Best 17 Breweries in Massachusetts: Top Places to Drink Craft Beer

ByAnthony Smith Last Updated:

Massachusetts is widely known for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and top-rated breweries. With the rise of craft beer culture in the United States in recent years, Massachusetts has become a hub for beer enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. From small, local breweries to larger establishments, there is no shortage of options when it comes to finding the best breweries in Massachusetts.

Craft beer has become a staple in Massachusetts, and the state has gained a reputation for producing some of the best beer in the country. With over 200 breweries scattered throughout the state, Massachusetts is home to a diverse range of breweries, each with its own unique style and flavor profile. Whether you prefer hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or crisp lagers, there is a brewery in Massachusetts that will satisfy your taste buds.

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose which breweries to visit. However, with the help of reviews and ratings from locals and visitors alike, it is possible to narrow down the list of the best breweries in Massachusetts. Whether you are a seasoned beer enthusiast or a casual drinker, there is something for everyone in Massachusetts’ craft beer scene.

Notable Breweries in Massachusetts

Tree House Brewing Company

Tree House Brewing Company has earned a reputation for producing some of the best beers in Massachusetts. With a focus on hoppy, juicy IPAs, Tree House has become a must-visit destination for beer lovers from all over the country. Some of their most popular beers include Julius, Green, and Haze.

Website: http://www.treehousebrew.com/

Address: 129 Sturbridge Rd, Charlton, MA 01507, United States

Trillium Brewing Company

Trillium Brewing Company is another one of the most popular breweries in Massachusetts. They are known for their hop-forward beers, especially their IPAs and double IPAs. Trillium has several locations throughout Massachusetts, including a brewery and taproom in Boston’s Fort Point neighborhood.

Website: https://trilliumbrewing.com/

Address: 100 Royall St, Canton, MA 02021, United States
50 Thomson Pl, Boston, MA 02210, United States
Landmark Center, 401 Park Dr, Boston, MA 02215, United States

Aeronaut Brewing Company

Aeronaut Brewing Company is a popular brewery located in Somerville, Massachusetts. They are known for their experimental beers and unique flavor combinations. Aeronaut’s taproom is a fun and lively spot to enjoy a beer with friends.

Website: http://aeronautbrewing.com/

Address: 14 Tyler St, Somerville, MA 02143, United States

Harpoon Brewery

Harpoon Brewery is one of the oldest and most well-known breweries in Massachusetts. They produce a wide range of beers, from their flagship IPA to seasonal offerings like their Winter Warmer. Harpoon’s brewery and beer hall in Boston’s Seaport District is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Website: https://www.harpoonbrewery.com/boston-brewery/

Address: 306 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210, United States

Samuel Adams Brewery

Samuel Adams Brewery is another one of the oldest and most well-known breweries in Massachusetts. They produce a wide range of beers, including their flagship Boston Lager. Samuel Adams also offers tours of their brewery in Boston’s Jamaica Plain neighborhood.

Website: http://samadamsbostonbrewery.com/

Address: 30 Germania St, Boston, MA 02130, United States

Boston Beer Company

Boston Beer Company is the parent company of Samuel Adams Brewery. In addition to Samuel Adams beers, they produce a wide range of other beers and ciders. Boston Beer Company is headquartered in Boston’s Seaport District.

Website: http://www.bostonbeer.com/

Address: 1 Design Center Pl #850, Boston, MA 02210, United States

Lord Hobo Brewing Company

Lord Hobo Brewing Company is a popular brewery located in Woburn, Massachusetts. They are known for its hoppy, flavorful beers, including its flagship beer, Boom Sauce. Lord Hobo’s taproom is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Website: https://lordhobo.com/

Address:  5 Draper St, Woburn, MA 01801, United States

Night Shift Brewing

Night Shift Brewing is a popular brewery located in Everett, Massachusetts. They are known for their unique and creative beers, including their popular sour beers and barrel-aged beers. Night Shift’s taproom is a fun and lively spot to enjoy a beer with friends.

Website: https://nightshiftbrewing.com/locations/everett/

Address: 87 Santilli Hwy, Everett, MA 02149, United States

Bent Water Brewing Company

Bent Water Brewing Company is a popular brewery located in Lynn, Massachusetts. They are known for their hop-forward beers, including their flagship beer, Thunder Funk. Bent Water’s taproom is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Website: http://www.bentwaterbrewing.com/

Address: 180 Commercial St #18, Lynn, MA 01905, United States

Mayflower Brewing Company

Mayflower Brewing Company is a popular brewery located in Plymouth, Massachusetts. They are known for their traditional and classic beers, including their flagship beer, Mayflower IPA. Mayflower’s taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a beer and learn about the history of brewing in Massachusetts.

Website: http://www.mayflowerbrewing.com/

Address: 12 Resnik Rd # 3, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Wormtown Brewery

Wormtown Brewery is a popular brewery located in Worcester, Massachusetts. They are known for their hoppy and flavorful beers, including their flagship beer, Be Hoppy. Wormtown’s taproom is a fun and lively spot to enjoy a beer with friends.

