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The best brewery tours in Chicago

Find out how your favorite beers are made by taking advantage of Chicago's best brewery tours.

There are countless amazing Chicago breweries located throughout the city, each producing a variety of beers ranging from extra-hoppy IPAs to dark, decadent stouts. While we’ll never turn down an opportunity to check out the best bars in Chicago , sometimes it’s nice to have a sip of beer while learning about how it’s made. Luckily, local breweries are happy to take you behind the scenes and walk you through the process. The pandemic has caused many places to put a pause on tours, but there are still a number of interesting and informative options. Whether you prefer a tour that's short and sweet or one with plenty of complimentary samples, the best brewery tours in Chicago will give you the 101 on malts, hops, yeast and much more.

RECOMMENDED: Find more to explore on the best Chicago tours

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Best Chicago brewery tours

1.  Dovetail Brewery

• North Center
• price 1 of 4

You'll get to taste three of Dovetail's beers during this lengthy (and super-informative) tour, but the most interesting moment comes when participants are asked to sample three different types of water. Dovetail uses reverse osmosis to try to replicate the water of Pilsen, the Bohemian city where the pilsner beer was born—the resulting liquid is noticeably different from what comes out of the average Chicago tap. The European-style touches don't end there; you'll also see a giant steel tub that is used to expose wild beers to natural bacteria in the air and a copper kettle that's more than 100 years old. When the tour is over, continue pretending that you're in Germany with a radler and a pretzel in Dovetail's taproom.

Booze included: Three .3L pours selected by the tour guide and a complimentary .3L Dovetail glass.

Tours:  The third Saturday of every month at noon. First come, first served. $30.

2.  Goose Island Brewery Fulton

• United Center

This isn't where Goose Island got its start (that'd be the original Clybourn brewhouse) but plenty of beer has been brewed here since the facility opened up in 1995. After meeting in the adjoining taproom, you'll make your way through a tour of the brew deck, fermentation cellar, packaging line, innovation brewery and barrel-aging program. Beer is being made 24/7, so you're nearly guaranteed to spot some brewers hard at work.

Booze included:  You'll sample a variety of beers during the tour. Afterwards, you'll take home a free pint glass.

Tours: Every Friday through Sunday at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. Reserve a spot here . $15.

3.  On Tour Brewing

• River West/West Town

Founded by a Deadhead homebrewer who used to follow Phish on tour (hence the name), this West Town brewery has been a critical darling since taking home two medals at the Great American Beer Festival in 2017. Tour participants will learn about the old warehouse they're standing in (which once housed a boiler manufacturer), taste the raw grains that go into On Tour's beer and reminisce about Trey Anastasio guitar solos over a few post-tour samples.

Booze included: Three five-ounce pours and a glass to take home.

Tours: The first Sunday of every month at 1pm. Reserve a spot here . $15.

4.  Hopewell Brewing Co.

• Logan Square

It takes about 45 minutes to hear all about this Logan Square brewery and get a closer look at its brewing facility, most of which is visible through the windows in its taproom. Still, it's interesting to see how an operation as small as Hopewell manages to keep its tap lines full in addition to bottling and canning some of its beers. If you want to learn a lot about brewing without walking very far, this is the tour for you (just don't forget to wear closed-toe shoes—they're required).

Booze included: Three sample pours.

Tours:  Every Saturday at 4pm. First come, first served. Book a spot here . $15.

5.  Revolution Brewing Taproom

Don’t have a ton of time? Fundamentally against paying money for a walk through an industrial factory? Don’t need any more glassware or a ton of beer thrown at you during a tour? The Revolution tour at the Kedzie facility is for you. It goes backward, beginning in the 40-degree cold room where packaged beer stays chilled before going to a distributor. From there, you see a wall lined with pallets of empty cans, touch on the grain milling process, then walk through the brewhouse where you’ll see the brewing system. It may sound cursory and quick—and it is—but not every tour needs to be an encyclopedia of beer knowledge. Booze included  A can of "walking beer" to sip during the tour and a sample at the Innovation Station. You'll also get a free keepsake glass at the end. Tours:  Every Saturday at 1:45pm, 2:45pm and 3:45pm. Reserve a spot here . $15.

6.  Goose Island Clybourn Brewhouse

• Lincoln Park

Established in 1988, the Goose Island Brewhouse is an elder statesman of the city’s (heck, the country’s) craft beer scene. Such credentials translate to a 45-minute tour that's packed with history and culture, and tastings of some well-known beers, not to mention a sweet take-home (a logo pint glass!). If you're looking for a more comprehensive look at Goose Island's brewing process, check out the tour of its Fulton Street Brewery.

Booze included:  Several beer samplings and a commemorative glass.

Tours:  Every Friday through Sunday at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. Reserve a spot here . $15.

7.  Temperance Beer Company

Evanston ended its status as a dry town in the ‘70s, but it wasn’t until Temperance Beer Co. came along in 2013 that the northern suburb gained its first craft brewery. Today, it remains a pillar of the local beer scene, providing folks with an inviting place to pick up a growler or hang out for a few hours. In the warmer months, you’ll want to stick around after the tour to take advantage of the patio and food trucks that swing by. 

Booze included: Three beer samples and one souvenir Belgium glass to take home.

Tours:  The third Saturday of every month at 3pm. Book a spot here . $10.

8.  Penrose Brewing Company

About an hour west of the city is where you’ll find this brewery that specializes in Belgian-style beers. Started by ex-Goose Island employees, Penrose offers award-winning pours like Goofy Boots—a hazy IPA with intense hoppy flavors and notes of candied lime, ripe peach and dried mango—alongside wild beers and experimental small batch releases such as an imperial pastry stout (Neapolitan) and a kettle sour (Session Sour). During the 45-minute tour, you’ll walk through the brewhouse, fermentation cellar and packaging area to see how it’s all produced.

Booze included: One pint of beer, and you get to keep the glass.

Tours:  Every Saturday at 3pm. Reserve your spot here . $10.

9.  Miskatonic Brewing Company

Even if you’re just grabbing a beer at the bar, Miskatonic Brewing’s taproom offers a close-up view of the tanks and action. The Darien brewery doesn’t limit itself to one style so you can expect everything from a kettle sour with plum (Plum Long Tongue Liar) to a cinnamon mocha imperial stout (Dungeon Master: Gelatinous Cube). The tours are private—requiring a six-person minimum—and include a guided tasting.

Booze included: Four five-ounce samples and your choice of a 12-ounce pour.

Tours: Contact Miskatonic to schedule a date and time for a private tour. A two-to-three-week notice is typically needed. $35 per person.

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Craft Brewery Tours and More in Chicagoland, Illinois

Designated driver discounted tickets available.

These days, over 200 craft brewers continue the tradition by creating a large number of classic and modern beers in downtown Chicago and the suburbs.

Let Chicagoland Brews Cruise show you why Chicago has become an incredible beer destination by introducing you to the amazing craft beverages being made in Chicago and the surrounding area.

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Chicagoland brews cruise vintage cap, private and corporate tours.

Take your group on board the Chicagoland Brews Cruise and let our local experts show you around. 

