Massachusetts is home to a booming craft beer scene, making it a must-visit for beer lovers. Whether you’re into hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, or experimental sours, there’s something here for everyone. Ready to explore? Here’s a roundup of 10 breweries in Massachusetts that you shouldn’t miss.
Tree House Brewing Company – Charlton
What they’re known for: IPAs, Stouts, Barrel-aged Beers
Beer to try: Julius (IPA)
Tree House Brewing is a household name among craft beer enthusiasts, thanks to its renowned hazy IPAs. The Julius IPA is especially beloved for its juicy, tropical notes. Tree House’s location in Charlton offers a stunning, scenic setting for sipping beers, making it an ideal day-trip destination. Their selection includes a rotating lineup of beers, including barrel-aged stouts that are well worth trying.
Trillium Brewing Company – Boston and Canton
What they’re known for: IPAs, Sours, Barrel-aged Ales
Beer to try: Congress Street (IPA)
Trillium has made a name for itself with its modern interpretations of IPAs and farmhouse ales. With taprooms in both Boston and Canton, you can choose between the urban vibe of the city or a more laid-back atmosphere. The Congress Street IPA is a favorite, but their barrel-aged offerings and sours are equally impressive. The outdoor beer garden at their Canton location is a perfect spot for sunny-day relaxation.
Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers – Framingham
What they’re known for: Lagers, Barrel-aged Beers
Beer to try: House Lager
Jack’s Abby stands out for its commitment to lagers in a craft beer world that often focuses on ales. Their House Lager is a clean, refreshing beer that’s a staple for any lager fan. They also venture into more adventurous territory with their barrel-aged Framinghammer, a rich, robust Baltic porter. Their large beer hall in Framingham is a lively spot to enjoy great food alongside their expertly brewed lagers.
Night Shift Brewing – Everett
What they’re known for: IPAs, Stouts, Hard Seltzers
Beer to try: Whirlpool (Pale Ale)
Night Shift Brewing in Everett offers a wide range of beers that appeal to all tastes, from hop-forward IPAs to indulgent stouts. The Whirlpool pale ale is a fan-favorite for its light, citrusy flavor. Night Shift is also making waves with their line of hard seltzers, giving non-beer drinkers something to enjoy. The brewery has a casual, welcoming taproom, and they often host events that make it a fun place to hang out.
Harpoon Brewery – Boston
What they’re known for: Classic Ales, Seasonal Beers
Beer to try: Harpoon IPA
As one of Boston’s oldest craft breweries, Harpoon is practically a local institution. Located in the Seaport District, Harpoon offers tours, tastings, and a variety of beers that have stood the test of time, like their flagship Harpoon IPA. They’re also known for their seasonal releases, with the Winter Warmer being a popular option during the colder months. Harpoon’s annual festivals, including Octoberfest, are not to be missed.
Wormtown Brewery – Worcester
What they’re known for: IPAs, Seasonal Beers
Beer to try: Be Hoppy (IPA)
Wormtown Brewery has established itself as a key player in Worcester’s craft beer scene. Their Be Hoppy IPA is a standout, offering the perfect blend of bitterness and citrusy flavor. Wormtown prides itself on using local ingredients, which adds a unique New England touch to their beers. The taproom is a cozy place to sample their lineup, and they frequently release limited-edition beers that keep things exciting for regular visitors.
Notch Brewing – Salem
What they’re known for: Session Beers, Lagers, Czech Pilsners
Beer to try: Session Pils
Notch Brewing in Salem specializes in session beers—brews that are lower in alcohol but still full of flavor. Their Session Pils is a crisp, refreshing beer that’s ideal for sipping throughout the day. Notch’s focus on easy-drinking European-style lagers sets them apart from the IPA-heavy craft beer scene. Their waterfront biergarten in Salem offers a beautiful backdrop for relaxing with a pint.
Greater Good Imperial Brewing Co. – Worcester
What they’re known for: Imperial IPAs, Strong Ales
Beer to try: Pulp Daddy (Imperial IPA)
Greater Good is the first brewery in the U.S. to focus solely on imperial beers, which are higher in alcohol and flavor intensity. Their Pulp Daddy imperial IPA is packed with citrus and tropical fruit flavors but is smooth enough to keep you coming back for more. Located in Worcester, Greater Good’s taproom has a sleek, industrial aesthetic and plenty of space to enjoy their bold, high-ABV beers.
Aeronaut Brewing Company – Somerville
What they’re known for: Experimental Beers, Sours, IPAs
Beer to try: A Year With Dr. Nandu (IPA)
Aeronaut Brewing in Somerville is all about creativity and experimentation. Their lineup frequently changes, offering everything from hop-forward IPAs to tart, funky sours. A Year With Dr. Nandu, their signature IPA, is a fan-favorite thanks to its balanced blend of hops and fruity flavors. Aeronaut’s lively taproom often features live music and events, making it a great place to grab a drink and experience the local scene.
Cambridge Brewing Company – Cambridge
What they’re known for: Ales, Saisons, Barrel-aged Beers
Beer to try: Cambridge Amber
Cambridge Brewing Company is a cornerstone of the Massachusetts craft beer scene, having been around since 1989. Known for their well-balanced ales, their Cambridge Amber is a reliable go-to. CBC is also known for their seasonal and barrel-aged beers, offering a range of styles for any palate. Located in the heart of Kendall Square, the brewery is a prime spot for a post-work beer or a casual weekend visit.
Final Thoughts
Massachusetts is a hotspot for craft beer lovers, and the breweries on this list offer something for everyone. Whether you’re into juicy IPAs, crisp lagers, or barrel-aged ales, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. Make sure to add these spots to your next brewery tour and enjoy the diverse flavors of the Massachusetts beer scene!
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