Cisco Brewers is the island's best-known place for a drink in the sun. Set a few miles from the center of Nantucket Town, it brings together a brewery, a distillery and a winery on one relaxed, mostly outdoor site, with picnic tables, games, food stalls and live music in season. For many visitors it is the social heart of a summer afternoon, a place to try local beer, spirits and wine, listen to a band and mingle with islanders and visitors alike. The offerings reflect the island's character. The beers are brewed on site, the distillery makes spirits, and the winery produces wines from grapes grown elsewhere and made on the island. Tastings and tours are generally offered, and the grounds include a shop selling bottles and merchandise. The atmosphere is informal, with kids and dogs commonly welcomed on the outdoor areas, subject to the venue's rules.
Getting there is part of the experience. Many visitors ride bicycles along the bike path from town, which takes around twenty or thirty minutes, while others use the island's shuttle bus or a taxi. If you plan to drink, avoid driving and consider these options, which also help in summer when parking is limited.
Hours and programs vary by season, with the busiest and liveliest schedule in summer and a quieter pace in the shoulder seasons. Check live music schedules and food offerings before you go, and be prepared for crowds on warm weekends. Tours and tastings may require reservations, especially for groups, so look ahead.
Good to know
Massachusetts law requires valid identification for alcohol purchases, and the venue enforces age limits. Dress for the weather, as seating is often outdoors, and bring sun protection. Pair a visit with a stop at Surfside Beach, which is a short ride away, or a south-shore bike ride, for a day that mixes sand and sipping.
Making the most of a visit
Arrive in the late morning or early afternoon on a weekday if you want space at a table, or come for the evening music on a summer weekend if you like atmosphere. Sample a flight of the beers and ask the staff about seasonal releases. Food from the on-site vendors is a good way to line your stomach, and non-drinkers can find soft drinks and snacks.
Designate a driver or use the shuttle and taxis, because the roads home are dark and cyclists share them with cars. The site is casual, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring a sweater for when the breeze picks up in the evening.
Practical notes
Seating can fill on busy afternoons, so claim a table early and take turns fetching food and drinks. Bring cash or a card, since some vendors may differ in what they accept. The site is exposed to sun and wind, so bring a hat and a layer. There are limited quiet spots when music is playing, so arrive on a weekday morning if you want conversation.
Be mindful of limits, and plan your way home before you start tasting. Check the dress code and policy on outside food, and ask about any tours of the brewery or distillery, which may need booking on busy days.
What to expect
The experience
A casual, outdoor visit to a brewery, distillery and winery with tastings, food and live music.
Best time
A sunny summer afternoon, early to avoid the biggest crowds, or a quieter weekday in the shoulder season.
How long
1-3 hours
Tips
Use the bike path or shuttle, check the music and tour schedule and bring identification.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Adults who want a lively island afternoon with drinks and music.
- Families
- Families are often welcome in outdoor areas, though the focus is on adults.
- Couples
- Share a flight of tastings and stay for a band.
- Pair with
- Surfside Beach and the Coast-to-Coast audio tour.
- Time needed
- One to three hours.
Good questions
What is at Cisco Brewers?+
A brewery, a distillery and a winery in one outdoor site, with food and live music in season.
How do I get there?+
By bicycle on the bike path, by shuttle bus, taxi or car. Avoid driving if you are drinking.
Is it open in winter?+
Hours and programs change by season, so check before visiting.
Are children allowed?+
Outdoor areas are often welcoming to families, subject to the venue's rules.
Do I need a reservation?+
Not usually for casual visits, but tours and groups may need to book ahead.