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Brewery Tours

  Brewery Tour Experience

Tour one of Canada’s most historic breweries. Built in 1842, the mill pays homage to the rich Canadian history of brewing, as brewery and distillery operations have flourished in the vicinity of the Flats and Chaudière Island over centuries.

Join a small group of lucky beer fans for a guided tour of the brewpub and a tasting of Mill Street Brewery beers. Take a behind-the-scenes look at our historic brewery that opened in 2012 and learn about our award-winning beers and try a selection of local small-batch brews.

Our resident experts can answer just about any questions you have.

Small Batch Brewery Tour: $10 + HST per guest

• 30-minute guided tour of our brewery
• Retail beer will be available for purchase at the end of the tour

For larger group tour inquiries please contact: [email protected]

For private event inquiries please contact: [email protected]

Mon to Thurs: 10am - 7pm | Fri & Sat: 10am - 8pm | Sun: 11am - 7pm | Open 364 days a year!

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IZUMI SAKE BREWERY TASTING TOUR

Learn more about sake at Izumi Sake Brewery, made right here on-site! Great for private or small group tours. Click on the link below for more information.

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Mill street brewery tour.

Take a behind-the-scenes look at one of Toronto’s first craft breweries and try award-winning beers and spirits. Click on the link below for more information.

Go Tours Canada

Guided walking and Segway tours of The Distillery District, great for small private tours and group tours. Click on the link below for more information.

Enjoy a fun and engaging Segway tour of The Distillery Historic District

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Join The Haunted Walk and stroll along the cobblestone streets of The Distillery Historic District by lantern light. Click on the link below for more information.

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55 Mill Street, Toronto ON, M5A 3C4

Opened in 2011, this location of the Toronto brewery has become a staple in the area as a stunning destination with great views in a heritage building. The brewery opened the same year that they grabbed the exclusive rights to sell at Ottawa Bluesfest. At the time, the brewery provided a welcome change from the macro beer normally sold at the event. The custom-built brewhouse is an exciting thing to see, spanning two floors in the center of the building. You can see this stunning brewery location on our Rideau Rally tour.

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• 8 Best Brewery Tours in Ottawa, Canada (Local’s Guide)

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Are you traveling to Ottawa for the first time? These brewery tours in Ottawa are a great way to acclimatize to the Canadian capital!

Over the past few years, the craft beer scene in Ottawa has quietly become one of the best in Canada. 

It’s worth visiting the area some of the Ottawa breweries to sample some unique local beers! 

You can visit these breweries independently (creating a self-guided brewery tour) or book an organized brewery bus tour through the city. 

My roommate and I spent the summer trying a bunch of local breweries – often having to trade off designated drivers – before we realized we could do a tour and save ourselves the hassle.

In this post, I will share everything you need to know about the best brewery tour in Ottawa, how to book a private brewery tour with Donkey Brew, and give you a list of the best Ottawa Breweries to visit on your own! 

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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries ✔️ 3 breweries ✔️ Pick up downtown

1. City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries

There is only one multi-stop brewery tour in Ottawa. It’s a  4-5 hour Ottawa brewery bus tour called “City Beer,” operated by Brew Donkey Tours. 

During the tour, you will visit three breweries  (or possibly more, depending on time) for a tour and tasting. They even throw in a Distillery if there’s time, which helps you cleanse your palette after all the beer.

Some of the places you might stop are:  North of 7 Distillery, Bicycle Craft Brewery and Spark Beer.

The nice part about booking a tour is that it includes all transportation. You just need to get to the starting point and hop on the bus with your tour guide and fellow craft beer lovers.

🍻 Check Prices and Availability

2. Outaouais Craft Beer Tour – From Ottawa & Gatineau

If you’re looking for brewery tours beyond Ottawa City, you could also book this Craft Brewery Tour in G atineau. During this tour, you will cross the border into Gatineau, Quebec, to taste local beer at 4 different microbreweries.

Don’t worry if you don’t speak French, Brandon the guide is bilingual.

The tour takes you to Brasserie Artisanale Gallicus, Bristo L’Autre Oeil, 5e Baron Microbrasserie, and A La Derive Brasserie Artisanale.

You’ll get to try 13 different beers, and a Quebecois delicacy: poutine! It’s the perfect bar food and soaks up the beer so you can be sure you’re not passing out on the bus ride back.

Pick-up and drop-off are available in both Gatineau and Ottawa areas. 

Private Brewery Tours in Ottawa

Another Ottawa, Canada brewery tour option is a private brewery tour through Brew Donkey. 

Brew Donkey offers a few different private tours for each area of Ottawa. There are: 

3. Sip, Axe and Relax Tour

You and 14 of your closest friends can enjoy a two-brewery tour complete with axe throwing. It’s a beer tour unlike any other!

I did an axe throwing + brewery experience for a friend’s birthday, and let’s just say I never managed to hit the wall because I spent too much time enjoying the beer.

As a bonus, you get a delicious lunch sandwich (or salad for the GF among us) from Sconewitch – an Ottawa institution. You’ll end the day full of food, beer, and laughter – especially if you’re as bad as I am at hitting the target.

4. Y-East End Private Tour

Head east from downtown Ottawa to Overbrook and Orleans to find the best IPAs in Ottawa.

Expect 4 hours of all the hoppiest beers the city has to offer from Broadhead, Stray Dog, and Orleans Brewing Company.

This area is hard to get to without a car, so it’s also a great chance to see more than just Parliament Hill during your time in Ottawa.

5. Brewers East Private Tour

Southeast of Ottawa, just outside of the town of Navan, you’ll get to meet the rural brewers of Southern Ontario. This area has old routes in the Canadian beer scene, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t new players for you to enjoy, too!

This 6 hour tour will take you out to Tuque De Broue, Beaus All Natural Brewing Company and Cassel Brewery.

The scenery on the drive is incredibly beautiful, especially in the spring and summer.

6. Rideau Rally Tour

Hit up 5 of the newest breweries on this private Ottawa tour . You’ll typically cover locations from downtown Ottawa south to the Glebe and west Orleans.

This rally will have you hitting up the most breweries for an epic day out.

Note : pricing changes depending on the breweries, so get in touch with them for accurate pricing.

7. West Ferments Express Private Tour

Head away from the hustle of downtown Ottawa to my neck of the woods, the West End! Out here you’ll find the most delicious lagers and amber ales in the city.

West Ferments takes you to some of my favourite breweries, like Big Rig Brewery, for tastings. You’ll even get to try sours – although I’ve always found them gross.

8. Southern Beir Express

Up to 15 of you can enjoy this bus tour to the southern breweries of Ottawa.

The tour covers a wide range from south of Vanier to Barhaven, stopping at Vimy, Nita Beer, and Broadhead. It’s a great opportunity to see local areas instead of the tourist hot spots.

9. Who Likes Sports Sports? Tour

What goes better than beer and a sports game? A guided tour combining the two!

This unique private tour takes you to two breweries, then to a local game at the TD Place Stadium.

The only way you’ll ever see me at a sports game is with a drink in my hand to endure it – but I’m told others actually enjoy the combo.

10. City Beers Express Walking Tour

This walking brewery tour of Ottawa covers the most popular places downtown. You’ll walk past Parliament on your way to Mill Street Brewery (where I often hung out with my dog when he was a puppy), Spark Beer, and Beyond the Pale.

With views along the Ottawa River , this is a great scenic was to see more of the city core and to build up an appetite between stops.

11. Western Libations Private Tour

Head out to the Ottawa Valley, a place you’ll always find me in the fall.

The area is known for its vineyards, apple orchards, and breweries, so of course this tour hits up the best spots!

Get driven along Highway 7, so you can fully enjoy each stop.

12. La Belle Brew-Mance Private Tour

Have a brew-mance across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, where you’ll fall in low with some fruity IPAs.

The stop at 5E Baron Microbrasserie is a must for the stunning views over the river in the summer.

13. All Things Brewed Private Tour

Want the best of all worlds? Take this epic tour to try local wine, liquor and beer all on one private tour.

Start at Kin Vineyards before heading to the Dairy Distillery for what might be the world’s most unique vodka, then head to Hummingbird Chocolate Maker for my favourite sweets, and end at Braumeister Breweing for a hoppy ending (see what I did there?).

14. Create a Self-Guided Brewery Tour in Ottawa

If you prefer working at your own pace – and have a designated driver to spare – try crafting your own self-guided tour.

It will take a little more effort, but planning your own taproom visits or a custom brewery crawl is always an option. 

And, if you’re not planning on eating during your brewery tours in Ottawa, have a great meal at one of the best brunch spots in Ottawa before you begin your tour. 

These are the best Ottawa microbreweries for you to indulge in local craft beer:

Bicycle Craft Brewery

Established in 2014, Bicycle Craft Brewery is a long-standing staple in Ontario craft beer, and your craft brewery tour wouldn’t be complete without a visit here. 

Bicycle Craft Brewery has a variety of beers to try, including IPAs, DIPAs, APAs, Gose, barrel-aged beer, and stouts. They also offer kombucha for those who live an alcohol-free lifestyle.

While they do not offer a full-service restaurant, light snack options are available. You can also bring in your own food and snacks or order your favorite delivery service to the taproom. 

• Location : 850 Industrial Ave #12, Ottawa
• Thursday-Friday 11AM – 9PM
• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 11 AM – 7PM
• Sunday 11AM- 6PM
• Dog Friendly : The taproom is both family and dog friendly!

Beyond the Pale Brewing Company

Established in 2012, Beyond the Pale Brewing Company has a taproom offering 16 Ontario craft beers on tap, including new releases each week. 

They offer 16 beers on tap in the spacious taproom and patio space. With several mainstay beers and rotating seasonals, the variety of flavors is everchanging. Some of their off-the-wall styles include white stouts and imperial pastry stouts.

This brewery also offers cider, wine, and soda. If you get hungry, you can order food from the nearby BTP Smoque House , which has various BBQ plates, sides, sandwiches, and appetizers. 

• Location : Unit 108, 2550 City Centre Ave, Ottawa
• Monday through Thursday, 11AM – 11PM
• Friday and Saturday 11AM – 12AM
• Sunday 11AM – 10PM. 
• Dog Friendly : Dogs are allowed outside on the lower patio.

Tooth and Nail Brewing Company

The Tooth and Nail Brewing Company welcomes everyone to experience their beer in a non-pretentious environment. 

Specializing in lagers and ales, you’ll find the most common styles offered at Tooth and Nail. Fun and funky sours and Belgian-style beers are commonly available. 

They also have a great “Happy Hour” from 4-6 PM, Monday through Friday, where you can enjoy $2 off all Tooth and Nail brews.

This brewery doesn’t have a full kitchen, so if you are hungry, consider ordering one of their light bar snacks or hot dogs. (The hot dogs are both beef and plant-based.) 

• Location: 3 Irving Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Monday – Thursday: 4PM – 11PM
• Friday: 4PM – 12AM
• Saturday: 1PM – 12AM
• Sunday: 1PM – 6PM
• Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed here.

Flora Hall Brewing

Flora Hall Brewing opened in 2017 and focuses on quality beer and food in an intimate setting with space for no more than 120 people. There is seating available on the main floor and additional seats in the mezzanine. 

Flora Hall Brewing has ten rotating taps of different beers, and when the weather is nice, the full-size garage door will open, creating a light and airy environment. 

Food is also available here. It’s a popular place for dinner, with a seasonal menu of tasty appetizers, main dishes, and desserts.

• Location: 37 Flora Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Monday – Friday: 4-11PM
• Saturday and Sunday: 11AM to 11PM (or later on Saturday)
• Dog Friendly: Since they serve food, dogs aren’t allowed inside. But dogs are permitted on the patio and tables near the door when the weather is nice. 

Lowertown Brewery

Lowertown Brewery opened in 2014, offering food, craft cocktails, and craft beer! You can enjoy the indoor taproom, or if the weather cooperates, a patio is available. 

The tap list is more limited than other breweries in Ottawa, Canada. Basic offerings include an IPA, brown ale, a lager, wheat ale, and a stout. At times, there are also seasonal craft beers available. 

There are several cocktails, including fish bowl-sized drinks to share and a sizeable wine list.

Lowertown Brewery also offers a wide range of appetizers, smoked barbecue platters, sandwiches, and desserts.

• Location: 73 York Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. 
• Sunday – Wednesday: 11AM to 1AM
• Thursday – Saturday: 11AM to 2AM
• Dog Friendly: Dogs are allowed on the outdoor patio.

Vimy Brewing Company

Vimy Brewing Company is proudly independently owned and has been a community staple since 2017. 

In the taproom, they offer three flagship beers, Vimy Cream Ale, Red Ale, and Pale Ale, as well as specialties, seasonal beers, and sometimes special releases (promoted on social media). 

The space is more of a traditional taproom. There isn’t any food offered onsite, but you can order food (or bring your own from home) into the taproom. 

Vimy Brewing Company also offers delivery in Ottawa and nearby regions, with a 24-can minimum purchase, or you can find their flagship beers at The Beer Store and LCBO . 

• Location: 830 Industrial Ave #11, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. 
• Monday-Saturday 11AM – 7PM 
• Sunday, 11AM- 5PM.
• Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed in the taproom.

Overflow Brewing Company

Overflow Brewing Company is an excellent brewery in Ottawa. 

Most of their beers are hoppier, ranging from IPAs to Pale Ales. There are a few lighter options, such as a pilsner and Vienna lager. Although more limited, they do offer a porter. 

The brewery also has an extensive food menu, from snacks to shareable appetizers and main course dishes. 

Note: Overflow is known for hosting private events and concerts, so check their event calendar and confirm that the taproom is open to the public before you go. 

