Chicago is a city renowned for its architecture, deep-dish pizza, and a surprisingly vibrant craft beer scene. Its breweries are scattered across neighborhoods, each with its own character—from sleek modern taprooms to historic industrial spaces. The city’s brewing culture is rich, and with innovative breweries like Revolution and traditional European-style producers, Chicago offers a beer lover plenty of options to explore. Whether you’re after a lively group experience or a more intimate peek behind the scenes, Chicago’s brewery tours bring the city’s flavorful history and modern innovation to life, paired with plenty of tasting opportunities.
In this guide, you’ll find a well-rounded list of the top five brewery tours in Chicago. Each offers a different way to enjoy the local beer scene, from guided walking explorations in Malt Row and Logan Square to energetic bus adventures through the city’s hottest breweries. For those planning a day trip, Milwaukee’s historic brewing and cultural highlights are also included, making this a rundown for any beer enthusiast.
1. Chicago: Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus
At number one on our list, the Chicago: Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus combines fun transportation with a carefully curated beer tasting experience. For about $100 per person, you spend around four hours hopping between some of Chicago’s best nano-breweries. The highlight is the VIP behind-the-scenes tour of a top nano-brewery, which allows you to see how small-batch beers are crafted, often with a level of detail unavailable to regular patrons.
What sets this tour apart is the interactive party game format on the barrel-shaped bus, making it a lively social experience. The guide, highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, keeps the energy high with fun facts about Chicago’s brewing history and the brewing process. Guests report an excellent selection of beers and a highlight at Revolution Brewery, along with a well-run, engaging experience. The tour is perfect for groups looking for a fun, energetic day with plenty of tastings and behind-the-scenes insights.
Bottom Line: If you want a lively, all-included brewery adventure with a social twist, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for first-timers wanting a comprehensive yet fun exploration of Chicago’s craft beer scene.
2. Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row
The Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row offers a smaller, more intimate way to enjoy Chicago’s historic brewing neighborhood. For just $39, you’ll spend about four hours strolling through Ravenswood’s Malt Row, visiting three diverse local breweries. The tour emphasizes Chicago’s European-inspired brewing traditions with stops at Dovetail Brewery, Begyle Brewing, and Cultivate by Forbidden Root, each with its own character—ranging from traditional lagers to botanically infused beers.
This tour is especially good for those who enjoy learning the story behind each brewery. Your guide shares local brewing history, and the stops include reserved seating and discounts, making it easy to relax and enjoy your drinks. Dovetail is known for its continental styles like Hefeweizen, while Begyle’s community-supported model keeps things fresh and innovative. Cultivate offers botanical infusions, adding a unique twist to the tasting experience.
Reviewers love how personal and informative this tour feels, with plenty of time to sample and explore. It’s well-suited for visitors who want a leisurely, educational outing without the bus crowds.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an intimate, in-depth look into Chicago’s beer history with a focus on European-influenced styles, this tour provides a relaxed but informative experience at a great value.
3. Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Logan Square
In third place, the Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Logan Square highlights Chicago’s largest independent brewery, Revolution Brewing, along with other local favorites. For just $25, the tour lasts around three hours and includes visits to three breweries that showcase the neighborhood’s artistic, craft beer spirit.
The tour kicks off at Solemn Oath’s Still Life Brewery, where you can get a discounted flight of specialty beers like the popular Still Life series. At Revolution Brewing, you’ll enjoy a discounted $10 flight of their core beers; this brewery is known for its innovative and accessible brews that appeal to all palates. The final stop, Hopewell Brewing, adds a fun local touch with free stickers, perfect for showing off your brewery pride.
This tour provides ample time at each stop, with detailed fun facts and historical insights from your guide. Reviewers note the good value and relaxed pace, making it ideal for those interested in exploring plus tasting in a neighborhood setting.
Bottom Line: For a shorter, budget-friendly tour that focuses on Milwaukee-style breweries in a lively Chicago neighborhood, this option hits the mark.
4. Chicago Local Brewery Expedition with Homemade Guacamole
The Chicago Local Brewery Expedition with Homemade Guacamole offers an intimate tasting journey through Chicago’s historic Fulton Market district. For $54, the roughly 1.5-hour experience is less about quantity and more about quality, with a focus on local microbreweries.
The tour begins at Goose Island Beer Co., where you’ll enjoy homemade guacamole and tortilla chips alongside three different handcrafted beer flights. This is a great way to taste a variety of styles—everything from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers—while indulging in some thoughtfully prepared snacks. The walk continues to District Yards Brewing, passing through other local breweries, giving a chance to sample Chicago’s emerging craft scene.
Reviewers appreciate the personal attention and homemade touches, noting that it’s a great way to try a selection of beers paired with a local flavor. The small size makes this tour perfect for those who want a casual, close-up experience with a focus on local artisans.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking a short, casual tasting with delicious homemade snacks and a focus on Chicago’s emerging microbreweries, this intimate tour offers a great value.
5. Chicago to Milwaukee: Day Trip with Brewery Tour & City Highlights
Finally, for those willing to venture outside the city, the Chicago to Milwaukee Day Trip with Brewery Tour & City Highlights combines cultural sights with brewery visits. For around $125, you’ll spend 8 to 10 hours exploring Milwaukee’s top attractions, including the Miller Brewery Tour, Milwaukee Art Museum, and the Harley-Davidson Museum.
The Miller Brewery tour is a highlight, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the world-famous beer brand, along with samples of their beers. The day also includes free time at the Milwaukee Public Market and Lakefront, making it a well-rounded adventure. The tour is ideal for those who want a full-day experience that combines culture, history, and beer.
Reviewers mention the professional guide and the enjoyable pace of the trip, making it a good choice for beer lovers who also want to explore a new city.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in a comprehensive day trip that mixes sightseeing with brewery tastings, this Milwaukee adventure is a smart choice.
How to Choose the Best Brewery Tour in Chicago
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and what experience appeals most. For a lively, social day with a bus tour, the Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus is perfect. If you prefer a relaxed, educational walk focusing on local neighborhoods and smaller breweries, the Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row or the Logan Square tour offers more intimate experiences.
For those with limited time but a desire for delicious homemade snacks and a taste of Chicago’s microbrewery scene, the Local Brewery Expedition is a concise yet flavorful option. And if you want a full-day cultural and beer adventure, the Milwaukee day trip combines the best of both worlds.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons in the fall or summer, and always check availability because tours can fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
From energetic guided bus trips to intimate neighborhood walks, Chicago’s brewery tours reflect the city’s diverse craft beer landscape. If you’re after a fun group experience, the Barrel Bus tour offers a lively, behind-the-scenes look. For lovers of local history and smaller breweries, the Malt Row and Logan Square tours deliver personality and flavor. And for a day away, the Milwaukee trip adds a cultural dimension along with excellent beer.
Whatever your preference, Chicago’s brewery scene is ready to welcome you with open taps. Consider your budget, preferred pace, and whether you want to focus on small-batch innovation or larger, iconic breweries. Book your tour early—these experiences fill up fast, especially during ideal weather months—and prepare for a memorable taste of Chicago’s craft beer diversity.