Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

We took a nearly 3 hour drive out to DeWaGa to see what all the fuss is about before we moved crosscountry. It was a nice place! If a place has waterfalls we're in.. and Delaware Water Gap has plenty. We visited Silverthread Falls, Raymondskill Falls, and Dingmans Falls and finished the half-day along some cliff edges (some of which were closed for peregrine falcon nesting!). Our adventures for the day kept us on the Pennsylvania side of the park.

Natural Splendor

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a stunning 70,000-acre preserve that covers a portion of the Delaware River, separating the states of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The park is technically in both of these states. Its key feature is the Delaware Water Gap—a geologically significant break in the Kittatinny Ridge. The area is a spectacle of natural beauty, with lush forests, abundant wildlife, waterfalls, and lakes dotting the landscape. The Delaware River meanders through the park, offering a host of recreational opportunities and serving as a lifeline for various ecosystems.

 

 

Silver Thread Falls

Recreational Adventures

This park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring over 100 miles of hiking trails. Whether you're interested in an easy riverside walk or a challenging hike up to a mountainous overlook, there's something for everyone. The river itself is a playground for water activities—kayaking, canoeing, and rafting are popular in the warmer months, while fishing is a year-round endeavor. The numerous lakes within the park also provide opportunities for boating and swimming.

 

Raymondskill Falls -- The Tallest Waterfall in PA!

 

Cultural Heritage

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is rich in history. Native American tribes such as the Lenape first inhabited this fertile region. Europeans arrived later, transforming the landscape with agriculture and industry. Millbrook Village, a re-created 19th-century community within the park, offers visitors an opportunity to step back in time through living history demonstrations. This adds an educational layer to visits, making it not just a natural retreat but also a learning experience.'

A little stream!

 

Diverse Ecosystems

This area is a sanctuary for a myriad of plant and animal species. Visitors might encounter white-tailed deer, black bears, or even the occasional bald eagle. The park's varied landscapes—from riverbanks to mountain ridges—create diverse habitats that are invaluable for scientific research and education. The presence of wetlands also adds another layer of complexity to the region's ecology.

 

More falls from behind some dead trees!

 

Environmental Conservation and Education

The park is actively involved in environmental conservation. Regular monitoring and protection activities aim to preserve the delicate balance of the local ecosystems. The area also serves as an educational hub, with visitor centers offering exhibitions, nature programs, and guided tours that educate the public on the significance of conservation.

 

Dingmans Falls Visitors Center

 

Accessibility and Facilities

One of the park's advantages is its accessibility; it's within a few hours' drive from major urban centers like New York City and Philadelphia. This makes it an excellent option for both day trips and extended stays. Facilities such as campsites, picnic areas, and restrooms are well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable visit.

Dingmans Falls!

 

Governance and State Participation

It's worth mentioning that the park spans two states—Pennsylvania and New Jersey—each contributing unique features and attractions. This makes the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area a collective effort, managed by the National Park Service but benefiting from the contributions and engagement of both states.

Cliff Trail views of the Delaware River and its...water gap between the states.

 

The Year-Round Appeal

Unlike many other outdoor destinations that are season-specific, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has year-round appeal. Summers are bustling with hikers and boaters, while the cooler months attract anglers, birdwatchers, and autumn leaf-peepers. Winters transform the park into a wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

 

More Views from the Cliff Trail

 

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Hidden River Brewing

 

I'm an old man apparently and got my hand in the picture.... view from the house and deck from the sitting area by the creek.

Hidden River Brewing is a craft brewery and taproom located in Douglassville, Pennsylvania. The brewery is housed in a historic 'haunted' stone building known as the Brinton Lodge dating back to the 1700s.

Brinton Lodge, located in Douglassville, Berks County, is a centuries-old architectural gem with a rich, eclectic history. Situated in the rural area west of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, this structure dates back to the 18th century. Initially a modest farmhouse built by the Millard family—who were among the region's first settlers and bought their land from William Penn—the property has evolved dramatically over the years.

