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Discover the Goose Island Brewery Tour in Illinois

Goose Island Beer Co., one of Chicago’s most iconic breweries, offers an immersive behind-the-scenes tour at its Fulton Street production facility. Known for pioneering craft beer in the Midwest — including the legendary Bourbon County Stout — Goose Island gives visitors a close look at brewing innovation, barrel aging, and large-scale production.
Why it’s special: This is the birthplace of Bourbon County Stout and one of America’s most influential craft breweries.

History/Story of Goose Island Beer Co.

Founded in 1988, Goose Island helped spark Chicago’s craft beer scene through experimentation, barrel aging, and innovative brewing methods. Their Fulton Street brewery became a national landmark in craft beer, producing award-winning ales, lagers, and the iconic Bourbon County family. Today, it remains a center of brewing excellence and Chicago beer culture.

What You’ll See & Do

Explore the production floor where Goose Island brews and packages its flagship beers
Learn about large-scale fermentation, filtration, and quality control
Visit the barrel-aging warehouse where Bourbon County Stout matures
Observe state-of-the-art canning and bottling lines
Enjoy a guided tasting featuring multiple Goose Island beers

Visiting Information

Hands-On Elements

Tours are mostly observational, but guests may explore malt and hop samples, smell wort during brewing phases, and see the barrel-aging racks up close under staff supervision.

Photo/Video Policy

Photography is welcome in designated areas. Certain active zones may restrict flash or video due to safety protocols and production sensitivity.

Souvenirs & Extras

Exclusive beers and seasonal releases
Goose Island merchandise including apparel, glassware, and brewery memorabilia
Opportunity to purchase Bourbon County variants depending on availability

Practical Info

Tour schedules vary by season and production activity, typically occurring on weekends and select weekdays.
Closed-toe shoes are recommended, and tastings are limited to guests 21+.
Tours generally range $15–$20 per person, including multiple beer samples.

Pricing

Tour Price Range: $15–$20 per person
Includes tasting samples. Specialty or themed tours may have additional fees.

Nearby

Chicago Brewing District, home to several breweries and beer bars
West Loop restaurants and coffee shops
United Center (a short drive away)
Accessible via Ashland and Fulton bus lines

FAQs

Can visitors see the Bourbon County barrel-aging area?

Yes — most tours include a guided look inside the barrel warehouse, where hundreds of bourbon barrels age the brewery’s most famous beer series.

Are any beers only available at the Fulton Street brewery?

Visitors often get access to small-batch, pilot, or limited-run beers not found in stores or the brewpub, especially during tasting sessions.

What’s the best time to visit for beer enthusiasts?

Weekends near Bourbon County release season (late fall) offer a special energy — guides often discuss aging, blending, and barrel selection in extra depth.

Does the tour include a look at the packaging line?

Yes. When running, guests can watch cans and bottles being filled at high speed — one of the most popular parts of the tour.

Is this tour good for someone new to craft beer?

Absolutely. Guides explain brewing processes in an approachable way, and tastings include a diverse flight to help newcomers explore different beer styles.