The Only 2 States in the U.S. With a Guinness Brewery

If you’re a Guinness fan, you might think of Ireland’s iconic St. James's Gate Brewery in Dublin as the birthplace of the world-famous stout. And you’d be right—Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease back in 1759, and since then, Ireland has been home to the Guinness empire. But did you know that Guinness has a presence in the U.S.? That’s right—there are only two places in the States where you can experience a Guinness brewery firsthand: one in Chicago and the other in Baltimore.

Guinness Draught Stout Photo By: Guinness

While Dublin still produces the classic stout, the American breweries have a different vibe. Forget just brewing the famous dark brew; these locations focus on experimenting with different styles, like the lighter Guinness Blonde American Lager. But the real reason behind bringing Guinness to the U.S.? It's about brand building. As beverage industry analyst Robert Edward Ottenstein put it (CNN), these breweries serve as hubs to make Guinness relevant, engaging with fans through more than just beer.

What to Expect at the U.S. Guinness Breweries

Both Baltimore and Chicago offer much more than pints of beer.

The Baltimore brewery, which opened its doors as the first Guinness site in the U.S. in over 60 years, is a love letter to the original St. James’s Gate in Dublin. Visitors can take guided tours to dive deep into what makes Guinness so distinct, from the brewing process to understanding the flavors. Plus, there's merch, beer tastings, and a cool way to learn about the bitter taste we’ve all come to know and love.

Over in Chicago, the Open Gate Brewery is a lively spot that mixes education with entertainment. It's not just about the brews—they host everything from private events to trivia nights, and you can even grab a bite to eat at their on-site bakery or café. Whether you're into sports or just want to kick back, the Chicago brewery is a fun hangout for all ages (with, of course, a little age-checking at the taps).

So, the next time you're in either city, don’t just think of Guinness as a drink—it’s a destination. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newbie, these two locations offer much more than beer; they’re about making memories, one pour at a time. Cheers!