Milwaukee’s reputation as a brewing city goes back more than a century, and today it’s a lively hub of brewpubs and craft breweries. What makes Milwaukee stand out isn’t just its historic roots, but its modern scene packed with innovative beers and welcoming brewpubs. Whether you’re craving a deep dive into the city’s brewing culture or a quick, fun experience, Milwaukee offers options that cater to all types of beer lovers. These tours are not just about tasting; they’re about learning how beer is made, meeting passionate brewers, and seeing parts of Milwaukee you might not find on your own.
If you’re visiting Milwaukee and want to get a real feel for its beer scene, these tours are worth considering. They combine local flavor, education, and plenty of samples—plus, round-trip transportation in downtown Milwaukee makes getting around hassle-free. For those looking for a longer, more immersive experience, the Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner is a standout. If you prefer a shorter, more affordable option, the Sip of Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Snack offers a quick-but-rich taste of the city’s breweries.
Quick Overview
This guide covers Milwaukee’s best brewery experiences, with two top-rated tours. The first, Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner, is a 4-5 hour tour that includes visits to four breweries, up to 16 beer tastings, and a meal. Perfect for those wanting a full day of tasting and learning.
The second, Sip of Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Snack, is a 3-hour tour focusing on three breweries, with up to 12 beers and a snack included. It’s designed for a shorter, more economical experience. Both tours include round-trip transportation and are perfect for beer enthusiasts eager to explore Milwaukee’s vibrant brewing scene.
1. Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner
At number one on our list is the Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive experience, combining visits to four well-known breweries, sampling up to 16 beers, and enjoying a meal—either lunch or dinner—depending on your schedule. Running around 4 to 5 hours, it offers a relaxed pace that lets you truly soak in Milwaukee’s brewing culture.
What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of round-trip bus transportation in downtown Milwaukee, making logistics effortless. Visit popular spots like Lakefront Brewing, Broken Bat Brewing Co, Gathering Place Brewing, and more. You’ll learn about the local brewpub scene from guides who are passionate and knowledgeable. Guests consistently praise the tour for its well-organized itinerary and the friendly, expert guide, Ken, who brings both humor and insight. One reviewer calls it “one of the best experiences in Milwaukee,” highlighting the combination of delicious beer, good food, and engaging stories.
The value here is clear: for $139 per person, you get a rich, guided experience with plenty of samples, a meal, and transportation—all in one package. It’s perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their day and discover Milwaukee’s brewing gems without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: A full-day, all-inclusive tour that’s best suited for those who want a deep dive into Milwaukee’s craft scene, with excellent guides and a generous tasting experience.
2. Sip of Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Snack
Coming in at number two, the Sip of Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Snack offers a shorter, more budget-friendly way to explore Milwaukee’s breweries. At just about 3 hours and priced at $99 per person, it’s a smart option for those pressed for time or wanting a lighter experience. This tour visits three breweries—including Broken Bat, Lakefront, and Ope! Brewing—and features up to 12 beers along with a snack to keep your energy up.
This tour is praised for its friendly and knowledgeable guide, Ken, who has a knack for making visitors feel comfortable and informed. The itinerary includes visits to some of Milwaukee’s most popular breweries, with enough tastings to give a real sense of the local beer scene. Reviewers note that the van is clean and comfortable, and the small size of the group makes the experience more personal. One guest describes it as “great fun,” particularly appreciating how Ken’s relationships with local breweries result in a more intimate look at Milwaukee’s brewing culture.
Compared to the longer tour, this experience offers less time but still a good variety of beers and brewery insights, making it ideal for curious travelers who want a quick but meaningful taste of Milwaukee’s craft beer world.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those looking for a shorter, more economical brewery tour that still delivers quality, local beers and a chance to meet Milwaukee’s brewers.
How to Choose the Right Milwaukee Brewery Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider how much time you want to spend and what kind of experience you’re after. The Original Guided Brewery Tour is perfect if you want a full afternoon or evening of tasting, learning, and dining, especially if you’re eager to explore multiple breweries and indulge in a substantial meal.
On the other hand, the Sip of Milwaukee Tour is well-suited for those on a shorter schedule or with a tighter budget, but who still want to sample Milwaukee’s top breweries and enjoy a handful of beers. Both tours are highly rated and include round-trip transportation, making them convenient options.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak tourist season or weekends, to secure your spot. Also, note that both tours recommend reservations at least 72 hours in advance. If you’re a dedicated beer enthusiast or a first-timer eager to understand Milwaukee’s brewing scene, either of these tours will give you a solid introduction to this lively city’s craft culture.
In summary, whether you want a comprehensive day of beer tasting with a meal or a shorter, more affordable adventure, Milwaukee’s brewery tours offer a fantastic way to see the city through its local breweries. The Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner is great for those wanting a deep, relaxed experience, while the Sip of Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Snack appeals to travelers seeking a quick taste. Whatever your preferences, early booking is the key to securing your spot in Milwaukee’s lively beer scene.