Website: http://www.wormtownbrewery.com/

Address: 72 Shrewsbury St, Worcester, MA 01604, United States

Cisco Brewers

Cisco Brewers is a popular brewery located on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. They are known for their easy-drinking beers, including their flagship beer, Whale’s Tale Pale Ale. Cisco Brewers also has a taproom in Boston’s Seaport District.

Website: http://ciscobrewers.com/

Address: 5 Bartlett Farm Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554, United States

Notch Brewing

Notch Brewing is a popular brewery located in Salem, Massachusetts. They are known for their session beers, which are lower in alcohol and perfect for enjoying several in one sitting. Notch’s taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a beer and some snacks.

Website: http://notchbrewing.com/

Address: 283R Derby St, Salem, MA 01970, United States

Greater Good Imperial Brewing Company

Greater Good Imperial Brewing Company is a popular brewery located in Worcester, Massachusetts. They are known for their big, bold, and flavorful beers, including their flagship beer, Pulp. Greater Good’s taproom is a fun and lively spot to enjoy a beer with friends.

Website: http://greatergoodimperials.com/

Address: 55 Millbrook St #2804, Worcester, MA 01606, United States

Cambridge Brewing Company

Cambridge Brewing Company is a popular brewery located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. They are known for their experimental and unique beers, including their flagship beer, Cambridge Amber. Cambridge Brewing Company’s taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a beer and some food.

Website: http://www.cambridgebrewingcompany.com/

Address: 1 Kendall Square Bldg 100, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States

Dorchester Brewing Company

Dorchester Brewing Company is a popular brewery located in Dorchester, Massachusetts. They are known for their flavorful and hoppy beers, including their flagship beer, V1 Double IPA. Dorchester Brewing Company’s taproom is a fun and lively spot to enjoy a beer with friends.

Website: https://www.dorchesterbrewing.com/

Address: 1250 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02125, United States

Democracy Brewing

Democracy Brewing is a popular brewery located in Boston, Massachusetts. They are known for their flavorful and unique beers, including their flagship beer, 1919 Strike Stout. Democracy Brewing’s taproom is a cozy spot to enjoy a beer and learn about the history of brewing in Massachusetts.

Website: http://www.democracybrewing.com/home/

Address: 35 Temple Pl, Boston, MA 02111, United States

Unique Brews of Massachusetts

Massachusetts is home to some of the best breweries in the United States, and they are known for their unique and flavorful brews. Here are some of the most unique brews of Massachusetts that every beer lover should try:

  • Julius: Julius is a juicy and hazy IPA that is brewed by Tree House Brewing Company in Charlton. It is one of the most popular beers in Massachusetts and is known for its tropical fruit flavors and aromas.
  • King Julius: King Julius is a double IPA that is also brewed by Tree House Brewing Company. It is a stronger version of Julius and is known for its smooth and creamy mouthfeel and intense hop flavors.
  • King JJJuliusss: King JJJuliusss is an imperial IPA that is brewed by Tree House Brewing Company. It is a limited-release beer that is brewed only once a year and is known for its intense hop flavors and aromas.
  • Very Hazy: Very Hazy is a New England IPA that is brewed by Tree House Brewing Company. It is a hazy and juicy beer that is known for its tropical fruit flavors and aromas.
  • Samuel Adams Utopias: Samuel Adams Utopias is a strong ale that is brewed by the Boston Beer Company. It is one of the most expensive and rarest beers in the world and is known for its complex flavors and aromas.
  • Headroom: Headroom is a double IPA that is brewed by Trillium Brewing Company in Boston. It is known for its intense hop flavors and aromas and is considered one of the best beers in Massachusetts.
  • Six Seam: Six Seam is a New England IPA that is brewed by Tree House Brewing Company. It is known for its citrus and tropical fruit flavors and aromas.
  • Breakfast Exorcism: Breakfast Exorcism is a coffee stout that is brewed by Clown Shoes Brewing in Ipswich. It is known for its rich and complex flavors and is brewed with coffee, maple syrup, and bacon.

These are just a few of the unique brews that Massachusetts has to offer. With so many great breweries in the state, there is always something new and exciting to try.

Brewery Experiences

When it comes to brewery experiences, Massachusetts has a lot to offer. Many breweries offer more than just great beer – they also provide a fun and unique atmosphere for visitors. Here are a few examples of what you can expect from some of the best breweries in the state:

  • Live Music: Some breweries, such as Night Shift Brewing in Everett, offer live music on certain nights. This can be a great way to enjoy some local talent while sipping on a delicious beer. Check the brewery’s website or social media pages to see if they have any upcoming events.
  • Arcade Games: If you’re looking for a fun activity to pair with your beer, check out breweries like Harpoon Brewery in Boston or Idle Hands Craft Ales in Malden. They both have arcade games available for visitors to play while they enjoy their drinks.
  • Beer Gardens: In the warmer months, many breweries open up their outdoor spaces for visitors to enjoy. For example, Trillium Brewing Company in Boston has a beautiful beer garden that overlooks the city skyline. Other breweries, such as Tree House Brewing Company in Charlton, have expansive outdoor spaces where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Overall, visiting a brewery in Massachusetts is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening. With a variety of experiences available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.