Beer Lovers Guide to York County, PA

With so many stops to explore, you'll need to spend a couple weekends to experience all the great beer found on the Good Libations Trails. We've broken down the breweries into easy-to-navigate regions to make your trip easy to plan. No matter when you visit, your afternoons and evenings will be "hop"-ing. Don't forget to check in at each stop using your Good Libations Trails Digital Passport to earn some sweet swag!

Downtown York

Breweries to Visit: Collusion Tap Works, Gift Horse Brewing Company

It's hard not to be inspired when tasting the craft beer on the Good Libations Trails. 

Once you've had your crash course in craft beer, head to Gift Horse Brewing Co., one of the anchor businesses of Downtown York. You'll find a unique selection of eats and brews at this brewpub right around the corner from Central Market House. Relax on a sunny day in their beer garden or test your knowledge at Music Bingo.

From there, it’s an easy walk to Collusion Tap Works, just a few blocks away. This local favorite is nestled within Mural Park, offering incredibly delicious food specials and hop-tastic in-house brews. 

Suggested side stops: You'll find examples of York's creative culture all around the downtown district. Take a walk and check out public art that includes murals that tell the story of York to sculptures like The Tinker and a statue of Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette. They're all great spots to snap a selfie! The Central Market House is also a favorite stop for lunch on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Take a stroll down Beaver Street to stop in the unique local shops like Sunrise Soap Company, My Girlfriend's Wardrobe, The Watchmaker's Daughter, and more. If you're more interested in perusing an everchanging local art gallery, Creative York is the stop for you, also located on Beaver Street.

Southern York

Breweries to Visit: AleCraft Brewery, Aviator Brewhub, South County Brewing Company and Vortex Brewing Company

Heading south, you'll find the beautiful property of South County Brewing Company. South County Brewing Company opened its doors in 2022 and boasts a wide selection of handcrafted beers and a killer kitchen offering salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and more. As you enjoy your delicious food, you get an open view of the brewery behind large glass walls for a behind-the-scenes look at the process.

Stop by AleCraft Brewery to enjoy their ample outdoor seating during warm weather months, fully equipped with a rooftop area, games, a patio, an outdoor ordering window, and more. You can also rent one of their outdoor tents (fully furnished year-round and heated in the winter!) Head inside for some great food and check out their brewing area downstairs! This is also a great stop if you're on the Heritage Rail Trail, just steps away.

On your way over to Vortex Brewing Company, just a few minutes away, stop by Northern Central Railway of York where vintage locomotives and charming carriages provide an immersive journey through the picturesque landscapes of this captivating region. 

Once you get to Vortex Brewing Company, you can feast on their delicious food while enjoying specially crafted brews. Their patio is perfect for a warm afternoon with your crew! You'll notice that New Freedom Roasting Company & Deli is right across the street if you need a little caffeine fix as you journey from place to place.

Venture over to the brand new, veteran-owned hotspot, Aviator Brewhub, for a modern atmosphere and a self-serve beer station. Marvel at military memorabilia while playing card and board games for memories that will last a lifetime. 

Lancaster County

Breweries to Visit: Bube’s Brewery Dining & Entertainment, Swashbuckler Brewing Company, and Rumspringa Brewing Company

Next, take a trip back in time at Bube’s Brewery Dining & Entertainment, which is literally built on the history of Pennsylvania brewing. The old lagering cellar is now one of the coolest dining venues you'll find anywhere - the Catacombs, which you can now dine in. Enjoy a ghost tour here as well! Get spooky anytime of year as your guided through the historic business, experiencing the lore of the old brewery and hotel. 

Next up is Swashbuckler Brewing Company, where Swashbuckler's Gold, a German-style Kolsch Ale, is the go-to brew and seasonal creations keep the menu fresh.

Finish your craft beer journey by driving to Rumspringa Brewing Company, where you'll enjoy handcrafted beers made with locally grown products.

While you’re here, clear some time in your schedule to take in a show at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre.