Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row

The Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Chicago’s Malt Row offers an immersive journey through the city’s rich brewing heritage. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, participants explore a selection of unique local breweries, sampling innovative craft beers that showcase the vibrant beer culture. From the historic roots to the modern renaissance, this engaging tour celebrates Chicago’s passion for exceptional brews. With stops at renowned establishments like Forbidden Root and Begyle Brewing, the experience promises to delight even the most discerning beer enthusiast.

Key Points

• Explore Chicago’s brewing heritage on the Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour, which highlights the city’s German immigrant history and the impact of Prohibition.
• Discover the unique character and craft beer offerings of the Malt Row Breweries located on Chicago’s north side.
• Sample signature botanical beers and learn about the innovative brewing process at Forbidden Root, a pioneering brewery in Malt Row.
• Observe Begyle Brewing’s sustainable practices and community engagement efforts while tasting their innovative craft beer styles.
• Prepare for the tour by confirming the meeting location, dressing appropriately, and bringing a valid ID for alcoholic samples.

Exploring Chicago’s Brewing Heritage

As visitors embark on the Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour, they’ll explore the rich brewing history of Chicago.

Once a hub for German immigrants, the city flourished with beer production in the 19th century. Guides share tales of the industry’s growth, including the influential Lager Beer Riot of 1855.

Participants discover how Prohibition nearly crippled local breweries, and how the craft beer renaissance revived Chicago’s brewing legacy.

Along the way, they’ll sample innovative ales and lagers, exploring how modern brewers honor the city’s storied past while pushing the boundaries of flavor.

The Malt Row Breweries

The Malt Row Breweries on Chicago’s north side form the heart of this walking tour. This thriving beer district showcases the city’s rich brewing heritage. Visitors can explore the area’s unique breweries, each with its own distinct character and offerings.

Brewery	Highlights
Begyle Brewing	Craft beers, including seasonal and specialty releases
Temperance Beer Co.	Sustainability-focused brews, family-friendly taproom
Empirical Brewery	Science-inspired ales, experimental flavors
Dovetail Brewery	Traditional European-style lagers and ales

These Malt Row breweries offer a chance to savor Chicago’s vibrant beer culture and discover the latest innovations in craft brewing.

Brewery Stop 1: Forbidden Root

The tour begins at Forbidden Root, one of the pioneering breweries in the Malt Row district. Guests sample the brewery’s signature botanical beers, which blend traditional brewing with unexpected botanicals.

The knowledgeable guide shares the history of Forbidden Root and its role in the revival of Chicago’s brewing scene. Visitors explore the brewhouse and learn about the innovative brewing process.

The stop offers a unique opportunity to taste bold, flavorful beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles. This initial brewery stop sets the stage for the rest of the Oktoberfest walking tour through Malt Row.

Brewery Stop 2: Begyle Brewing

Next, the tour group heads to Begyle Brewing, another pioneering brewery on Malt Row. Established in 2012, Begyle is known for its innovative craft beer selection. The guide leads the group through the brewhouse, highlighting Begyle’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

Beer	ABV	IBU	Style
Crash Landing	7.2%	45	American IPA
Hophazard	5.5%	40	American Pale Ale
Flannel Shirt	6.5%	20	Amber Ale

Guests sample several of Begyle’s beers, learning about the brewing process and the story behind each style. The guide emphasizes Begyle’s role in shaping Chicago’s vibrant craft beer scene.

Brewery Stop 3: Dovetail Brewery

Moving on from the innovative brews at Begyle, the tour group now heads to Dovetail Brewery, a relative newcomer on Malt Row. Founded in 2016, Dovetail specializes in traditional European-style beers like lagers, pilsners, and hefeweizens.

Guests sample the brewery’s flagship Helles lager, a bright and clean German-style lager, as well as the smooth and creamy Dunkel, a dark lager. The knowledgeable guide details Dovetail’s meticulous brewing process and commitment to time-honored techniques.

Travelers enjoy the cozy, welcoming taproom atmosphere as they sip the authentic, flavorful beers that have quickly made Dovetail a local favorite.

Sampling the Oktoberfest Brews

For the final stop of the tour, the group eagerly anticipates sampling the festive Oktoberfest-style brews.

At Cultivate by Forbidden Root, the guide leads them through a tasting of rich, malty lagers and crisp, hoppy märzens.

The complex flavors of caramel, toasted bread, and subtle spice delight the palate.

Participants compare the subtle nuances between the offerings, noting the unique characteristics of each brewery’s interpretation of the traditional German style.

As the tour concludes, the group leaves with a newfound appreciation for Chicago’s vibrant craft beer scene and the storied history of Oktoberfest brewing.

Public Transportation Assistance

How does the tour handle public transportation for participants?

The tour provides guidance and assistance with public transportation to help travelers reach the end point at Cultivate by Forbidden Root.

The guide will offer directions and advice on using buses or trains to return to the Loop area after the tour concludes.

This service ensures participants can easily get back to their starting point or continue exploring the city.

With the public transportation help, travelers can focus on enjoying the brewery stops without worrying about navigating their way back independently.

It’s a convenient perk of the Oktoberfest walking tour.

Preparing for Your Brewery Tour

Preparing for the Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour involves a few simple steps to ensure an enjoyable and hassle-free experience.

First, confirm your meeting location and pickup time with the tour guide. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor components.

It’s also important to bring a valid ID if you plan to enjoy the alcoholic samples. Remember, the tour is only for those of legal drinking age.

Finally, be ready to learn about Chicago’s rich brewing history and discover some of the city’s finest craft breweries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I Have Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?

Travelers with dietary restrictions or allergies should contact the tour operator in advance. They’ll make reasonable accommodations, such as providing alternative beverages or directing you to restaurants that cater to your needs along the tour route.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Breweries?

Guests are not permitted to bring their own food or drinks into the breweries. The tour includes samples of alcoholic beverages, but outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are not allowed. Guests should plan to purchase any desired food or drinks at the brewery locations.

Is There a Bathroom Stop During the Tour?

The tour includes restroom breaks at the various brewery stops along the route. Participants can use the facilities at each location before continuing the walking tour. Bathroom access is provided throughout the experience.

Is the Tour Running in Inclement Weather?

The tour runs in inclement weather. According to the information provided, the tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller accessible, indicating it continues in various weather conditions. The tour guide will help navigate stops and public transportation as needed.

Can I Purchase Additional Beers at the End of the Tour?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional beers at the end of the tour at Cultivate by Forbidden Root. The tour includes alcoholic beverage samples, but participants are welcome to buy more drinks as they wish after the guided portion concludes.

Recap

The Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row offers a unique opportunity to take in Chicago’s rich brewing heritage. Visitors can explore renowned local breweries, sample innovative craft beers, and learn about the city’s vibrant beer culture. This engaging tour celebrates the craft beer renaissance while honoring the historical roots of brewing in Chicago, making it a must-visit experience for beer enthusiasts.