BeerTrippr Beercation: Geneva & St. Charles

Greg Lane
Apr 8, 2022
2 min read

We all know Chicago as the cultural hub of Illinois – but that is just a tiny fraction of what the land of Lincoln has to offer. Just an hour west of the metropolis is the thriving beer and cultural hub of north-central Illinois: Geneva and St. Charles. These sister cities are quickly becoming leaders in brewing and tourism. Get out of the big city, and see what the rest of Illinois has to offer!

Day 1: Start

ART HISTORY BREWING

649 West State St., Geneva, IL,

Taproom Hours:

M-W: 12:00 PM-8:00 PM

TH: 12:00 PM-10:00 PM

F-SA: 12:00 PM-11:00 PM

SUN 1:00 PM-8:00 PM

If you’re looking for a beer expert, look no further than Tom Rau who owns and operates Art History Brewing. After becoming hooked on homebrew, Tom chased down famous beers across Europe, and graduated from Siebel / World Brewing Academy in Munich, Germany.

Photo credit: Art History Brewing

Today, Art History Brewing operates as a traditional German beer garden,

featuring artistic brews and a variety of craft styles. The brewery prides itself in creating “simple, good beer in the correct glass.”

The brewery is a great place to work remotely during the day – they have plenty of outlets, strong WiFi, and lots of Nespresso! Stop by Art History Brewing to drink how they used to in ye ole’ Bavaria.

Hungry? Firewater BBQ, Nosh, and Craft Urban are all walking distance away to grab a meal or pick-up and bring to the brewery.

Day 1: Stop #2

PENROSE BREWING COMPANY

509 Stevens St., Geneva, IL

Taproom Hours:

MON: Closed

T-TH: 1:00 PM-9:00 PM

FRI: 1:00 PM-10:00 PM

SAT: 11:00 AM-10:00 PM

SUN: 11:00 AM-6:00 PM

Photo credit: Penrose Brewing Company

Those who like to live on the dangerous side will feel right at home at Penrose Brewing Company. Well – if your sense of danger is trying innovative, small-batch brews with lots of hops and wild/sour fermentations. Their small taproom offers a big punch. Be sure to take a brewery tour while you’re there. The folks at Penrose Brewing Company love to share both brews and stories, and you’ll feel right at home.

Penrose Brewing Company frequently partners with local businesses to provide onsite snacks and meals. Check their website to see if a food truck will be visiting when you’re there.