Brewery Tour

Brewery Tour in Ontario: A Closer Look at Lake of the Woods Brewing Company

If you’re curious about how craft beer gets from the tanks to your glass, or simply want to enjoy a unique peek into Ontario’s brewing scene, this Brewery Tour at Lake of the Woods Brewing Company might be just what you’re after. While we haven’t done the tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty appealing picture. It’s a relatively short, 45-minute adventure that offers a mix of learning, tasting, and a bit of history in Kenora.

What really catches the eye about this experience is its personalized, private tour setup—only your group will be involved, which means less waiting and more tailored attention. Plus, the chance to sample beer directly from the tanks is pretty special. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite brief, so if you’re looking for an in-depth brewery experience, you might find this more of a quick highlight than a full immersion.

This tour suits those who enjoy beer, local history, and a relaxed, informal vibe. It’s a good pick for travelers wanting a taste of Canada’s craft beer scene with a side of Kenora charm. For anyone with an interest in heritage buildings and the art of brewing, this outing offers genuine value.

Key Points

• Exclusive experience with only your group participating.
• Tasting directly from brewery tanks provides a unique flavor experience.
• Learn about beer ingredients—water, malt, yeast, and hops—and the brewing process.
• Visit a heritage building with historic significance in Kenora.
• Engages all the senses — from ringing the fire bell to sampling fresh beer.
• Affordable price point of around $24 per person makes it accessible.

What to Expect at the Lake of the Woods Brewing Company Tour

This brewery tour is designed to be straightforward but engaging. For roughly 45 minutes, you’ll step into Ontario’s northernmost brewery, located in a building that’s steeped in local history. The heritage of the place adds an extra layer of interest, making it more than just a beer tasting; it’s about appreciating the community’s brewing story.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Lake of the Woods Brewing Company
The tour begins at their main location on 2nd Street South in Kenora. Here, you’ll meet your guide—who, based on reviews, is very knowledgeable and makes you feel welcome. The focus is on educating you about the art of brewing craft beer in Ontario, with a particular emphasis on how they craft their beer using just four ingredients—water, malt, yeast, and hops. This simplicity is a great feature, showing how high-quality beer doesn’t necessarily require complex recipes.

Heritage Building & Fire Bell
One of the highlights is exploring the historic building. It’s an old fire hall, and part of the fun is ringing the bell—something that adds a tactile, memorable element to the experience. This detail, often appreciated by visitors, connects the brewing to Kenora’s local history.

Sampling from the Tanks
The pièce de résistance is tasting beer directly from the tanks. This gives a fresh, vibrant flavor that you simply can’t get from bottles or cans. It’s a rare opportunity to see firsthand how beer is poured straight from the production line, giving insight into the quality and freshness of craft beer.

End of the Tour
After sampling, the tour wraps up back at the starting point. The entire experience is designed to be casual but informative, lasting around 45 minutes, which is perfect if you’re looking for a quick, engaging activity that doesn’t eat up your whole afternoon.

The Experience in Practice

Reading reviews of the tour, it’s clear that visitors find good value for the money. One reviewer mentioned that the owner’s knowledge made the experience even better, highlighting a personal touch that elevates the visit beyond just a tasting. They also appreciated the locally sourced ingredients at the brewery’s restaurant, which suggests a broader commitment to quality and community.

The private nature of the tour means your group gets undivided attention, making it more interactive and personalized. Plus, the fact that service animals are allowed shows a welcoming atmosphere that accommodates different needs. The tour also starts at 2:00 p.m., giving you plenty of time to plan your afternoon in Kenora.

What’s Noteworthy:

• The price of $23.70 per person is quite reasonable, especially considering the exclusive private tour and the beer tasting from the tanks.
• The 45-minute duration means it’s a quick stop, ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or want a taste of local craft brewing without a lengthy commitment.
• The tour is accessible for most travelers, with near public transportation options, though you should confirm accessibility if needed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for beer lovers wanting to get a behind-the-scenes look at craft brewing. It’s also suited for those interested in local history and heritage buildings, as the old fire hall adds character. If you enjoy hands-on experiences like ringing a fire bell and sampling fresh beer, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s a relaxed, informal outing that doesn’t require any prior knowledge or skill—just a curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Though not specifically aimed at families or children, the tour might still appeal to those traveling with older kids interested in beer-making or history. It’s an activity best enjoyed by adults, especially since it involves alcohol tasting.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just under $25, this brewery tour offers a unique glimpse into Ontario’s craft beer scene in a historic setting. The fact that you get to sample beer straight from the tanks really enhances the experience, making it more authentic and memorable. The personal, private aspect of the tour ensures a relaxed atmosphere where questions are welcomed, and you can really take in the story behind the brewery.

While it’s a relatively short experience, the quality of the guide and the intimate setting make it well worth the time for those interested in beer, history, or local culture. If you’re after a fun, straightforward activity that combines education, flavor, and a touch of Kenora charm, this is a solid pick.

FAQ

How long does the brewery tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick but engaging activity.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewery, learn about brewing with four ingredients, explore the historic building, ring the fire bell, and sample beer directly from the tanks.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 40 days in advance, especially during peak times, and confirmation is received at booking.

Is this experience suitable for children?
This tour involves alcohol tasting, so it’s primarily aimed at adults. Children could enjoy the historic building and the bell-ringing but wouldn’t partake in the tasting.

What is the price?
The tour costs around $23.70 per person, offering good value considering the private experience and tasting opportunity.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted at the brewery.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at Lake of the Woods Brewing Company, located at 350 2nd St S, Kenora, ON. It’s near public transportation, but check locally for accessibility options.

If you’re in Kenora and looking for a fun, informative activity that offers a real taste of local brewing, this private brewery tour is worth considering. It strikes a good balance between learning and leisure, with the bonus of tasting fresh beer in a historic setting.