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Discover the Straub Brewery Tour in Pennsylvania

Deep in the rolling hills of the Allegheny Mountains, the Straub Brewery Visitor Experience in St. Marys, Pennsylvania, offers one of America’s most authentic brewery tours. Founded in 1872, Straub is still family-owned and operates on its original site — blending traditional German craftsmanship with modern brewing innovation.

Visitors can explore the historic brewhouse, vintage copper kettles, and state-of-the-art canning line before sampling fresh beer straight from Straub’s legendary Eternal Tap. Along the way, you’ll learn how six generations of the Straub family have kept this independent brewery thriving for over 150 years.

Why it’s special: Straub is one of the oldest continuously operating breweries in the U.S., a true living museum of American beer heritage. Its friendly, small-town atmosphere and sustainability focus make it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

History of Straub Brewery

Straub Brewery was founded in 1872 by Peter Straub, a German immigrant and master brewer who came to St. Marys seeking pure mountain spring water for his craft. What began as a small local operation soon became a community cornerstone.

Through wars, Prohibition, and decades of industry change, Straub has remained family-run for six generations, proudly brewing with local ingredients and natural mountain water. Today, it continues to produce classic lagers and new craft styles while maintaining its reputation for purity and tradition.

What You’ll See & Do on the Straub Brewery Tour

Step inside the historic brewhouse with its restored 19th-century architecture.
Watch live brewing and packaging from elevated viewing platforms.
Learn about Straub’s commitment to zero-waste, sustainable brewing practices.
Sample fresh beer directly from the famous Eternal Tap, open to visitors 21+.
Visit the Straub Museum to explore 150 years of brewing memorabilia and family history.

Hands-On Elements: Sampling at the Eternal Tap; seasonal tasting flights; heritage exhibit interaction.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography encouraged in visitor areas; no flash inside production zones.
Souvenirs & Extras: Gift shop with apparel, collectible glassware, and limited-edition beers.

Pricing of the Straub Brewery Tour

Classic Tour & Tasting: $12 per person (includes Eternal Tap sample + souvenir glass)
Heritage Tour (with Museum): $18 per person
Self-Guided Visitor Experience: Free access to museum & taproom viewing area
Guests must be 21+ for tastings; minors welcome on heritage tours with adult supervision.

Practical Info for Visiting Straub Brewery

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided tour and tasting
Schedule & Seasonality: Open Thursday–Saturday, 11 AM – 4 PM; closed major holidays
Audience: Beer enthusiasts, heritage travelers, families (with adults), groups
Accessibility: Visitor Center fully accessible; historic brewhouse has some stairs
Safety & Restrictions: Closed-toe shoes recommended; no pets on tour route
Languages: English; private group tours available in German or Spanish by request
Group & School Visits: Adult group tours by reservation; educational presentations available
What to Bring/Wear: Valid ID (21+), comfortable shoes, and a thirst for local beer history
Facilities: Visitor Center, museum, gift shop, taproom, parking lot, restrooms
Closures & Downtime: Closed Sunday–Wednesday and on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas

Nearby

Elk Country Visitor Center – Scenic wildlife viewing area 20 minutes away.
St. Marys Benedictine Monastery – Historic landmark founded in 1852.
Allegheny National Forest – Hiking and outdoor adventures within a short drive.

FAQs About Visiting Straub Brewery

Do I need to book a tour in advance?
Advance reservations are recommended for the Classic and Heritage Tours, especially on weekends. Walk-ins are welcome for museum and Eternal Tap access when space permits.

What beers will I get to taste?
Most tours include samples of Straub’s flagship American Lager, Amber Lager, and a seasonal or Pilot Batch brew — all fresh from the Eternal Tap.

Can kids or families visit the brewery?
Yes! Children under 21 can join the Heritage Tour and museum experience with an adult. Only guests 21+ may sample beer at the Eternal Tap.

What is the Eternal Tap?
The Eternal Tap is Straub’s famous on-site tasting fixture, where visitors 21+ can pour themselves a fresh beer right from the source — a tradition since the 1950s.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility limitations?
Yes, the Visitor Center and museum are fully accessible. The brewhouse has limited stairs; staff can accommodate access requests with advance notice.

Can I buy beer to take home?
Absolutely — the Gift Shop sells fresh six-packs, growlers, and specialty brews available only at the brewery.

Do you offer group or private tours?
Yes, private group experiences and corporate events can be arranged with advance booking.