It’s not only about finding a good spot to sip a cold one after work or on a Saturday afternoon. For a lot of us in Pennsylvania, especially those juggling family life, it’s about discovering places where we can kick back with a craft beer while still keeping the little ones close. But is that really doable at most breweries here? Let’s pull back the curtain on the rules for kids in breweries, share some firsthand stories, and maybe help you plan your next family-friendly outing that supports local spots without feeling like you’re sneaking in a toddler where they don’t belong.
The Legal Lowdown: What Pennsylvania Law Says
First, let’s get the official stuff out of the way. Pennsylvania’s liquor laws can be a bit tricky if you’re not used to them. In general, breweries in PA operate under a “brewery license,” which allows them to sell beer on-site. But the presence of minors (anyone under 21) is regulated and varies depending on the establishment’s policies and local ordinances.
Here’s the gist:
- State Law: Pennsylvania law does not explicitly prohibit minors from entering breweries, but it grants licensees the authority to regulate who can be on the premises. Individual Brewery Policies: Each brewery sets its own rules about kids, often influenced by their space, focus, and vibe. Food Service Role: Breweries that also serve food often treat themselves more like restaurants, which historically have been more open to families.
So, the answer isn’t a clear yes or no statewide. It’s more about the place you’re visiting and their own policy.
Why Do Some Breweries Welcome Kids and Others Don’t?
From my 15 years of poking around Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene, I’ve noticed a few patterns. Some breweries really lean into being a community hub — what folks sometimes call a “third space,” a cozy spot outside of work and home where you can hang out and feel at home. Others are more traditional, focusing on the craft, the beer, and a grown-up atmosphere.
Here’s what shapes a brewery’s stance on kids:
- Space & Layout: Breweries with outdoor patios, grassy areas, or family-friendly seating arrangements are often more welcoming to kids. Food Options: Places offering full menus with kid-friendly choices tend to be more open to families. Events & Community Focus: Breweries hosting family days, yoga, or live music with all ages welcome usually have a more flexible policy. Legal and Insurance Concerns: Some breweries avoid kids due to liability worries or insurance restrictions. Atmosphere: If a brewery often runs loud music, late-night hours, or focuses on high-alcohol specialty brews, parents might not find it suitable.
Taking Toddlers to a Brewery: What to Expect
Bringing a toddler along for a brewery visit isn’t always a walk in the park, but it can be done with the right spot and a little planning. Here are some things I’ve learned — with my own kids and from chatting with other parents — about what works and what doesn’t:
Pick the Right Time: Early afternoons on weekends or weekday afternoons are usually quieter and more family-friendly. Look for Outdoor Seating: Open-air spaces give kids room to move and reduce stress for parents. Bring Snacks & Toys: Even if the brewery serves food, toddlers get restless. A small bag of distractions helps. Know the Policies Before You Go: Call ahead or check social media to confirm if kids are allowed and if the brewery has any restrictions. Respect the Space: Remember that breweries are primarily adult social spaces. Keeping your child calm and supervised goes a long way.Real Talk: Family-Friendly Brewery Examples in PA
Not all breweries are created equal when it comes to family-friendliness. Here are a couple of places I’ve visited where I’ve seen families with kids and felt welcome myself — plus some insight from chatting with the folks who run these spots.
Lancaster Brewing Co. (Lancaster, PA)
I’ve stopped by Lancaster Brewing Co. more than a few times, and it’s a great example of a brewery that balances the craft with a community atmosphere. Their spacious taproom and adjacent restaurant make it pretty common to see families there, especially during lunch and early dinner hours. They have a full menu, so it’s not just about the beer, which makes it easier to bring kids along.
Pro tip: They have a nice outdoor patio area during warmer months, which is perfect for kids to stretch their legs while adults enjoy a flight. When I asked the staff about kids, they mentioned that they’re welcome but should be supervised — pretty standard but appreciated. I’ve seen toddlers enjoying soft drinks and parents sipping on their seasonal brews without any awkward glances.
Hitchhiker Brewing (Lancaster, PA)
Another Lancaster gem, Hitchhiker Brewing, is newer on the scene but has quickly earned a reputation for a relaxed, friendly vibe. It’s a smaller space but designed with community in mind. They don’t have a full kitchen, but food trucks often show up on weekends, which is a big draw for families.
Hitchhiker is pretty chill about kids — I’ve seen plenty of families stopping in for a quick flight while the little ones enjoy some juice or water (thankfully, they always offer water without making you https://breweriesinpa.com/crafting-community-how-pennsylvania-breweries-are-fostering-local-connections/ ask). The owners have told me that they want the brewery to be a place where everyone feels welcome, but they do remind parents to keep an eye on their kids, especially since the space can fill up quickly.
Other Tips for Finding Family-Friendly Breweries in PA
If you want to explore beyond the Lancaster area, here are a few ways to find breweries that won’t turn you away at the door with a stroller in tow:
- Check Social Media: Many breweries post about family-friendly events or mention their policies online. Look for Breweries with Food Menus: Places that serve food tend to be more lenient with kids. Ask Locals or Online Groups: Local parenting Facebook groups or craft beer forums often have up-to-date info. Visit During Daytime Hours: Evening hours are often less family-friendly.
When Kids Aren’t Allowed: What’s the Alternative?
Some breweries do have strict no-kids policies — and that’s okay. It’s their space, and the vibe they want to cultivate might not mesh with toddlers running around. But if you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, here’s what you can do instead:
- Find Breweries with Adjacent Parks or Outdoor Spaces: You can enjoy the beer while the kids play nearby. Try Brewpubs or Taprooms Attached to Restaurants: These often have more relaxed policies. Look for Brewery Events Designed for Families: Some breweries host “family days” or afternoon events with activities for kids. Consider Non-Alcoholic Options: Some breweries offer non-alcoholic beers or sodas, making it easier for everyone to join in.
Wrapping Up: The Bottom Line on Kids in PA Breweries
In Pennsylvania, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to whether kids are allowed in breweries. It really depends on the brewery’s policy, the time of day, and the atmosphere. But from my experience, many local breweries — especially community-focused spots like Lancaster Brewing Co. and Hitchhiker Brewing — welcome families who want to enjoy craft beer in a relaxed setting.
If you’re planning to take toddlers or younger kids along, do a little homework beforehand, pick the right time, and come prepared. And remember, supporting these local spots helps keep the craft beer scene alive and rooted in our communities — and that’s a win for everyone, kids included.
So next time you’re wondering about family friendly policies or taking toddlers to a brewery, don’t hesitate to call ahead or ask around. The craft beer community in PA is growing, and many breweries want to be more than just a bar — they want to be a place where families and friends can gather and make memories.