In 1796, ownership transitioned to the Kirlin family. They diversified the property's use by producing ammunition for the War of 1812. During this period, the Schuylkill River Canal was constructed through the land, and there were whispers that the property was a hidden station on the Underground Railroad.

Fast-forward to the early 20th century, the Wittman family, affluent entrepreneurs connected to the iron trade in Philadelphia, took over. They transformed the humble farmhouse into a grand 28-room mansion. Later, in the Prohibition era, Caleb Brinton, a hotel magnate from Reading, turned the mansion into an exclusive men's club, welcoming only the elite and well-known.

Most recently, the site functioned as Covatta's Brinton Lodge Restaurant but has since been converted into Hidden River Brewing Co., a craft brewery and brewpub. Additionally, the venue offers spooky candlelit ghost tours each month, adding yet another layer to its fascinating history. The establishment now stands as a preserved piece of local heritage for the community to explore and enjoy. I can't say we did the haunted ghost tour, but the inside of the place is fascinating. 

I never grabbed a picture but I love the coziness of the different rooms inside the house as well, they don't just have a great outside. Nothing like going there to find out it's not very busy and getting to sit near one of the fireplaces inside!

Nothing like a beer by the water outside!

Hidden River derives their name from the nearby Schuykill River, no the water in the picture above is not from the main river, but a small offshoot stream. Schuykill roughly translates to "Hidden River" in Dutch, hence the name! Now you know, because I didn't at first!

Hidden River Brewing is known for their creative and experimental beers, using locally sourced ingredients and unique brewing techniques. They offer a wide range of styles, from traditional Belgian farmhouse ales to modern IPAs, stouts, and sours, but do tend to focus on more hop-forward beers. In such, I'd say...they make some of the best IPAs...specifically hazy IPAs in Pennsylvania. But that's just my opinion..man.

In addition to their beer, Hidden River Brewing also features a taproom that offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their brews. The taproom has a rustic, farmhouse feel, with a bar made from reclaimed wood, exposed brick walls, and antique furnishings. There is also a cozy outdoor patio area with seating for those who prefer to enjoy their drinks in the fresh air. When its nice out you can sit down by the water as well!

They do have a small food menu and occasionally have food trucks Fridays and Saturdays as well!

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Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

Hopewell Furnace Entrance Sign

 

Set in the heart of southeastern Pennsylvania, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site stands as a testament to the early days of American industry. It's an authentic slice of the 19th century, showcasing what we'd now call an industrial complex, but back then, it was an "iron plantation." Covering a substantial 848 acres, this site is an integral part of the larger French Creek State Park. Established back in 1938 as a National Historic Site, its purpose is to safeguard the rich tapestry of America's industrial heritage and the structures that have stood the test of time, as well as to honor the hardworking people who were the backbone of this era. It also just has some really nice grounds to look at it, which of course I appreciate.

Hopewell Furnace Plaque

 

Historical Context

Established in 1771 by the enterprising ironmaster Mark Bird, Hopewell Furnace holds a special place in Pennsylvania’s industrial history. Throughout its operational years from 1771 to 1883, this furnace was a key player in supporting the young American nation. It provided crucial iron for cannonballs during the Revolutionary War and went on to produce stoves and a variety of essential cast-iron products, marking its significance in an America rapidly transitioning into an industrial era. Thanks for putting us on the map, Mark!

 

 

 

Importance in the Iron Industry

Hopewell Furnace was a remarkable example of a self-contained community, far more than just a site for iron production. It encompassed everything necessary for a thriving community – housing for workers, orchards, gardens, and even livestock, creating a self-sufficient ecosystem. At its peak, Hopewell Furnace led the way in technological innovation. The centerpiece was its blast furnace, powered by charcoal made right there. Iron ore and limestone, the other key ingredients, were combined at intense heat to produce "pig iron." This foundational material was then refined and molded into a myriad of essential products.