Your specialized tour could visit local sites for everyone to participate in fun activities. It could incorporate a round of golf, a visit to a historical site, live music, and many more options.

With these private tours, we can be flexible on start times and pick-up and drop-off locations.

Let us know about any specific places that your group would like to visit. We will do our best to accommodate them on your private tour. We love trying to make the impossible possible! Learn more…

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Chicagoland Private Tour

Perfect for groups of all sizes. Check out our customizable private and corporate tours!

PUBLIC TOURS - Offered mid-March through December 23rd

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Best of the West Brewery Excursion – Our Most Popular Tour!

Hop on our Brews Cruise bus for a trip through some of the hottest brewery destinations in the Western ‘burbs.

• Clock 3 Hours

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Sunday Afternoon Countryside Cruise – starts at Geneva Metra Station

This tour has something for everyone, winery, distillery and brewery!

• Clock 4 Hours

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Foodie Pairing Experience – Beer and Wine – Historic Geneva Area

With over 160 specialty shops and restaurants, downtown Geneva has some of the best shopping and dining experiences in Illinois. From the refurbished downtown storefronts to the dozens of treasured Third Street Victorian homes that now house over 100 unique shops and quaint eateries.

ABOUT CHICAGOLAND BREWS CRUISE

My name is Kirk. I am a craft beer enthusiast from Batavia, IL who is passionate about the talented brewers and the success of the growing brewing industry in the Chicagoland area and across the Midwest. 

After years spent in the corporate world, I have decided to leave that behind and partner with the Brews Cruise group to pursue my passion. 

My vision is to help establish the Chicagoland area as a recognized destination for great craft beer. 

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What do people think about Chicagoland Brews Cruise?

We booked for a birthday party event. Kirk was easy to work with scheduling and accommodating us non beer drinkers! Got to experience Auqaviva, whiskey acres and obscurity. The ride to each venue was fun! Full of facts and trivia. My whole group thoroughly enjoyed Kirk and his wife Kathy. I will definitely book again with them 😊 thanks again!!

Thank you so much, Kirk, for making this very special trip -- The Best of the West -- happen while we were in Chicago for a conference. It was a real highlight for us, everyone was so accommodating, and that neon green hazy NEIPA is definitely something we will never forget!

We went on the best of the west tour. We had a great time! We went to AfterThought for our first stop since Noon Whistle had their Oktoberfest going on. It was a great smaller brewery with delicious saisons. After that we went to Alter in Downers Grove and got a tour of their facility. After that, we finished at Whiskey Hill. It was a great way to taste two breweries I have not been to and didn’t have to worry about driving. I’ll be taking more tours!

Had a great time on the Best of the West tour! Each brewery gave generous samples and a personalized experience discussing their brewing process and beers. Even got a behind the scenes tour! Kirk made the ride to each stop entertaining with some beer history and trivia. Perfect outing idea if you have some friends that want to get together and enjoy some great beer.

We received a Groupon for this event so we picked the Sunday Countryside. Very easy to meet up, hop on the bus, and get seated. The guides were so nice and accommodating, kind and knowledgeable! They even did a little trivia on the bus ride to make the ride more smooth. A bonus they had water and pretzels for the in between rides, and our ticket included tips at the locations too. We will be back to experience the other routes!

I booked Brews Cruise for a private outing and everyone had a great time! Kirk led the tour and he was extremely knowledgeable, interactive, and helpful to answer random beer/brewery questions. They take care of everything and coordinate with each brewery ahead of time so we were immediately seated at our own table with flights ready to be served. The Wrigleyville tour is a great way to experience Chicago and Chicago beer. Thanks Brews Cruise!

We booked it for a bachelorette party and we all had a blast! Krik was such a great guide, making the trip very enjoyable. He was able to accommodate the whole party and I could not recommend this tour more! The breweries were wonderful and they were all set up and ready for us. Will deficiently be booking again with him!

I booked the "Best of the West" tour in the western suburbs for a bachelor party and can say it was a blast! Kirk and his wife were great, accommodating, and set up a very nice experience and ride. Would recommend!

A more than fun afternoon! We scheduled and went on the Best of the West Brewery Excursion - Lombard. We met up with Kirk, our guide and an amazing craft beer enthusiast, at Noon Whistle Brewing where we had our first flight of the tour! Kirk is not only knowledgeable, he is fun, engaging and insightful. Our last stop on the tour was Whiskey Hill Brewery where Head Brewer, Eric Flores, hand picked and served us a 4 beer flight and then joined us to share about the beers and the brewery! We look forward to our next tour with Kirk and Chicagoland Brews Cruise! Cheers!

Chicago Beer Experience

Beer tasting tours in chicago, we’ve shared beers with over 18,000 tourists on our highly-rated tastings and tours since 2011..

Combining beer tastings and Chicago history while visiting interesting establishments is a fun, unique way to experience the Windy City.

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Virtual Hoppy Hour Beer Tasting Class (Live)

Join us on our highly-rated, live interactive virtual beer tasting class where you will learn about beer and Chicago history in a safe, fun way!

• Hour Glass 2 hours and 45 minutes

Sin & Suds Beer Tour

Walk Capone’s stomping grounds downtown in the Loop as you drink and retrace beer’s influence on Chicago’s criminal past.

PRIVATE GROUP TASTINGS For groups of 6+. Reserve your private virtual tasting class today.

DISCOVER CHICAGO AND ITS HISTORY THROUGH BEER

Taste several different types of beer and learn about fun history with Chicago’s oldest and most established beer tour company. We’ve taken the best stories from our tours to develop a Virtual Hoppy Hour Beer Tasting Class for remote fun!

A UNIQUE WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE WINDY CITY!

Set up a virtual beer tasting/happy hour for our team living throughout the country. Bruce was the best guide into the flavors, smells and history of the four beers we had the opportunity to try. My entire team could not of asked for a better virtual couple hours. Highly recommend to beer drinkers and non beer drinkers alike.

My favorite part of our virtual beer tasting was tasting five different beers and learning what made them different. Bruce's knowledge of beer history, Chicago beer history, and the current Chicago beer scene made the evening memorable. We had such fun!!!

The Virtual hoppy hour was great. Bruce is knowledgeable, approachable, and fun! We had a great time and Bruce was flexible with an unpredictable group. Our group called in from across the US and Bruce was able to speak to the beers from every tasters glass.

I had the pleasure of attending a Virtual Hoppy Hour! It was so fun! Bruce led the group and was very lively and entertaining, with a lot of thought given to the presentation! Beer basics, beer stories and interesting Chicago history!! I thought it was a nice change of pace - a fun group activity!

STAY INFORMED ON THE CHICAGO AND CRAFT BEER SCENE

Join us on our social media channels for discussions about the greatest beverage ever created.

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Brewery Tours

Take our beer barrel bus / beer barrel trolley to taste and tour at three local craft breweries..

The resurgence of craft beer is upon us! As you’re guided on this all-inclusive tour to taste samples at three breweries and tour one brewing production facility, enjoy the distinctive qualities of Chicago craft brewing while reveling in the artistic triumphs of this charming and historic city. This full-bodied voyage will indeed leave your palette pleased!

