Our Story
Fishers Ferry, Pennsylvania
Est. 1791
Over 230 Years of History
Where the River Meets History
Perched on the banks of the Susquehanna River in Fishers Ferry, Penn's Tavern occupies one of the oldest standing structures in Northumberland County. The stone walls that surround you when you dine here were laid in 1791 by Revolutionary War officer Samuel Auchmuty, and they have witnessed more than two centuries of Pennsylvania life.
This building has served as a hotel, a ferry house, a post office, and a railroad station. Today it lives its fullest life yet as a waterfront restaurant where history and hospitality come together over great food, local craft beer, and views of the river that gave this place its purpose.
Whether you're settled into the 1700's Room beside the original stone fireplace, sampling one of twelve Pennsylvania microbrews at the pub bar, or watching the sun set over the Susquehanna from the deck, you're part of a story that started long before any of us and will continue long after.
From 1791 to Present
A Timeline in Stone
1791
A Building Takes Root
Revolutionary War officer Samuel Auchmuty constructs the stone building that would become Penn's Tavern. Built using English-based vernacular stone construction in a two-room-deep, central-hall-plan design, the structure stands as a testament to late 18th-century Pennsylvania craftsmanship.
Early 1800s
Fisher's Ferry Crossing
The building serves as the eastern terminus for a ferry operated by Adam Fisher, who lived across the river on the Isle of Que. The surrounding community would eventually take his name, becoming known as Fisher's Ferry.
1854
The Post Office Years
As the community grows along the Susquehanna, the building is designated as the local post office, becoming the central gathering point for news and correspondence in Northumberland County.
1857
The Railroad Arrives
With the expansion of rail through central Pennsylvania, the building takes on yet another role as a railroad station, connecting Fishers Ferry to the wider world and marking a new era of commerce along the river.
2005
A Careful Restoration
After more than two centuries of continuous use, the building undergoes a thoughtful restoration. The original stone walls, hand-hewn beams, and historic fireplace are preserved and brought back to their former character, honoring the craftsmanship of 1791.
2016
Penn's Tavern Opens Its Doors
In June, Penn's Tavern reopens under new management as a waterfront restaurant dedicated to celebrating the building's heritage. The tavern quickly becomes a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors drawn to the river, the food, and the history held within these stone walls.
Three Distinct Experiences
Where You'll Dine
Dining Room
The 1700's Room
Step through the doorway and two centuries fall away. Exposed stone walls rise around you, their rough surfaces holding the warmth of the original stone fireplace at the room's heart. Overhead, hand-hewn wood beams span the ceiling, darkened by time. Antique barrels and copper cooking tools line the walls, and vintage chandeliers cast a golden light that makes the whole room feel like a place you were always meant to find.
This is the kind of room where a quiet dinner feels like an event and a celebration feels like something timeless.
Bar & Lounge
Microbrew River Pub
Newly renovated with a relaxed, social energy, the Microbrew River Pub is where the locals gather. High-top tables fill the room while a wooden bar with seven seats offers the best spot in the house to watch your next pint being poured.
With twelve Pennsylvania craft microbrews rotating on tap, the selection changes with the seasons. Ask your bartender what's new from the state's independent breweries.
Outdoor Dining
The Riverside Deck
When the weather opens up, so does the best seat at Penn's Tavern. The 20-by-24-foot deck extends out toward the Susquehanna, putting you right at the water's edge with a view that runs for miles in every direction.
Lunch on the deck with a cold beer and the sound of the river is the kind of afternoon that reminds you why you live in central Pennsylvania.
Our Commitment
Rooted in Community
Locally Sourced
We buy locally to take part in recognizing small, independently owned businesses for the benefit and growth of our community. The farms and producers around Northumberland County are our partners and our neighbors.
PA Craft Breweries
All twelve of our draft lines pour Pennsylvania craft beer. We proudly support the state's independent breweries and rotate our taps to showcase the best seasonal offerings from across the Commonwealth.
A Gathering Place
Whether a romantic dinner for two or a special time with family and friends, Penn's Tavern is a place where people come together. That's been true since 1791, and it's still true today.
113 River Road, Route 147 · Fishers Ferry, PA
Come See for Yourself
Some places you read about. This one you have to walk into. Feel the stone under your hand. Hear the river through the deck doors. Sit where travelers and neighbors have sat for over 230 years. We'll save you a table.
Make a Reservation