Brewery Tour

Planning a visit to Kenora, Ontario, and looking for a way to combine local history with a taste of craft beer? This Brewery Tour at the Lake of the Woods Brewing Company offers just that—a 45-minute behind-the-scenes look at Ontario’s northernmost brewery, with a few fun extras thrown in. It’s a short-but-sweet experience that manages to pack in a surprising amount of insight, local flavor, and authentic brewing charm.

What we love about this tour are the opportunities to sample beer right from the tanks—a rare treat that really connects you with the brewing process—and the chance to ring the fire bell of the historic fire hall, adding a memorable, tactile element to the visit. The friendly, knowledgeable staff make it feel welcoming rather than overly commercial, which is exactly what travelers seeking authentic local experiences want.

One potential drawback? The tour’s one-hour duration might leave some craving more detail or a longer session. Also, it’s ideal for those who enjoy beer and local history, but if you’re not a fan of either, this might not be your cup of… well, beer. Still, for anyone curious about craft brewing or interested in Kenora’s heritage, this experience hits the spot.

It’s a perfect choice for travelers who appreciate small-group, private experiences, and those keen to learn about how just four ingredients—water, malt, yeast, and hops—combine to produce high-quality craft beer. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply enjoy supporting local businesses, this tour offers good value and a memorable taste of Ontario’s craft brewing scene.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience in Ontario’s northernmost brewery.
• Behind-the-scenes access to the brewing process and historic building.
• Beer tasting directly from tanks fosters a genuine connection to the craft.
• Historic fire hall bell ringing adds a tactile, fun element.
• Private tour ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Affordable price point of just $23.70 per person, offering good value.
• Flexible scheduling, with tours booked about 40 days in advance.
• Likely suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.

The Full Scoop: What You Can Expect from this Kenora Brew Tour

Introduction to Lake of the Woods Brewing Company

This tour begins at the Lake of the Woods Brewing Company, which claims the title of Ontario’s northernmost brewery. Its building is a heritage structure that’s seen better days—originally a fire hall—adding a layer of local history that enhances the visit. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be aware you’re in a place that’s proud of its roots and its craft.

The Historic Building and Its Significance

The brewery’s location in an old fire hall is a big draw. As you get closer, you can imagine the fire engines that once roared out from this spot. Part of the experience involves ringing the old fire bell, a fun, somewhat theatrical gesture that ties local history to the craft beer narrative. This is not just a tour of a commercial operation, but an encounter with Kenora’s community spirit.

Behind-the-Scenes Brewing

For just 45 minutes, your guide will lead you through the brewing process, focusing on the fact that the beer here is made with just four ingredients—water, malt, yeast, and hops. It’s always refreshing to see smaller breweries emphasize simplicity and quality. The guide’s knowledge makes the process accessible and interesting, making it clear that great beer doesn’t have to be complicated.

Tasting Beer from the Tanks

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to sample beer directly from the tanks. This isn’t something most casual beer drinkers get to do, and it offers a glimpse into the freshness and character of the brew. The guide is likely to walk you through the different flavors, styles, and what makes each batch unique. It’s a fun, hands-on way to connect with the product.

Local Heritage and Craft Beer in Kenora

Learning about the history of craft brewing in Kenora adds context to your tasting. The owner’s passion comes through in the storytelling, and previous reviewers have praised the knowledgeable staff. One reviewer mentioned feeling very welcome and appreciated the locally sourced ingredients at the brewery’s restaurant, which is worth noting if you decide to extend your visit.

Practical Details and Booking

This is a private tour—meaning only your group participates—making it a more relaxed and tailored experience. The tour begins at 2:00 pm and is easily accessible, being near public transportation. The cost—$23.70 per person—includes the beer tasting and admission, which is reasonable considering the personalized nature of the experience.

Considerations

While the experience is engaging and well-priced, it’s important to note that it’s only about 45 minutes long. If you’re looking for an in-depth, all-day brewery visit, you might find this a bit brief. Also, since the tour is oriented around beer lovers and history buffs, it might not appeal to everyone, especially if craft beer isn’t your thing.

Why This Tour Works Well

For Curious Travelers

If you’re interested in local history, or you simply enjoy understanding how things are made, this tour provides rich insights without being overwhelming. The narrative about the heritage building and the process behind each brew helps you appreciate the craft.

For Beer Enthusiasts

Sampling beer directly from tanks is a rare experience that beer lovers will find fascinating. Plus, the chance to ring the fire bell adds an extra layer of fun for those looking for memorable moments.

For Supporters of Local Business

This experience puts spotlight on a regional enterprise that’s been brewing in Kenora for some time. It’s a great way to support local artisans and learn what makes Ontario craft beer unique.

For Casual Visitors

The friendly staff and intimate setting make it accessible to those new to craft beer or those just looking for a quick, enjoyable activity during a trip.

The Bottom Line

This brewery tour offers more than just a peek into how beer is made—it’s a local history lesson, a small adventure, and a chance to enjoy quality craft brews in a cozy, heritage setting. Priced reasonably and limited to your group, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Kenora itinerary.

While the duration is short, the experience is rich with authentic touches and a genuine sense of community. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed, informative, and fun activity that won’t break the bank but will leave a lasting impression.

If craft beer piques your interest and you enjoy discovering local stories, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with a small group or family, or if you simply want a taste of Ontario’s brewing scene that’s both intimate and affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick but engaging visit.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewery, a chance to sample beer directly from the tanks, and the opportunity to ring the fire bell of the historic Kenora fire hall.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What is the cost?
The price is $23.70 per person, which includes the tour and beer tastings. It’s considered good value for the experience.

When should I book?
Most travelers book about 40 days in advance, and the tour starts at 2:00 pm.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted during the tour.

Is the brewery easily accessible?
Yes, it is near public transportation, making it convenient for visitors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring flexibility.

What if I don’t usually like beer?
While the focus is on craft beer, the tasting experience and the stories behind each brew can still be interesting, especially if you’re curious about local businesses and heritage.

To sum it up, this Lake of the Woods Brewing Company tour is a neat blend of local history, authentic brewing, and approachable fun. It’s an experience that offers genuine value, especially for those interested in beer, heritage, or supporting small-scale Ontario businesses. Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or a curious traveler, this short tour provides enough flavor—both figuratively and literally—to make your trip to Kenora even more memorable.