Milwaukee Brewery Tours: Taste Beer City's Best Brews
Explore Milwaukee's rich brewing heritage with guided tours that delve into history, brewing processes, and delicious tastings.
Milwaukee, a city steeped in brewing tradition, offers a vibrant landscape for beer enthusiasts. Known affectionately as 'Brew City,' its history is inextricably linked to the craft of making exceptional beer. From the days of its iconic lager breweries to the explosion of craft and microbreweries that define its modern scene, Milwaukee's beer story is one of innovation, resilience, and, of course, great taste. Brewery tours in Milwaukee are more than just a tasting session; they are immersive experiences that connect visitors to the heart of this enduring industry. Whether you're a seasoned beer aficionado or new to the world of hops and grains, these tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the artistry and science behind your favorite beverages. These guided excursions go beyond a simple bar crawl, offering curated journeys through the city's brewing past and present. Visitors can expect to learn about the historical significance of Milwaukee's breweries, understand the intricate brewing process from grain to glass, and sample a diverse range of local brews. The tours often highlight the unique characteristics of different Milwaukee breweries, showcasing everything from classic German-style lagers to innovative IPAs and sours. It's an opportunity to appreciate the dedication and passion that goes into each pint, all within the context of a city that has proudly embraced its brewing identity for generations. Discover why Milwaukee remains a premier destination for anyone looking to savor authentic American beer culture.
Featured Brewery Tours Tours
Discover our top picks for brewery tours in Milwaukee
Guests will learn about Milwaukee’s thriving brewpub scene and visit four separate breweries, tasting up to 16 different beers on this guided brewery tour with a snack. Visit some of Milwaukee's most popular brewpubs, including Lakefront Brewing, Broken Bat Brewing Co, Ope!, Gathering Place, and Wizard Works, to name a few. Round trip transportation by bus in downtown Milwaukee is included. Please try to book your tour at least 72 hours in advance of the tour to confirm availability. Tours book up quickly, and tours booked inside this window may not have room.
Learn about Milwaukee’s thriving brewpub scene and taste up to 12 different beers on this guided brewery tour with a snack. See how beer is made and chat with brewery owners about their operations. Visit some of MKE’s most popular breweries, including Pilot Project, Perspective Brewing, and Dead Bird, to name a few. Round-trip transportation by bus in downtown Milwaukee is included. Please try to book your tour at least 72 hours in advance of the tour to confirm availability. Tours book up quickly, and tours booked inside this window may not have room.
Why Choose Brewery Tours in Milwaukee?
Rich Brewing History
Delve into Milwaukee's legacy as a major brewing center, learning about its iconic breweries and their impact on American beer culture.
Diverse Beer Selection
Sample a wide array of beers, from classic lagers to modern craft ales, showcasing the breadth of Milwaukee's brewing talent.
Insider Knowledge
Gain insights into the brewing process, ingredient selection, and the stories behind beloved local brews from knowledgeable guides.
Engaging Experiences
Enjoy interactive tours that combine education with fun, often including behind-the-scenes looks at brewery operations.
Value & Variety
Compare tours that offer great value, including tastings and often exclusive access, catering to various interests and budgets.
Taste of Local Culture
Experience a fundamental part of Milwaukee's identity and its enduring connection to the art and enjoyment of brewing.
Types of Brewery Tours in Milwaukee
Historic Brewery Tours
Step back in time and explore the origins of Milwaukee's brewing fame. These tours often focus on the city's classic lager breweries, detailing their rise to prominence and their impact on the industry. Expect stories of entrepreneurial spirit and the golden age of brewing.
Craft Brewery & Microbrewery Tours
Dive into the dynamic world of Milwaukee's contemporary craft beer scene. These tours visit newer breweries, highlighting innovative brewing techniques, unique ingredients, and the diverse range of craft styles being produced today. It's a chance to discover the cutting edge of local beer.
All-Inclusive Beer Experience Tours
Designed for the ultimate beer lover, these comprehensive tours often combine visits to both historic and modern breweries. They aim to provide a deep dive into Milwaukee's beer culture, often including food pairings, extended tasting sessions, and detailed brewing explanations.
Brewery & Culinary Tours
For those who appreciate how beer complements food, these tours blend brewery visits with culinary exploration. You'll learn about beer and food pairings, often enjoying small bites or appetizers that highlight the flavors of local brews, connecting taste in a unique way.
