The first Stewart's Root Beer Stand was opened in 1924 by Frank Stewart who set out to develop the world's best-tasting root beer. He originally intended to sell this root beer in order to supplement his income as a school teacher. With the secret recipes in hand, he soon opened his first Stewart's Drive-In where he served ice-cold Stewart's Root Beer in tall, frosty mugs. The creamy taste of Stewart's Root Beer was an instant success and has been enjoyed by consumers for over 75 years!

In 1990 Cable Car Beverage Corporation acquired the bottling rights for Stewart's and began selling Stewart's Root Beer in 12 oz. amber glass bottles. Up until this point Stewart's Root Beer was only available at Stewart's root beer stands and later, at Stewart's Drive-Ins.

In November 2000 the Snapple Beverage Group which was comprised of Stewart's along with Mistic, Royal Crown and Snapple Brands were sold to Cadbury Schweppes, PLC.