Taste Handcrafted Beer at Lancaster County Breweries

Here in Pennsylvania we know a little something about beer. German immigrants who settled here brought with them a love of good beer, and Pennsylvania already had six breweries pre-Prohibition, more than any other state. Today, that legacy is being built upon by a new generation of breweries, each with its own unique flair. According to USA Today, Pennsylvania ranks sixth in the nation in the number of breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs. Here in Lancaster County, there are plenty of tasting opportunities within minutes of B.F. Hiestand House where you can find a style of beer that suits your mood and taste.

If you're thirsty for a smooth pilsner, a malty lager or a hazy IPA, we've got you covered! Here are a few of our favorites craft breweries we think you should check out during your next PA Dutch Country getaway.

River Trail Brewing │ 40 E. Front St., Marietta, PA
Craft beer lovers and foodies will find everything they're looking for at River Trail Brewing. Enjoy year-round favorites like Raging River Pilsner and Trail Rider IPA, or seasonal brews like their Winter Lager. In the kitchen, they're putting a twist on typical pub food with a focus on seafood and high-quality comfort food. Be sure to check out the live music at River Trail Brewing, from acoustic open mic nights on Tuesdays to bands and special weekend events.

Hell in a Bucket Brewing Co. │ 338 S. Front S., Wrightsville, PA
Grateful Dead fans will recognize this brewery's name from the band's 1987 song of the same name. From their hoppy August West Coast IPA to a traditional Belgian Terrapin Tripel, Hell in a Bucket Brewing Co. prides themselves on crafting unique beers, always striving for the perfect pour. Come for the beer and stay for the music, as local musicians come here frequently to jam.

Columbia Kettle Works │ 40 N. Third St., Columbia, PA
Opened in 2014, this brewpub has over a dozen beers on tap at any one time. Get a taste of their liquid creativity when you sample offerings such as Rack & Pinion Bock and Flash-Forward IPA. Columbia Kettle Works also features Pennsylvania wine and cocktails mixed with PA-distilled spirits. The food menu is locally sourced as well, including snacks, meat and cheese plates, and sandwiches.

Starview Brews │ 224 Locust St., Columbia, PA
Opened in January 2022, Starview Brews was born from its owner's passion for homebrewing. Starview features a dozen house-brewed beers, many that honor local spots like the popular Long Level Lager and Chickies Rock Cream Ale. Pair your pint with something from Starview's small but tasty menu, from appetizers and paninis to their signature Maryland-style crab cakes.

Twisted Bine Beer Co. │ 93 E. Main St., Mount Joy, PA
Twisted Bine Beer Co. offers a unique selection of seasonally hand-crafted beers that appeal to a wide range of beer drinkers, from the novice to the hop-loving enthusiast. For something on the lighter side, try the Take a Load Off Annie pilsner. Or go bold with a robust Almost Heaven milk stout. In addition to the tasting room, this small-scale microbrewery has a casual farm-to-table restaurant that features appetizers, wraps and burgers.

Bube's Brewery │ 102 N. Market St., Mount Joy, PA
Bube's Brewery dates back to the mid-1800s, when German-style lagers brought to America by immigrants were all the rage. Today, the microbrewery is located in the original brewery's icehouse, and their handcrafted beers not only include lagers, but IPAs, stouts, porters and more. The draft selection changes frequently, providing a good excuse to return often to taste what's new on tap. In addition to the microbrewery, Bube's offers upscale dining in The Catacombs, casual dining in The Bottling Works tavern and popular special events year-round.

Cox Brewing Company │ 276 Helsey Quarry Road, Elizabethtown, PA
Opened in 2015, this veteran-owned brewery operates a taproom out of a garage, giving the space a unique, approachable vibe. Cox Brewing Company has more than 12 rotating beers, such as Helles on Wheels, B-52 Belgian Dubble and 82nd Amber Ale. They also serve Pennsylvania-made wine, cider and hearty snacks — plus you're welcome to bring your own food as well. When the garage doors are open, you'll enjoy views of the beautiful Lancaster countryside.