The top breweries in the area for a good time and a great beer
Beer-making in Boston was at its peak in the early 1900s right here in Jamaica Plain. This neighborhood was home to 24 of Boston’s 31 breweries before Prohibition outlawed the sale of alcohol in 1920. They were intentionally built in the area because of the abundant, crystal clear waters from the aquifer along the Stony Brook and around Mission Hill. The rich land, combined with the desire for new, German-type lager beers, drove expansion locally. Within a 1-mile radius of Amory Street, Columbus Avenue, and Heath Street, these legendary operations paved the way for the awesome breweries located right in town today.
Turtle Swamp Brewing
Turtle Swamp Brewing serves the community in the heart of Jamaica Plain, leaning into the neighborhood’s history as the “first true home” of American brewing. “We both love Jamaica Plain, and the fact we own a brewery right in our own neighborhood means we can add to the history,” Nicholas Walther, co-founder of Turtle Swamp, tells website visitors. “But we chose to work and live here because of what JP is now—a diverse, exciting, livable community." Their goal is to be good neighbors while brewing consistently high-quality beer with local ingredients. Their outdoor seating area is beautiful and laid-back—Turtle Swamp is definitely worth the visit!
Samuel Adams Boston Brewery
If you're looking for a classic Boston brew, head to Samuel Adams Boston Brewery. This well-known brewery has a long history that attracts locals and out-of-town visitors alike. You can enjoy a brew in the beer garden, where you can sip on limited-release pints and locally-made snacks (like tacos from Chilacates). The ambiance is just right, with greenery and umbrellas to shade your party from the sun. You can also take part in a tour to learn more about the history of the iconic beer and stop at the gift shop on the way out.
Distraction Brewing Company
Located in Roslindale, Distraction Brewing Company encourages visitors to “kick back [and] be(eer) yourself.” Founded by a group of passionate beer enthusiasts, Distraction Brewing Company serves the best local beers around in a quirky setting, which mixes modern design and industrial flair. Visitors are encouraged to bring food from one of the area’s many delicious restaurants to enjoy with their beverage while socializing with friends.
Dorchester Brewing Company
You can’t go wrong at the uniquely crafted Dorchester Brewing Company Tap Room, where there are 20 draft lines constantly pouring delicious pints of housemade suds for their customers. Located in nearby Dorchester, the roomy 10,000 square-foot tasting and taproom has everything from in-house beers and wines to ciders. Founded in 2016 with a love and passion for craft beer, this bubbly destination has since expanded. The Tap Room space now includes a Hopservatory, a rooftop greenhouse that’s open during all seasons, a game room, a restaurant, and more. Dorchester Brewing Company partners with other brewers in the community to help them increase their beer production—so if you’re looking for variety and options, look no further.
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