New Glarus Brewing Co. Tour — New Glarus, Wisconsin

Discover the New Glarus Brewing Co. Tour in Wisconsin

Explore one of Wisconsin’s most beloved craft breweries at New Glarus Brewing Co., home of the legendary Spotted Cow. Perched on a scenic hilltop overlooking the village of New Glarus, this Bavarian-style facility offers self-guided tours through brewhouses, fermentation halls, and viewing areas that showcase the artistry behind Wisconsin’s most iconic beers.
Why it’s special:
New Glarus distributes only within Wisconsin, so visiting the brewery is the best—and sometimes the only—way to experience its freshest, most exclusive beers right at the source.

History/Story of New Glarus Brewing Co.

Founded in 1993 by Dan and Deb Carey, New Glarus Brewing Co. began as a small dream and grew into one of the nation’s top craft breweries. Dan Carey, a Diplom-Brewmaster, helped bring European brewing approaches to Wisconsin, while Deb Carey became the first woman in the U.S. to establish a brewery. Their commitment to independence, local sourcing, and traditional brewing techniques has made New Glarus a statewide treasure.

What You’ll See & Do at the New Glarus Brewery

• Walk through the European-style brewhouse with large copper kettles

• Watch the brewing, fermentation, and bottling process from panoramic viewing galleries

• Explore the courtyard and architecture inspired by Swiss and German brewing traditions

• Visit the beer garden overlooking rolling hills and farmland

• Enjoy a wide selection of seasonal, limited-release, and year-round beers on tap

• Browse the gift shop for exclusive brewery merchandise, glassware, and bottled beer

Hands-On Elements: Self-guided exploration, ingredient displays, and optional beer tastings.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed throughout most public areas.
Souvenirs & Extras: Spotted Cow merchandise, glassware, apparel, taproom-only releases, and collectible items.

Pricing of the New Glarus Brewery Tour

• Self-Guided Brewery Tour: Free

• Beer Sampling (Beer Depot): Typically $10–$15 depending on selection

• No reservations needed for general visits

Practical Info for Visiting New Glarus Brewing Co.

Duration: 30–60 minutes for self-guided touring
Format: Self-guided tour with optional paid tastings
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round; busiest on weekends and during summer
Working Hours: Typically Monday–Friday 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM–5:00 PM
Audience: Craft beer fans, couples, families (children welcome), tourists
Accessibility: Brewery grounds mostly accessible; some viewing platforms require stairs
Safety & Restrictions:

• Must be 21+ to sample alcohol

• Children must be supervised
  Languages: English
  Group & School Visits: No formal guided tours; groups welcome for self-guided visits
  What to Bring/Wear: Valid ID, comfortable shoes
  Facilities: Beer Depot taproom, outdoor beer garden, restrooms, gift shop, ample parking
  Closures & Downtime: Closed major holidays; production may pause on weekends

Nearby

• New Glarus Swiss Historical Village – living history museum

• Sugar River State Trail – biking, hiking, and scenic recreation

• Downtown New Glarus – Swiss-themed shops, bakeries, and restaurants

FAQs About Visiting New Glarus Brewing Co.

Do they offer guided tours?
No—New Glarus offers self-guided tours only, with elevated viewing areas.

Can I taste beer while visiting?
Yes—tastings are available for a fee in the Beer Depot taproom.

Is Spotted Cow available outside Wisconsin?
No—New Glarus beers are sold exclusively within Wisconsin.

Are children allowed?
Yes—families are welcome, though beer sampling is limited to 21+.

Is the brewery dog-friendly?
Pets are allowed in some outdoor areas but not inside the brewery buildings.