• Location: 2477 Kaladar Ave Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Days open & Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 3 – 11 PM (Kitchen is open from 3 – 9PM)
• Dog Friendly : Yes.

Evergreen Craft Ales

Evergreen Craft Ales started as a garage brewing operation in 2015 but officially opened their tap room opened in 2019.

They offer between 8-12 beers at a time, many of them seasonal, and you can often find really unique brews available. 

Wine, soft drinks, and kombucha are also available. 

A small selection of snacks is on the menu, but you can also order outside food delivery to the taproom. 

• Location: 767 Silver Seven Rd #21, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
• Sunday – Wednesday 11AM to 7PM
• Thursday – Saturday 11AM to 10PM
• Dog Friendly : Their patio is dog friendly, but the taproom is not.

Big Rig Brewery

Big Rig Brewery is the largest craft beer brewery in Ottawa, and it has multiple locations (one taproom and two full restaurants.

Big Rig Brewery offers various beer styles, including IPAs, radlers, spiced porters, and pilsners. Throughout the year, seasonal offerings are available as well. 

The brewery has a taproom, but two additional locations in Ottawa are full restaurants open for lunch and dinner. 

• Location: 103 Schneider Rd / Restaurant = 2750 Iris St & 1980 Ogilvie Rd.
• Days open & Hours: Tuesday – Friday (12PM – 7PM).
• Dog Friendly : Dogs are allowed on the patio. 

Spark Beer is a newer brewery in Ottawa that officially opened in 2020.

Funky and fruity is the style here, with many hoppy beers, sours, and Belgian-inspired beers. You can view the current tap list on their website.

Spark is also a pizzeria, so you can order delicious 10-inch pizzas to pair with your beer!

• Location: 702 Somerset Street W, Ottawa
• Wednesday: PM – 10PM
• Thursday: 4PM – 11PM
• Friday: 4PM- 12AM
• Sunday: 1PM – 8PM
• Dog Friendly : Dogs are welcome on the patio. They even offer Spark cups and treats for pets!

Dominion City Brewing Co.

The Dominion City Brewing Co. taproom and beer garden have a ton of different variations on tap. 

Most beers at this Ottawa brewery are IPAs, but you will also find a variety of lagers, pilsners, and seltzers.

Dominion City Brewing partners with City Seltzers and other local companies to offer snacks and beers from other breweries at their “Corner Store.” 

• Location: 5510 Canotek Rd #15, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Wednesday – Friday (3PM – 9PM)
• Saturday (11AM – 7PM)
• Sunday (12PM – 6PM)
• Dog Friendly : Dogs are welcome in the beer garden

Covered Bridge Brewing

Covered Bridge Brewing is in the Stittsville area of Ottawa, and they have over 20 beers available (8 light beers, 8 dark beers, and 5 IPAs)

Some of these beers you can even purchase in packs of 12, which is rare for craft beer, and they offer free delivery on orders over $40 if you’d like to purchase online! 

A food truck called Jerk on Wheels also serves Caribbean jerk chick and burgers onsite. 

• Location: 119 Iber Rd, Unit 6, Stittsville, Ontario (a little outside of Ottawa)
• Wednesday – Thursday (11AM – 5PM)
• Friday – Saturday (11AM – 7PM)
• Dog Friendly : Yes, dogs are allowed

Whiprsnapr Brewing

Whiprsnapr Brewing has a wide range of beer styles, from IPAs and unique cream ales to saisons and stouts. There is something for every kind of beer enthusiast here, and they even have non-alcoholic craft soda and hoppy water. 

It’s a smaller indoor taproom with a heated patio for busy nights of the week. 

They also partner with ​​Ishina , a nearby restaurant, to offer a special brewery menu and other snacks like charcuterie platters and popcorn. 

Note: Whiprsnapr Brewing offers tours on Saturdays. Email them to reserve a spot in advance at [email protected] .

• Location: 14 Bexley Place, Unit 106, Bells Corners-Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Wednesday (12PM – 7PM)
• Thursday – Friday (12PM – 9PM)
• Saturday (12PM – 7PM)
• Sunday (12PM – 5PM)
• Dog Friendly : Yes, dogs are welcome

Ottawa Beer Festivals

A beer fest is a great way to sample some local craft beers without going on a brewery tour in Ottawa Canada.

Ottawa Beer Fest

Ottawa Beer Fest is typically held in July. It has been canceled for several years but is set to resume in 2023. The event is usually multi-day and has a run as well as a beer sampling festival. 

• Location : Aberdeen Pavillion, Landsdowne Park Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Date: Typically in July

Gatineau Winter Beer Fest

Gatineau Beer Fest is a chance to sample over 350 different craft beers from Quebec and Ontario brewers. The festival spans multiple days and includes other vendors like food trucks during the festival. 

• Location: Place Des Festivals, 60 Rue Jos-Montferrand, Gatineau
• Date: Typically in March

Orleans Craft Beer Festival

Orleans Craft Beer Festiva l features 25 craft beer breweries, food, wine, and entertainment.

• Location: Centrum Plaza, 255 Centrum Blvd, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Date: Typically in June

Oktoberfest Ottawa

Beau’s Oktoberfest is a two-day affair. Opening Friday evening and an all-day event on the following Saturday. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance because it is known for selling out.

• Location: Vankleek Hill Fairgrounds 92 Main Street West, Vankleek Hill, Ontario, Canada
• Date: Typically at the end of September

Brewery Tours in Ottawa FAQs

Where can i buy craft beer in ottawa .

Craft beer is available from all local craft breweries in Ottawa. Whether you visit in person or just pop in to buy beer for home. You can also purchase Ottawa craft beer at local liquor stores, and some Ottawa brewers even offer local home delivery! 

Is craft beer popular in Canada? 

Beer is the most consumed alcoholic beverage in Canada. In 2020, the number of craft beer breweries in Canada increased by 8%. Although it’s gaining popularity in Canada, it is still far behind the United States, which has an even stronger craft beer culture.

What is the best craft beer in Canada? 

There are so many great craft beers to try in Canada, and choosing the best one is 100% subjective. However, you can see each beer’s ratings and reviews on BeerAdvocate’s list of the top craft beers from Canada . 

Why take a beer tour?

Beer tours are great if you love beer, want to try beer samples to learn different types you might like, are on a bachelor party or bachelorette party, or if you just want to see the City of Ottawa in a different way.

Final Thoughts : Brewery Tours in Ottawa Canada

Whether you choose to go on an organized brewery tour in Ottawa, Canada, or plan your own independent visits to the taprooms, Ottawa has many great places to taste some of the best local beer in Canada. 

Brew Donkey’s city tour hits some of my top spots without breaking the bank – so you can buy some beer to take home for later.

So make sure to add visiting an Ottawa brewery to your Ottawa bucket list , and don’t forget to check out the best restaurants to make the most of your stay in the city!

