Great Lakes Distillery Tours & Classes in Milwaukee - Milwaukee

Great Lakes Distillery Tours & Classes in Milwaukee

Milwaukeeeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–3 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness required; comfortable mobility recommended for moving around the distillery and participating in workshops.

Overview

Great Lakes Distillery in Milwaukee offers more than just spirits—immerse yourself in interactive tours, creative classes, and lively pairing events that highlight the city’s vibrant craft scene.

Details

Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s largest city on the western shore of Lake Michigan, offers more than just its storied brewing history; it’s also home to Great Lakes Distillery, a dynamic hub for hands-on tastings and craft-based social experiences. This distillery tour and creative event venue provides a distinctive way to connect with the city’s evolving spirit industry while engaging in artistic and culinary adventures. Great Lakes Distillery pairs finely crafted spirits with immersive, interactive classes that go beyond the typical sip-and-see. Whether you’re drawn to the detailed distillery tours illuminating their signature small-batch vodkas, whiskeys, and gins or prefer sessions like abstract florals with alcohol ink, the vibe blends education with celebration.

Visitors gather to learn cocktail and cheese pairings under expert guidance or create statement earrings during the “Cocktails & Clay” class, making each visit a curated encounter that is part brewery, part studio, and completely social. Seasonal offerings like the “Barre at the Bar” workouts and special events such as Stiletto & Oak’s Valentine’s performances add layers of local culture and lively entertainment, transforming typical distillery stops into community gatherings.

Situated in Milwaukee’s vibrant urban landscape, Great Lakes Distillery captures the spirit of this Midwestern city—blending industrial roots with creative energy. The venue contributes to the area's growing trend of downtown revitalization and uniquely complements Milwaukee’s outdoor and indoor experiential scene. This destination particularly shines for travelers interested in craft beverages, artistic expression, and local connections—a refreshing take on Wisconsin’s rich alcohol production heritage with modern creativity. A visit promises craftsmanship, conviviality, and cultural flavor all in one spot.

Adventure Tips

Book in advance

Popular tours and classes fill quickly, especially on weekends and during special events.

Arrive sober

Tours involve tastings, but arriving sober ensures full engagement and safety.

Wear comfortable clothing

Classes like Cocktail & Clay or Barre at the Bar require ease of movement and comfort.

Use public transit or rideshare

Parking near the distillery can be limited; consider alternative transportation options.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Nearby Lakeshore State Park for waterfront walks
  • Local craft beer taprooms within walking distance

Wildlife

  • Urban hawks
  • Lake Michigan migratory birds

History

Milwaukee’s distilling history dates back to the mid-1800s with waves of European immigrants shaping its liquor craftsmanship traditions.

Conservation

Great Lakes Distillery focuses on sustainable sourcing and waste reduction, reflecting growing environmental awareness in urban craft beverage production.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Evening event lighting
Mid-afternoon for interior shots

Best Viewpoints

  • The tasting room bar
  • Distillery equipment displays
  • Art class setups with finished projects

What to Photograph

Glassware and cocktails
Creative art in progress
Historic distilling apparatus

Recommended Gear

Comfortable shoes

Essential

You'll be standing and moving around during tours and classes.

Light jacket

Useful for transitional weather and any outdoor events.

spring|fall|winter specific

Notebook or phone

Helpful for taking notes during tastings or creative classes.

ID for age verification

Essential

Required for legal alcohol tasting and purchase.