 

The ruins of the Anthracite Furnace!

 

Socioeconomic Impact

At Hopewell Furnace, the workforce was a mosaic of different backgrounds, including free and enslaved African Americans, European immigrants, and native-born whites. This diverse group comprised skilled workers like molders, colliers, and fillers, who, along with their families, formed a close-knit community around the furnace. The social structure of this community mirrored the hierarchies of the era, yet it also provided avenues for upward mobility, especially for those who possessed specialized skills.

 

 

Preservation and Public Education

Today, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site stands as a meticulously preserved window into America's early industrial age. Visitors can explore a range of historical structures, including the blast furnace, the ironmaster's mansion, the company store, and the homes where workers lived. The site is enriched with educational programs, interactive exhibits, and living history demonstrations, all aimed at deepening the public's understanding of the iron industry's profound impact on the economic and social development of the United States.

Water wheel!

 

Environmental Stewardship

Hopewell Furnace offers an intriguing insight into the symbiotic relationship between industry and nature. The furnace's reliance on the surrounding forests for charcoal sparked some of the earliest forms of forest management, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to sustainability. Moreover, the local waterways weren't just picturesque landscapes; they were crucial for powering the furnace's bellows and machinery. 

This interaction with the environment is a key part of the site's educational narrative, providing visitors with valuable lessons about sustainable practices and the intricate ways humans impact ecosystems. This unique focus on ecological stewardship adds a fresh dimension to understanding our industrial past.

The charcoal pit! Rangers still demo this. The coals were crackling hot!

 

 

Legacy

Hopewell Furnace offers more than a glimpse into America's industrial past; it serves as a dynamic, living history lesson. This National Historic Site intricately portrays the complexities of industrialization, social hierarchies, and community dynamics during a pivotal era in American history. 

As a symbol of national progress and the accompanying challenges, Hopewell Furnace provides a rich, nuanced exploration of the human narratives intertwined with the machinery of progress. These stories are crucial for a deeper appreciation of the multifaceted nature of American industrial heritage. This focus on both the human and technological aspects makes it a unique and valuable resource for understanding the intricate tapestry of America's past.

 

 

 

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is a valuable cultural and educational asset that takes visitors on a journey through America’s early industrial age. From the intricacies of iron-making to the socio-economic conditions of the workers, the site offers a comprehensive look into a bygone era that had a lasting impact on the United States. Through its preservation efforts, educational programs, and interactive exhibits, Hopewell Furnace serves as a reminder of the nation’s industrial roots and as a testament to the American spirit of innovation and community.

 

Water for the Water Wheel

 

Oh, hello there!

A nice day!

Water !

More water!

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Valley Forge National Historical Park

 

If you're a fan of history and nature, Valley Forge National Historical Park in Pennsylvania is a must-visit. It's not just a huge, beautiful park, but it's also a piece of American history, about 25 miles from Philadelphia. This is where General George Washington and his army spent a tough winter during the Revolutionary War. Despite the freezing weather, lack of supplies, and illness, this place was where they toughed it out and came out stronger.

Here’s what you can check out:

Washington's Headquarters: It's not every day you get to see where a famous general lived. The Isaac Potts House is exactly that, and it’s pretty cool.

Muhlenberg Brigade Huts: These are replicas of the cabins the soldiers stayed in. They’re super rustic and really give you a feel for what life was like back then.

National Memorial Arch: This big stone arch is pretty awe-inspiring. It was built to remember the soldiers who hung in there at Valley Forge.

Visitor Center: This is the perfect starting point. They've got displays, a film, and rangers who know everything about the place.

Trails and Recreation:

Valley Forge National Historical Park is a real treat for anyone who loves the outdoors and a bit of adventure. With over 30 miles of trails weaving through the park, it’s a paradise for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the top trails you’ll want to check out:

• Mount Misery Trail: Don’t let the name scare you off! This 2.6-mile trail is a bit of a workout, leading you to the park's highest point. It starts with a steep climb and takes you through some rocky spots, but it's a fun trek.
  

