Port City Brewing Company in Alexandria

Relying on public transportation, it took a little effort to get here from D.C. Not a lot, but more than jumping in my car (which I didn't have) to go there on a whim......I had to plan. TOTALLY worth it, and a great way to kick off what I hope will be a multi-country craft beer tour. Very friendly, helpful staff. I started with, I think, a German-style dark lager which was delicious. My goal was to take in the Helles Golden Lager, but the staff steered me here. The Lager had a slight toasty flavour which I enjoyed. I then detoured and decided to try the Beach Drive Golden Ale. DELICIOUS!!!! Needless to say, I never made it to Helles. I stuck with Beach Drive for the rest of my stay, and my commute and tiny beer bladder prohibited me from imbibing further. I did stay for 90 minutes and three beers longer than I intended, it was that good. The space is amazing and they have food trucks from time to time. One of the best craft breweries I've been to. Do yourself a favour and check this place out.

Really cool atmosphere, love the chips and salsa food truck idea. But zero options for booze other than beer. I get that it's a brewery, but not everyone can drink beer and every other brewery I've ever been to has at least wine or hard seltzer for us poor souls that can't have gluten. So disappointing given how nice the outdoor area is.

Port City Brewing Company may be the largest brewery in the Washington, D.C. area when it comes to space. It's in Alexandria, Virginia and comes with a large tasting room, small room in the back, patio, and indoor seating near where they brew the beer. That's just the first floor. Take the beautiful spiral stairs to the second floor for another bar, tasting room, and more bathrooms. The staff are friendly and passionate about the beer they brew. Tours are offered throughout the weekend as well as regular events to keep people coming back. They have corn hole on the bottom floor and large tables to host groups. Food trucks can be found outside at times. They have a medium sized menu and offer pre-set tastings or you can buy a taste for $3. They have seasonal beer, darker beers, and lighter beers. I went with my family with a wide range of preferences and we all found something we enjoyed. This brewery is kid friendly and you'll likely see other parents if you are one too.