News Summary
Wormtown Brewery on Shrewsbury Street is undergoing a significant renovation to expand its taproom by approximately 4,500 square feet. This project, which involves a total size increase to around 10,000 square feet, is part of a broader effort to enhance the customer experience and introduce new offerings. While renovations are underway, production has remained stable, and the Foxboro taproom is seeing increased business. The planned enhancements include a restaurant-like environment, recreational activities, and a distilling program, with the reopening slated to celebrate the brewery’s milestone anniversary.
Worcester – Wormtown Brewery’s taproom on Shrewsbury Street is undergoing a major renovation, closing since July 3, 2024, as part of a significant expansion project that will add approximately 4,500 square feet to the space, bringing the total size of the taproom to around 10,000 square feet. This development comes after the brewery, which has been a staple in Worcester for over 16 years, was purchased by the Hendler Family Brewing Co., the same company behind Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers, in April 2024.
The renovations have raised questions among patrons about the future of the brewery, especially considering speculation online regarding whether Wormtown would fully relocate from its known address at 72 Shrewsbury Street. However, officials confirmed that the closure was anticipated and necessary for the ongoing construction.
During the construction phase, it has been noted that Wormtown’s production has remained stable, with its renowned beer lineup largely unchanged, despite some updates in packaging and release schedules. Key members of the production team have transitioned to Framingham since the sale, maintaining quality and consistency in Wormtown’s beloved offerings.
Details of the Renovation
The renovation aims to create a more spacious, restaurant-like environment for patrons. Currently, construction is focused on taking down and rebuilding a brick wall behind the bar to enhance the overall layout of the taproom. A representative confirmed that the establishment is still in “heavy construction” and updates regarding the anticipated reopening will be shared soon.
Increased Business at Foxboro Taproom
In the meantime, Wormtown’s Foxboro taproom has experienced a surge in business as loyal customers look for alternatives during the Shrewsbury Street location’s closure. With the NFL season underway, the Foxboro location has opened early at 10 a.m. on Patriots home game days, catering to thousands of fans with offerings like hot dogs, burgers, and bratwurst. This location has sized up its offerings during the game days, showcasing the flagship beer, Be Hoppy, among other selections.
The Foxboro taproom boasts a lively atmosphere, complete with five TVs to catch NFL games and a RedZone channel coverage, making it a popular choice for local sports fans.
New Features in the Expanded Taproom
The upcoming Shrewsbury Street taproom is set to feature appealing design elements, including blue and white stained glass windows, a lounging area known as ‘the Barrel Loft,’ and additional recreational activities such as foosball tables, with potential for even more games in the future. Wormtown plans to introduce a distilling program alongside its brewing efforts, broadening its appeal and offerings.
As part of the renovation, there will also be a dedicated kitchen and collaborations with local restaurants for pop-up culinary events, providing a unique dining experience alongside Wormtown’s finely crafted beers.
Community and Cultural Impact
The revamped taproom will showcase murals and decor that pay tribute to the local Worcester culture and the Wormtown legacy, enhancing the sense of community that the brewery fosters. Furthermore, the grand reopening of the taproom is set to coincide with Wormtown’s 11th birthday, marking a celebratory milestone for the brewery and its loyal patrons.
Wormtown Brewery’s expansion reflects its growth and commitment to evolving within the thriving craft beer scene of Worcester, aiming to offer a diverse array of experiences and uphold the quality that has defined the brand throughout its history.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Telegram: Beyond Beer Amid Construction, Something’s Brewing at Wormtown
- Wikipedia: Wormtown Brewery
- Boston Magazine: Wormtown Brewery at Patriot Place
- Google Search: Wormtown Brewery
- MassLive: Wormtown Brewery’s New Worcester Taproom
- Google Scholar: Wormtown Brewery
- MassLive: Meet the New Wormtown Brewery
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wormtown Brewery

Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.