Carlisle, PA, is a town where history mingles with present-day charm. Imagine walking along tree-lined streets once graced by the likes of George Washington and the iconic Molly Pitcher and admiring the beautifully restored architectural wonders while hiking on the nearby Appalachian Trail. For cycling enthusiasts, biking trails meander through the town. And for those with an intellectual bend, Dickinson College sits right in its heart.
One of the most enticing features is downtown Carlisle, where you can walk the area with your favorite beer, wine, or spirit (just ensure it's in a non-breakable container). With numerous restaurants and breweries boasting extended sidewalk cafes, Carlisle isn't just walkable; it's sip-able! The town exudes a warm, welcoming, and livable ambiance. So, ready to take a deep dive into its vivacious brewery scene?
The brewed delights of Carlisle
Desperate Times Brewery
1201 Carlisle Springs Rd, Carlisle, PA
Desperate times call for some exceptional brews! This award-winning Carlisle brewery ensures that your time is well spent. With a dog-friendly outdoor patio, you and your furry companion can feel the relaxed ambiance of the venue. The abundance of games ensures an animated atmosphere, a perfect backdrop to conversations and laughter. Fresh pizza, baked right on-site, wafts a delicious aroma that complements their German-style microbrew.
Back Porch Brewing Inc
133 N Hanover St, Carlisle, PA
Back Porch Brewing is an emblem of leisure and comfort. Its large bar serves as a gathering spot for friends, family, and even solo travelers looking for company. As the chords of live music permeate the air, your taste buds are in for a treat with the delectable funnel cake fries. It's amazing how something so simple can taste so divine. Their vast selection of great beers only amplifies the experience, making each visit unique and memorable.
Molly Pitcher Brewing Company
139 High St, Carlisle, PA
Drenched in nostalgia and comfort, the Molly Pitcher Brewing Company welcomes you with its warm wood floors and rustic exposed brick walls. The ambiance perfectly blends the town's rich history and modern vibrancy. Their eclectic menu boasts dishes like the spicy and crunchy jalapeno coleslaw, which patrons swear by. But it's not just about food and brews. Sunday night trivia offers an engaging escape from the week's hustle, adding a dash of friendly competition to the mix.
Market Cross Pub
114 N Hanover St, Carlisle, PA
When Britain meets Carlisle, the result is the Market Cross Pub. Their offering of unfiltered English-style ales and lagers, with a rotation of three to four styles at any given time, ensures that there's always a new taste to explore. The extensive selection of over 150 imported and craft beers and a full bar cater to even the most discerning drinker. As for food? Authentic British dishes like bangers and Shepherd's Pie promise a culinary journey across the Atlantic, all served in a space that's as cozy as an English countryside inn.
Hook & Flask Still Works
137 N Hanover St, Carlisle, PA
The heart of this spot is undoubtedly the large square bar, an inviting nucleus of laughter, stories, and drinks. Live music often reverberates through the space, setting the tempo for the night. The staff here are not just servers; they're entertainers, full of fun anecdotes, and always ready with a smile. Making history as Carlisle's first distillery, Hook & Flask wears its firefighter theme with pride, honoring its founders' background as volunteer firemen. It's a place where community, heritage, and merriment blend.
Grand Illusion Hard Cider
26 W High St, Carlisle, PA
There's a touch of enchantment in every corner of Grand Illusion. Beyond the delightful hidden bathroom and mind-bending infinity mirrors on the staircase landing lies a world of flavors. They proudly claim the title of having the world's largest cider selection on draft, a feat not easily achieved. But they don't stop at cider. A rotating array of Pennsylvania beers and eight distinct local wines are available. Pair your drinks with their trivia nights and live music, and you're in for a magical evening.
Gingerbread Man
5 S Court House Ave, Carlisle, PA
Buzzing with energy, the Gingerbread Man is Carlisle's go-to spot for a vibrant night out. The Irish theme infuses the space with a distinct character, while pool tables stand ready for friendly matches. The sounds of pool balls clinking, laughter, and conversations fill the air every evening. While the drinks keep flowing, the ambiance ensures that everyone feels welcomed, like a regular.
1794 The Whiskey Rebellion
10 S Hanover St, Carlisle, PA
While not technically a brewery, The Whiskey Rebellion must be noticed. Here, rustic charm meets elegance, from the cozy stone fireplace to the polished wood floors. Whiskey aficionados will be spoilt for choice, boasting over 100 varieties, including exquisite Japanese and French ones. But it's not just about the drinks. Generous portions of delectable dishes ensure that patrons leave with their thirst quenched and their hunger satiated. Nestled in the front of the Comfort Suites Hotel, it's a haven for those seeking sophistication and warmth.
Carlisle real estate: A home for every dream
For those contemplating making Carlisle home, the real estate scene is promising. New developments like Jefferson Court offer homes with vast acreages and mature trees. For the ones just starting their home ownership journey or seeking a cozier place, townhomes and condos range between 900 and 1,300 square feet. These are not just homes; they are gateways to the Carlisle life.
With its rich history, Downtown Carlisle is seeing a surge in investment opportunities as historic homes are being transformed into multi-unit rental buildings. For those who dream of a house with a yard or a modern architectural masterpiece, Carlisle offers an array of ranch homes, modern designs, and plenty more options for families of all sizes.
Realtor spotlight: Lisa Mack
For those considering a move, Lisa Mack isn't just a name; she's a brand in the Carlisle real estate market. She was named the "Best of Shippensburg Real Estate Agent" in 2015. She consistently clinched the Coldwell Banker International President's Circle and Elite awards, placing her in the top 2% of realtors. Her clientele trusts her implicitly because of her unparalleled knowledge of local market conditions and expertise in guiding investors and first-time homebuyers.
Whether it's for the historic allure, the buzzing brewery scene, or the promising real estate market, Carlisle, PA, is beckoning. So, are you ready to call it home?