Where to Buy Hitchhiker Beer? Your Guide to Finding This Craft Favorite
Hitchhiker Brewing Company’s delicious craft beers can primarily be found at their two Pittsburgh taproom locations and through limited distribution in select Pennsylvania bars, restaurants, and bottle shops. Availability varies depending on the specific beer and time of year.
Hitchhiker’s Journey: From Homebrew to Local Legend
Hitchhiker Brewing Company, born from a passion for homebrewing and a love of travel, has quickly become a beloved name in the Pittsburgh craft beer scene. Founded in 2014, Hitchhiker’s dedication to quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques has earned them a loyal following. Their beers, often inspired by global flavors and experiences, offer a diverse range of styles to suit every palate. Understanding their distribution network is key to finding your favorite brew.
The Taproom Experience: The Heart of Hitchhiker
The best way to guarantee access to the full range of Hitchhiker beers is to visit one of their taprooms. They offer a variety of draft options, including limited releases and brewery-exclusive creations.
- Sharpsburg Taproom: Located in Sharpsburg, PA, this original taproom provides a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
- Mt. Lebanon Taproom: Offering a larger space and outdoor seating, the Mt. Lebanon location is perfect for gathering with friends.
Beyond just beer, the taprooms often host events, live music, and food trucks, making them a vibrant hub for the local community.
Distribution Channels: Expanding the Reach
While the taprooms offer the most comprehensive selection, Hitchhiker beers are also distributed to select bars, restaurants, and bottle shops throughout Pennsylvania. This distribution, however, is not uniform, meaning that specific beers may be available in some locations but not others.
- Bars and Restaurants: Many local establishments feature Hitchhiker beers on tap, offering a taste of their craft brews alongside their menu.
- Bottle Shops: Certain bottle shops carry Hitchhiker beers in cans and bottles, allowing you to enjoy their brews at home.
Checking online resources like beer menus and store locators (if available) can help you find specific beers in your area.
Availability Challenges: Understanding Limited Releases
One of the key challenges in finding specific Hitchhiker beers is the nature of craft brewing itself. Limited releases, seasonal offerings, and small-batch brews are often in high demand and may sell out quickly.
Factors impacting availability:
- Brewing Schedule: Hitchhiker produces a wide variety of beers, and not all styles are brewed continuously.
- Demand: Popular beers tend to sell out faster.
- Distribution Agreements: Specific distribution agreements may limit the availability of certain beers in certain areas.
Tips for Finding Your Favorite Hitchhiker Beer
Finding your favorite Hitchhiker beer requires a bit of planning and resourcefulness. Here are some tips to increase your chances of success:
- Check Hitchhiker’s Website: While they may not always have a comprehensive distribution list, their website might announce new releases or highlight which beers are currently available at the taprooms.
- Follow Hitchhiker on Social Media: Their social media channels are often used to announce new beers and events.
- Call Local Bars and Bottle Shops: A quick phone call can save you a trip and confirm whether they currently have the beer you’re looking for.
- Visit the Taprooms: The taprooms remain the most reliable source for the widest selection of Hitchhiker beers.
- Join Online Beer Communities: Pittsburgh-area beer enthusiast groups on social media can be valuable resources for finding rare or sought-after beers.
Where Not To Look: Untapped Markets
Currently, Hitchhiker beer has limited to no distribution outside of Pennsylvania. While expansion is always a possibility, consumers outside the state will generally not be able to find Hitchhiker beers in stores or bars. Direct shipping from the brewery is typically not available due to regulatory restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Finding Hitchhiker Beer
Is Hitchhiker Beer available outside of Pennsylvania?
Currently, Hitchhiker Beer’s distribution is primarily limited to Pennsylvania. While future expansion is possible, consumers outside of the state are unlikely to find it in retail locations. Check Hitchhiker’s official channels for any potential updates regarding distribution.
Does Hitchhiker offer online ordering or shipping?
Online ordering and shipping options are limited, and largely restricted by Pennsylvania’s alcohol distribution laws. It’s best to contact Hitchhiker directly via their website or social media to inquire about current shipping policies.
How can I find out what’s currently on tap at the Sharpsburg and Mt. Lebanon taprooms?
The most reliable way to see what’s on tap is to check Hitchhiker’s social media pages or visit their website. They often update these platforms with current tap lists.
Are there any specific websites or apps that track Hitchhiker beer availability?
While Hitchhiker may not directly use a specific beer tracking app, you can sometimes find information on platforms like Untappd, where users log their beer consumption and locations. Local beer stores may also list their inventory on their own websites.
What’s the best time to visit a taproom to ensure I get to try a limited release beer?
Arriving early on the release day is highly recommended for limited release beers. Hitchhiker often announces release dates and times on their social media, so stay informed!
Do Hitchhiker taprooms offer growler fills?
Growler fills were once a standard practice, but can and bottle sales have largely replaced them. Check with the specific taproom to confirm if they still offer growler fills on select beers.
Are Hitchhiker beers available at local grocery stores?
Availability at grocery stores is extremely limited. While some larger supermarkets with extensive beer selections might carry a few select cans, the best bet is to check dedicated bottle shops.
Does Hitchhiker Brewing collaborate with other breweries?
Hitchhiker occasionally collaborates with other breweries, and these collaborations can often be highly sought after. Watch Hitchhiker’s social media for announcements about these special releases.
Are there any Hitchhiker beer subscription boxes?
As of current knowledge, Hitchhiker does not offer a subscription box service. The best way to enjoy their beer is to visit the taprooms or find it at local retailers.
What is the difference between the beers available at the Sharpsburg and Mt. Lebanon locations?
While both locations offer a core selection of Hitchhiker beers, the tap lists can vary, with one location sometimes having limited releases or experimental brews not available at the other.
Are dogs allowed at either of the Hitchhiker taprooms?
Generally, dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating areas of both Hitchhiker taprooms, although indoor policies may vary. Always check with the specific location before visiting with your furry friend.
What kind of food options are available at the taprooms?
While Hitchhiker doesn’t typically have a full kitchen, they frequently host food trucks at both taproom locations. Check their social media or website for the food truck schedule. They often allow patrons to bring in outside food as well.