Read More About Fall in Ottawa

• 13 Best Gatineau Park Hiking Trails for Summer
• 47 Best Hiking and Walking Trails in Ottawa + Dog Friendly!
• Ultimate Guide To Wakefield Quebec: From A Local
• Ottawa Day Trips Guide
• 12 Best Ottawa Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room
• 6 Best Ottawa Wine Tours & Tastings
• 15 Best Ottawa Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes (Local Guide)

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Ottawa Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Ottawa travel insurance?

100% YES!  — There’s a misconception that Canada has “free healthcare” for everyone. Nope! Only Canadians. So you’ll need to get travel insurance to visit Ottawa. I recommend this one.

💧 Can you drink the tap water in Ottawa?

Yes – ish  — While you can technically drink the tap water in Ottawa, as a local I don’t recommend it. Old hotels especially can have some nasty things in their pipes. Instead, get a filtered water bottle . ( Read more )

🚙💨  Do I need to rent a car in Ottawa?

Yes  — Renting a car in Ottawa is one of the best ways to get around! You’ll be able to see more of the city and beyond, like the epic hiking trails. I recommend Discover Cars for the cheapest rates possible.

📲  Do I need to know French in Ottawa?

Nope!  — The primary language of Ottawa is English. While French is also spoken and on some signs, you can easily get by without knowing any French. ( Read more )

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Ottawa accommodations?

For Ottawa hotels,  Booking  is the best site. If you’re considering an Ottawa Airbnb, don’t forget to also check  VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb. My #1 hotel recommendation in Ottawa is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Ottawa flights?

For finding cheap Ottawa flights, I recommend  Skyscanner . You can even set a price alert to find out when flights are on sale.

🎫  Do I need a Visa for Ottawa?

Likely Not  — U.S. and most European Passport holders don’t need a Visa to visit Canada.

📍  Where is Ottawa? And what’s nearby?

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in Ontario. It’s right on the border of Quebec . It’s about 2 hours from Mont Tremblant, 3 hours from Montreal, or 5 hours from Toronto . You can take a road trip to get to other places or fly.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Ottawa Things to Do. Nina has lived in 18 countries before deciding to settle in Ottawa, nearby Toronto where she grew up. She has spent years proving that Ottawa isn't the town "fun forgot" and helping locals and tourists alike find fun things to do. She helps over 60,000 people a month discover the amazing activities in Ottawa, Canada.

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Thinking of making your way to the brewery? We’d love to host you! Pull up and explore our tasting menu of fresh styles, take a peak at our traditional process and experience the friendly Creemore spirit.

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1.58KM OF SMALL TOWN CHARACTER

The town of Creemore might not be big, but it sure is bustling…

Nestled in rolling hills of patchwork farms, the journey to Creemore is almost as good as destination. From the bustling local Main Street to a vibrant independent community of eateries, exploring our town is thirsty work, so don’t forget to pull up to the brewery and refresh with another Creemore classic.

90 minutes from big city buzz to small town charm …

Creemore is just one hour North of Pearson International Airport, 30 minutes west of Barrie and about 25 minutes south of Collingwood in Clearview Township. So swing by to see us sometime soon, we'd love to have you.

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York Restaurant & Taproom Hours

11 AM – 9 PM

Tuesday – Thursday

Friday – Saturday

11 AM – 10 PM

YORK Contact Info

• 170 Crossway Drive York, PA 17402
• 717-714-5270

Scheduled brewery tours

AVAILABLE SOON

Fawn Grove Taproom Hours

12 PM – 7 PM

5 PM – 8 PM

12 PM – 10 PM

FAWN GROVE Contact Info

• 104 Mill Street Fawn Grove, PA 17321
• 717-382-4016

Pet/ANIMAL Policy

We love dogs, but only ADA-trained Service Animals are permitted inside our restaurant/taproom or on the patio areas at our York Location.

Fawn Grove Location – Dogs are permitted on the patio area ONLY. They are NOT permitted inside the taproom area.

Therapy and Emotional Support dogs are not currently recognized by the ADA. As of March 15, 2011, only dogs are recognized as service animals under titles II and III of the ADA.

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Best Toronto Brewery Tours 2024

Are you a craft beer lover looking to book the best Toronto brewery tours?

Our guide to Toronto brewery tours shares tips on how to plan an independent visit to the best craft breweries in Ontario’s capital.

We also share a comprehensive list of Toronto’s top craft beer and food tours. Join knowledgeable beer guides who take visitors brewery hopping to sip through the city’s best suds.

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Toronto Brewery Tours: History

Dobbernationloves sat down with Toronto craft beer expert Jordan St. John to chat about the city’s brewing history and tours. St. John is the co-author of the Ontario Craft Beer Guide , head of the Beer Certificate at George Brown College and hosts a popular Toronto brewery tour .

The first brewery in Toronto was owned by Robert Henderson and was located at the corner Richmond and Sherbourne. It opened in 1803, at the time when the town of York would have been less than 1000 people. It operated under different names until the 1930’s.

St. John shared, “The impressive thing is that it was the first brewery to make ale under Henderson, and then in the 1850’s it was briefly run by a female brewer before being taken over by a German brewer named John Walz. It mirrored the immigration from Europe over the course of the 19th century.”

Toronto’s brewing history is impressive partly because of the size of some of the breweries. St. John added, “O’Keefe Brewing, which was located where Ryerson University is now produced 500,000 barrels of beer annually before WWI. It would have been mostly lager, but the size is impressive. People used to say that east of Yonge Street people mostly drank ale and west of Yonge Street people mostly drank lager. It’s less to do with that geography and more to do with cultural influence of groups as they show up.”

Toronto Brewery Tour Craft Beer Trends

So how has the growth of Toronto’s craft beer scene effected local tastes? St. John explained, “We used to be brand loyal and buy cases from The Beer Store, which is a chain owned by large international brewing companies. Now there’s a brewery in every neighbourhood. People are buying beer locally and supporting local businesses. There are a lot of mixed fermentation sours out there, and we have the requisite number of hazy IPAs. People are playing around with fruit purees and lactose as well. Even with all that happening, we still have some lighter recognizable styles. There’s something for everyone, which is a wonderful place to be.”

St. John suggests visiting beer lovers utilize the TTC to get around the city on an self guided Toronto brewery tour. “Don’t be afraid of the public transit. It’s safe, affordable, and most of the breweries are located comfortably along streetcar routes. You could just pick a neighbourhood within the city and experience three or four great breweries in the same day. In The Junction neighbourhood, you might choose Shacklands, Rainhard, and People’s Pint. In the East End, you might go to Left Field, Godspeed, and Avling. There are a lot of great combinations that are walkable, and the TTC will get you home safely afterwards,” said St John.

You’re probably wondering, of all the ticketed Toronto brewery tours, which is St. John’s favourite? “I think the one at Steam Whistle is great. It’s comprehensive and since Steam Whistle is best fresh from the tank, you can try samples of it in its best condition. They also have a beer garden now, which is something that really adds versatility to the experience. Get a sausage and a stein of Steam Whistle. You can’t go wrong,” exclaimed St. John.

