At the deepest point on the Southern Reach section of the DiscoverNEPA Brewer’s Loop, you’ll find Pottsville’s iconic Yuengling Brewery.

Originally built in 1829, this 190-year-old landmark still cranks out some of the most recognizable beers in Pennsylvania and beyond. It also happens to hold the designation of America’s Oldest Brewery.

The Brewery and the town were born both of some seemingly cosmic collaboration of fate and plucky resolution — a chance discovery of Anthracite coal in the nearby mountains; a sturdy German immigrant with a sharp eye for opportunity; and a rough and tumble region thirsty for a delicious, cold beer at the end of the workday. The beer alone makes this brewery stop worth the trip. But it’s the engaging history of the family, the town and the brewery itself that resonates for some time after you’ve left.

Yuengling’s perseverance through nearly two centuries is remarkable, if not rarely seen. Their continued success as an entirely family-run brewery defies modern industry logic. In an era where you’re either micro or macro, Yuengling sits comfortably and confidently in the middle. Like the brewery foundation — steadily anchored to a mountain, this family has planted its roots firmly in this charming little coal town.

Now let’s take that free tour, try a few beers and see for ourselves what makes Yuengling Brewery tick.

The Tour

Caves, kettles and cans.

The Yuengling Brewery tour is so much more than the typical “this is a tank and those are the hops” tour. Sure, it’s all about the beer, but somewhere along the way, you find yourself in a cold, dark cave. It’s then that you realize this place is something special. Every room, hallway and boot-worn stairway contributes to an artistry that feeds nostalgia.

You’ll hear the constant drip of water dribbling out of the cave ceiling.

You can run your fingers along the marks made by workmen’s chisels over 150 years ago. You can take a picture by the remnants of brick walls ordered up by Prohibition agents and later toppled by repeal. Throughout the brew house’s many rooms, you’ll find forgotten machines and tools resting where they were last set. A sense of history still living, still mingling with the present pervades each step.

Throughout the tour, old photos, advertisements and original packaging materials welcome memories of different times and inspire wonder for those not quite old enough to remember. The stern faces of brew house bottle washers glare from murals adorning the walls of the kettle room. The ceiling—a functional, stained glass masterpiece – once protected the copper kettles from the sun.

Then it’s on to the bottling plant where regiments of lager cans line up like toy soldiers. They march along with incredible speed to be filled, washed and boxed. And like those fresh-brewed cases of Yuengling Lager, we too are sent off into the world. But not without a quick stop in the Tasting Room.

The Beer

Time-honored brewing, quality ingredients, uniquely Yuengling.

The comprehensive brewery tour wraps up in the spacious and bright Tasting Room. A classic wooden bar spans one end of the room. High top tables and stools fill out the expansive space. Here, you’ll be able to choose two free samples, compliments of your gracious tour guide. You can also purchase pints. You’ll find all of Yuengling’s year-round beers on tap. There’s even a local Birch Beer for those under 21.

Chances are, if you’re familiar with beer, you’ve had a Yuengling. It all starts with the flagship Traditional Lager. This delicious, amber beauty has paved the way for Yuengling’s success. For decades it has served as an homage to straightforward craftsmanship in brewing. It’s simple, clean and crisp. And in almost any bar in NEPA, you can get one just by saying, “I’ll have a lager.”

Relax. It takes time to make beer. You should take your time to drink it.

The Tasting Room also offers Black & Tan, Premium Beer, Porter and Lord Chesterfield Ale. You can also get the lager and Premium beer in light varieties. And if you want to take some home, you can get a growler filled, or grab a freshly-packed case.

Moving forward.

Alongside these tried and true staples, you’ll find Yuengling’s latest creation – Golden Pilsner. This bright, clear version of a modern pilsner carries with it the signature character of a Yuengling classic. There’s a conservative hop flavor followed by just the slightest sweet malty finish. It’s light, easily sessionable and perfectly balanced for a day at the beach.

The Swag

You can’t visit America’s Oldest Brewery without picking up some sweet gear.

After your visit to the Tasting Room, head out into the massive Gift Shop and Museum. Stroll through 190 years of brewing history at the meticulously curated museum. Check out ornate advertising displays featuring original artwork. There are packaging materials, original can and bottle designs, and even some antique brewing equipment.

On your way out, have a look around the gift shop for that perfect memento of your trip. With everything from clothing and hats to ornaments and home bar supplies, they’re sure to have exactly what you’re looking for. You might even be able to snag a replica of one of those old signs.

Take home a little piece of history.

Be sure to look out for Yuengling’s 190^th Anniversary Commemorative Cans. Each can features a different version of their iconic eagle design. The five specialty cans of Traditional Lager will be released throughout the year. Pick up these collector’s items at the brewery gift shop, or look for them wherever you get your Yuengling.

Brewery Events:

Make the most of your visit to the Yuengling Brewery. Be sure to follow Yuengling on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest news and announcements from the brewery, and updates on special events throughout the year.

Free Brewery Tours:

January through March
Monday – Friday: Tours begin every hour starting at 10 a.m. The last tour departs at 2 p.m.

April through December
Monday – Friday: Tours begin every hour starting at 10 a.m. The last tour departs at 3 p.m.
Saturday: Tours begin at 10:30 a.m. and continue every 45 minutes. The last tour departs at 3 p.m.

Gift Shop & Museum:

January through March
Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 4p.m.

April through December
Monday – Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Must Try:

Golden Pilsner – A perfectly balanced, all-day-drinkable pilsner.
Black & Tan – A classic blend of premium beer and porter brings a welcomed crispiness to the caramel/coffee party.
Bourbon Barrel Reserve – Available only in the Tasting Room as a special release to commemorate  the 190^th Anniversary (rumor has it they are planning to put this one out again in the near future).

Don’t forget to cross this item off your DiscoverNEPA Bucket List.