There’s no better way to travel from brewery to brewery than in a Prohibition-era styled barrel bus! Step on the bus through the speakeasy style vertical door to start your one of a kind Chicago Brewery Tour.

Each brewery has its own unique qualities. As you stop at some large and small facilities, you can get the sense of what it was like to step in a brewery back before Prohibition. You will receive samples of craft beer at each of the three breweries and tour one of the production facilities. Enjoy approximately 45-55 ounces of different flavors of craft beer along the entire tour. On the production facility tour, learn the step by step procedures of brewing and the science behind the process.

The resurgence of craft beer is upon us! As you’re guided on this all-inclusive tour to taste samples at three breweries and tour one brewing production facility, enjoy the distinctive qualities of Chicago craft brewing while reveling in the artistic triumphs of this charming and historic city. This full-bodied voyage will indeed leave your palette pleased!

There’s no better way to travel from brewery to brewery than in a Prohibition-era styled barrel bus! Step on the bus through the speakeasy style vertical door to start your one of a kind Chicago Brewery Tour.

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Chicago's Best Brewery Tasting Rooms

Where to drink craft beer straight from the source

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Breweries offer drinkers a chance to connect with brewers and enjoy fresh draft beer. They’re good places to hang out with friends, where you can order off-premises food or bring small children. They’re also great places to “work from home.”

This list is limited to breweries within the city limits without full kitchens and food menus. Customers at these taprooms rely on delivery, carryout, or a food truck parked outside. For breweries with kitchens, also known as brewpubs, check out this map .

Mikerphone Brewing

Inside a suburban industrial park, Mikerphone is a brewery with a patio with variety on draft — stouts, sours, IPAs. There’s also hard seltzers and NA options. The husband-and-wife founders say their brewery makes “craft beer inspired by music.”

• Open in Google Maps

Illuminated Brew Works

IBW in Norwood Park has adopted a cult theme: the taproom is styled as a “secret” lodge and drinking IBW beer will make customers members of an illuminati. There’s a variety of beers on tap and a 10 percent discount to customers who ride their bikes to the taproom.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Illuminated Brew Works (@illuminatedbrewworks)

Alarmist Brewing & Taproom

This dog- and kid-friendly taproom has a 18-seat courtyard that’s open seasonally. Find a good variety of lagers, ales, and sours on draft.

Spiteful Brewing Tap Room

A few steps away from Half Acre, Spiteful is a smaller operation with a great kid-friendly space that soaks up a lot of sunlight. It’s not a massive room, but it’s good for small groups, and it offers a decent variety of delicious beers.

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Hop Butcher For The World

The name’s inspired by poet Carl Sandburg, and the brewery has taken over some hallowed ground — Half Acre Beer Co.’s original Lincoln Avenue space. Hop Butcher had the task of not changing the vibe too much, locals routinely packed the old space. But as a place to showcase their IPAs and other beers, they did want to make the space uniquely theirs. It’s small and tends to get crowded on the weekend, but it’s a nice place to play board games and hang out.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Borracho Grande (@borrachogrande)

Dovetail Brewery

Another brewery along the Malt Row corridor in Ravenswood, Dovetail specializes in modern interpretations of German-style lagers. The beer is refreshing and the space is friendly.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dovetail Brewery (@dovetailbrewery)

Where to Find Chicago Breweries With Outdoor Seating and Beer Gardens

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Begyle Brewing

Begyle’s taproom is tidy and comfy, a good place to hang out for a point or a tasting. Brewery tours are also available. Begyle is known for its award-winning Imperial Pajamas.

Revolution Brewing

Revolution is the state’s largest independent craft brewer, and it recently purchased a new Avondale brewery with a cavernous taproom up a short flight of stairs. The space is ideal for large gatherings and the bar usually has a special draft offering — say a variant of Deth’s Tar, the brewery’s barrel-aged stout. There’s the occasional pop-up, but delivery is the best bet for food.

Hopewell Brewing Company

One of the hipper taprooms in the city, Hopewell stands along Milwaukee Avenue in Logan Square. Find pale ales, lagers, sours, and board games here. While there’s no kitchen, the brewery often hosts food pop-ups.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hopewell Brewing (@hopewellbrewing)

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Maplewood Brewery & Distillery

This dimly lit Logan Square pub hidden on a residential block is a tribute to Chicago dive bars. Find a good variety of styles and boozy slushies. Maplewood also makes its own spirits.

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Pilot Project Brewing

Pilot Project is a newish concept in Logan Square, one that serves as a business incubator for several breweries, allowing them to serve their beer as they hammer out production concerns and figure if they want their own locations. The space is beautiful and airy, though it tends to get jammed on weekends. There’s also a patio space next door. For folks who don’t want booze, there’s also a full espresso bar. There are currently six breweries on tap, including Indian-influenced Azadi and Brewer’s Kitchen which takes a culinary approach to beer making.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pilot Project Brewing (@pilotprojectbrewing)

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Solemn Oath Brewery Still Life

Solemn Oath finally opened its Chicago location with a unique design that uses a ’70s rec room aesthetic. One of the more popular bars in Logan Square in 2021, the brewery is a good place for a date.

Life on Marz Community Club

The North Side spinoff of the brewery from the owners of Maria’s Community Bar in Bridgeport, this small space in the same building as iconic ice cream parlor Margie’s Candies, has a small tap list and plenty of non-alcoholic drinks, including CBD seltzer.

Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap

This space has become a sanctuary in a quiet stretch of Lincoln Park. This taproom also has a full bar and cocktails, a rarity. The space tends to get loud as weekend nights go on, so get here early. There’s also a patio overlooking Kingsbury.

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On Tour Brewing Company

On Tour packs in crowds for crushable pilsners, weisses, and saisons as well as nitro selections and growlers to go. Food trucks and pop-ups sometimes make appearances. This is one of the more beloved taprooms among beer fans in Chicago, and makes an ideal venue for a private event.

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Goose island beer co..

It only took 20 years after Goose Island opened its Fulton and Wood facility for it to debut this gem of a tasting room that offers taproom specials as well as tours of the brewing facility. There’s also a huge depot of vintage bottles, some available for takeout. The tap list differs from the original Goose Island Clybourn brewpub in Lincoln Park. The original closed in 2023 and will move into the Salt Shed later in 2024.

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Midwest Coast Brewing Company

West Town’s Midwest Coast Brewing sports a cozy taproom that allows customers to construct custom flights with IPAs and lagers. Customers are welcome to bring in their own food or order delivery.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Midwest Coast Brewing Company (@midwestcoastbrewing)

Whiner Beer Company

Whiner Beer broke into the mainstream with Le Tub, which it proclaimed the first beer designed for drinking while in a bathtub. What happens in the privacy of a drinker’s own home isn’t up for discussion, but in public, Whiner is known for its barrel-age brews, and it’s not just about the stouts. Find fruit beers, sours, and more.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Whiner Beer Co (@whinerbeer)

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Turner Haus Brewery

Chicago’s only Black-owned taproom is located in Bronzeville, sharing space with Sip & Savor, a coffee mini chain. Highlights in this small and cozy space including Lola, an IPA made with basil, jalapeno, and peanut butter. Queen’s Legacy is aged in Uncle Nearest whisky barrels, it’s a Caribbean-style stout.

