With all the super-niche neighborhood brewing in our city, you might be inclined to pass off Boston Lager as a basic beer. But trust us: There’s something special about Sam Adams. Get a glimpse into this significant piece of American beer history—discovering how it become the second-largest craft brewing company in the United States—while touring the Jamaica Plain facility; tours are free (with a suggested $2 donation), and depart every 30 minutes.

A visit to the factory’s recently revamped taproom is proof positive that Sam Adams is keeping up with the industry it helped build. Sit along a communal table or on a comfy couch and sample its lesser-known small-batch creations, like the juicy New England IPA or the House Helles. A new Bier Keller room is devoted to barrel-aged suds like Utopia, a beer that’s so boozy it’s illegal in many states; visit the brewery’s website for info on a special barrel-aged beer and local cheese tasting.