Philadelphia has always held the distinction of being at the forefront of America’s beer revolution. In the late seventeenth century, beer was almost as much a food as a beverage, according to Phillymag.com. William Penn reported that by 1685, a brewer by the name of William Frampton was providing beer to the city.
Over the years, the City of Brotherly Love has evolved into a destination with world-renowned museums, award-winning restaurants and a fascinating history, in addition to the soft pretzels, cheesesteaks and Ben Franklin. Thankfully, so has its menus of high-quality, hand-crafted beer.
What better way to experience the sights and the people of a hot summer in the city than with one of Philadelphia’s magnificent beer gardens? Edens of landscaped, decked and diverse views await to quench your thirst and entertain the senses. Put down that smartphone and grab a seat at one (or all) of our favorites:
Independence Beer Garden
Discover restaurateur Michael Schulson’s expansive 20,000 square-foot, all-American shaded oasis that overlooks the Liberty Bell and Independence National Historic Park. The decor is grounded in reclaimed timber, distressed metals, Tivoli lights and Jenga to create fun spaces for enjoying a brief respite from the heat. A menu of salads, sandwiches and shareable platters go well with 40 taps of regional and domestic craft beers including Yards, Victory and Yuengling. 100 S. Independence Mall West, (215) 922-7100
Morgan’s Pier
We vote for the stunning view of the Ben Franklin Bridge and the Delaware River from this dockside hangout. Water ”misters” help keep you cool as you chat over the chef-in-residence’s upscale menu of antipasti, plentiful platters (lamb for two anyone?), a sea-worthy raw bar and creative sandwiches. Nightly bands (and late hours) are rousing music to our ears. 221 N. Columbus Blvd., (215) 279-7134
PHS Pop Up — South Street
Returning to the city for a third year at this quiet eden-like location, the Pennsylvania Horticulture Society retreat (designed by Karen Regan of Tallulah & Bird and sponsored by Whole Foods Market) includes bursts of roses, fragrant herbs, cocktail cucumbers, a fluffy canopy of pink crape myrtles and climbing vines of hops, wisteria and clematis. The soothing and rustic Americana feel is the perfect backdrop for Khyber Pass Pub’s select menu and “botanical bar.” Also, be sure to check out the recently opened Viaduct Rail Park (also a PHS beer garden) at 10th and Hamilton Streets. 15th and South Sts., (215) 988-8800
La Peg (Brasserie)
We nominate this Groundswell Design and Stokes Architecture-designed former pumping station for nighttime viewing of the Ben Franklin Bridge, whether it’s inside the industrial-chic FringeArts building or out in the new funky beer garden that features a shipping container/converted bar and a menu of casual seafood and burgers. Brews like Oskar Blues Dale’s Pale Ale, Hell or High Watermelon from 21st Amendment Brewery and Founding Fathers Amber as well as a few standout cider selections make this our go-to spot to relax and unwind. 140 N. Columbus Blvd. and Race St., (215) 375-7744
We also recommend the riverside view at Spruce Street Harbor Park (nightime viewing is amazing), Frankford Hall’s German hall replica by Stephen Starr and The Oval (located on the Ben Franklin Parkway in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art) and its colorful street mural, “Rhythm & Hues,” by artist Brad Carney.
- Photos: Ed Williams
