As part of our DiscoverNEPA Brewer’s Loop Series, we’re hitting the road – yes, all 390-plus miles of it. We’ll be taking brewery tours, sampling stouts, lagers and IPAs, and tasting taproom grub all over Northeastern Pennsylvania. Follow along as we bring you a firsthand look inside the region’s exploding craft beer scene, and let you know how, when and where you can experience it for yourself.
Nationally Recognized, Award Winning Craft Beer Brewed in Pittston, PA
This hometown brewery, located in middle of The Susquehanna Stretch on the DiscoverNEPA Brewer’s Loop, offers convenience and plenty of parking. Just a few minutes from the PA Turnpike and I-81, Susquehanna Brewing Co., in Pittston is home to several national, award-winning beers. SBC, as it is known locally, bridges a gap between traditional, turn-of-the-century brewing and modern efficiency. Their tour and Tasting Room are definitely worth a weekend trip.
You’re in for a beer lover’s treat at Susquehanna Brewing Co. Their fun, informative and free tour has been recognized by USA Today as one of the best brewery tours in the country. Follow along with one of SBC’s knowledgeable brewmasters as they walk you through the process from mashing to filtering and packaging. The state-of-the-art facility features incredibly unique, German-built brewing equipment, and even some original Kentucky Bourbon barrels. The tour also touches upon SBC’s fascinating connection to NEPA’s original beer pioneer, Charles E. Stegmaier.
And Now… We Taste.
There’s something for every beer drinker at SBC’s Tasting Room.
At the completion of the brewery tour, you’ll be itching to sample some beers. Make your way to the breakroom-styled Tasting Room. Check out the chalkboard for the current draft list along with specifics about each beer. You can enjoy a pint, or try a flight of five different beers. There are typically 7-10 beers on tap. And the selection ranges from their award-winning Goldencold Lager to the hefty Susquehanna Tripel Ale and several of their IPAs and popular, natural fruit-flavored Shandys. Once you’ve made your decision, grab a high-top and enjoy your view into the brewery. Or, if the weather is cooperating, head outside to the patio.
Nothing beats a cold one straight from the brewery.
Take that crisp, brewery-fresh taste home with you in a 64-oz. growler. Here’s a tip: join the Growler Program and get five growler fills for $60. It practically pays for itself after the third visit, and it includes specialty and cask releases. The Tasting Room also features a wide selection of SBC 12-packs and 6-packs to go. And you can get SBC t-shirts, hoodies, hats and so much more.
Go Behind the Scenes
More Than Just a Brewery
Weekends at SBC are all about good people, good fun and great beer.
There is always something going on at the brewery. Whether it involves yoga mats, cornhole, puppies or food trucks, the folks at SBC take great pride in bringing people together. On any given weekend, you’ll find live, local music in the tasting room, trivia nights, or even karaoke. SBC is also a major supporter of many local charities and non-profit organizations. The brewery often plays host to local fundraisers and even takes out their famous beer trailer to off-site community events.
Brewed Right
There’s plenty of “right” at Susquehanna Brewing Co.
From the good people behind the beer and the top-quality ingredients to the welcoming smiles on the other side of the bar, a visit to this beloved brewery is a must for anyone interested in great beer and a good time.
Free Brewery Tours:
Saturdays and Sundays / Tours start at 12 pm, 2 pm, and 4 pm
Tasting Room:
Wed. thru Sat. 12 pm – 10 pm / Sunday 12 pm – 8 pm
Must Try:
Goldencold Lager – 2015 Bronze Medal at the Great American Beer Festival
Shady Spot Lemon Shandy – 2016 Gold Medal at the World Beer Cup
Susquehanna Tripel – Because it’s delicious and strong