taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere, reflecting their dedication to community engagement. The brewery’s accolades include a Gold Medal at the 2019 Great American Beer Festival and multiple awards at the 2023 Craft Beer Marketing Awards, highlighting their industry recognition. New Trail’s blend of tradition, innovation, and environmental stewardship solidifies its reputation as a top brewery in Pennsylvania.
#13 – Forest & Main Brewing Company
Founded in 2012 by Gerard Olson and Daniel Endicott, Forest & Main Brewing Company in Ambler, Pennsylvania, has garnered acclaim for its dedication to crafting high-quality, locally sourced beers. Specializing in farmhouse-style saisons and English-style ales, the brewery emphasizes the use of local ingredients, including yeast cultures foraged from the Ambler area, contributing to their unique flavor profiles. Notable offerings include the “Solaire Reserve,” a foeder-aged saison, and “The Lady,” a saison brewed with local barley and spelt. With over 165,000 ratings on Untappd and an average rating of 3.95, Forest & Main demonstrates both quality and popularity. The brewery operates two locations in Ambler: a production facility with a spacious taproom at 241 N. Main Street, and a cozy pub at 33 East Butler Avenue, both offering a rotating selection of beers on tap. Recognized as one of Pennsylvania’s top small-town craft breweries, Forest & Main continues to blend tradition with innovation, solidifying its reputation in the craft beer community.
#12 – Human Robot Brewery
Established in 2020 in Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood, Human Robot Brewing has quickly garnered acclaim for its innovative approach to craft beer. The brewery’s name reflects its dual focus: “Human” signifies traditional European-style lagers, while “Robot” represents modern, experimental brews like hazy IPAs and bold stouts. Signature offerings such as “Czech 10°,” a Czech-style pale lager, and “Content Therapy,” a juicy double IPA, showcase their commitment to quality and diversity. With over 90,000 ratings on Untappd and an average rating exceeding 4.0, Human Robot demonstrates both popularity and excellence. Their taprooms in Kensington, Jenkintown, and South Philadelphia provide inviting spaces for patrons to enjoy their diverse beer selection. Notably, their “Czech 10°” earned third place in the 2023 Breweries in PA Readers’ Choice Awards, highlighting their industry recognition. Human Robot’s blend of tradition and innovation solidifies its reputation as a leading brewery in Pennsylvania.
#11 – South County Brewing Company
Founded in 2011 by JR and Jen Heaps in Fawn Grove, Pennsylvania, South County Brewing Company has grown into a prominent name in the state’s craft beer scene. Known for its commitment to quality, the brewery offers a diverse portfolio that includes hazy IPAs, pale ales, lagers, and fruit-based kettle sours. Standout beers like “Peace Maker” (New England IPA), “Sonic Bloom” (New England IPA), and “Virgil” (Imperial Stout) have garnered high ratings and a dedicated following. With over 140,000 ratings on Untappd and an average rating of 3.99, South County demonstrates both quality and popularity among beer enthusiasts. In early 2025, the brewery expanded its presence by opening a third location in downtown Lancaster City, offering an inviting atmosphere with a scratch kitchen and a distinctive spirits program. South County’s dedication to innovation and community engagement has solidified its reputation as a top brewery in Pennsylvania.
#10 – Fermentery Form
Tucked away in Philadelphia’s West Kensington neighborhood, Fermentery Form is a unique blendery founded by Ethan Tripp. Rather than brewing on-site, they source wort from nearby breweries and ferment it using their proprietary mixed cultures. Central to their process is a solera system—a pyramid of barrels containing beers of various ages and oak types—allowing for complex blending and flavor development. Their offerings, such as “Formation,” “Form to Table,” and “Formhouse,” showcase a range of styles, from tart farmhouse ales to nuanced wild ales. With an average rating of 4.16 on Untappd, their beers reflect both quality and popularity. The taproom, marked only by a green light, offers an intimate experience, with limited hours announced via social media. Fermentery Form’s dedication to traditional methods and innovative blending has earned them recognition as one of Pennsylvania’s top breweries.
#9 – Victory Brewing Company
Founded in 1996 by childhood friends Bill Covaleski and Ron Barchet, Victory Brewing Company has grown into one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic craft breweries. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, Victory offers a diverse portfolio of beers, including the award-winning Golden Monkey, HopDevil IPA, Prima Pils, and DirtWolf Double IPA. With over 20 varieties, the brewery caters to a wide range of tastes, from hop-forward ales to crisp lagers. Victory’s popularity is evident through its expansive presence, with taprooms in Downingtown, Parkesburg, Kennett Square, and a flagship location in Philadelphia’s Logan Square, featuring a rooftop patio and full-service kitchen. The brewery’s excellence has been recognized with multiple awards, such as the Good Food Award for HopDevil Ale and medals at the Great American Beer Festival. As a member of Artisanal Brewing Ventures, Victory continues to blend tradition with creativity, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the craft beer industry.