• Mount Joy Trail: This one’s a cousin to Mount Misery, stretching 2.5 miles to the summit of Mount Joy. It offers lovely scenery and a moderate challenge, perfect for a day out in nature.

• Joseph Plumb Martin Trail: Named after a young soldier with some incredible stories, this 6.6-mile loop hits all the park's hotspots, like Washington's Headquarters and the National Memorial Arch. It’s like a walking history tour.

• Schuylkill River Trail: Ideal for a leisurely stroll, run, or bike ride, this 2.2-mile paved path runs along the scenic Schuylkill River. It’s part of a much bigger trail network, so there’s always more to explore.

But that's not all. Valley Forge isn’t just about hitting the trails. It's a place where you can picnic, spot birds, see wildlife, and dive into some really cool ranger-led programs and living history demos. They've got events year-round that bring the park's history to life. So, whether you’re a history buff or just love being outside, Valley Forge has something special for you.

It is very common to do a loop of the Mt Misery trail, Horseshoe Trail and Valley Creek trail. Doing this will allow to see some of the fun things like the Colonial Springs Bottling Plant on the Horseshoe Trail and the century old dam on the Valley Creek trail.

Colonial Springs Bottling Plant

The Colonial Springs Bottling Plant is an abandoned facility located near the eastern end of the Horse-Shoe Trail in Valley Forge Park. It's believed that commercial bottling of the spring water began after General Benjamin Franklin Fisher purchased the property in 1895. Fisher was a Civil War hero and later practiced as a lawyer. He and his brother assembled a large tract of land on Mount Misery, including the Colonial Springs plot. 

 

In 1908, Fisher granted a lease to the Colonial Springs Company to use the waters of Cold Spring. After Fisher's death in 1915, his heirs sold the tract to Charles Hires, known for Hires Root Beer. However, there is no evidence that Hires Company made root beer at the Springs. The bottling of the spring water ceased when the land was purchased by Valley Forge State Park in the 1930s (this was of course before becoming a National Historic Park).

Today you can hike the Horseshoe Trail and see the ruins!

Remains of the old Colonial Springs Bottling Plant

Part of the stream running through the building remains!

Part of the stream running through the building remains! (again)

Little dude blends in a little too well. Almost stepped on him!

Beautiful dam waters! Found on the Valley Creek trail portion of the Mt Misery loop

That sounds about right. However, it's not polluted because of the park, its 
polluted due to activities outside the park. 

Valley Creek, an Exceptional Value tributary within the Schuylkill River watershed, faces challenges from urbanization, agricultural practices, and industrial discharges that impact water quality. Despite its protective designation, the creek is affected by PCB contamination, sedimentation, nutrient pollution, and flow alteration due to impervious surfaces, stormwater runoff, and increased development in the area.

I had to snap this picturesque (well it is a picture) view before we left the park. A very nice day!

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Warwick Farm Brewing

There's nothing better than a brewery in the Philadelphia suburbs. Seriously. There are so many insanely good breweries within an hour of Philly its crazy. Warwick Farm Brewing in Jamison, Pennsylvania is no sexception. Warwick Farm Brewing is a 22-acre estate offering breathtaking views of one of the area's oldest golf courses, Neshaminy Valley. This family-owned brewery combines a passion for artisanal beer with a commitment to sustainable farming practices, providing an awesome place to hang out, and awesome brews.

A busy 70 degree Saturday at the Warwick Farm taproom

The estate's 1,200 square-foot brewing facility is equipped with a 7 BBL brewing system and fifteen fermenters, where an array of creative beer styles are crafted using locally-grown and locally-sourced ingredients. The 5,000 square-foot tasting room is a recent addition to the facility, providing a cozy, all-season space for guests to enjoy their favorite brews while taking in views of the outdoor beer garden and hop fields. I saw far too many children running through the hops. They really need to clamp down on the children running around here!

