Remote Surveillance Trailer in Aberdeen, WA

New production facility means more beer, but the downtown taproom will remain open

Steam Donkey Brewing and the Port of Grays Harbor recently announced that the Aberdeen-based brewery will open a new facility allowing it to double production capabilities, streamline operations, and expand its business. The addition of the new 2,900 square-foot production facility at the Port of Grays Harbor will not impact the existing taproom in downtown Aberdeen, Washington.

“After maximizing every inch of our current brewing space, and adding a food truck and off-site storage, we have just outgrown our original footprint,” explained Stefanie Bennet, owner of Steam Donkey Brewing. “We are thrilled about our new production space at the Port and are looking forward to serving our growing customer base and remaining a cornerstone of the community while expanding our business.”

The brewery was founded in 2017 by Stephany and Jonathan Bennett. It was the first brewery to open in Aberdeen in 70 years. The brewery is female-majority and veteran-owned. Its taproom in downtown Aberdeen is a beloved fixture in the community. Also, it’s just a block away from Mount Olympus Brewing, making it easy for beer lovers to visit two breweries and only park once.

According to a press release from the Port of Grays Harbor, the warehouse and office space was previously the home of Wishkah River Distilling. The original vision was that the location would serve as an incubator for emerging breweries and distilleries.

“We are so excited to welcome Steam Donkey as a Port tenant,” stated Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Leonard Barnes. “It is great to see this space utilized for craft brewing again and we couldn’t ask for a better community partner than Steam Donkey.”

You can visit Steam Donkey Brewing at101 E Wishkah StAberdeen, WA 98520Map

Grays Harbor has a rich history of logging booms, Native American heritage, reinvention and new beginnings. But did you know that the Harbor is also home to several historic bars? Some date back to the early 1900s. Here’s where to find historic bars in Aberdeen. Make a weekend of bar-hopping by staying in a nearby Grays Harbor hotel!

Billy’s Bar & Grill

322 East Heron Street, Aberdeen360.533.7144

Billy’s Bar and Grill was opened in the Crowther-Wooding Building in the early 1900s by Billy Gohl, a well-known Grays Harbor figure. The Crowther-Building was home to the Red Cross Pharmacy until 1933 when it became Evans Drugs. It became Vann’s Tavern for a couple of years in the 1940s. Then it was the Derby Tavern from 1944 until 1979. Purchased by Sonny Bridges and his partners two years later, the building became Billy’s Bar & Grill. A local bar with a storied past, Billy’s Bar and Grill remains a local favorite for good food, good friends and good times.

John’s River Lodge

1564 State Route 105, Aberdeen360.648.2319

A cozy spot nestled along State Route 105 en route to or from Westport, John’s River Lodge has been around since the 1950s. It’s a favorite watering hole for many locals. Some have been regulars for years or even decades. Twelve-ounce cans rule here, as does friendly chatter. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, the John’s River Lodge offers plenty of local color while you hoist a glass to the past.

Mac’s Tavern and Cardroom

210 East Heron Street, Aberdeen360.533.3932

Originally a cigar store, Mac’s Tavern and Cardroom on Heron Street has been around since the early 1900s. It became a tavern and gaming establishment in the 1970s. Besides a wide selection of beer, wine, hard liquor and cocktails, Mac’s also offers fast service, music, pool tournaments and a choice location in downtown Aberdeen.

Parkway Tavern

417 North Park Street, Aberdeen360.637.8642

Established in 1933, the Parkway Tavern pours both drinks and memories under its neon sign. You won’t find many frills at this local hangout. But you will find friendly conversation, a relaxing place to watch football and a chance to enjoy some great beer on tap. Also music, pool, darts and pull tabs.

The Cave Bar

823 West 1st Street, Aberdeen360.612-3108

A neighborhood fixture for more than 100 years, The Cave Bar at the Polish Club started as a simple, no-frills watering hole. It has become a much-loved community gathering place. From signature drinks like the Laguna Bob and the Coconut Crush to pool tables, a digital juke box and on-demand karaoke, The Cave Bar continues its legacy of providing a warm and welcoming environment for everyone.

Where to Stay in Aberdeen, Washington

Are you an out-of-towner looking for a place to stay while wandering through Harbor history?

A local planning to spend a weekend bar-hopping? No worries! There are plenty of lodging options near these historic bars, such as, including a Best Western Plus on East Heron Street, the economical Travelodge on West Wishkah Street and Olympic Inn & Suites on West Heron Street.

If you are looking for a bed & breakfast with a homey feel, try the A Harbor View Inn on 11th Street. The home is a colonial revival style, built in 1905. The owners have carefully restored it to it’s elegant glory and are waiting to welcome you to your home away from home. Rooms are filled with Victorian-era furniture and decorations while having modern amenities like private baths, wi-fi and king-sized beds.

Sponsored