What to Expect on Milwaukee Brewery Tours
Duration
Tours typically range from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the number of breweries visited and the depth of the experience.
Weather
Most tours are conducted indoors or involve short walks between locations, making them suitable for various weather conditions. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Group Size
Group sizes can vary from intimate, small-group tours of less than 10 people to larger guided excursions of up to 20 or more.
What's Included
Typically includes guided narration, behind-the-scenes access, and tasting portions at each brewery. Some tours may include snacks or light appetizers.
Meeting Point
Meeting points are usually specified by the tour operator and are often at the first brewery on the itinerary or a central, easily accessible location in Milwaukee.
Costs
Prices generally range from $30 to $75 per person, influenced by the number of stops, duration, and included tastings or food.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book in advance, especially for weekend tours or popular breweries, as they can fill up quickly.
Wear comfortable shoes; you'll likely be doing a fair amount of walking and standing.
Pace yourself during tastings. It's a marathon, not a sprint, to enjoy all the flavors Milwaukee has to offer.
Hydrate between stops. While beer is the focus, drinking water is essential to fully appreciate the experience.
Consider transportation. Many tours focus on a specific area, but if you're visiting multiple breweries, plan for safe travel like ride-sharing or taxis.
Don't be afraid to ask questions! The guides are passionate and knowledgeable about brewing and local history.
Check the tour itinerary to understand which breweries are included, especially if you have specific styles or brands in mind.
Look for tours that include behind-the-scenes access to the brewing facilities; it’s often the most insightful part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Are Milwaukee brewery tours suitable for non-beer drinkers?
A: While the focus is on beer, many tours offer alternatives or at least educational insights into the brewing process that can be interesting. Some may allow companions to purchase non-alcoholic beverages.
Q:Can I drive myself to the breweries on a tour?
A: It's generally not recommended to drive yourself if you plan on tasting. Most tours are designed with tasting as a primary component, so arranging safe transportation like ride-sharing or public transport is advisable.
Q:How much beer do you actually get to taste on a tour?
A: Typically, you can expect 3-5 samples (usually 4-6 ounces each) per brewery. The exact amount can vary, but it's usually a good variety to experience different flavors.
Q:What's the best time of year for Milwaukee brewery tours?
A: Milwaukee's brewery scene is vibrant year-round. However, warmer months from May to September offer pleasant weather for exploring between breweries, while winter tours can be cozy and offer a different atmosphere.
Q:Do I need to tip the tour guide?
A: Tipping tour guides is customary and appreciated for good service. A common guideline is to tip around 10-20% of the tour cost per person, depending on your satisfaction.
Q:Are there tours for specific types of beer, like IPAs or sours?
A: While most general tours cover a range, some specialized tours might focus on craft breweries known for particular styles. It's worth checking individual tour descriptions for such specific offerings.
Q:Can children join Milwaukee brewery tours?
A: Most tours are designed for adults aged 21 and over due to the tasting component. Some may allow minors to accompany adults but they will not be able to participate in tastings, and some breweries might have restrictions.
Q:What if I don't like one of the beers offered?
A: Don't worry, you're not obligated to finish any tasting you don't enjoy. The goal is to explore and find what you like, so feel free to sample and move on if a particular beer isn't to your taste.
Why Visit Milwaukee?
Explore Milwaukee's vibrant craft beer scene, a tradition brewing for generations of locals.
Discover the charm of the Historic Third Ward, Milwaukee's arts and fashion hub.
Enjoy affordable family fun with world-class museums and beautiful lakefront parks.
Immerse yourself in Milwaukee's rich German heritage at festivals and historic taverns.
Experience authentic Midwestern hospitality and unique local eateries that define the city.
Taste the best of Wisconsin's dairy and brewery culture, all within easy reach.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for the best time to visit.
Best Months
Spring and fall offer the best weather for most destinations.
Peak Season
Summer months are typically the peak season with higher prices and crowds.
Off Season
Winter months offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though weather may be less ideal.
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Plan Your Milwaukee Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Milwaukee is quite manageable. The downtown area and nearby neighborhoods are walkable, and many attractions are clustered together. For longer distances, the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) offers an extensive bus network. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. If you're renting a car, be aware that parking can be challenging and costly in popular areas. Consider a bike share for a scenic ride along the lakefront or riverwalk.
Car Rental Deals in Milwaukee
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Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Milwaukee adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in Milwaukee
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