The craft brew scene has long been a rising trend across the US, and St. Petersburg in Florida is quickly building a reputation as king of the growing scene. Known as the “Gulp Coast,” the St. Pete/Clearwater Craft Beer Trail is a beer-lover’s dream with over 30 craft breweries from end to end. Whether you’re a beer expert with a refined palate or a newbie looking for a leisurely afternoon, you’ll find an array of breweries serving up artisanal beers for every taste. And having the kids in tow doesn’t limit your options because St. Pete has another trend on the rise: kid-friendly breweries that are fun for the whole family. From outdoor play areas and games to even hosting birthday parties for kids and letting the dogs join too, these are the best breweries for everyone in your crew.
3 Daughters Brewing
Named after the founders’ daughters, it’s no surprise that this brewery is kid-friendly and great for young travellers too. The family story is clear with the famed daughters’ handprints found on the wall and an homage to the founder’s great-grandfather in one corner. Parents can enjoy sipping and tasting over 25 beers on tap at the bar and tasting room, or choose from 12 ciders for something on the sweeter side. Take your glasses to the outdoor area and grab a seat at one of the wooden tables. Kids will love running around and playing the numerous games offered from hula hooping to giant jenga. Grab a snack from the various food trucks that park by the tables or dance to the live music that creates a lively atmosphere on the weekends. Sophisticated teens might also enjoy checking out the nearby art galleries or shopping for clothes at the pop-up boutiques.
Green Bench Brewing Co.
The ultimate place to be on a sunny afternoon, Green Bench has a friendly vibe and a large outdoor area where kids can easily burn off steam running around and parents can relax in the shade on the covered patio enjoying a tasting flight and choosing from over 20 beers to sample. Built with the idea of community in mind, Green Bench strives to be a place for residents and tourists alike to gather and engage. On any given weekend you’re likely to make friends with other parents, kids and friendly dogs. You might even stumble on a kid’s birthday party. They also often offer live music and use their outdoor movie space to play host to Movies in the Garden, an event where movies are shown at night in the beer garden.
Mastry’s Brewing Co.
First founded as a brew pub operated out of a family-friendly restaurant, Mastry’s has always been a kid-friendly spot for families to enjoy. With live music and food trucks stopping by, plus games available for the kids to play, it’s the perfect place to relax and sip one of their 13 beers on tap. Be sure to try their gold-medal winning Hefeweizen that locals and visitors alike continue coming back for. If it lines up with your travel plans, don’t miss their Saturday Extravaganza Day Market. Held the third Saturday of every month, the event features local vendors, artists, food trucks, friendly fun and a DJ to help you and the kids get your boogie on.
Pesky Pelican Brew Pub
The Pesky Pelican is a great low-key spot for families to grab a bite and a brew. First dreamed up by a father-daughter duo in their basement, it’s always had an emphasis on welcoming families. They offer music on weekend evenings and the bar menu features easy, kid-approved favorites like burgers, pizza and tater tots, while also offering a slightly more sophisticated selection older kids and parents will love too. From smoked mahi to stuffed mushrooms, the menu is long and varied. At this nano-brewery, adults can enjoy the signature Pesky Pete’s Raspberry Wheat, as well as a rotating selection of seasonal beers. Young visitors aren’t left out and will love the house made root beer.
St. Pete Brewing Co.
Easily spotted by its recognizable and delightful entrance featuring a large mural of a Banyan tree, St. Pete Brewing Co. offers 12 beers on tap to put to the taste test. One of the breweries that has a full kitchen and not just food trucks, this is a great spot to stop in for lunch or dinner along with your beer. Kids will love the delicious pizza menu and bar snacks like soft pretzels and garlic knots. Along with 3 Daughters and Green Bench, St. Pete Brewing Co. is also dog friendly, so kids can enjoy meeting furry friends to play with too. After polishing off your pints, take the kids to explore the other large street murals in the area that St. Pete is quickly becoming known for.