Warwick Farm Brewing takes pride in their hop cultivation, growing at least four varietals each season (Cascade, Chinook, Centennial, and Comet), which are used to create a limited-run wet hop IPA. The brewery also demonstrates its commitment to sustainability by repurposing spent grains as animal feed for local farms or turning them into compost to enrich the soil.

Future expansion plans for the farm include the establishment of a small fruit tree orchard, berry patches, herb gardens, and a space for honey production. The upcoming construction of an underground sour cellar will provide the perfect environment for aging their fruit-based brews.

In addition to the delicious craft beers on offer, visitors to Warwick Farm Brewing can enjoy a rotating selection of food trucks, providing tasty treats to complement their favorite brews. With its beautiful setting, commitment to sustainability, and exceptional craft beer offerings, Warwick Farm Brewing is a must-visit destination for any beer enthusiast or eco-conscious traveler.

They have a cozy indoor section, but they have a massive outdoor space as well. There are tons of tables and chairs, but in my experience, on a beautiful weather weekend...THEY WILL BE TAKEN. We brought our own camping chairs, and you can sit wherever you want on the property. 

We chose to sit against the fence away from all the noise of the crowd. It's a busy happening place! Insanely good beer though! I believe this was Triple Electric Countach.

A view beyond the fence in the...wetland? A worker had to come out and yell at kids for playing around in and near here. Ughh

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Ricketts Glen State Park - Pennsylvania

Ahh Ricketts Glen. A shining example of great Pennsylvania wilderness. Ricketts Glenn was the very first place I ever truly hiked. In the past, of course I've walked around, and surely I ventured into the woods a little bit, but I never intentionally went on a 'hike' until my early 20's. I was a late bloomer for a lot of things apparently... This is definitely where the seed was planted. The "I need to get out and explore the outdoor world" seed. Ricketts Glen was the perfect place for that I guess, containing the perfect blend of a balanced hike, decently moderate, with some wonderful and constant waterfall views. Just when you thought you saw the last waterfall, SKLOOSH, another one!

Around the time of my first visit I was listening to the band Pond, quite a bit, quite often. A popular song of theirs is Outside Is the Right Side. Hence, the name of this website, and the beginning of my outdoor hiking itch! Thanks PA DCNR!

Ricketts Glen State Park in Pennsylvania is an expansive natural wonder, covering 13,193 acres across three counties: Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia. Known for its rich natural beauty, the park offers a diverse array of landscapes, from lush forests to a series of stunning waterfalls, making it a favorite among nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Waterfalls: One of the park's most awe-inspiring features is the Falls Trail, a 7.2-mile trek through the Glens Natural Area, which is recognized as a National Natural Landmark. This trail winds through an ancient forest and past 22 waterfalls, ranging from smaller cascades to the majestic Ganoga Falls, which stands at 94 feet. The diverse range of waterfalls, each with its unique shape and character, creates a surreal and picturesque hiking experience. 

The Falls Trail is considered moderately difficult, with steep and rocky terrain in some sections. Hikers should wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution, especially during wet or icy conditions. The trail may be closed during the winter months due to hazardous conditions, so it is recommended to check with the park office for up-to-date information. People have fallen to their deaths, so keep that in mind!

Near National Park Status: Ricketts Glen holds a unique place in history; it was once on the cusp of being designated a national park. In the 1930s, due to its extraordinary natural beauty and geological significance, it was considered for national park status. Though it ultimately remained a state park, this distinction highlights the area's national significance.

Lake Jean: The park's waterfalls are fed by Lake Jean, a 245-acre lake that lies at the heart of Ricketts Glen. This lake not only nourishes the park's extensive waterfall system but also serves as a hub for recreation. Visitors to Lake Jean can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming, or simply relax by its tranquil shores. The lake adds to the park's diverse ecosystem, supporting a wide range of wildlife and plant species.