Toronto Brew Pass

In 2024 Destination Toronto launched the Toronto Brew Pass , offering one-day, three-day, and seven-day options and the choice of 23 distinct craft breweries throughout Downtown, Midtown, West End, East End, Don Valley and Etobicoke.

The pass offers up to four tastings per day, with some breweries offering a tasting flight and others a single pour. 

The Toronto Brew Pass operates in an easy digital format:

• The one-day pass ($22) for daysippers allows for tastings at four locations over a 24-hour period.
• The three-day pass ($32) for weekenders allows for more exploration with 16 locations over a 72-hour period.
• The seven-day pass ($52) for brewmasters is for the true explorer who wants to take their time and sample all 23 breweries over a seven-day period.

Of the 23 breweries participating in the pass, at least 16 are dog-friendly and 19 have patios!

Plan A Toronto Brewery Tour

We’ve organized this story into two lists to help you find the Toronto brewery tours best suited for your needs.

The first section features a list of Toronto craft breweries that offer regular craft beer tours. They are hosted by brewery staff and include details about the history of the brewery, unique methods of production and a tasting of the brands most notable brews.

The second section of the story lists popular Toronto beer and food tours hosted by independent operators. These tours can often be booked as a public group tour or private VIP experience. The guides are local beer and food experts. They tell the story of Toronto’s brewing history by hopping around to top breweries, brewpubs, beer halls and restaurants.

Steam Whistle Brewing

255 Bremner Blvd , 416-362-2337

Steam Whistle Brewing is by far the most visited brewery in Toronto. The popular tourist attraction is conveniently located by the CN Tower , Rogers Centre, Ripley’s Aquarium, Metro Toronto Convention Centre and the scenic Harbourfront .

Toronto brewery tours at Steam Whistle take place in the historic Roundhouse, which features a retail shop, craft beer bar and outdoor patio. It regularly hosts craft beer events, with our favourite being an annual Oktoberfest celebration .

The 30 minute tour moves on catwalks high above the brewery’s bustling production floor. You’ll take in the aromatic smells and sounds of the brewhouse and learn about Steam Whistle’s founding story.

Steam Whistle’s Toronto Brewery tours takes place daily. Cost is $12.

Amsterdam Brewing

45 Esandar Dr , 416-504-1040

Amsterdam Brewing is situated within Toronto’s scenic Queens Quay, perched over Lake Ontario. The Harbourfront is best visited during the warmer months of the year as tourists and locals flock to enjoy the lakeside neighbourhood.

Amsterdam Brewing is ideally located right on the water. Its back patio fills to the brim in the busy summer months, offering beer lovers a beautiful view of the lake, dotted with sailboats and canoes.

Amsterdam Brewing offers free 30 minute tours of the brewery on weekends. Guests are led by brewmasters who explain how they make their popular craft beers. Visitors have an opportunity to sample fresh beer, poured straight from the tanks.

Amsterdam’s Toronto Brewery tours take place every Saturday and Sunday between 1-6pm. Cost is Free!

Mill Street Brewery

21 Tank House Lane , 416-681-0338

Located in the heart of the historic Distillery District , the newly renovated Mill Street Beer Hall bottle shop offers brewery tours 7 days a week. 

As beer innovators in the Ontario craft beer scene, Mill Street Brewery strives to explore exciting brewing methods. Visitors enjoy a tour of Mill Street’s in-house nano-brewery, which produces unique, small-batch brews. Your tour guide will speak about the historic elements that make up with Distillery District and offer tastings fresh from the tap. Be sure to sample Mill Street’s unique gin and Bierschnaps.

The Toronto brewery tour includes a 30 minute guided tour, 12oz house brew and 3x5oz samples of current seasonals.

FUN FACT : Mill Street owns Brickworks Ciderhouse in Leslieville , which features a rooftop patio and fun drag brunch on weekends.

Mill Street’s Toronto Brewery tours take place Monday-Friday at 4pm and Saturday and Sunday at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. Cost is 15.

Henderson Brewing

128A Sterling Rd , 416-535-1212

Henderson Brewing is a popular craft brewery located between Toronto’s Roncesvalles and Junction neighbourhoods. If you’re researching Toronto brewery tours in the city’s west end, Henderson is your best bet.

The Henderson Brewery Tour includes a history of the neighbourhood and brewing in Toronto, guided tour of the brewery, samples of the beers currently on tap and a souvenir tasting glass.  

Popular craft beers by Henderson Brewing include Henderson’s Best Amber Ale, Food Truck Lagered Blonde, Monsoon Tropical Sour and Ramble on Rose Pomegranate Saison.

Henderson’s Toronto Brewery tours take place every Tuesday at 7pm. Cost is $10.

You May Also Enjoy These Craft Beer Guides…

• Craft Breweries in Toronto to Romance Me Now
• Best Hamilton Breweries and Craft Cider
• Niagara Breweries: Best Craft Beer From Falls to Fort
• Best Craft Breweries in Kitchener Waterloo
• Muskoka Breweries: Best Craft Beer in Ontario Cottage Country
• Barrie Breweries: Craft Beer at Flying Monkeys, Barnstormer and Redline
• Best Craft Breweries in Montreal
• Vancouver Breweries: Best Craft Beer in British Columbia
• Best Victoria Breweries on Vancouver Island
• Edinburgh Breweries: Scotland’s Best Craft Beer
• Best Craft Breweries in Detroit

Black Oak Brewing

75 Horner Ave , 416-252-2739

Black Oak Brewing is located in Etobicoke , just south of the QEW near Costco, Cineplex Queensway, Ikea and Great Lakes Brewery.

The popular craft brewery in Etobicoke offers a bottle shop and tasting room that pours pale ales, brown ales, bitter brews and variety of seasonal and experimental offerings.

The brewery tour typically runs from 30-60 minutes and is led by friendly guides who are happy to answer all your beer-making questions. Guests enjoy a tasting of 3 fresh beers as well as an interactive tour of the brewing and packaging process.

Black Oak’s Toronto Brewery tours take place every Saturday between 10am-4pm. Cost is $10.

Left Field Brewery

36 Wagstaff Dr , 647-346-5001

Left Field Brewery is located in Toronto’s East End near popular brunch restaurant, Maha’s Egyptian . It offers the only Toronto brewery tour east of the Don River.

Left Field Brewery’s 45 minute tours offer an an intimate, hands-on learning experience about the brands history, brewing process and ingredients.

Tours include a full-sized welcome pour plus the ability to taste raw ingredients and in-process beer alongside the same finished beer to better understand brewing and the cellaring processes.

Left Field’s Toronto Brewery tours take place Saturday and Sunday at 1pm. Cost is $10.

Book the Best Toronto Brewery Tours

If you’re keen to learn about the beer making process or enjoy a special VIP experience, we suggest booking one of these popular Toronto brewery tours.

