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Discover the Yards Brewery Tour in Pennsylvania

In the heart of Philadelphia’s Northern Liberties, Yards Brewing Company offers one of the city’s most popular and approachable craft beer experiences. Known for its community-first spirit and iconic beers like Philadelphia Pale Ale, Brawler, and Love Stout, Yards has been brewing great beer with purpose since 1994.

The Yards Brewery Tour gives visitors a close-up look at the entire brewing process — from raw grains to fermentation, filtration, and packaging. Guests learn how Yards stays true to its “Brew Unto Others” philosophy while balancing traditional brewing with modern sustainability. The experience ends with a guided tasting flight of fresh, locally brewed favorites.

Why it’s special: Yards is more than just a brewery — it’s a Philadelphia institution. As the city’s largest and longest-running independent craft brewery, its tours perfectly capture the passion, innovation, and pride that define Philly’s beer scene.

History of Yards Brewing Company

Founded in 1994 by friends Tom Kehoe and Jon Bovit, Yards began in a small garage in Manayunk before becoming a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s craft beer renaissance. Over the decades, the brewery has expanded into a 70,000-square-foot facility at 5th and Spring Garden Streets, complete with a large taproom and restaurant.

Yards has built a loyal following through community involvement, sustainable practices, and partnerships with local nonprofits. Their beers are a tribute to the city’s history and resilience — proudly brewed “by Philadelphians, for Philadelphians.”

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

Step inside the state-of-the-art brewhouse to see brewing, fermentation, and canning in action.
Learn about Yards’ signature recipes and the balance between traditional English styles and bold American flavors.
See how the brewery integrates solar power and sustainability into daily operations.
Enjoy a guided tasting flight of Yards’ core and seasonal beers.
Visit the Yards Taproom, featuring over a dozen beers on draft and locally inspired food.

Hands-On Elements: Interactive tasting session; opportunity to sample limited-edition brews on tap.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography encouraged; flash restricted near tanks and production floor.
Souvenirs & Extras: Retail shop with beer, merch, and brewery-exclusive releases.

Pricing of the Yards Brewery Tour

Guided Brewery Tour: $10 per person (includes tasting flight + souvenir glass)
Private Group Tours: Available by reservation for 10+ guests
Family Visitors: Under-21 guests allowed with adult; no tastings provided
Tickets can be reserved online or purchased at the brewery on the day of your visit.

Practical Info for Visiting Yards Brewing Company

Duration: 45 minutes
Format: Guided tour with tasting
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered Friday–Sunday, several times per day; taproom open daily
Audience: Adults 21+, craft beer enthusiasts, groups, and travelers
Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible; ramps and accessible restrooms throughout facility
Safety & Restrictions: Closed-toe shoes required; no outside food or drink in production areas
Languages: English (private group tours in Spanish upon request)
Group & School Visits: Adult educational groups welcome with advance notice
What to Bring/Wear: Photo ID, comfortable shoes, and a taste for Philly beer
Facilities: Taproom & kitchen, restrooms, gift shop, outdoor seating, parking nearby
Closures & Downtime: Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and major holidays

Nearby

Liberty Bell & Independence Hall – Iconic historic landmarks just 5 minutes away.
Reading Terminal Market – Philly’s famous indoor food hall, perfect for lunch after your tour.
Penn’s Landing – Scenic Delaware River waterfront with walking trails and live events.

FAQs About Visiting Yards Brewing Company

Do I need a reservation for the brewery tour?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends when tours often sell out. Walk-ins are accepted when space allows.

How many beers do we get to taste?
Each tour includes a guided flight of four 5-ounce samples, typically featuring Yards classics like Brawler, IPA, and Philadelphia Pale Ale, plus one seasonal or experimental brew.

Can kids or families join the tour?
Yes, guests under 21 are welcome to observe the tour (no tastings). The taproom is family-friendly and offers a full food menu.

Is food available on-site?
Yes — the Yards Taproom Kitchen serves elevated pub fare, including beer pretzels, burgers, salads, and vegan options, all designed to pair with Yards’ beers.

Can I bring my dog?
Leashed dogs are welcome in Yards’ outdoor beer garden, but not inside the taproom or production area.

Can I buy beer to take home?
Absolutely. The Yards Beer Shop offers crowlers, six-packs, and limited-edition bottles only available at the brewery.

Is the facility accessible?
Yes — the entire brewery, taproom, and restrooms are wheelchair accessible.

Do you offer private or corporate tours?
Yes, private tours and tasting events for groups or company outings can be arranged with advance booking.