Walk behind the bar at Gate 11 in the Chattanooga Choo Choo to see small-batch stills, bottling, and a guided tasting of four award-winning spirits. This one-hour tour blends production detail with hands-on tasting in an accessible downtown setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step through the back entrance of the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the air shifts—warm malt, citrus botanicals, and copper. Gate 11’s compact distillery occupies two levels adjacent to a bottle shop and cocktail bar; the tour moves from the ground-floor mash cooker and fermenter to the mezzanine where the tops of pot and column stills peer over the railing.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; tour involves short stairs and standing periods
Wildlife
History
Chattanooga’s distilling and brewing traditions have long tied to its rail and river commerce; modern craft distillers often occupy repurposed industrial spaces near historic rail hubs like the Choo Choo.
Conservation
Support local producers who adhere to small-batch practices and responsible sourcing; avoid excess bottle waste by buying only what you’ll use and recycling corks and glass.
Reserve your spot on the Distillery Tour at Gate 11 today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring valid photo ID
You’ll sample spirits; licensed tasting requires government-issued ID for anyone 21+.
Arrive early to check in
Tours start on time—arrive 10 minutes early and check in at the bar to avoid missing the group.
Wear stable footwear
The tour includes short flights of stairs and standing room near equipment—closed-toe shoes are safer.
Pace tastings and hydrate
Alcohol sampling can add up—drink water between pours and consider a snack beforehand.
Government photo ID
Required for legal alcohol tasting and proof of age.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Protects feet in production areas and on stairs.
Notebook or tasting app
Helpful for jotting tasting notes and bottling info.
Light jacket
Distilleries can be cool on upper mezzanines or near storage rooms.