#8 – Fourscore Beer Company
Established in 2019 by brothers Wade and Drew Leedy, Fourscore Beer Company in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, has quickly become a notable presence in the craft beer scene. The brewery offers a diverse selection of handcrafted beers, including popular options like the hazy IPA “Ohhhh Jeeee,” the fruited sour “Schmamba,” and the classic “Hop Hat” IPA. With over 128,346 ratings on Untappd and an average rating exceeding 4.0, Fourscore demonstrates both quality and popularity among beer enthusiasts. Their 18 rotating draft lines ensure a variety of styles to cater to different tastes. The taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by scratch-made pub fare that pairs well with their beer offerings. Fourscore’s commitment to innovation and community engagement has solidified its reputation as a top brewery in Pennsylvania.
#7 – The Referend Bier Blendery
Founded in 2016 by James Priest, The Referend Bier Blendery in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, is renowned for its commitment to spontaneous fermentation. Utilizing open-air coolships and locally sourced ingredients, the brewery crafts complex, oak-aged beers that develop over extended periods, ranging from nine months to five years. Their portfolio includes standout offerings like “In Recognition,” a golden ale aged in cognac casks and refermented with New Jersey blueberry honey, and “The Years,” a blend of golden ales from their first six brewing seasons, naturally refermented with wildflower honey. These beers have garnered high ratings, reflecting the brewery’s dedication to quality and innovation. The Referend’s taproom offers a unique experience, featuring a minimalist design that emphasizes the artistry of their brewing process . Their approach has earned them a loyal following and recognition within the craft beer community.
#6 – Hidden River Brewing Company
Established in 2015 by Doug Reeser and Kevin Margitich, Hidden River Brewing Company operates out of the historic Brinton Lodge in Douglassville, Pennsylvania. Known for its inventive, small-batch approach, the brewery offers a rotating lineup of beers like the hazy double IPA Built Upon Memory and the imperial stout Waiting for Ghosts. With over 1,100 unique beer entries and a strong presence on Untappd, Hidden River has built a loyal fanbase. Their diverse selection spans hop-forward IPAs, rich stouts, and fruit-infused sours, often crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The taproom enhances the experience with rustic charm and a farm-to-table menu that changes weekly. Hidden River’s commitment to quality and creativity is reflected in its 28 awards—10 gold, 7 silver, and 11 bronze medals—solidifying its status as a top contender in Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene.
#5 – Other Half Brewing
Other Half Brewing Company, established in Brooklyn in 2014, expanded to Pennsylvania with its Philadelphia taproom opening in February 2022. Located at 1002 Canal Street in Fishtown, this venue offers a spacious taproom, seasonal beer garden, and full kitchen serving a variety of snacks and sandwiches . Renowned for their hazy IPAs and pastry stouts, flagship beers include “All Citra Everything,” “Green City,” and “Forever Ever” . The brewery’s diverse portfolio, featuring over 1,000 beers, has garnered a substantial volume of ratings, reflecting its commitment to quality and innovation. Collaborations like “Pennsylvania Daybreak” with New Trail Brewing highlight their engagement with the local brewing community . With a strong presence on platforms like Untappd and BeerAdvocate, Other Half Brewing continues to be a prominent player in Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene .
#4 – Dancing Gnome Brewery
Founded in 2014 by Andrew Witchey, Dancing Gnome Brewery has emerged as a prominent name in Pittsburgh’s craft beer scene. The brewery is celebrated for its hop-forward beers, notably the flagship pale ale, Lustra, and the rotating Jam series of IPAs. Their diverse portfolio also includes the robust Black Clouds Breakfast Stout and the crisp Schwarzbier, showcasing their versatility across styles.Dancing Gnome maintains a strong presence on beer rating platforms, with beers like Fern Hollow Triple IPA achieving high ratings. The brewery’s commitment to quality and innovation has garnered a dedicated following, evident in the popularity of their releases. Their taproom in Sharpsburg offers a welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.In 2025, Dancing Gnome continues to be a significant contributor to Pennsylvania’s craft beer landscape, consistently delivering high-quality brews that resonate with both local patrons and the broader beer community.
#3 – Tired Hands Brewing Company
Established in 2011 by Jean Broillet IV in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, Tired Hands Brewing Company has become a cornerstone of the state’s craft beer scene. Renowned for its innovative approach, the brewery offers a diverse portfolio that includes American ales, Belgian-inspired saisons, and the genre-defining Milkshake IPAs. Standout beers like HopHands, Alien Church, and Only Void have garnered high ratings and a dedicated following. With over 1.7 million ratings across more than 1,700 beers on Untappd, Tired Hands demonstrates both quality and popularity. Their commitment to variety is evident in their ever-evolving tap list, featuring styles ranging from hazy IPAs to complex stouts. The brewery’s venues, including the recently rebranded Ardmore Brewing Co., offer inviting atmospheres that enhance the tasting experience.Tired Hands’ reputation is further solidified by numerous accolades, such as being named one of the “50 Best American Breweries of the 2010s” by Paste Magazine. Their consistent recognition reflects a dedication to excellence and innovation in the craft beer industry.