Booking a Toronto beer tour with friends means everyone in your group can enjoy tastings throughout the day. Leave your car at home and enjoy a craft beer hopping tour on foot.

Toronto Brewery Tours

These public and private beer tours focus specifically on visiting breweries, brewpubs and beer halls.

• Small-Group Toronto Beer Tour : this 4 hour beer tour of Old Toronto features stops at popular pubs, a brewery and the historic St Lawrence Market.
• Toronto Craft Brewery Tour : this 4 hour Toronto brewery tour is led by a friendly Brew Captain in a 10-seater van. Visit 3 breweries and learn about the beer making process with a beer flight at each stop.
• Historical Craft Beer Tour of The Junction : This 4 hour Toronto brewery tour focuses on showcasing the history and unique beers made in The Junction .
• Toronto Private Craft Brewery Tour : this private Toronto brewery tour is 4 hours and visits 3 of the city’s most popular breweries.

Toronto Food & Beer Tours

We recognize not everyone wants to spend an entire day just drinking beer. Many of Toronto’s best food tours feature stops at local breweries or opportunities to sample local craft beer.

• 1-Hour Distillery History District by Segway : Explore the Distillery District and its cobblestone streets by Segway on this 1 hour tour that features stops to sample chocolate and craft beer.
• Kensington Market Food Tour : This 2.5 hour walking tour explores the best tastes in Toronto’s quirky Kensington Market . Guests visit 6 local multicultural eateries and sample craft beer.
• Toronto Great Canadian Food Tour : This 2.5 hour walking tour explores Kensington Market with tastings of First Nations cuisine, French Canadian poutine and more!
• Toronto Food Experience: Canadian Food Discovery at the St Lawrence Market: This 3 hour tour visit’s the city’s famous food market and includes tastes of locally roast coffee, peameal bacon sandwich, butter tart, pierogies, poutine and maple candy.
• Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise : Enjoy a 2.5 hour cruise of Lake Ontario with views of the Toronto skyline while enjoying brunch!
• Toronto World Food Tour : This 5 hour tour explores 5 global cuisines from local hangouts to a nightlife experience.

Review Our Travel Checklist When Planning Your Next Adventure!  

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If you’re planning a road trip make sure to compare the best local car rental options.

Looking to book a tour or VIP experience on holiday? Book the best local tours on Viator .

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Capture your holiday on a quality camera. We suggest the pocket-sized Canon Powershot G7 or professional SLR we shoot with Canon EOS 6D .

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Mill Street Brewery Virtual Reality Tour

Astound designed a virtual reality tour experience for guests of a toronto craft brewery..

Our job: Create an experience to educate and entertain guests learning about the origin story of the Mill Street brewery and how the beer is made.

We made a Virtual Reality Brewery Tour featuring the founder walking viewers through Mill Street’s story and educating guests on the brewery iconic beer brands as they taste-tested a flight of samples to further enhance the experience.

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300 Mill Street

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My favourite place to grab a beer. The Porter is the best I've had in a while, and the beer selections are are pretty nice

I gotta say that it wasn't easy to spot this brewery. We had to call and ask to help us out to get to the location. This is a co-op type of brewery and from their own web site, this is how they describe themselves: "Our team has been working together for two years to bring this brewery to Kitchener. Each one of us brings a different perspective to this venture and a very unique set of skills formed by our diverse experiences. We have babysat for one another, met each others' parents, and celebrated each others' milestones, becoming much more than just colleagues in the process". Despite TWB doesn't serve the kind of beer I like because I found it to be too hoppy for me, my friend who like a much broader type of beers found this to be very, very good. Porbably one of the best top 3 experienced in the entire Waterloo/Kitchener area. So, since the standards my friend and I apply to the service and food industry are the same, I believe that the product TWB provides to its customers are of high standards. The brewery is small and very welcoming. We had the luck to meet with Shawn and Alex who introduced us to their product and the TWB phylosophy. They welcomed us with enthusiasm and promptly engaged in a conversation. You could tell they did not because they were trying to sell you something or because "we gotta do it because it's our job". They did it because that's what they like to do and because they believe in what they do. So, if you are in town, please, go and pay them a visit. It's worth your time. You might leave Kitchener with a couple of more friends on your address book. :) See you again soon.

See all photos from Renato L. for TWB

Good atmosphere, nice people and great beer, just the right place to go and have a laugh. Price are just at market (affordable) and the variety of drinks reach a lot of flavours. For beer lovers it is haven. Cheers Clecio

As students of the Waterloo-Kitchener region, we travelled to TWB Brewery as excursionists, and were very eager to get a taste of a local and high quality beer in various flavours. Prior to our visit, we looked at TWB's various social media platforms to become familiar with the brewery, and learned that TWB is a privately owned business, that is supported by several local stakeholders within the community. We were very pleased with TWB's activity in a wide range of social media sites, including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram where they creatively promote and detail information about the beers they offer and upcoming events. Their website was also very easy to navigate where we were able to easily find their address, phone number and hours of operation. This helped us to determine what mode of transportation would be best, and upon further research we determined that arrival by car would be easiest. TWB is located within a small local residential area therefore we felt that using local transit would be difficult. This could be seen as a barrier to travel, as routes to the location were limited with little promotional signs as shown. In addition, a designated driver would be required in order to adhere to Canadian driving regulations, which serves as another barrier. In terms of the North American Classification System for the 5 sectors of the tourism industry, our experience accounted for 4 of the 5 sectors. These sectors include transportation, food and beverage, travel services, and recreation and entertainment.The travel services sector was accounted for through the tour of the brewery that we participated in at the beginning of our visit. Through the tour we learned about the history of the establishment and about the brewing process to create their unique tasting beer. What made the experience truly unique was the live music that was performed. On the Sunday of our visit, a group called Onion and Honey performed a range of folk and alternative music. The group was very engaging, however, in terms of a university student demographic, they may have missed the mark as the sound was geared towards an older crowd. The business was largely populated by local residents of the Kitchener-Waterloo region, thus can be referred to as a resident sales-dependent business. In terms of the destination life cycle, as discussed in Snapshots by Nickerson et al., the TWB Brewery is still relatively new and is in its takeoff stage with an anticipated extension phase with some of their future plans to be more community involved as outlined in an article by CBC News. When we were finished, we were somewhat pleased with the overall experience of TWB. The quality of the beer was pristine, it had an original unique taste that was definitely memorable. However, there are areas of improvement for this new local brewery, specifically with their musical entertainment, it is not geared towards a university student age group demographic. They also must make the location easier to locate.