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Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour

• Guided tours and tastings at up to three craft breweries
• Taste a selection of different craft beer types and flavors
• See the brewing process and learn how beer is made
• Travel around Chicago on a traditional Barrel Bus
• See itinerary
• 45-55 ounces of craft beer
• Professional guide
• Live commentary on board
• Transport by climate-controlled barrel bus
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• 600 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, USA Departure Point: Address: 600 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60654 Our bus will arrive approximately 15 minutes prior to departure. We will park outside of McDonald's, across the street from the Rainforest Cafe.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Minimum age is 21 years
• Most travelers can participate
• Please note this experience has a minimum number of travelers required to operate. If the minimum is not met, you will be offered a tour at another time or a full refund.
• Closed Toe Shoes required in order to experience the production facility tour at one brewery.
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 36 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

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• You'll start at 600 N Clark St 600 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, USA Departure Point: Address: 600 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60654 Our bus will arrive approximately 15 minutes prior to departure. We will park outside of McDonald's, across the street from the Rainforest Cafe. See address & details
• Pass by The Barrel Run
• You'll return to the starting point

• Villabreak 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Barrel Run event all 25 of my guest had a blast. each one kept saying throughout the night that they had never expereinced something that was so much fun. It was great to experience new places, new drinks and great food. Highly recommend Barrel Run for your team/friend outings to bond and expiereince new adventures together. Read more Written March 17, 2024
• bdwilburn 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great brew bus tour Ted gave us a great tour. Revolution Brewery was our favorite. Fun people on the bus too. All made for a great experience. Read more Written December 3, 2023
• johnmicci 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect Tour Just an amazing tour and great history. The guide was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the subject and made some great stops for everyone along the way Read more Written November 17, 2023
• nas2062023 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Experience for Team Building The Barrel Run was a very unique experience, our team had so much fun with David. We had lunch at Forbidden Root and sampled some delicious beer. We had a prohibition style tour that was incredibly informative, we learned so much about Chicago's mobster history. We ended the tour at Green Door Tavern, a fun speakeasy. I would recommend this tour to anyone looking to host a fun night/day out for corporate or personal outings! David and Danielle made the experience so easy and were very accommodating. Read more Written November 13, 2023
• Jennifer G 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles So much fun So much fun! I highly recommend this beer tour you get to go to 3 of the top breweries and meet some fun people along the way. The driver was great and the entire experience is worth it! Read more Written November 11, 2023
• Debbie N 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Barrell of Fun! Everyone I dealt with at The Barrel Run was helpful. From Danielle helping me with choosing where to go and where to get picked up to David our excellent driver and tour guide. We had a group of 16 and everyone had a fantastic time! Great way to visit some craft breweries/distillery without driving. Awesome way to spend our Saturday afternoon in Chicago. Read more Written October 25, 2023
• marleneshepherd 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Barrel Run We were lucky to have Dave as our driver and we had a great time. on the way to the brewery, Dave shared some fun facts about Chicago. I would definitely recommend The Barrel Run. Read more Written October 22, 2023
• mjdillon_11 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Our second success story! We worked with the Barrel Run again with stellar results. Our clients loved the experience of touring classic Chicago breweries in epic fashion. Danielle and David made the planning and execution simple. And the breweries seemed to embrace our tour which made us feel like VIP’s! We absolutely would use the Barrel Run services again! Cheers!!! Read more Written October 7, 2023
• ejpollard7 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent Event For Work Event or Family/Friend Outing! The team at Barrel Run creates a fun & smooth experience - highly recommend for a work/team event to do something a bit non-traditional. Also had a great time doing this tour for a friend's birthday - you can't go wrong to combine learning about & being out & about in Chicago with such a cool vehicle to take you around! Read more Written October 2, 2023
• beckyosnowitz 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing experience, highly recommend! Barrel Run was amazing! They helped us coordinate a perfect event. The bus was so unique and the brewery tastings they planned for us were a lot of fun. I’d highly recommend them to anyone! Read more Written August 20, 2023
• Villabreak 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Barrel Run event ever The Barrel Run Team work their tails off to provide an exceptional Chicago experience. From the CEO (David) to the team (Ted) and rest of the crew, their knowledge and experience with Distilleries and Brewery's always make it a very memorable experience. Our company has used their services multiple times for Team Outings. You haven't had the Chicago experience unless you've gone on a Barrel Run Tour. Read more Written July 31, 2023
• MagicallyMakenzieD 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful experience I highly recommend this experience! The driver is knowledgeable and built the vehicle himself. Very kind too. Overall, a great day! Read more Written July 15, 2023
• Jalmodovar11 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Worth It! This was a great experience and I would definitely do it again! My entire group had a blast, and I had a good experience coordinate the breweries we vistied. Read more Written July 12, 2023
• jb9003 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Barrel Run was Great! I booked them for my bachelorette party actually and it was so fun! All my guests raved about how great the driver was (which was David the CEO!) and loved learning about the breweries and chicago along the way. The bus is so fun, music was easy to play, and the breweries we stopped at were great. Highly recommend for any occasion Read more Written May 22, 2023
• rkirby-utz 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Corporate Outing! Our team really enjoyed this unique experience! A barrel of laughs was had by all. Can't wait to do it again! Read more Written May 12, 2023

More to explore in Chicago

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Brewery tours in Chicago – tickets, prices

Chicago is lively, with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a diverse cultural scene. It is situated on the shores of Lake Michigan and is known for its thriving craft beer culture.

Chicago is renowned for its food and beverage scene, and one of the best things for tourists and locals is to take a brewery tour.

These brewery tours in Chicago offer a unique and engaging experience, allowing you to taste the city’s best brews while learning about its fascinating brewing heritage.

Whether you’re a beer lover or simply looking for an enjoyable and unusual way to discover Chicago, a brewery tour is an excellent opportunity to learn about the city’s rich brewing heritage and try out some of its top-notch beers.

This article shares everything you should know before buying your Chicago brewery tour tickets.

Table of contents

What to expect on the brewery tour, bikes, bites, and brews: chicago’s signature dishes bike tour, chicago craft brewery barrel bus tour, byob spray paint ‘n’ sip at studio w.i.p. chicago, private speakeasy pub crawl in chicago with local historian, tips for making the most of your brewery tour, faqs about brewery tours in chicago.

Brewery Tours in Chicago promises to take the participants through the city’s most celebrated breweries. 

Knowledgeable guides lead these tours, and participants are introduced to the details of craft beer production, the brewing process, and the art of beer tasting.

On these tours, you can explore iconic breweries that have left an indelible mark on the city’s craft beer revolution. One of the highlights of these tours is the opportunity to meet and interact with the brewmasters. 

From trendy modern taprooms to historic brewpubs, each venue adds its charm, making the experience even more memorable.

Chicago also has a rich history of brewing since the 19th century. You’ll explore the beer culture and learn about its impact on the city’s social fabric.

Experience the best of Chicago’s food and neighborhoods on a half-day bike tour. You’ll cover about 13 miles (21 km), following a knowledgeable guide comfortably through Wrigley Ville, Old Town, Lincoln Park, and Gold Coast.

