Craft beer and the culture that surrounds it has breathed new life into an age-old libation. Not only is the beer itself far from the watered-down, bland drink of yore, but the whole craft brewery experience has destigmatized the word “beer.” Earlier, I stated that I have set out to explore what breweries would fit best for certain demographics (guy’s night, girl’s night, family night, etc). For this article, I want to focus on the best family-friendly breweries.
To many individuals, a brewery is still considered a dirty word. “You smell like a brewery,” is an old adage after the bedraggled individual returns home after a few too many beverages, (presumably the husband such as Norm from Cheers or Andy Capp or maybe even Barney Gumble–although I doubt he is married). The image of a brewery was a large impersonal factory like the one from the classic 1980s film Strange Brew.
To Bring or Not to Bring (children, to the brewery)
The idea of bringing children to the brewery is profane to some. Images of parents swilling beer while their youngsters are out back playing on a lonely swing set come to mind. Erase them. Just because an establishment brews beer, this does not equal parental debauchery. Bringing children to a brewery is not like a family outing to Moe’s Tavern or your local dive bar. (Wow, two Simpsons references already!) Of all the many breweries that I have been to personally (way too many to count), I have never witnessed intoxicated parents. The idea is to have one or maybe two beers and a relaxed visit. Many breweries have activities for kids such as toys, coloring books, and games. Other breweries allow canine friends too, and some even have dog-themed events.
Certainly not every brewery is conducive to kids in tow, although most do allow them. Some have no-kid zones; others have restricted hours. Others are simply not great due to large crowds or small spaces.
For these reasons, the following breweries have all been recommended as family favorites. As a parent and an enjoyer of breweries, I could give my two cents on this post. Instead, I reached out via social media, asked friends, and even some kids what their favorite breweries are. Here are the results.
Castle Island Brewing–
Castle Island Brewing is located in a warehouse space in Norwood, Massachusetts. Its popular beer can be easily procured at package stores and restaurants. Going to the brewery with kids, there are games such as cornhole, television projected on the wall, and even an arcade area. The arcade games are a special treat for kids even though throwbacks such as NBA Jam certainly appeal to the 1980s “kids” too. The taproom is a large open space with communal seating.
Cape Cod Beer–
Cape Cod is THE summer tourist destination in New England. Most visitors flock to the peninsula for the beaches. A rainy day on the Cape can be tough, but Cape Cod Beer has capitalized on this. Actually, with its location right near a commercial district in Hyannis, it’s always busy, even on nice days! Cape Cod Beer, with games and picnic tables, plus an outdoor area, make it easy for families. They also hold events such as Christmas in July with Santa.
Wissahickon Brewing Company–
Although most of these breweries are congregated in New England, Wissahickon Brewery is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is a perfect spot for families. With a “come as you are” mentality, this brewery is popular with families with kids and dogs. There’s actually a large space in the back room of the brewery that is especially family-friendly. Expect to see kids running around in this controlled environment just as they do in the brewery’s outdoor spot. There are games for all ages including corn hole, giant Jenga and tons of books and board games. Juice is available for those not yet able to imbibe on beer. And believe it or not, it’s a top spot for birthday parties in the area!
Troegs Independent Brewing–
The second Pennsylvania recommendation is the ever-popular Troegs in Hershey. This is a large communal space that can get loud (which is just fine for kids). It serves delicious food. Its vibe is relaxed though. And the brewing facility is viewable to the public. Kids love that stuff. And of course, Nugget Nectar, Mad Elf and Blizzard of Hops are just three more reasons to visit.
Untold Brewing Company–
When I asked my son what breweries are his favorites. He quickly replied, “The one that I fell off of the desk chair.” Untold, located in Scituate, Massachusetts, has an expansive selection of games for families and a separate area with picnic-style tables that are perfect for groups. Untold tops his list of the best family-friendly breweries.
Mayflower Brewing–
The popcorn available to purchase at Mayflower makes it a big hit for my son. The Mayflower Brewery in Plymouth, Massachusetts, is perfect for anyone (almost all demographics mentioned this brewery). Mayflower’s beer gardens are one of my favorite spots to take the family. The ability for the kids to explore in an outdoor setting really can’t be beaten. With recent beer gardens at the Pinehills and at the Mayflower Society House, Mayflower is one of my top picks for being family-friendly. Also, for larger events, Mayflower opens up the back area of the brewery to the public and often features live music.
Widowmaker Brewing Company–
Widowmaker, located in Braintree, Massachusetts, has a large taproom. It is the perfect mix of family-friendly and a kids-free zone. After a certain time, the kids need to leave. Before that though, it’s a family-oriented brewery. Bowls of snacks are available, and there is a nook for kids with coloring books and games to play. There are TVs to watch and the taproom is so big, there is plenty of room for walks.
Von Trapp Brewing–
The Von Trapp Beerhall in Stowe, Vermont, is a beautiful space that was built a few years ago. Another large facility, the former brewery was located in a small building, also on the property. The food is top-notch. In addition to the beer hall, the grounds are ripe for roaming and running around. The beer hall is decorated in an intriguing style for kids, with antlers and other fascinating memorabilia on display. Climbing the stairs to the second floor is fun for kids to get a bird’s eye view. Enjoying Austrian specialties (both food and beer) outside on a beautiful day, with the Green Mountains in the background, makes Von Trapp a winning combo.
Big Elm Brewing–
Big Elm Brewing in Sheffield, Massachusetts, has a laid-back vibe and includes a ton of toys for kids to play with. Dogs, kids, they are all welcome at Big Elm. During one afternoon visit, my son enjoyed rummaging through the toy area to find plenty of fun stuff to play with. On another visit, the number of dogs almost matched the number of people!
Fox Farm Brewing–
Fox Farm’s brewery in Salem, Connecticut, is located inside a beautifully renovated and repurposed barn. This is a popular place, with really excellent beer. They are currently in the process of expanding. Since it can be crowded, I like to visit Fox Farm with my family in nice weather. There is plenty of outside seating, with places to have a picnic. The brewery’s grounds and lovely rural surroundings provide plenty of space to explore.
Jack’s Abby–
For kids, the availability of food is a real plus when it comes to breweries. Let them munch on a German-style pretzel while enjoying a meal and pint yourself in this replica German beer hall. Jack’s Abby is located in Framingham, Massachusetts, and only brews lagers. Given the food and the atmosphere, Jack’s Abby is certainly one of the best family-friendly breweries.
The next time you’re traveling with kids and want to stop at a brewery, try one of these. They are all recommended for bringing the whole crew. Many are large where kids would not be in the way. Communal seating is a popular theme and none of them have an ounce of pretentiousness, so no one would bat an eye if they heard a crying child. These make all of these the best in family-friendly breweries.
