Profile

Discover the Great Lakes Distillery Tour in Wisconsin

Explore Wisconsin’s first distillery since Prohibition with a visit to Great Lakes Distillery in Milwaukee. This award-winning, small-batch craft distillery produces vodka, gin, whiskey, rum, absinthe, and unique seasonal spirits using local grains, fruits, and botanicals. Visitors can tour the production floor, learn about distillation, and enjoy guided tastings in the on-site tasting room.
Why it’s special:
Great Lakes Distillery pioneered the state’s modern craft spirits movement, producing internationally recognized spirits using carefully sourced regional ingredients—and offering one of the most educational and enjoyable craft distillery tours in the Midwest.

History/Story of Great Lakes Distillery

Founded in 2004 by Guy Rehorst, Great Lakes Distillery became the first distillery to operate in Wisconsin since the end of Prohibition. Its spirits quickly earned acclaim for their innovative recipes and dedication to local sourcing. Today, the distillery produces an expansive lineup, all crafted on-site using small-batch pot stills in Milwaukee’s Walker’s Point neighborhood.

What You’ll See & Do at the Great Lakes Distillery Tour

Explore the production floor and see the copper pot stills used to make craft spirits
Learn about fermentation, distillation, aging, and flavor development
Hear behind-the-scenes details on how vodka, gin, whiskey, and absinthe are created
Watch bottling and labeling operations when active
Finish with a guided tasting of several spirits in the distillery’s tasting room

Hands-On Elements: Guided tasting of selected spirits; aroma and flavor discussion led by staff.
Photo/Video Policy: Photos allowed in public areas and tasting rooms; restrictions may apply near equipment.
Souvenirs & Extras: Bottles of spirits, merchandise, cocktail ingredients, glassware, and gift sets.

Pricing of the Great Lakes Distillery Tour

Distillery tour with guided tasting: Paid, typically around $12–$15 per person
Additional cocktails and spirits available for purchase in the tasting room
Must be 21+ to taste; under-21 visitors may join the tour without sampling

Practical Info for Visiting Great Lakes Distillery

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided tour followed by seated tasting
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered multiple times daily; schedule varies by day
Working Hours: Generally 12:00 PM–7:00 PM (hours vary by day; check tour schedule)
Audience: Adults, cocktail lovers, spirit enthusiasts, small groups
Accessibility: Main areas accessible; some production areas may include uneven floors
Safety & Restrictions: No open-toed shoes recommended; must be 21+ for samples
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group bookings available; private tours offered for parties and events
What to Bring/Wear: Closed-toe shoes, valid ID, comfortable clothing
Facilities: Tasting room, cocktail bar, restrooms, gift shop, outdoor seating
Closures & Downtime: Closures may occur for private events or holidays

Nearby

Harley-Davidson Museum – major Milwaukee attraction nearby
Milwaukee Public Market – artisan food hall in the Historic Third Ward
Lakefront Brewery – popular craft beer tour just minutes away

FAQs About Visiting Great Lakes Distillery

Do I need a reservation for the tour?
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends or evenings.

Can visitors under 21 attend?
Yes—minors may join the tour but cannot participate in tastings.

Is parking available?
Yes—onsite parking is available, along with street parking near the distillery.

Can I buy cocktails on-site?
Absolutely—the tasting room offers a full menu of cocktails made with house spirits.

How many spirits are included in the tasting?
The tasting typically includes a curated selection of several spirits, chosen by the distillery staff.