Whether you choose the day or night tour, you’ll visit popular spots like a bakery, pizza shop, hot dog stand, and two breweries to sample local flavors.

On this tour, you’ll get to taste the city’s famous deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, cupcakes, and craft beer while learning about the history and culture of each area. Your guide will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The price includes samples at one bakery, hot dog stand, pizza shop, and breweries.

Timings and duration: The tour will commence at 5.30 pm and last around 4 hours.

Ticket Price : US$90

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Experience Chicago’s exciting brewpub scene and indulge in craft beers on a guided brewery tour. You’ll explore unique breweries, enjoy craft beer samples, and a detailed tour of a brewing production facility.

You’ll also learn about the details behind the brewing process, including step-by-step procedures, and savor an array of beer samples throughout the tour. Your transportation is provided in a Prohibition-era-styled barrel bus.

On joining this guided tour of Chicago-area breweries, you can enjoy plenty of beer samples and an in-depth tour of a brewing production facility.

Timings and duration: The tour will commence at 11 am and last around 4 hours.

Ticket Price : US$100

Experience a unique way to express your creativity and get an in-depth education on graffiti and street art through a hands-on urban art workshop.

Choose from multiple class times and attend at the Chicago studio. Skilled instructors, including guest artists, will teach you various styles and techniques, allowing you to explore stenciling and spray painting. By the end of the class, you can create your artwork on canvas to take home.

This one-of-a-kind art class welcomes individuals of all skill levels and experience. You will also have the option to bring your beverages to sip on while practicing and painting.

Timings and duration: The tour will commence at 1 pm and last around 2 hours.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$40

Child Ticket (10 to12 years): US$35

On this guided tour, you’ll get a chance travel back to the 1920s, when Chicago was a hub for lively speakeasies during prohibition.

A local historian dressed in period attire will guide you through secret entrances to speakeasies once frequented by notorious bank robbers and gangsters such as Al Capone.

On this tour, you’ll visit some famous places from the Chicago area that are still serving as speakeasies today.

You’ll also order prohibition-era cocktails at an additional cost and listen to captivating stories about bootlegging and racketeering in 1920s Chicago.

Convenient transport is provided with hotel pick-up and drop-off.

The participants are welcome to wear period attire to engage in the experience fully.

Ticket Price : US$2950

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your brewery tours in Chicago:

Before joining the brewery tour, familiarize yourself with the breweries you’ll visit. Learn about their specialties, their brewing philosophies, and any unique features they offer.

Arriving on time lets you make the most of each brewery visit and ensures you don’t miss out on exclusive experiences.

While the purpose of a brewery tour is to sample various beers, it’s essential to drink responsibly. Pace yourself and consider opting for smaller sample sizes. Also, remember that you can always purchase your favorite beers to enjoy later.

Be open to trying different beer styles you might not have experienced before. Brewery tours offer a diverse range of beers, and this is an excellent opportunity to expand your palate and discover new favorites.

Capture the moments during the tour with photographs. Not only will you have visual memories of the breweries you visited, but it can also be helpful to recall the specific beers you enjoyed.

Here are some general frequently asked questions about Brewery Tours in Chicago.

A brewery tour in Chicago is an organized and guided excursion that takes participants to various breweries in the city. During the tour, attendees get the opportunity to learn about the brewing process, sample a variety of craft beers, and gain insights into Chicago’s rich brewing history and culture.

On a brewery tour in Chicago, you can expect to visit multiple breweries, where you’ll meet brew masters, learn about the ingredients and brewing techniques used, and taste a diverse selection of craft beers. The tour also includes behind-the-scenes glimpses into the brewing process and opportunities to ask questions to enhance your understanding of craft beer.

Brewery tours are generally suitable for adults of legal drinking age who are interested in craft beer and the brewing process. While some tours may allow participants under 21 to join without drinking, checking with the tour operator beforehand for any age restrictions is essential.

The duration of brewery tours in Chicago can vary depending on the tour package and the number of breweries visited. Generally, tours can last anywhere from two to four hours; some may even span an entire day for more extensive experiences.

Brewery tours cater to a wide range of participants, from beginners to seasoned beer enthusiasts. The guides and brew masters are usually eager to share their knowledge and make the experience enjoyable.

Many brewery tours in Chicago offer the opportunity to purchase beers directly from the breweries visited. This allows participants to take home their favorite brews and support local breweries.

Most brewery tours strive to be inclusive and accessible to all. However, checking with the tour operator in advance is advisable to ensure that the locations visited are wheelchair-friendly.

The provision of transportation during brewery tours in Chicago can vary. Some tours include transportation between breweries, while others require participants to arrange transportation. It’s essential to review the tour details to know what is included.

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# Food tours in Chicago # Chicago pizza tours # Brewery tours in Chicago # Chicago dinner cruise # Cooking classes in Chicago

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Chicago craft brewery itineraries: West Loop and West Town

First, they were industrial areas that supported Chicago’s booming meatpacking sector. Then came the foodie scene that transformed the old warehouses into some of the city’s buzziest restaurants. Today, these hip neighborhoods are brewery hubs, too. Explore the Chicago Brewing District in the city’s popular West Loop and West Town neighborhoods.

Stop 1: Haymarket Brewpub

This long-standing brewpub is focused on one thing — making great beer. And they’ve got the awards to prove it. Operating in the West Loop neighborhood since 2010, Haymarket Brewpub is a local favorite for its freshly brewed pints, welcoming atmosphere, and made-from-scratch bar food. Make sure to grab a bite to eat — there’s a lot more beer to drink ahead.

Stop 2: Guinness Open Gate Brewery

The second Guinness brewery location in the U.S., the Guinness Open Gate Brewery is one of the newest additions to Chicago’s brewing scene. The spot proudly blends 260 years of tradition with the unique culture and creativity of Chicago. Housed in a former rail depot in the West Loop, this iconic Irish brewery includes a taproom, restaurant, and the first-every Guinness bakery.

Stop 3: Forbidden Root Brewery

Next stop, Chicago’s first botanic brewery. The team at Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery   (a brewer, a rootmaster, and an alchemist) takes inspiration from early brewing methods that included bark, stems, flowers, spices, and roots. They use these old-fashioned ingredients with contemporary techniques to create multi-sensory beers like you’ve never had before.

Stop 4: District Brew Yards

This craft beer collective features multiple breweries and 40 different taps, for a customizable experience. By pooling their resources, the brewers at District Brew Yards have more flexibility to experiment and room to grow. You can sample beers from top local breweries like Casa Humilde Cerveceria , Twisted Hippo , and Burnt City Brewing. It’s like a brewery crawl under one roof.

Stop 5: Goose Island Taproom

While it’s distributed around the world, iconic Goose Island Brewing Company is still a Chicago-born brewery at heart. Their West Loop location is where they’ve been brewing their beer since 1995. It houses their taproom and production facility, so you can get an in-depth, small-group tour behind the scenes. Enjoy a pint in their taproom before or after your tour.

Stop 6: Midwest Coast Brewing Company

This laidback brewery features regular events, rotating food trucks, local pop-ups, and a spacious and sunny patio in the warmer months. And let’s not forget about the beer at Midwest Coast Brewing Company . Order a flight of popular picks like their American brown ale, English pale ale, double IPA, and plenty of seasonal options.

