Finally getting a chance to go to Philly!

I recommend taking the SEPTA train (Paoli/Thorndale line) to Ardmore and spending time at Tired Hands, if you have time. Every few days there's a new saison or IPA, so you're bound to get something unique and special. They now have 32-ounce swing-top growlers that will travel especially well.

 

http://phillytapfinder.tumblr.com/post/38388921092/scoop-on-pliny-the-younger-2013-in-philly

 

What Hotel?

 

Wait, so you can't get Pliny in cases in Philly? It's only on tap?

 

I second the recommendation to make a trip to tired hands. And also use phillytapfinder to see of any hill farmstead is available too!

 

Yes draft only.

 

Providence,
Great thread! I have been wanting to drive down to Philly and check out the reported stellar beer scene.
Love the suggestions everyone, thanks.

have a great trip and report back on how it went, highlights and disappointments.

 

Started a similar thread a while back,got some really great info from our East coast BA's it helped me make it a fantastic philly trip.... thanks again!
http://beeradvocate.com/community/threads/philly-beercation.36668/

 

Another resource that more people should take advantage of:
beermapping.com

 

Stayed at the Hotel Palomar in center city, went to Monk's Cafe twice and trust me it is worth the trip. Belgian mussels and a sick tap list and bottle cellar. Also Food &Friends is a bottle shop near Rittenhouse square and has a great bottle selection.

 

Just an FYI ..Yards only does tours on weekend and it can get crowded. Go midweek shouldnt be crowded at all.

 

The Yards tour is not bad but for the most part it's your run-of-the-mill brewery tour. You get a couple of samples of beer though and perhaps get to see some old stuff stashed in the freezer.

If you want more free beer (and who doesn't?) and a more unique space check out Philadelphia Brewing Co. They give you a list with multiple beers to check off (i think 5 or 6 out of 8 listed) and the brewery space is different than most. Tours are only on Saturdays from noon to 3.