Empyrean Brewing Co. Beer School 101 — Lincoln, Nebraska

Discover the Empyrean Brewing Co. Beer School Tour in Nebraska

Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, the Empyrean Brewing Co. Beer School Tour offers visitors an in-depth educational experience inside one of Nebraska’s longest-operating craft breweries. Held at the Empyrean Brewing Company facility, Beer School combines a guided brewery tour with a structured class on brewing science, ingredients, and beer styles.

Guests explore production areas while learning how malt, hops, yeast, and water are transformed into award-winning craft beer through fermentation and conditioning.

Why it’s special: The Empyrean Brewing Co. Beer School Tour blends hands-on brewing education with behind-the-scenes access, making it more immersive than a typical brewery tasting tour.

History & Story of Empyrean Brewing Co.

Founded in 1990, Empyrean Brewing Co. is widely recognized as Nebraska’s first craft brewery. Originally established in Lincoln’s historic Haymarket District, the brewery helped pioneer the state’s modern craft beer movement.

Over the decades, Empyrean expanded production and built a loyal following with flagship beers and seasonal releases. Beer School was created to give visitors deeper insight into brewing techniques and beer appreciation.

What You’ll See & Do on the Empyrean Brewing Co. Beer School Tour

• Learn about the four core brewing ingredients and their roles
• Explore mash tuns, brew kettles, and fermentation tanks
• Discover how yeast impacts flavor profiles
• Participate in guided beer tastings
• Compare beer styles and aroma characteristics

Hands-On Elements: Guided tasting flights and interactive ingredient demonstrations; equipment handling is restricted for safety.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography is permitted in public and taproom areas; production areas may have restrictions.

Souvenirs & Extras: Packaged beer, limited releases, branded glassware, apparel, and merchandise available for purchase.

Pricing of the Empyrean Brewing Co. Beer School Tour

Adult price: $25 per adult

Admission includes guided instruction and tasting samples for guests aged 21 and over.

Visiting information

Duration: 90 minutes

Age limits: 21+ only due to tasting component

Accessibility: Fully accessible taproom; production areas may have industrial flooring

Working Hours: Beer School sessions typically held Saturdays 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM; regular taproom hours Monday–Thursday 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday–Saturday 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Advance reservations are required for Beer School sessions.

Nearby

• Historic Haymarket District
• University of Nebraska–Lincoln
• Nebraska State Capitol

FAQs About Visiting the Empyrean Brewing Co. Beer School Tour

Is Beer School different from a standard brewery tour?
Yes. Beer School includes structured educational components focusing on brewing science and beer tasting techniques.

Are tastings included in the ticket price?
Yes. Guests aged 21 and over receive guided tasting samples as part of the session.

Is prior brewing knowledge required?
No. The program is designed for beginners as well as craft beer enthusiasts.

Where is Empyrean located in Lincoln?
The brewery is located in the Haymarket area, near downtown Lincoln attractions.

Do tickets sell out in advance?
Yes. Beer School sessions often require advance booking due to limited seating.