Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row

Travelers looking to combine the charm of Chicago’s neighborhoods with the chance to sample some excellent local beers will find this Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row a delightful way to spend an afternoon. With a friendly guide leading the way through Ravenswood’s vibrant beer scene, you’ll explore three distinct breweries, learn about the city’s brewing past and present, and enjoy some tastings along the route.

What we love about this tour? First, the small-group format makes it intimate and relaxed, perfect for meaningful conversations and personalized recommendations. Second, the knowledgeable guides seem passionate and well-versed in Chicago’s brewing history, adding layers of context that elevate the experience. If you’re short on time but eager to taste excellent beers in an authentic neighborhood setting, this tour is a worthwhile choice.

One potential consideration is that alcoholic beverages are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget accordingly if you plan to sample at each brewery. It’s also a walking tour, so good shoes are a must, especially if you’re not used to a bit of physical activity. This experience is best suited for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone interested in Chicago’s local culture and craftsmanship.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and easier conversation
• Three diverse breweries showcase different styles, from traditional to botanically infused
• Historical and cultural insights add depth beyond just tasting beer
• Exclusive tour discounts and reserved seating enhance value and comfort
• Perfect for those who enjoy walking, local neighborhoods, and craft beers
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness

A Deep Dive into the Malt Row Brewery Tour

This walking tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Chicago’s brewing heritage within the Ravenswood neighborhood, affectionately called Malt Row. It’s a well-chosen name because of the area’s concentration of innovative breweries, many of which focus on European styles or botanically infused beers. The tour is designed to be accessible, social, and educational, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.

Starting Point: Northcenter Town Square

The tour kicks off at Northcenter Town Square, a lively spot with plenty of nearby bus stops, making it easy to access whether you’re staying downtown or in the surrounding neighborhoods. From here, your guide will lead the small group on a roughly four-hour journey through Malt Row, visiting three breweries over the course of the afternoon.

First Stop: Dovetail Brewery

The first brewery on the itinerary is Dovetail Brewery, renowned for its dedication to Continental European brewing styles. Expect to see a focus on Lagers and Kolsch, with a particular mention of their Hefeweizen, which many find memorable. We loved the detailed guided tasting of this beer, as your guide explains the nuances of the wheat-forward flavor profile and the techniques used.

What makes Dovetail stand out? Their commitment to both traditional and wild fermentation ales gives visitors a chance to explore a broad spectrum of beer styles. The 45-minute stop allows plenty of time to savor the beverages, ask questions, and soak in the brewery’s inviting atmosphere.

Second Stop: Begyle Brewing

Next, your group heads to Begyle Brewing, a pioneer in the community-supported brewery (CSB) model. Their approach emphasizes small-batch, innovative brews that cater to a wide palate, so you’ll probably find something you like, whether you prefer a hoppy IPA, a sour, or a classic lager.

Guests report being pleased with the free samples included—a nice perk—and the chance to chat with staff about their brewing philosophies. The 45-minute stop here provides enough time to sample several styles and get a feel for Begyle’s diverse offerings.

Third Stop: Cultivate by Forbidden Root

The final stop, Cultivate, is famous for its botanically infused beers — think herbs, flowers, and creative ingredients blended into their brews. This brewery also offers a full-service restaurant, so you can enjoy a meal alongside your drinks if you wish.

This stop is a favorite among visitors because of its innovative approach and beautiful setting. The 45-minute visit allows for a tasting flight and maybe even a snack. It’s a great way to conclude the tour with a bit of culinary flair.

What to Expect from the Tour

Guided walking experience: Expect a leisurely stroll between breweries, with your guide providing historical background on Chicago’s brewing scene. As one reviewer mentions, “Adam was a great tour guide and super knowledgeable,” making the experience both fun and educational.

Cultural insights: Beyond just tasting beers, you’ll learn about how each brewery fits into Chicago’s larger brewing history. The reviews frequently highlight how much participants enjoy learning about the city’s beer past and present.

Exclusive discounts: Most stops include reserved seating and special tour discounts, giving you a little extra bang for your buck. It’s worth noting that alcoholic drinks are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to pay at the bar, but the discounts help keep costs reasonable.

Group size and logistics: Limited to 10 travelers, the tour feels intimate and manageable. It’s perfect for those who prefer a more personal experience. The mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, and the tour’s proximity to public transportation makes it easy to join even if you’re not staying nearby.

Authentic Reviews Speak Volumes

Multiple reviewers praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One reviewer said, “Loved our walking brewery tour with Adam! He was incredibly knowledgeable,” emphasizing how a good guide can transform a simple tasting into a storytelling experience. Others mention how lively the neighborhoods are, and how the stunning views of Ravenswood add to the appeal.

Some comments highlight how much they learned about Chicago’s brewing history — “I lived here my whole life and this still taught me a bunch,” one reviewer notes. The beers themselves also receive high praise, with descriptions like delicious, unique, and well-crafted.

The Real Value

At $25 per person, this tour offers a remarkable value considering the access to three breweries, guided insights, and exclusive discounts. Compared to purchasing individual tastings or visiting breweries on your own, the added context and guided experience make it well worth the price for many travelers.

Practical Details

• Duration: Around 4 hours, including walking and tasting time
• Price: $25 per person, with most stops offering discounts
• Meeting Point: Northcenter Town Square
• Ending Location: Cultivate by Forbidden Root
• Booking: Book 17 days in advance on average; cancellation is possible up to 24 hours prior
• Group size: Max of 10 travelers, ensuring a personal experience
• Accessibility: Service animals allowed; suitable for most travelers
• Legal age: Participants must be of drinking age to partake in samples

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re a beer lover, a curious neighborhood explorer, or someone eager to learn about Chicago’s brewing traditions. It’s equally suited for those who appreciate friendly guides sharing stories and tips. Because of its leisurely pace and small group size, it works well for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a more intimate experience.

If your idea of a good afternoon involves walking, tasting, and discovering local culture, this tour hits the mark. Just don’t forget your walking shoes and an open mind to try something new.

Final Thoughts

The Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row offers an authentic, engaging, and surprisingly educational peek into Chicago’s vibrant craft beer scene. Its combination of knowledgeable guides, thoughtfully selected breweries, and the neighborhood’s charm make it a standout choice for anyone wanting to combine history, community, and good beer.

This experience delivers more than just drinks — it provides context, stories, and a genuine sense of place. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a casual sipper, you’ll walk away with new favorites and a deeper appreciation of Chicago’s brewing roots.

Most suited for curious travelers, local culture enthusiasts, and those wanting a relaxed yet insightful way to explore a lively Chicago neighborhood. The small-group setting and high reviewer ratings suggest this tour will delight those looking for a personal touch and a memorable outing.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or underage travelers?
Only travelers of legal drinking age can partake in the samples, but children can join the tour if they do not wish to sample alcohol. They would need to be registered as a child participant.

How many breweries will I visit during the tour?
You’ll visit three breweries: Dovetail Brewery, Begyle Brewing, and Cultivate by Forbidden Root.

Are the drinks included in the tour price?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You will pay at each brewery, but exclusive discounts and reserved seating help provide good value.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, including walking and tasting time.

Is this tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near multiple bus stops, making it convenient for public transit travelers.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this small-group, neighborhood-focused brewing tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and tastings—perfect for those who want an authentic taste of Chicago’s brewing heart without the fuss. It’s a smart choice for anyone eager to explore Malt Row, learn about local beer traditions, and enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.