Together We're Bitter Co-op Brewery stays true to its mission statement of "[TWB] to be a place for everyone in the community to come together and celebrate Kitchener...". During our visit, we saw members of the community entering the establishment and already being familiar with other individuals present. There was a sense of family and the environment was welcoming to newcomers too. The beer they sell is incredible; robust flavors and a variety of choice to satisfy a vast audience. To make matters better, they are offered at a very affordable of $5 a glass. The staff working is friendly and always open to answering questions. When asked to tour the brewery, the staff working asked a customer to watch the place and that trust was heart-warming. The knowledge of the staff was incredible and he took the time and effort to explain the process and how TWB is unique from other breweries. The product, price, and staff are amazing. Although we enjoyed our experience, one of the downside of the place is the location. As a student living near University of Waterloo, getting out to TWB is difficult. However, we thoroughly enjoyed the beer and is the kind of environment people would like to enjoy. However, it is recommended to have a designated driver if driving due to its distance from Waterloo region. The distance makes it hard for students to advocate choosing TWB as the choice to drink beer across town is unfavorable when we could instead go to a local bar. However, the beer is not the same quality as TWB. Another weakness we noticed was that the place fills up fast since the seating area is small. When hanging out with our friends we'd prefer to be relaxed and comfortable but when you are in such a small area it's hard to get enough space and relax. However, we don't think that these are significant problems. We would definitely recommend trying this place out and I will be returning soon.

This small tucked away brewery is appealing to any one who enjoys a good beer. For university students, it offers good beer at affordable prices. Like any business though, there were a few barriers that got in the way of our experience. Considering the first four P's of marketing, the brewery sells a desirable product at a reasonable price but is seriously hindered by the place of distribution and lack of promotion. The stresses of school often lead people in our population to seek social drinking as a way to relax from our stressful course loads. A local brewery automatically appeals to us as it supports the local economy and also gives us a product we desire. Costs of the products were practical which, for university students is an important detail for our restricted budgets. Offering a sampling board of 5 beers was a great way to try the assortment of products they brewed in house and would satisfy a variety of different preferences. Location was a barrier as it was very easy to miss, a car was required to get there and it was very isolated. It was not in a clustered area meaning that food services and accommodations were not within walking distance. This means there will always be a need for a designated driver and the time in the area will be limited as there is not much else to do. The advertising was subpar; there were not many signs in the vicinity to notify travelers of their presence and their social media platforms were underutilized. Although active on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat and LinkedIn they only promoted their Instagram page on their website. The entertaining area was small and there was only access to one bathroom in the bar area making it less than ideal for large crowds. They did offer tours and live music events on different occasions however, again these were only promoted on the website via their Instagram feed and had to be searched for on other social media platforms. It would be recommended to increase staff as only one person was working the night we went and although he was informative, personable and offered good customer service, there was no one else to inquire about the different events and features the brewery offered. Although not classified as a restaurant or pub, serving even a restricted menu of food could be suggested considering they did have a bar area. By doing this they could increase sales in that area of their business and also promote safer drinking habits by not consuming alcohol on an empty stomach. Overall, we did enjoy our experience. It was a great atmosphere and the people were friendly and the beer was good. Some of the barriers present such as advertising and social media presence are fixable and no doubt with lifting those barriers there would be a positive increase in business revenue. However, we recognize that not all of the barriers (such as access/location) can be changed, and this can have an impact long term.

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From Miller to Lakefront, here are 5 brewery tours to check out in Milwaukee

Milwaukee is known as Brew City for a reason. Once home to some of the country’s largest breweries — Pabst, Miller, Schlitz and Blatz — today the city builds on that legacy with a burgeoning craft beer scene.

Many breweries in the city offer a chance to get a closer look at their history and brewing process through brewery tours.

We set out to go on some of Milwaukee’s best known tours and see what makes them great.

For this list we considered breweries that hold weekly public tours. Many smaller breweries in Milwaukee host tours a few times a year, or allow groups to set up private tours.

From the best brewery tours for families (yes, families, because this is Wisconsin) to where you can learn the most about beer, here are five brewery tours to check out in Milwaukee.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Best for comedy: Lakefront Brewery

Our tour guide Sergio "Serg" Sepulveda provided brewery information and well-delivered jokes on our Lakefront Brewery tour, as is the norm for this spot. Every Lakefront Brewery tour I've been on has a guide who easily pulls laughs from the crowd and keeps everyone engaged.

The tour started in a private taproom where attendees grabbed a beer, one of four 6-ounce pours that were included on the tour, delivered via beer token. Serg gave a history lesson on brewing from its origins in Mesopotamia to when Lakefront's co-owner, Jim Klisch, made his first batch of Riverwest Stein. Serg followed that with the history of Lakefront, one of Milwaukee’s largest craft breweries.

Weekend tours go through the production facility and lead to the historic Bernie Brewer's chalet that was in the Brewers' old home, Milwaukee County Stadium. Since we were on a weekday tour, it skipped that portion and went straight to the brewery's new canning area.

While canning was a worthwhile shift from bottling for the brewery — cans are infinitely recyclable and are helping the brewery boost shipping efficiency by 50%, cutting down on carbon emissions — it did take away a cherished "Laverne and Shirley" bit from the tour. Previously, tour guides turned on the bottling line and would pick an attendee who would put a glove on a bottle as it moved down the line, like in the show's opening credits.

While the guide still played the show's theme song and got our group to sing and dance along, the bit no longer includes the glove part because the canning line does not turn on as fast. Sometimes the tour attendee who most enthusiastically sings and dances along gets an extra beer token.

The tour did still include the bung hole bit. Go on one yourself to find out what that is all about.

• Cost: $12 on weekdays, $15 on weekends; advance online purchase required; age 21 and older only unless supervised by a parent or legal guardian
• Hours: Starts on the hour noon to 3 p.m. Sunday and 4 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and on the half hour noon to 7 p.m. Friday and noon to 6 p.m. Saturday
• What you get: Four 6-ounce pours, Lakefront pint glass or key chain, and a coupon for a free Lakefront beer to be used at nearby bars within three days
• Accessibility: The tour includes stairs, but there are ramps into the tour room and to the lower level for accessibility.
• Location: 1872 N. Commerce St.
• More information : lakefrontbrewery.com

Best mix of past and present: Miller Brewery Tour

I got to the Miller Brewery tour a little before 10:30 a.m., with the next available tour at 11 a.m. They are offered first-come, first-served on every half hour from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily.

While waiting, I checked out the connected gift shop and grabbed a complimentary bag of pretzels. I also learned about the history of the brewery from 1855 to today from a timeline that spans two full walls in the waiting area.

The tour started with the guides handing out a taster of Miller Lite while sharing information about the brewery in a theater room. It then moved outside for a three-block walk through the W. State St. campus to the brewing facility.

The only optional part of the tour was to climb 56 steps to view the tanks in the brewing facility where Molson Coors, Miller's parent company, makes beer for a 10-state region. The modern facility is across the street from the original brewhouse, visible from outside the brewing facility or after climbing the steps. The building was not part of the tour.

To cool off after walking in the brewing facility, which was hot in the upper level, the tour went underground to the historic caves that were created in the 1800s and sealed off in 1906. Frederick C. Miller, grandson of Miller founder Frederick J. Miller, reopened the caves in 1953, and they have been part of the tour ever since.

