Yards Brewing Company

Yards Brewing Company is a renowned craft brewery located in the vibrant city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. Founded in 1994 by two friends, Tom Kehoe and Jon Bovit, it has evolved from a humble garage operation into a modern brewery on Spring Garden Street. Today, it is one of the iconic destinations for quality beer enthusiasts and an essential part of the city's gastronomic scene.

The brewery specializes in producing ales, particularly in the English tradition, and is rightfully considered one of the largest and most recognizable in Philadelphia. Yards Brewing Company takes pride in its mission—to brew beer "for the people of Philadelphia and their friends"—which reflects its deep connection with the local community and its commitment to creating beverages that bring people together.

The Yards Brewing Company lineup includes classic varieties such as ESA (English Style Ale) and Entire Porter, alongside other craft ales available in kegs and cans. Over the years, the brewery has become more than just a beverage producer; it is a true cultural phenomenon, offering beer that embodies the spirit and traditions of Philadelphia. Visiting this place is a great opportunity to get acquainted with local brewing artistry and experience the city's authentic atmosphere.

For the most up-to-date information regarding opening hours, the menu, booking options, or hosting events at Yards Brewing Company, it is recommended to consult their official resources. This will help you plan your visit as effectively as possible.

A visit to Yards Brewing Company offers guests a whole spectrum of engaging activities. First and foremost, of course, is the chance to try a variety of craft beers for which the brewery is famous. You can not only enjoy the flavors but also immerse yourself in the history of brewing through the organized production tours. During these tours, visitors learn about the intricacies of the beer-making process and the rich history of the company itself.

The heart of Yards Brewing Company is often its signature taproom. Here, in a relaxed atmosphere, you can sample the freshest beer straight from the plant. Additionally, the brewery regularly hosts various themed events and special evenings, such as anniversary celebrations or events dedicated to specific eras, like 90s-style parties. This is an excellent way not only to try unique varieties but also to have a great time.

In addition to tastings and entertainment, a visit to Yards Brewing Company allows you to connect with the local culture of Philadelphia. The company actively supports the local community and environmental initiatives, which is reflected in their philosophy "Brew Unto Others." This is an invitation not just to enjoy beer, but to be part of something bigger, supporting good causes and connecting with like-minded people. For tourists, it is a wonderful opportunity to experience the authentic culinary side of the city.

Getting to Yards Brewing Company in Philadelphia is quite straightforward, thanks to its location at 500 Spring Garden Street in the Northern Liberties neighborhood. Situated in a central part of the city, the brewery is a convenient stop, especially if you plan to combine a beer tasting with exploring other USA attractions.

If you prefer public transport, several bus routes serve the Northern Liberties area. Additionally, there is a subway station located near Yards Brewing Company, which is another convenient option for getting around the city. We recommend checking the route numbers and the nearest station in advance to plan your trip comfortably.

For those traveling by car, there are parking spaces available in the vicinity of the brewery. However, keep in mind that during peak hours or popular events, finding a free spot can be challenging, so it’s best to allow extra time for parking or consider alternative ways to reach the venue.

Overall, thanks to its excellent location and transport accessibility, Yards Brewing Company is easily reachable for both locals and tourists looking to experience the craft beer culture of Philadelphia.

The story of Yards Brewing Company is a classic American success story that began with the enthusiasm of two friends. In the late 1980s, Tom Kehoe and Jon Bovit, the future founders, became passionate about homebrewing, creating drinks for themselves and their friends. This passion grew into something more, and in 1994, they officially registered the brewery. The first steps were modest: production was housed in a small garage in the Manayunk neighborhood of Philadelphia.

A landmark moment for the young company was its first public appearance. On April 29, 1995, Yards Brewing Company's signature ESA (English Style Ale) was introduced at the Philadelphia Craft Beer Festival. This debut marked the beginning of a long journey of growth and recognition. Over time, the brewery expanded several times, moving to increasingly larger premises to meet the growing demand for its products.

By 2015, Yards Brewing Company had reached an impressive production capacity, brewing about 55,000 barrels of beer annually. Over its three decades of existence, the brewery has not only increased its volume but has also become an integral part of Philadelphia's beer culture. It has maintained its commitment to quality and its close connection to the local community, which was clearly evident in 2024 when the company celebrated its 30th anniversary with a grand 90s-themed event, honoring the era of its founding.

Today, Yards Brewing Company is more than just a beer producer; it is a symbol of dedication to both tradition and innovation in brewing. Its history reflects the development of the craft movement in the USA and the love Philadelphia residents have for quality local products. A visit to the brewery offers a chance to touch this living history and appreciate the company's contribution to the city's gastronomic heritage.

To visit Yards Brewing Company, it is generally sufficient to set aside 1 to 2 hours. This amount of time is enough to get a general impression of the brewery, explore the range of beers offered, and soak in the establishment's atmosphere.

During this time, you can leisurely sample several beer varieties in the signature taproom. If you plan to take a production tour, which allows for a deeper dive into the brewing process and the company's history, you should aim for the upper end of this time range. Additionally, if Yards Brewing Company is hosting a special event or festival, your stay might be longer depending on the program.

In general, 1-2 hours is the optimal time for an initial introduction to Yards Brewing Company, allowing you to both try the products and perhaps learn something new about brewing without overloading your travel itinerary in Philadelphia.

Yards Brewing Company is usually open to visitors, and its signature taproom and brewery typically operate from midday until late evening, including weekends. However, exact opening hours can vary depending on the season, the day of the week, and whether any special events are being held. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to check the current schedule on the official Yards Brewing Company website or contact them directly before your visit.

As for the need for advanced booking, it may depend on your plans. If you intend to visit the brewery with a large group or wish to join a production tour, checking the availability and necessity of a reservation in advance is a good idea. Generally, Yards Brewing Company welcomes visitors year-round, but it is always best to verify the latest information on their official resources to ensure your visit goes as smoothly as possible.

A visit to Yards Brewing Company is an excellent starting point for exploring the culinary scene of Philadelphia. However, to make your trip even more fulfilling and memorable, it is worth taking some time to explore the surroundings. The area where the brewery is located and the nearby blocks hide many interesting spots that can complement your experience.

A stroll through the neighborhood will allow you not only to discover other attractions but also to get a better feel for the atmosphere of this historical USA city. Near Yards Brewing Company, you will find both cultural sites and other establishments where you can enjoy your time. Below is a list of some of them, including their distances.