Grand Illusions Hard Cider Bar in Carlisle, PA, is no illusion!

Tucked away in beautiful Carlisle, Pennsylvania, is a magical place. Grand Illusions Hard Cider Bar will enchant and delight you! 

Are you a fan of hard cider? Enjoy a good road trip? Then jump in your car and make your way to Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Here you’ll find an adorable main street, complete with one of the best hang out spots I’ve found yet — Grand Illusions Hard Cider Bar.

The cider bar boasts the largest selection of Pennsylvania cider on draft in the world, as well as a rotating selection of PA beers and wines. The selection of cider can be a bit overwhelming — thankfully you can order a flight and try six at a time. You can mix and match cider, beer, wine, and even their house made sodas!

I’ve been here a few times over the past few months, and each time I find something new, but my personal favorite is their Hocus Hibiscus. Grand Illusions describes this out of this world cider as…;

"This hard cider is lemony-tart and berry rich, with magical hints of sweet hibiscus tea. A flavorful combination that brings out the beach in everyone!"

While it doesn’t really bring out the beach in me, it does make me feel like winter isn’t as bad as it seems. The hibiscus honestly dominates the lemony-tart, giving it a delightfully floral taste. This is an exceptional cider. Their seasonal drinks are also just as magical.

Recently I stopped in for brunch, and ordered the Apple Butter Old Fashioned. While this is more of a fall drink, it deserves to be on the menu year round. The apple butter really gives this rich drink an extra dose of creamy tartness. I absolutely loved this drink.

To go along with this warming drink, I ordered the waffle flight — Belgium waffle triangles topped with powdered sugar, and paired with whipped cream, syrup, and strawberry compote. I also ordered their spiced cider mimosa as no brunch is complete without a mimosa!

The spiced cider mimosa can not be missed. It’s a fun cider twist on the traditional mimosa. There was a slight kick to it, but you can easily down a few of these at brunch. The waffles were freshly made. I’m not a huge fan of whipped cream, but I love strawberry compote — I wish they gave you more!

Service here is also amazing. Not sure of what you should try? The lovely bartenders and wait staff are knowledgeable, and can absolutely point you in a delicious direction.

Have you been to Grand Illusion yet? Let us know in the comments below!