Stop 7: Great Central Brewing Company

The goal of Great Central Brewing Company is to help other breweries grow. They’ve opened up their brewing facility to new and established brands, to help them expand their production. As a result, the tasting room features an array of finely made beers from local, regional, and international breweries — and from the Great Central brewers themselves.

Stop 8: On Tour Brewing Company

The beer is front and center at On Tour Brewing Company . Their open taproom, housed in a former warehouse, is centered around the glass-enclosed barrel rooms that put part of the brewing process on display. The beers, all named after Grateful Dead songs, include old stand-bys like IPAs and APAs, barrel-aged varieties, and a rotating guest cider on tap.

Looking for more craft breweries in Chicago? Try some new brews while exploring Chicago neighborhoods with these  craft beer itineraries .

From this article

Food & Beverage

Haymarket pub & brewery.

Special Event Venues

Goose island barrel house.

Humboldt Park

Midwest Coast Brewing Company

Forbidden Root

Goose Island Beer Company – Fulton Market

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Chicago: Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus

As the Barrel Bus winds through the bustling streets of Chicago, passengers on the craft brewery tour find themselves immersed in a world where hops and barley transform into liquid gold.

Each brewery visited is a chapter in the story of Chicago’s brewing heritage, offering a glimpse into the artistry and innovation behind every pint poured.

But what makes this tour truly stand out is the unexpected twist waiting at the next stop, promising a delightful surprise for all those on board.

• Immersive craft brewery tour on a barrel bus in Chicago
• Sample diverse craft beers at three unique breweries
• Engaging group activities and camaraderie building
• Gain insider brewery insights with a VIP nano-brewery tour

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• Chicago Architecture River Cruise
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Craft Brewery Tour Overview

Set out on an immersive craft brewery tour in Chicago aboard a barrel bus to explore the city’s vibrant beer scene and taste delicious brews at top breweries. Dive into the latest craft beer trends while discovering effective brewery hopping strategies to make the most of your experience.

Craft beer enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to visit three distinct breweries in Chicago, each offering a unique flavor profile and brewing style. The tour provides a fully immersive beer experience on a barrel-shaped bus, allowing guests to sample approximately 45-55 ounces of beer throughout the journey.

Plus, a VIP tour of a nano-brewery offers insight into the intricate beer-making process, enhancing the overall educational and enjoyable aspects of the experience.

Tour Duration and Flexibility

Discover the tour’s 4-hour duration and flexible booking options that allow participants to enjoy a comprehensive exploration of Chicago’s craft beer scene with ease. The tour provides a perfect balance of time to visit three distinct breweries, taste their beers , and enjoy a VIP behind-the-scenes tour at a nano-brewery.

Participants can customize their experience by interacting with a live tour guide available in English. On top of that, the free cancellation policy allows guests to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing added flexibility for travel plans. This feature ensures that participants can book their spot without worries, making it convenient for those seeking an immersive beer experience without the stress of rigid cancellation policies.

Brewery Visit Highlights

Amidst the vibrant craft beer scene in Chicago, participants on the brewery tour can look forward to visiting top breweries in the city and indulging in a delightful array of beer tastings.

Brewery Tasting: Tour attendees will have the opportunity to sample a wide selection of craft beers from each brewery, experiencing the unique flavors and styles that make Chicago’s beer scene so diverse.

Beer Pairing: Some breweries may offer beer pairing options, where participants can enjoy their brews alongside delicious snacks or small plates, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Exclusive Brews: Visitors may get the chance to taste limited edition or special release beers that aren’t typically available to the public, adding an exciting element to the brewery visits.

Barrel Bus Experience Details

Participants on the craft brewery tour in Chicago will be whisked away on a unique barrel-shaped bus for an immersive and enjoyable beer-tasting experience. The Barrel Bus is not just a mode of transportation; it’s an integral part of the fun. The interior is adorned with quirky barrel bus decor , creating a lively atmosphere for the journey. To enhance group dynamics and foster camaraderie, engaging group bonding games are organized on board. These interactive activities help break the ice among participants, setting the tone for a convivial and memorable brewery exploration. The combination of the whimsical bus decor and the entertaining games ensures that the experience is not only about tasting beer but also about creating lasting connections with fellow beer enthusiasts.

Nano-Brewery VIP Tour

During the Nano-Brewery VIP Tour as part of the craft brewery experience in Chicago, visitors can explore the intricate process of beer-making while enjoying exclusive access to behind-the-scenes operations.

Key Highlights:

Beer Production: Guests witness firsthand the various steps involved in brewing beer, from selecting ingredients to fermentation and packaging.

Tasting Techniques: Participants learn about the art of beer tasting, including how to identify different flavors, aromas , and mouthfeel characteristics.

Exclusive Access: This VIP tour offers a unique opportunity to interact with brewers, ask questions , and gain insights into the nuances of nano-brewery operations.

This immersive experience provides a comprehensive understanding of the craft beer industry, making it a must-do for beer enthusiasts seeking a deeper appreciation for the brewing process.

Beer Sampling Experience

Set out on a tantalizing journey through the world of craft beer with a hands-on Beer Sampling Experience that promises to delight your taste buds and expand your beer palate. This immersive experience allows you to indulge in beer tasting sessions at three top breweries in Chicago, sampling a variety of unique and flavorsome beers. As part of the brewery hopping adventure, you will have the opportunity to taste approximately 45-55 ounces of beer in total, gaining insights into different brewing techniques and beer styles. The Beer Sampling Experience on the barrel bus not only offers a fun and interactive way to explore Chicago’s craft beer scene but also provides a platform to socialize and engage with fellow beer enthusiasts.

Ratings and Reviews Summary

Uncover what makes this Craft Brewery Tour in Chicago stand out through its exceptional average rating of 4.9 out of 5 and glowing feedback on the knowledgeable and friendly guide, creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for guests.

Craft beer enthusiasts are raving about the brewery hopping experience , with guests praising the tour guide’s expertise and amiable nature. The positive reviews highlight the relaxed and interesting atmosphere of the tour, making it a must-do for anyone looking to explore Chicago’s craft beer scene.

The fun games and great brewery selection further add to the appeal of this top-rated brewery tour.

• Exceptional average rating of 4.9 out of 5.
• Praise for the knowledgeable and friendly tour guide.
• Positive feedback on the relaxed and interesting tour experience.

Practical Tour Information

For practical tour information on the Craft Brewery Tour in Chicago, visitors can expect a comprehensive exploration of three distinct breweries in the city, accompanied by beer tastings and a VIP behind-the-scenes tour at a nano-brewery.

To make the most of this experience, it’s essential to adhere to brewery etiquette, such as listening attentively to the guides, avoiding disruptive behavior , and respecting the brewing equipment.

This tour provides a fantastic opportunity to dive into Chicago’s vibrant local beer scene, where participants can learn about the brewing process, sample a variety of unique beers, and enjoy the city’s rich brewing culture.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
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• Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour From Magnificent Mile
• Chicago Small-Group City Tour With Optional Architecture River Cruise
• Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour

Common questions

Are food options available during the craft brewery tour by barrel bus in chicago.

