Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner

Planning a visit to Milwaukee and eager to explore its thriving craft beer scene? This guided brewery tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s brewpub culture, combining visits to four top breweries with tasting opportunities and a delicious meal. We’ve reviewed the experience based on feedback and details, and here’s what you need to know.

What I love about this tour is the knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and informative, and the variety of beers and tasty food pairings that showcase Milwaukee’s brewing diversity. On the downside, the tour’s popularity means booking at least 72 hours in advance—it tends to fill up quickly, so planning ahead is essential. If you enjoy learning about local brews from passionate owners while sampling some of the best beers Milwaukee has to offer, this tour is a solid choice.

Who it suits best? Beer lovers eager to discover local favorites, those interested in a fun group activity, or visitors wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Milwaukee’s brewing scene will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Guided tour visits four notable Milwaukee breweries, tasting up to 16 different beers.
• Includes transportation within downtown Milwaukee, making logistics hassle-free.
• Offers a tasty meal with beer and food pairing, elevating the experience.
• Guided by knowledgeable hosts, making the stops both educational and enjoyable.
• Tour books up well in advance; plan to reserve at least 3 days ahead.
• Perfect for beer enthusiasts and travelers seeking authentic local flavors.

An In-Depth Look at the Milwaukee Brewery Tour

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $139 per person, this guided tour promises an immersive, relaxed introduction to Milwaukee’s brewpub scene. The experience is designed not just to entertain but also to educate. It includes up to 16 craft beers for tasting, paired with a meal that includes beer and food pairing, plus round-trip transportation in downtown Milwaukee. These inclusions add significant value, especially considering the convenience of transportation and the chance to sample a broad spectrum of local brews without worrying about navigating unfamiliar streets or designating a driver.

The Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins at The Brewhouse Inn & Suites, located at 1215 N 10th St. The location is close to public transportation and in downtown Milwaukee, making it accessible for most travelers. This central start point helps set a comfortable tone for the day, and the round-trip bus service ensures that participants can relax and enjoy the journey without stress.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Stop 1: Broken Bat Brewing Co.
The tour kicks off here, where you’ll get a taste of their signature beers and see how Milwaukee’s craft scene functions at ground level. Guests can expect to chat with brewery owners about their brewing operations and see firsthand how beer is made. One reviewer raved about the experience: “Our tour guide, Ken, was wonderful and we made so many friends along the tour from all over the country.” Expect about an hour at each stop, giving enough time for tasting and conversation without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: Lakefront Brewery
A staple in Milwaukee’s brewing landscape, Lakefront Brewery offers a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of beers. Guests learn about the brewery’s history and brewing process, adding context to each sip. The reviews highlight the delicious beers and the fun environment, making this a highlight for many.

Stop 3: Gathering Place Brewing Company
This stop emphasizes the process of beer-making with opportunities to chat with brewery owners when available. The focus here is on craftsmanship, and the experience is often described as relaxed and friendly. The tour also includes a snack at some point—it’s a chance to balance out the beer tasting with a bit of sustenance.

Stop 4: Milwaukee Brewing Co.
The final brewery visit brings the tour full circle, often featuring some of Milwaukee’s most popular craft brews. This stop may include a last chance to sample favorite beers or discover new ones. The round-trip transportation makes sure everyone stays together, and the group size is limited (maximum 14 travelers), ensuring a personalized experience.

The Meal and Tasting Experience

One of the tour’s standout features is the lunch or dinner with beer pairing. Guests can expect a meal that complements the beers tasted throughout the day, adding a layer of culinary enjoyment. The inclusion of this meal is a significant perk, turning a simple brewery visit into a more satisfying, well-rounded experience.

The Guide and Group Atmosphere

Feedback consistently praises the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor. Ken, for example, receives glowing reviews for his ability to make everyone feel comfortable and informed. With a maximum of 14 travelers, the group stays intimate enough for meaningful conversations and personalized attention.

Booking, Price, and Value

At $139 per person, this tour offers excellent value when you consider the inclusions: transportation, four brewery visits, up to 16 beers, and a substantial meal. The cost is reasonable compared to independent brewery visits, especially when factoring in the time saved and the educational aspect. Visitors have noted that tours tend to book about 45 days in advance, so early reservation is advised, particularly during peak seasons.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating stands at a 4.6 out of 5 from 14 reviews, with many praising the tour’s organization, the quality of beers, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. Comments like “Had a great time with awesome beer and food” and “Incredibly enjoyable and relaxed” reflect strong satisfaction. Several reviewers mention that they wouldn’t have found these breweries on their own, highlighting the value of guided tours.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book at least 72 hours in advance to secure a spot, as the tour books up quickly.
• Arrive early at the meeting point for a relaxed start.
• Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking and standing at each brewery.
• Plan for possible weather changes since part of the tour involves outdoor or semi-outdoor brewery visits.
• Bring a designated driver or plan for transportation if you’re staying nearby post-tour.
• Group size is limited, so early booking guarantees a spot.

Cancellation and Refunds

Flexible cancellation policies mean you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is reassuring if your plans change. Weather cancellations are handled gracefully with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This brewery tour is ideal for beer enthusiasts who want to explore Milwaukee’s craft beer scene in a friendly, guided environment. It’s also perfect for groups or couples looking for a fun day out with a mix of education, tastings, and good food. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic, locally brewed beers and enjoys casual conversations with passionate brewery owners, you’ll love this experience.

Travelers seeking a structured, well-organized way to discover Milwaukee’s beer culture without the hassle of planning individual visits will find this tour particularly valuable. It’s also a smart choice for those new to craft beer who want a gentle introduction combined with local insights.

Final Thoughts

Milwaukee’s brewery tour offers a genuinely enjoyable way to spend a few hours enjoying the city’s beer scene. Insightful guides, quality tasting experiences, and well-curated brewery stops make for a memorable outing. The inclusion of transportation and a meal adds to the convenience and overall value.

While it’s a popular tour, early booking helps ensure your spot, and the small-group setting guarantees a friendly, personalized experience. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just curious about Milwaukee’s brewing culture, this tour delivers a relaxed, engaging, and thoroughly flavorful day.

For those who love discovering local flavors, sharing laughs with fellow travelers, and learning from passionate brewery owners, this guided brewery tour hits all the right notes. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Milwaukee—literally and figuratively.

FAQ

How far in advance should I book?
It’s best to reserve at least 72 hours ahead, as the tour tends to fill up quickly and books about 45 days in advance on average.

What is included in the price?
The $139 fee covers transportation in downtown Milwaukee, visits to four breweries where you can taste up to 16 beers, and a meal with beer and food pairing.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at The Brewhouse Inn & Suites, located at 1215 N 10th St, Milwaukee.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transportation by bus within downtown Milwaukee is included, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours, including travel, tasting, and meal times.

What’s the group size?
The tour is capped at 14 travelers, ensuring a personable and engaging experience.

Are kids or non-drinkers allowed?
The tour is geared towards adults, especially those interested in beer tasting. Non-drinkers can participate in the sightseeing and food but might find the main focus on beer.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

This Milwaukee brewery tour offers excellent value for fans of craft beer and those eager to see the city’s bustling brewpub scene. With knowledgeable guides, tasty tastings, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a memorable way to enjoy Milwaukee’s local flavors.