Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is a region celebrated for its rich agricultural heritage and stunning countryside. But beyond the rolling hills and Amish buggies, a vibrant and nationally recognized craft beer scene is brewing. From historic lagers and classic ales to innovative IPAs and experimental sours, Lancaster's breweries offer an incredible range of flavors for every palate. This guide will take you on a tour of seven of the best and most beloved breweries in the area.
1. Lancaster Brewing Company (Lancaster & Harrisburg)
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The Vibe: A true pioneer of the region's craft beer movement, Lancaster Brewing Company has been a beloved institution for decades. Their main location in Lancaster features a sprawling, lively brewpub with a classic, rustic feel, while their Harrisburg spot offers a more modern taproom experience.
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The Brews: Known for producing excellent, consistent craft beers, LBC uses local ingredients whenever possible, reflecting the area's rich farmland. With 12 or more beers on tap at any time, look for their flagship Strawberry Wheat, the classic Milk Stout, and a rotating selection of seasonal brews. They also offer a full food menu and brewery tours.
2. Spring House Brewing Company (Lancaster)
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The Vibe: With a massive, multi-story taproom on Hazel Street, Spring House is a fun and energetic destination. The space is eclectic and artistic, with a great outdoor beer garden and a lively atmosphere.
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The Brews: While they produce a wide range of styles, Spring House is famous for its creative and often whimsical offerings. They are particularly renowned for their stouts, especially the decadent "The Martians Kidnap Santa!" (a chocolate peanut butter stout). Their pumpkin ale and other unique beers have helped build a loyal following.
3. Wacker Brewing Company (Lancaster)
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The Vibe: Housed in an early 20th-century tobacco warehouse, Wacker Brewing Company honors a historic Lancaster brewing name that dates back to the 1850s. The taproom is cozy and steeped in local history.
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The Brews: Revived in 2014, the modern Wacker Brewing focuses on crafting drinkable and delicious beers, with a nod to traditional German styles. Their flagship beers often include a classic German Pale Ale and the historic Wacker Beer lager.
4. Mad Chef Craft Brewing (East Petersburg)
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The Vibe: A popular brewpub just outside Lancaster city, Mad Chef has a fun, industrial-themed taproom with a welcoming, community feel. They often feature live music on select nights.
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The Brews: The taproom features 16 of their own signature craft brews, made with high-quality ingredients. They are also known for their fantastic food menu, with the adjacent Cabalar Meat Company providing high-quality meats for their delicious sandwiches and appetizers.
5. Moo-Duck Brewery (Elizabethtown)
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The Vibe: Located in the charming town of Elizabethtown, Moo-Duck Brewery is a casual, cozy pub that offers handcrafted beers and locally sourced pub grub. They often host live music, creating a fun and friendly night out.
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The Brews: Moo-Duck is known for handcrafting beer in small batches, which allows them to experiment and rotate their taps frequently. Their eight rotating taps feature a diverse range of seasonal craft beers, from light to dark and hoppy to malty.
6. Columbia Kettle Works (Columbia & Lancaster)
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The Vibe: A modern craft microbrewery with locations in the historic river town of Columbia and in Lancaster city, Columbia Kettle Works (CKW) offers a relaxed and friendly taproom experience.
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The Brews: They brew their own beers on-site and serve a variety of styles, alongside local wines. Each location features a menu of tasty snacks and handcrafted paninis that pair perfectly with their beers.
7. River Trail Brewing (Marietta)
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The Vibe: Located in a historic building in the river town of Marietta, River Trail Brewing offers a welcoming atmosphere with a focus on Pennsylvania-made beverages and a full menu. It features an outdoor bar perfect for warm weather.
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The Brews: The draft list is diverse, often including Belgian-style ales, Helles lagers, several IPAs, and even sours. They also serve Pennsylvania-made wine and liquor.
Lancaster County's craft beer scene is a delicious and essential part of its modern identity. From the pioneering spirit of Lancaster Brewing Company and the creative energy of Spring House to the historic charm of Wacker, these breweries showcase the incredible quality and variety the region has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or a casual fan, a tour of these top spots is a perfect way to taste the best of the Dutch Country.
