21 Awesome Northeast Breweries You Should Know About
It doesn't matter if you're a beer aficionado or just want to try something new. Hop on an Amtrak Northeast Regional train this weekend and explore one of the many breweries the Northeast has to offer!
1. Westerly, RI — Grey Sail Brewing of Rhode Island
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Set up by husband-and-wife team Alan and Jennifer Brinton, Grey Sail Brewing hasn't been around long, but that hasn't stopped their beers from winning awards. Perfect for any occasion, their Flagship Ale is a "gold-medal-winning cream ale."
2. Boston, MA — Harpoon Brewery
Brewery tours and tastings are available at Harpoon seven days a week, and all for just $5. While you're there, try one of their pilot beers, which are only available on-site.
3. Providence, RI — Narragansett Brewing Company
Founded in 1888 and re-established in 2005, Narragansett Brewing Company is rich in history and tastes. Their 'Gansett Cream claims to be "the perfect lawn-mower beer."
4. New Haven, CT — New England Brewing Co.
New England Brewing Co. was one of the first breweries to put craft beers in cans, including their three-malted, hoppy Sea Hag IPA. Their Imperial Stout Trooper isn't canned yet, but sure is awesome.
5. Stamford, CT — Half Full Brewery
After deciding his Wall Street job was no longer for him, founder Conor Horrigan opened up the doors to Half Full Brewery in June of 2012. Stop in for their signature beer, the Half Full Bright Ale.
6. Hartford, CT — Olde Burnside Brewing Company
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What makes Olde Burnside Brewing Company unique is that they use a pure water source, found on their property, to brew all their beers. Check out their What's Hoppening section to find out about local events.
7. Windsor Locks, CT — Broad Brook Brewing Company
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If you're spending an afternoon at the Broad Brook Brewing tap room, you can bring your own food or even have something delivered from a nearby restaurant, all while you enjoy their signature ale.
8. New York City — Bronx Brewery
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The Bronx Brewery's Gin Barrel Aged Brond Pale Ale is available only in limited release, but for good reason. After the beer is brewed, it's aged in oak gin barrels for several months. So get it while you can!
9. New Brunswick, NJ — Harvest Moon Brewery & Cafe
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Not only does Harvest Moon Brewery offer live karaoke every Thursday night, but if you glance over their beer menu, you'll also notice a 9.2% ABV HM Simcoe Double IPA.
10. Princeton, NJ — Triumph Brewing Company
Triumph Brewing Company also houses a restaurant that serves locally grown foods. While you're there, take advantage of their cheese and beer pairings. You won't regret it.
11. North Philadelphia, PA — Philadelphia Brewing Co.
The building the Philadelphia Brewing Co. calls home was originally built in 1885 for the Weisbrod & Hess Oriental Brewing Company. Step inside for a Pennsylvania Pale Ale and a glimpse of the big pig.
12. Wilmington, DE — Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant was named after the Revolutionary War battle in Delaware, where Generals Washington and Lafayette fought General Cornwallis. You can't help but feel patriotic when you drink one of their beers.
13. Baltimore, MD — Peabody Heights Brewery
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After almost 30 years, Peabody Heights Brewery was one of the first breweries opened within Baltimore's city limits. You're definitely going to want to try their Poe-inspired RavenBeer.
14. Washington, D.C.— Atlas Brew Works
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Atlas Brew Works offers our nation's capital five distinct styles of beer. Their Rowdy Rye Ale is said to have "complex flavors and aroma that is both aggressive and fun."
15. Alexandria, VA — Port City Brewing Company
Port City began brewing in January 2011. Their 5.0% ABV Optimal Wit has since gone on to become a gold medalist at the 2013 World Beer Championships.
16. Manassas, VA — BadWolf Brewing Company
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BadWolf Brewery is a small, family-owned operation and only brews one barrel at a time. Visit often, as what's on tap changes frequently.
17. Lynchburg, VA — Jefferson Street Brewery
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In 2007, the Jefferson Street Brewery opened its doors on the site of the Craddock-Terry Shoe Factory. Since then, it's produced a bunch of delicious beer, including their Oatmeal Stout, which has hints of dark chocolate and coffee.
18. Ashland, VA — Center of the Universe Brewing Co.
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After home brewing for years, the Ray brothers opened up COTU in November 2012. Ray Ray's Pale Ale is available year-round and offers "classic spicy and citrusy aromas and flavors."
19. Richmond, VA — Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
Hardywood Park's mission is to mature into one of the most respected breweries in America. With beers like their seasonal Hardywood Rum Pumpkin, and year-round Hardywood Cream Ale, they'll have no problem becoming just that.
20. Williamsburg, VA — AleWerks Brewing Company
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You can take a guided tour of the AleWerks Brewery every Monday–Saturday starting at 2 p.m. Their Red Marker Ale is filled with hints of caramel and plums and will leave you wanting a second round.
21. Norfolk, VA — O'Connor Brewing Co.
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There's always something exciting happening at O'Connor Brewing Co. Whether you're there for trivia night, live music, or a charity event, you'll have a great time with a glass of their El Guapo in your hand.