During the craft brewery tour by barrel bus in Chicago, guests can enjoy brewery snacks and craft beer pairings . These delicious offerings complement the beer tasting experience, providing a well-rounded and enjoyable adventure for participants.

What Is the Maximum Capacity of the Barrel-Shaped Bus for the Brewery Tour?

The maximum capacity of the barrel-shaped bus for the brewery tour is 14 passengers. It offers amenities such as a live tour guide in English, a fun atmosphere , and a VIP behind-the-scenes tour at a nano-brewery for an immersive experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants on the Craft Brewery Tour?

Age restrictions for participants on the craft brewery tour are typically 21 years and older due to alcohol consumption. Tour logistics ensure a fun and immersive experience, offering a VIP brewery tour, interactive games , and approximately 45-55 ounces of beer sampling.

Is Transportation to and From the Breweries Included in the Tour Package?

Tour logistics for the craft brewery tour include transportation to and from the breweries via a barrel bus. Participants will enjoy visiting three distinct breweries in Chicago, tasting their beers , and experiencing a VIP tour at a nano-brewery.

Can Guests Purchase Additional Beer or Souvenirs at the Breweries Visited During the Tour?

Guests can enjoy additional beer tastings at the breweries visited during the tour. They also have the opportunity to purchase brewery merchandise as souvenirs to remember their craft beer adventure in Chicago.

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Experience the best of Chicago’s craft beer scene with the ‘Chicago: Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus.’

With VIP brewery tours, interactive games , and plenty of beer samples, this 4-hour tour offers a unique and educational journey through the city’s thriving craft beer culture.

Rated highly by guests, this tour promises a fun and memorable experience for beer enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to explore Chicago’s craft brewery scene in style!

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Secret Beer Tasting Tours Chicago

• Secret Beer Tours: Chicago

As we wind through one of The Windy City's most lovely residential areas you'll drink numerous seasonal beers and learn about: how Chicago politics shaped the beer industry; Chicago's gritty rivalry with Milwaukee; the German beer riot, and its long-lasting effects on political partisanship in Chicago city elections; a deadly Chicago theme park; and many more fascinating snippets of our history. We'll dive into the cultural dealings of the area, history before the Chicago fire, prohibition, and beyond!

A thoughtfully curated Upgraded Food Package is available.

• We'll begin with the dynamic ales from a recent startup that has seen great success in its short beginnings.
• We'll then move on to engage with a crowd that helped build the brewing trend in Chicago, and paved the way for the lager-style beer being made worldwide.
• Our midpoint is a quirky bar and restaurant, serving delicious local brews and equally delicious bites (included in the upgraded food package).
• Next we'll stop in on an establishment with a penchant for DIY brewing.
• Finally, we'll end at a rooftop bar with the character of old-world pubs, as we dine on our Secret Dish that pushes culinary excellence to a new level.
• A unique burger with a tangy spread, topped with a fig reduction
• An Asian-inspired take on bone-in wings

* Identification is required and will be checked. We reserve the right to substitute the alcohol for a nonalcoholic drink if the guest becomes inebriated.

* Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances.

If a tour is fully booked, or you are looking to book a *Group or Private Tour - please email us about Group & Private Tours options.

*Please note - Group & Private Tours are specifically organised for your group and therefore subject to a premium price.

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Book Now to Save on These Amazing Tours

• A variety of seasonal beers
• Our delicious Secret Sip

Due to the nature of creating a well balanced and thoughtful gastronomy experience, many of our tours are unable to accommodate certain dietary restrictions. Please contact us prior to booking your tour to see if we are able to accommodate your dietary needs.

Our city goes by many names: The City of Big Shoulders, The Windy City, or The Second City; and its clear Irving Park is another iconic part of the city. The architecture lives in Irving Park, from Victorian mansions to turn-of-the-century bungalows — some buildings even predate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Packed full of great places to drink and craft breweries, this is far more than a beer tour, this is a great way to get first hand experience of the wonders Chicago has to offer.

Secret Food Tours Chicago

Mon - Sun 15:30 p.m.

Irving Park Brown Line Station

Secret Food Tours: Chicago

More Cultural/Historical Tours

That is very easy! Go to our "Book Now" page, where we detail our tours. Select your tour and the time of your tour and book it! Are you looking for something special or are you organizing an event? Just email us at Group & Private Tours and we will do our best to arrange something that suits you. After your booking is made, we will send you an automatic e-mail confirmation. If you have any questions before booking, feel free to contact us via email

*Please note if you are using a special promo code then enter it in the "Voucher Code" section before you select the amount of tickets you would like to purchase*

You can find the meeting spot here and if it's not clear you can always contact us.

We will be meeting at the north end of the Irving Park Brown Line Station. This will be a walking tour that ends near the Montrose Brown Line Station, one stop north from where we begin. You will be met by your guide carrying a bright orange umbrella, so you can't miss them. »»CLICK HERE FOR DIRECTIONS««

Your guide may drop you off at the Montrose Brown line station.

All guests must arrive on time but if you inform us before the tour starts about being late we can try to assist you by telling you where the guide is. Please call the number on the contact us page. We will try our best, yet we cannot promise that the guide can come back for you. Also, please note that unfortunately we cannot issue refunds.

Yes, of course! Please let us know your reference number and the date that you want your booking to be moved. We can do this as long as you give us 48 hours notice, and we have a tour to add you to.

All customers have to pay a small booking fee charged by our ticket provider. 2) Yes! You can pay through Paypal, but Paypal also charges a fee so we have to add 4.8% onto the price.

Kindly give us the code and we will check this from our system.

The craft beer tour will visit five venues and try eight different beers. The total amount that this would accumulate to throughout the tour would be just under five regular glasses of beer. We highly recommend having a substantial meal before the tour as only one small snack along the route is included.

As the emphasis on this tour is on alcoholic beverages, this tour is not suitable for families with children under 21. However our food tour is child and family friendly and a great option for children over 6.

As this tours emphasis is on alcoholic beverages, this tour would not be suitable for anyone that does not drink alcohol.

Our tours are often sold out very quickly. If the date you requested is not available, please do not hesitate to email us at [email protected] and we can see if there is anything we can do. We cannot promise but we will try our best to sort something for you.

To join our Craft Beer Tour, you should wear comfortable shoes. There will be around one mile of walking, however the majority of time will be spent in the actual venues.

You don't have to print your voucher. Confirmation on your phone will be fine!

We take 15 people maximum. If you are more than 15 people, please do not hesitate to email us and we will try to see if we can accommodate.

All of our vouchers expire one year from the date of purchase.

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Exploring Chicago’s Craft Beer Scene on Two Wheels

Chicago is renowned for its dynamic brewery culture, boasting a plethora of craft breweries that offer a wide range of flavors and experiences. What better way to immerse yourself in this flourishing beer community than by pedaling your way from one brewery to another, taking in the sights, sounds, and, most importantly, the delectable brews along the way?

By embarking on a bike tour of Chicago’s craft beer scene, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city from Lincoln Park to Logan Square at your own pace, stopping at carefully selected breweries to savor their signature beers, connect with fellow beer enthusiasts, and learn about the craftsmanship behind each pint. With the wind in your hair and the taste of hops on your tongue, you’ll experience the unique thrill of discovering the best that Chicago’s craft beer scene has to offer.