#2 – Brew Gentlemen
Founded in 2014 by Carnegie Mellon grads Asa Foster and Matt Katase, Brew Gentlemen has earned a top-tier spot in Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene. Their flagship General Braddock’s IPA, rated 4.1 on Untappd with over 18,740 reviews, is widely recognized among the best IPAs in the U.S. The brewery’s portfolio features standout beers like Mr. Automatic porter, DoubleMex imperial stout, and the 2025 edition of Final Colossus Double IPA, brewed with Nelson, Riwaka, and Simcoe hops. With over 177,000 ratings across 116 unique beers, Brew Gentlemen demonstrates consistency and wide appeal. Their cozy Braddock taproom adds to the experience, drawing both loyal locals and craft beer enthusiasts. Accolades such as a gold, two silver, and a bronze medal from the Untappd Community Awards further highlight their brewing excellence and solid reputation in the industry.
#1 – Tröegs Independent Brewing
Founded in 1997 by brothers John and Chris Trogner, Tröegs Independent Brewing has become a cornerstone of Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene. Renowned for its commitment to quality, the brewery offers a diverse portfolio that includes the flagship Perpetual IPA, the robust Troegenator Double Bock, the seasonal favorite Mad Elf Ale, and the limited-release Nimble Giant Double IPA. With over 2.4 million ratings on Untappd, Tröegs demonstrates both popularity and a proven track record. Their Scratch Series showcases innovation, providing a platform for experimental brews. The Hershey-based brewery offers an immersive taproom experience, complete with a full-service kitchen and the award-winning Guided Production Tour, voted the best brewery tour in America by USA Today readers for five consecutive years. Tröegs’ reputation is further solidified by accolades such as the Mid-Sized Brewery and Brewer of the Year Awards at the Great American Beer Festival. As one of the top 30 craft breweries in the U.S. by sales volume, Tröegs continues to blend tradition with creativity, delivering exceptional beers to a broad audience.
Pennsylvania Beer Scene: Tradition, Grit, and Great Beer
Pennsylvania has one of the strongest beer legacies in the U.S. It’s home to Yuengling, America’s oldest brewery, founded in 1829. With deep German roots and a long history of lager brewing, the state has always had beer in its blood.
Over the last few decades, Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene has grown into one of the most diverse in the country. From Pittsburgh to Philadelphia, and everywhere in between, breweries are turning out everything from world-class IPAs and smooth stouts to crisp lagers and sours. Towns like Hershey, Lancaster, and Easton have become craft beer destinations in their own right.
One thing that makes the PA beer scene stand out is its mix of old-school and new-school. You’ve got legacy brewers like Victory and Troegs sharing the stage with small-batch outfits and neighborhood taprooms. No matter what kind of beer you’re into, there’s a place pouring it fresh in Pennsylvania.
FAQs About Pennsylvania Beer
How many breweries are in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has over 500 licensed breweries, putting it in the top five states for craft beer production.
What’s the oldest brewery in the state?
D.G. Yuengling & Son, based in Pottsville, is the oldest operating brewery in the United States.
Are there beer trails in Pennsylvania?
Yes. The state offers several, including the Lehigh Valley Ale Trail, PA Pour Tour, and Bucks County Ale Trail—great for planning weekend trips.
Are Pennsylvania breweries family-friendly?
Many are. Breweries with food service or outdoor space often welcome kids and dogs, but check ahead for policies.
What styles are most popular in PA?
PA brewers make everything, but expect to see a lot of lagers, IPAs, and porters—especially in colder months. Traditional German styles are also common.
Y’all have no mention of Koehler Brewing co. Only been brewing since 1847. Originally in Erie PA, now being brewed in Ellwood City Pennsylvania. I’m sorry, but “can design” shouldn’t be a deciding factor for a top brewery
Agree.
I’m surprised susquehanna brewing company isn’t on this list, great beers, relaxed atmosphere!
Surprising that our local multi award winning 2SP brewing did not make the cut!
2sp belongs. So does bonn place
Other half shouldn’t be on this list but I always want to source breweries to their original locations so I feel this steals some light. I am not going to discredit other half, they make great beer but im not going to put it on a dc list either nor would I put treehouse on a new york or connecticut list.
I mean Wallenpaupack brewery some of the best award winning IPA’s and how is Yuengling not number 1 for being the oldeest beer company and largest out of them all.
Check out Poverty Knob Farmhouse Ales in Waterford PA (just a little south of Erie PA)
Bald birds Brewing Co. in Audubon, Pa.
And jersey shore, Pa.
This list is severely flawed. No mention of Ten7 Brewing in North Wales. Amazing beer
Cinderlands is easily Top 30.
An up and coming brewery from Lancaster is Cartel Brewing & Blending.
RIP Roundabout Brewing and Cox Brewing. May you both never be forgotten.
Did they visit western PA at all, the only ones mentioned from the western side are the ones you can find everywhere.