Two Brothers Roundhouse: A Historic Brewpub

Two Brothers Roundhouse, a beautifully restored historical landmark in Aurora, Illinois, offers visitors a unique experience that combines history, craft beer, and artisanal dining. Constructed in 1856 as a roundhouse for the Chicago & Aurora Railroad (later the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad), the building served as a vital maintenance and repair hub for steam engines and railway cars for over a century. Designed by Levi Hull Waterhouse, the roundhouse was built using locally quarried limestone from Batavia, Illinois, and is recognized as the oldest limestone roundhouse in the United States. After falling into disuse in 1974, the roundhouse was saved from demolition in 1995 when Walter Payton, the Chicago Bears running back, led an investment group to purchase and revitalize the building. It reopened in 1996 as an entertainment complex, featuring a brewpub, restaurant, museum, and open-air pavilion. In 2011, Two Brothers Brewing Company acquired the Roundhouse, transforming it into a vibrant establishment with a restaurant and brewery offering a variety of locally brewed beers. Today, Two Brothers Roundhouse spans 70,000 square feet and includes a full-service brewpub restaurant, a coffee bar, a distillery, and multiple event spaces. Visitors can explore the historic architecture, enjoy handcrafted beers, and dine on locally-sourced cuisine. The Roundhouse also hosts live music events and offers tours of its distillery and historic facilities. With its rich history and diverse offerings, Two Brothers Roundhouse provides a memorable experience for tourists and locals alike.