The Park’s Ecology and Wildlife: Ricketts Glen is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. The park's varied habitats, from its wetlands to the old-growth forest areas, support diverse wildlife, including species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, especially during migration seasons.

Recreational Activities: Apart from hiking and enjoying the waterfalls, the park offers numerous other activities. There are options for camping, with facilities ranging from rustic to more modern amenities. Picnicking spots are scattered throughout the park, providing ideal settings for family gatherings or quiet lunches amidst nature. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering opportunities for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.

Cultural and Historical Aspects: The park's history is deeply connected to the conservation efforts of Colonel R. Bruce Ricketts, the original owner of much of the land that now comprises the park. His dedication to preserving this natural area is a key reason why these landscapes remain unspoiled and accessible to the public today.

The Falls Trail had a partial close due to rock ledge collapse when we visited in Spring 2023. That certainly added more mileage to our hike, since we had to double back instead of doing the loop (we wanted to hit each falls)

In addition to the Falls Trail, Ricketts Glen State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, picnicking, fishing, boating, and swimming. With its captivating natural beauty and ample recreational opportunities, Ricketts Glen State Park is a beloved destination for visitors seeking to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors

A list of these waterfalls with their respective heights:

Mohawk Falls - 37 feet (11.3 meters)

Oneida Falls - 13 feet (4 meters)

Cayuga Falls - 11 feet (3.4 meters)

Ganoga Falls - 94 feet (28.7 meters) - highest waterfall in the park!

Seneca Falls - 12 feet (3.7 meters)

Delaware Falls - 37 feet (11.3 meters)

Mohican Falls - 39 feet (11.9 meters)

Conestoga Falls - 17 feet (5.2 meters)

Tuscarora Falls - 47 feet (14.3 meters)

Erie Falls - 47 feet (14.3 meters)

Onondaga Falls - 15 feet (4.6 meters)

Geronimo Falls - 7 feet (2.1 meters)

Blackberry Falls - 8 feet (2.4 meters)

Ozone Falls - 60 feet (18.3 meters)

R.B. Ricketts Falls - 36 feet (11 meters)

Kitchen Creek Falls - 4 feet (1.2 meters)

B. Reynolds Falls - 40 feet (12.2 meters)

Wyandot Falls - 15 feet (4.6 meters)

F.L. Ricketts Falls - 38 feet (11.6 meters)

Shawnee Falls - 30 feet (9.1 meters)

Huron Falls - 41 feet (12.5 meters)

Harrison Wright Falls - 27 feet (8.2 meters)

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Ever Grain Brewing

Oh Ever Grain. My second home. My "Third Place". I'm going to miss you when I move. 

Sitting outside at Ever Grain. As Usual

 

Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, may seem like any other town on the map, but it harbors a gem that beer aficionados and community members have come to adore: Ever Grain Brewing Co. What started as a big dream for co-founders Norm and Larry has quickly grown into a regional powerhouse for craft beer, emphasizing quality, creativity, and a vibrant sense of community.

Space That Breathes Welcome

As you walk into the spacious 10,000-square-foot taproom, you’re immediately enveloped by an ambiance that combines industrial elements with rustic touches. The grand 75-foot bar invites you to discover an array of beers crafted on-site, allowing you to witness the brewing process in the 20-hectolitre brewhouse that shares the open floor plan. Lights twinkle overhead while German-style picnic tables beckon groups to gather. The innovative design includes garage-style doors, transforming the indoor setting into a breezy, sunlit space when weather permits.

More outdoor Ever Grain IPAs. Nothing Better.

 

 An Orchestra of Tastes and Aromas

Ever Grain has solidified its reputation for being a brewer’s playground. Each week unveils a new culinary adventure, expertly crafted in liquid form. From Double IPAs infused with fruity aromas to Sours loaded with flavors reminiscent of dessert, it's an endless exploration of what beer can be. Their fruited sour line, Sorbetto, has gained nationwide interest! Beer fans from the west coast scream online of wanting to try new Sorbetto releases. Here, creativity is the cornerstone of the brewmaster’s approach, constantly redefining the conventional boundaries of craft beer.

