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Discover the Mississippi River Distilling Co. Tour in Iowa

Located in Le Claire, Iowa, the Mississippi River Distilling Co. Tour offers visitors an inside look at one of Iowa’s pioneering craft distilleries, set just steps from the Mississippi River. This guided Distillery Tour takes place inside a working production space where small-batch spirits—including bourbon, rye whiskey, vodka, gin, and seasonal releases—are distilled, aged, and bottled. Guests learn how local grains, river-region climate, and hands-on craftsmanship shape each spirit before enjoying a guided tasting.
Why it’s special: Mississippi River Distilling Co. combines riverfront heritage with grain-to-glass distilling, making it one of the Midwest’s most approachable and community-driven distillery experiences.

History & Story of Mississippi River Distilling Co.

Mississippi River Distilling Co. was founded in 2011, making it one of the earliest craft distilleries in Iowa following the revival of small-batch distilling laws. From the beginning, the distillery emphasized local sourcing, transparency, and innovation. Operating out of Le Claire—a historic river town—the distillery helped establish Iowa as a serious player in the modern American craft spirits movement.

What You’ll See & Do on the Mississippi River Distilling Co. Tour

Tour the active distillery and learn how spirits are fermented and distilled
See copper stills, fermentation tanks, and bottling equipment
Learn how aging, blending, and barrel selection affect flavor
Understand how local grains influence spirit character
Participate in a guided tasting of Mississippi River spirits

Hands-On Elements: Guided spirits tasting with production and flavor explanations.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in designated areas; production zones may have restrictions.
Souvenirs & Extras: Distillery shop offering bottled spirits, branded glassware, apparel, cocktail syrups, and gift items.

Pricing of the Mississippi River Distilling Co. Tour

Adult price: $15 per adult
Includes guided distillery tour and spirits tasting. Participants must be 21+.

Visiting information

Duration: 60–75 minutes
Age limits: 21+ only
Accessibility: Public areas accessible; limited access in production zones
Working hours: Distillery open Tuesday–Saturday 11:00 AM–7:00 PM; Sunday–Monday Closed. Tours offered Friday–Saturday at 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM.

Nearby

Buffalo Bill Museum
Le Claire Riverfront Park
Downtown Le Claire shops and dining

FAQs About Visiting the Mississippi River Distilling Co. Tour

Is this a grain-to-glass distillery?
Yes. The distillery produces spirits from fermentation through bottling on site using locally sourced grains whenever possible.

Do tours always include tastings?
Yes. Each tour concludes with a guided tasting of select Mississippi River Distilling Co. spirits.

Do I need to book the tour in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, especially on weekends, as tour spots are limited.

Can non-drinkers attend the tour?
All participants must be 21+; tastings are optional for those who choose not to drink.

Are limited-edition spirits available on-site?
Yes. The distillery shop often carries small-batch and limited releases not widely available elsewhere.