The caves were a unique view into how brewing was possible before electrical refrigeration, with tools that would have been used by brewers in the past.

The tour then went to a historical inn on campus that once sold Miller beer and had rooms for overnight guests; today it's used mostly for events. Fredrick C. Miller imported stained glass windows from Germany along with antique steins for the inn that are still there. It's also home to letters written by Fredrick J. Miller and a diorama of the current campus.

The tour wrapped up with stops at the bottling facility where 600,000 items are bottled daily and the warehouse where about 1 million cans and bottles of product are stored.

The tour ended at an outdoor beer garden where visitors could try various Molson Coors products for free.

• Cost: $10; free for ages 20 and under (no beer samples)
• Hours: Walk-ins only with limited space, running on the half hour from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and Friday
• What you get: Four 4-ounce pours and a Miller glass
• Accessibility: The tour includes stairs, but accessible tours are available by calling (414) 931-3552 at least 24 hours in advance.
• Location: 4251 W. State St.
• More information : millerbrewerytour.com

5 breweries that made Milwaukee famous: Miller, Schlitz, Pabst, Gettelman and Blatz

Best for history: The Best Place at Pabst Brewing

This historic brewery doesn't actually brew in Milwaukee anymore, but the site where Pabst Brewery was founded is still worth checking out. Beer enthusiasts who take multiple tours on this list will also see Pabst’s influence in almost every one.

The tour stared in the historic brewing complex's Blue Ribbon Hall with a presentation on the history of the brewery and the option to enjoy a pint of Pabst or Schlitz, which is included in the ticket price.

The tour guide talked about how Pabst started as Jacob Best Brewery in 1844. Their original building on a historic plank road, today’s State Street, was sold to Fredrick J. Miller who started Miller Brewing.

The history lesson continued with a tour guide explaining how the brewery moved to the current campus, and how Captain Fredrick Pabst took over and grew the brewery to be the largest lager brewery in the world at one time.

From the main floor of the hall the tour moved to the balcony, while passing a section of the building that is being refurbished. Paystubs and letters on the wall on the way up showed the brewery's more recent history before it left Milwaukee in 1996.

The tour was peppered with interesting facts about the nearly 170-year-old brewery, like how Pabst did not want his name on the beer, and that the employee's union successfully bargained to get a free pint of beer per shift.

Next the tour moved to the Great Hall, which is not often open to the public but is popular as a wedding and event space.

It has stained glass, ornate wood finishes and Fredrick Pabst's original office. Below that is a speakeasy with a jail cell. According to our tour guide, it was for Pabst employees who may have had more than their single free beer during their shift and became drunk and unruly.

The tour then passed the courtyard which has a statue of King Gambrinus, the patron saint of beer, and ended in the guest center that has German saying along its walls.

• Cost: $14 for adults, $12 for students, military and seniors (age 60 and older); free for kids 13 and under
• Hours: On the hour at noon, 2 and 4 p.m. Monday, Thursday and Sunday; noon through 4 p.m. Friday; 12, 2 and 4 p.m. Saturday
• What is included: A pint of Pabst or Schlitz beer or soda, with $4 refills
• Accessibility : The tour includes stairs with elevators available for those who need assistance.
• Location: 917 W. Juneau Ave.
• More information : bestplacemilwaukee.com/tours

Best for learning about brewing: Pilot Project

This new Milwaukee brewery tour might not be on many people's radars yet. My co-worker and I went on a Friday at 6 p.m. and were the only ones on the tour. Regardless, our guide gave an informative and entertaining tour.

Chicago-based Pilot Project is new to Milwaukee after they moved into the former Milwaukee Brewing Company space in late 2022 . They are a brewery incubator, meaning they help start-up breweries get to market, assisting them with supplies, marketing, canning and more.  

I'm not sure if it was because there were only two of us, or because they don’t push a singular brand, but I learned the most about brewing on this tour.

The tour started at the back bar where we could sample one of the five breweries that are currently their partners. We then moved to the balcony of the back space for a slideshow of their current partners and more insight into their diverse lineup.

Next, the tour moved to the tanks where we got an up-close view of the hot water tanks used to make beer, including a peek into the mash tuns where ingredients are brewed.

From there we moved to the fermenting tanks where we got a better view of the warehouse and brewing equipment.

One interesting artifact hanging there is a large neon Pabst Brewery sign that was found in the building. Pilot Project's space was the last building Pabst Brewery constructed before they left in 1996. The large sign was once used at the Pabst-sponsored stage at Summerfest.

The tour then went through the canning facility and ended in cold storage where beer is stored along with a variety of supplies. There the tour guide spoke more about those supplies and the different varieties of yeast, hops and malts that go into making beers.

• Cost: $18, for ages 21 and up only
• Hours: 6 and 7:30 p.m. Friday; 1, 2:30 and 4 p.m. Saturday
• What's included: Five 5-ounce pours and tasting glass
• Accessibility : The tour includes stairs, with elevators available for those who need assistance.
• Location: 1128 N. Ninth St.
• More information : pilotprojectbrewing.com/milwaukee

Best for families: Sprecher Brewing

Sprecher Brewing is popular not only for its local brews, but also its non-alcoholic root beer and cream ale. While there are limits on the beers included in the tour, there is unlimited soda for all. Children on our tour excitedly cycled through the new sodas on tap at the bar. They even had flights of soda, like ones that are usually used for beer.

The beers and sodas were poured in the main hall where tour-goers waited.

The tour started with the guide giving a history of the brewery as it moved into a hallway with photos and trophies from the brewery's various awards. Randy Sprecher opened the brewery in 1985 after being a brewing operator at Pabst.

The guide explained how Sprecher was hesitant to get into soda production, which began with root beer in 1989. It was a good business move as root beer alone makes up 75% of their sales and beer only 10%.

The tour then went through the production facility. Our tour was on Thursday, which is the only day the tour goes through the facility while it is operating. Because of the loud machinery, it was sometimes hard to hear the tour guide. It was interesting, though, to see brewing in production and people moving ingredients from trucks to tanks.

The tour then returned to the main hall where people could resume drinking while learning about the bottling process. There was also the option to walk single-file into the canning facility to get a more up-close view, before returning the main hall to enjoy the rest of the free beer and soda.

• Cost: $12 for adults, $5 for ages 20 and under, free for ages 5 and under
• Hours: 2, 3 and 5 p.m. Thursday; 2, 3, 5 and 6 p.m. Friday; noon, 1 p.m. and on the hour 3 through 6 p.m. Saturday; on the hour noon through 4 p.m. Sunday
• What you get: Four 8-ounce pours, Sprecher pint glass, unlimited soda
• Accessibility : The tour does not include stairs and has space for wheelchair accessibility.
• Location: 701 W. Glendale Ave.
• More information : sprecherbrewery.com

Beer Near A guide to Wisconsin breweries