I was never a fan of IPAs. Ever Grain changed that. They make insanely good hazy IPAs that allowed me to get into the overall style. Now that I broke wall I love IPAs both hazy and non-hazy westies. Thanks Ever Grain!

Beyond Ingredients: A Commitment to Local Produce

But Ever Grain’s journey doesn’t stop at mere brewing. Their commitment to local, Pennsylvania-grown produce led to the 2019 establishment of "Ever Grain Farms." On this farm, the circle of production is completed as they grow not just hops and grains but also an array of fruits, vegetables, and even honey. They're not merely patrons of local agriculture; they’re active participants.

Barrels as Time Capsules

The tranquility of Ever Grain Farms contrasts with the taproom's buzz, providing a sanctuary for hundreds of wooden barrels. These barrels are a living library of the brewery's innovation, each holding a brew that's maturing into what may well be the next sensation to grace their taps.

Social Catalyst

What stands out is the community ethos that pervades Ever Grain Brewing Co. It’s not just a place for a drink; it’s a place for gatherings, celebrations, corn hole tournaments, and other events that elevate the beer-drinking experience into a holistic community event.

A Living, Breathing Dream

To step into Ever Grain Brewing Co. is to step into a living dream. From Norm and Larry’s initial vision, it has become a community pillar that excels in not just brewing but in creating a communal space, a testament to the power of dreaming big and brewing bigger.

In a nutshell, Ever Grain Brewing Co. is far more than a brewery; it’s an institution that embodies quality, innovation, and the essence of community. It's a canvas where each pint is a stroke of creativity, and each sip is an experience, continually evolving but always rooted in its core values.

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Pizza Boy Brewing / Al's of Hampden

Look at all of those taps! So much beer! They need 8 TVs to show you it all!

 Nestled in Enola, Pennsylvania, Pizza Boy Brewing Company is a mecca for beer aficionados and casual sippers alike. With nearly 100 taps gracing their walls, this exceptional brewery offers an unrivaled exploration of craft beer, every pour promising an adventure in taste.

Their selection, vast and varied, spans everything from the hoppy grandeur of IPAs, the robust allure of stouts, to the tart intrigue of sours, and the timeless appeal of lagers. Each brew is a testament to Pizza Boy's dedication to their craft, a delightful dance of flavors that tells a tale of passion, creativity, and a deep respect for brewing traditions. One of my favorites is to grab a slice of margherita pizza and a pint of Frontside Lipslide DIPA. Heaven.

Unlike many breweries, Pizza Boy Brewing Co. chooses not to offer beer flights. This decision, far from being a limitation, serves to enhance the experience of each patron. Here, each beer is given the stage to shine, encouraging guests to savor every sip, to fully immerse themselves in the unique profile of each selected brew.

But the delights of Pizza Boy don't end at beer. Housed within Al's of Hampden, an adored local pizzeria, the brewery also offers the gastronomic pleasure of perfectly paired pizza. Among their mouth-watering offerings is the Tomato Pie - a dish that has earned its own fan base. Fresh, tangy, and bursting with flavor, it's the ideal companion to their wide selection of brews.

Beyond its brews and bites, Pizza Boy Brewing Co. is a vibrant hub of community and camaraderie. A place where the clink of glasses mingles with laughter, where friendships are forged over shared pizzas and the discovery of new favorite brews.

In the world of craft beer, Pizza Boy Brewing Company shines as a beacon, a testament to the art of brewing and the joy of shared experiences. Whether you're a local, a visitor, a seasoned beer enthusiast, or a newcomer to the craft beer scene, a visit to Pizza Boy Brewing Co. offers a lasting memory and the promise of many return trips.