In this guide, we’ll provide you with valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to ensure that your beer-focused biking adventure in Chicago is nothing short of exceptional. From planning your bike tour and mapping out the route to highlighting must-visit breweries we’ve got you covered.

So, hop on your saddle, adjust your helmet, and get ready to pedal your way through Chicago’s craft beer scene like never before. Whether you’re a local looking to uncover hidden gems or a visitor eager to experience the city’s renowned beer culture, this blog post will serve as your ultimate companion on this two-wheeled, beer-filled adventure.

Cheers to exploring Chicago’s craft beer scene on two wheels! Let’s raise a glass and embark on an unforgettable journey together.

Chicago’s Craft Beer Scene: From Past to Present

It is debated when the first brewing company opened its doors in Chicago, but one thing remains true; Chicago’s beer history is ripe with succession. Most brewing companies in Chicago have been obliterated by anti-drinking sentiment, local tragedies such as the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, and most notably Prohibition, but after one craft beer king falls, another rises to take their place.

One of the earliest companies in Chicago, founded by German immigrants William Haas and Conrad Sulzer, was run by none other than William Ogden, Chicago’s first mayor. His reign would last a measly three years before a new king arrived to take his place in the brewery, Michael Diversey. Lill and Diversey Brewing would dominate the scene until their facilities fell victim to the infamous blaze in 1871.

Fire would not be the only hindrance to artfully brewing craft beer. Tensions in the city would rise over immigrants from Ireland and Germany and their intense drinking culture. In 1855 these would crescendo into what we now know as the Beer Riots of 1855. During this time, in an attempt to chasten the bawdy immigrants and their drinking culture, new laws were enacted that made drinking alcohol on Sundays illegal and raised the price of a liquor license by 300%.

Considering how Sundays were the only day off for most of these immigrants you may be unsurprised to find that these new laws were ignored and hundreds of civilians were arrested in the aftermath. Protestors took to the streets during the arraignment dates and the city responded by shooting into the crowds resulting in an estimated sixty injuries and at least one death from the incident. The city’s response did not win them favor with the populace and when the polls opened the next year, Chicagoans showed up in droves to vote the nefarious mayor and his anti-immigrant party out of office.

In the years that followed we would see the rise of The Siebel Institute of Technology in 1868 which to this day still holds courses in how to brew craft beer. We would also see the rise of a popular lite beer called Meister Brau that would eventually be sold and rebranded as Miller Lite. It wouldn’t be until 1988 when Goose Island opened its doors that we would see the rise of modern craft beer here in the Windy City.

Getting Started: Planning Your Bike Tour

First things first! If you’re planning to embark on a beer tour by bike you need to consider your safety first and foremost. This is a non-negotiable:  Wear a helmet . We’re all adults here, let’s act like it and protect ourselves.

Now that the obvious is out of the way, we would highly recommend planning your route in advance, especially if you’re going out with friends. GPS has definitely made running around a new area significantly easier but sometimes in Chicago GPS has a hard time locating your exact position if the directions have not been downloaded for an offline map. Make sure that everyone in your party knows where the next stop is so if you get separated on your bike ride, the entire party knows where to meet up. Finally, make sure you look up the local laws of traffic while cycling. It is illegal to bike on the sidewalks so you’ll want to be versed on how to bike on the street.

To recap, we recommend doing the following:

• Wear a helmet
• Plan your route in advance
• Download an offline map on your preferred method of GPS
• Make sure everyone in your party knows what the next destination is before you start biking
• Make sure everyone in your party knows the local laws of street cycling

Breweries for Consideration

Dovetail brewery.

Dovetail Brewery is a no-nonsense establishment. THeir beers are not trying to hide their identity behind smoke and mirrors, they’ll let you know who they are in the name.

Half Acre Beer Company

Half Acre is home to one of Chicago’s most quintessential beers: Daisy Cutter. They, however, have a selection of draft beers that you can only find onsite at their taproom, and let’s just say it’s worth the visit.

Revolution Brewing

Since opening in 2010 Revolution Brewing has become Illinois’s largest independent brewing company. You’ve probably seen their most popular beer, Anti-Hero around the city, but to experience the revolution for yourself, you’ll have to try their full portfolio of artfully crafted beer.

Off Color Brewing

A favorite on the list, Off Color Brewing, serves some of the best farmhouse Ales in the city. Their second tap room is located across the street from IO, making this a perfect spot to grab a libation and catch a comedy show this city is oh-so-famous for.

Maplewood Brewery & Distillery

One of Logan Square’s darlings, Maplewood Brewery is conveniently located off of Maplewood Street. They keep their selection interesting with rotating seasonal taps as well as a few core staples you can be sure to find year-round.

Metropolitan Brewing, Bricktown

Few taprooms can compare with Metopolitan’s. This riverfront venue boasts a dog-friendly patio, year-round views of the Chicago River, and Tacos. If you’re not a fan of tacos, don’t worry you can always bring your own food to pair with their beer.

Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery, West Town

Forbidden Root is by far the most adventurous of the breweries. Their style is in the name, of being the first botanical brewery in the city. They make use of roots, bark, flowers, and leaves to create a truly natural flare.

Marz Community Brewing

Art meets Beer at this creatively conceived space. Grab an eccentric brew and wander the space looking at its curated selection of art pieces or take advantage of the arcade. Either way, you’re in for a treat.

Mapping Out Your Route

The main consideration when mapping out your route is your time constraints. Many of these breweries are in different neighborhoods and you’ll want to be sure to give yourself ample time to get around. Another main consideration is how much drinking you’re going to be doing. You cannot bike drunk in Chicago unless you want to be slapped with a DUI.

Chicago has wonderful bike trials, most notably the Lakefront trail which spans 18 miles along the coast of Lake Michigan. We would highly recommend choosing routes that will allow you to enjoy the pace of the bike path as well as the natural beauty of the lake.

If planning out a route is something that gives you pause, consider joining a tour and letting them do the work for you! Here at Bobby’s Bike Hike, we run the Bikes, Bites, and Brews Tour. It is a combination of Chicago’s favorite foods and its favorite beer. You’ll be able to bike Chicago, eat its foods, and enjoy some of its favorite beers, all while learning more about the history of the Second City.

We have already discussed this but it seems prudent to mention one more time safety considerations while biking through Chicago. It is imperative to wear a helmet. Although rare, there are accidents on bikes just like in a car. If you have members in your party that cannot ride a bike confidently you may want to consider changing your itinerary and mode of transportation. Finally, make sure you’re watching how much you drink during this excursion. As previously mentioned, you cannot bike drunk in Chicago so you will want to pace your tastings accordingly.

Explore Chicago’s Craft Beers!

Chicago may have a rocky past with the rise and fall of many breweries but we are no doubt living in a golden age of creativity and innovation within the bear spectrum. You will undoubtedly find beer to delight tastes of all kinds from no-nonsense beers at Dovetail to inspired beers at Marz to naturally enhanced elixirs at Forbidden Root. Grab your helmet, jump on your trusty steed, and bike to Chicago’s best beer.

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