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Voodoo Brewing -- State College

I wish this place was here when I was a student! I make the trek back up to State College every few months partially just to go to Voodoo. Their beers are good, but I love being able to grab a beer and sit by the water. I've only ever been to the State College location, as well as the newer Scranton location. I've never been to the more OG Western PA locations in Meadville and Pittsburgh.

Voodoo Brewing State College does not have food themselves, but they are connected to Maine Bay and Berry who kindly serve up food for Voodoo customers. Get a lobster roll or Mahi Mahi tacos!

Voodoo by the water in State College

 

Voodoo Brewing Company is a craft brewery founded in 2005 and based in Meadville, Pennsylvania. The brewery has garnered attention for its innovative and diverse range of beers. They offer a variety of styles, including IPAs, stouts, and barrel-aged beers, among others. The brewery is also known for its unique branding and packaging, which often draws people in, including funny beer names, memes, and nostalgia. Sometimes the names reference such an obscure meme or joke that it takes me awhile to get it. Like the beer "They're Good Hops Brent". It took me forever to realize it was referencing the meme They're Good Dogs Brent. Thankfully, I understood references such as their beer Porkchop Sandwiches
and Wynona's Big Brown Ale...I'm assuming a reference to Primus??

Voodoo Brewing has earned a number of awards and recognitions for its beers, which are distributed in various states. Their approach often includes experimental techniques and a dedication to quality that has helped them stand out in the competitive craft beer market. 

Voodoo Brewing State College outside

Taprooms and Locations

Over the years, Voodoo Brewing has expanded its footprint beyond its original Meadville location. Some craft breweries opt for broad distribution without local taprooms, but Voodoo has invested in building community spaces where fans can experience the beers directly from the source. These taprooms often offer a range of Voodoo's beers on tap, including limited releases and special brews not available elsewhere. Some of the locations are wholly owned by Voodoo Brewing, but in the past few years Voodoo has been aggressively marketing for the opportunity to franchise in order to spread across the country. Although from PA, there is now a Voodoo Franchise opening in Reno, Nevada, among many others. 

Sitting by the water, Slab Cabin Run, at Voodoo State College. Not using that funky cool drink holder on the right for some reason!

Seasonal and Limited Releases

 

Like many craft breweries, Voodoo often produces seasonal and limited-release beers. These may be variations on their standard lineup, infused with seasonal ingredients, or entirely new creations designed to push the boundaries of what beer can be. Limited releases also create a sense of urgency and excitement among fans of the brand, which can drive both visits to the taprooms and sales of packaged beer.

What's not to love? I've sat out here in the rain before even!

 

Barrel-Aging Program

Voodoo Brewing has been noted for its robust barrel-aging program.

Voodoo Brewing Company's reputation significantly changed with the release of their Barrel Room Collection I (BRC). Before this, they were known for two barrel-aged stouts, Black Magick, but lacked significant hype due to their wide availability. The BRC's introduction, during an expansion of their barrel program, drew unprecedented attention, with fans lining up more than a day in advance for the release.

This enthusiasm, however, led to overcrowding and service issues at the brewery. To address these problems, Voodoo made subsequent BRC releases surprise events, with no prior announcement. This approach prioritized local and regular customers, ensuring they had better access to these highly sought-after beers.

By 2017, Voodoo continued to release their BRC, with beers aging 14-20 months in barrels to achieve desired complexity. Despite debates over the optimal barrel-aging time, these releases, like BRC V, were highly successful and often sold out quickly.

 

Collaborations and Community Involvement

Craft breweries often collaborate with other breweries, local businesses, and even their own customers to produce special brews. Voodoo Brewing is no exception. Through collaborations, they not only create unique products but also strengthen their ties to the community and the broader craft beer industry.

Sustainability Practices

While I don't have specific information on Voodoo Brewing's sustainability practices, it's worth noting that many craft breweries are increasingly focusing on sustainable and environmentally friendly operations, from sourcing ingredients locally to minimizing waste.

 

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