Sugar River Valley Beer Tour

A Wisconsin staple you can't miss. Visit New Glarus Brewing, quite possibly the most popular brewery in all of Wisconsin right in the heart of the Sugar River Valley.

Head there for a tour and tasting on weekdays before 6pm, which includes a tasting in their taproom and a self-guided tour of the brewery. After, hang out on the patio that gives you a scenic, aerial overlook of the Sugar River Valley (an amazing place to catch fall color, if you ask us)!

Spotted Cow is a true fan favorite in all of the Midwest – but we like Two Women and Moon Man too. PS: You can only buy New Glarus Beer in Wisconsin, so don't miss out and pick up a pack (or two) to go.

Belly up to the bar at Puempel's Olde Tavern – and experience New Glarus the way the true way (the Swiss way).

Puempel's Olde Tavern (pronounced “pimples”) is an old-time tavern that's oozing with Swiss heritage. It's welcomed travelers and locals as a watering hole since 1893, and they serve up local beers on tap from breweries around the Sugar River Valley region.

You also won't want to miss out on trying Puempel's traditional Midwest ham salad and a cheese flight (like a wine flight… but cheese).

Extend your Swiss explorations with a visit to the Glarner Stube (pronounced "schtoo-beh"), a local favorite for genuine regional fare. While you wait for a table at this bustling spot, sip on a sweet brandy old fashioned or grab a local beer – they feature several nearby breweries on tap as well as German and Swiss imports.

When it's time to eat, don't miss the Kalberwurst, a delicate veal sausage that's a specialty of both this area and its namesake town in Switzerland, or a variety of hearty favorites like cheese fondue, sausages, schnitzels, rösti (Swiss-style shredded and fried potatoes), and more.

Dirty Dog Taphaus is New Glarus’ (and the Sugar River Valley's) first self-pour taproom. You can be your own bartender – serving yourself from the taproom's 30-tap draft beverage system.

Try local favs like drafts of New Glarus Brewing Company beers or sip on rotating regional craft beers, ciders, and seltzers. Outside you'll find of dog-friendly patio (of course) and can order from a menu of traditional pub fare that includes cheese curds, warm pretzels, brats, and pizza.

You can also bring in food from neighboring eateries like Puempel’s Olde Tavern and Glarner Stube.

Not into beer? That's okay! The Sugar River Valley is also known for its expansive wine scene as well.

Bailey's Run Vineyard & Winery just outside of New Glarus is a must-stop wine experience for its amazing outdoor space, huge wine tasting room, and on-site distillery, the Whiskey Run Distilling Co..

Between both establishments 7ou'll find a variety of food – like cheese boards, wings, and burgers – and Live music outside during warm months of the year.

You can BYO(Dog) too!

Lawn seating, live music, great beer... what else do you need?! The Hop Garden Paoli is truly unique for it's expansive beer garden, on-site tap room, and plethora of food options. You can catch Live music throughout the weekends in the warm months. Just make sure to BYO(Lawn Chair) – and you can bring your own food too if you'd like.

Start your tour at Lake Louie Brewing, formerly Wisconsin Brewing Company, just outside Verona. Come when it's warm and enjoy their dog-friendly patio or relax by their outdoor fire pits in the chilly months. You won't regret the trip to soak in the view of the pond from the patio.

Favorites on tap include their full-bodied and perfectly sweet Warped Speed Scotch Ale and the light and crisp Li'l Louie American lager!

You'll find great beer in the heart of downtown Verona at Hop House Brewing, a local brew pub focused on flavorful IPAs and strong Belgians. But don't worry, they have a variety for everyone!

Stop in for Tuesday Trivia or Live music on Thursday nights. The Freeman Brothers BBQ Truck frequently serves up its delicious 'cue on various Friday nights.

For food, you'll love their Wisconsin-inspired menu featuring cheese curds, mac & cheese bites, chicken tenders, and other appetizers. For beer, don't miss out on tasting favorites like the Hashtag Hazy and crushable Yardwork IPA.

The Grumpy Troll Brewpub in downtown Mount Horeb is a staple for stellar pours of craft beer and savory food that's locally-sourced too.

The Grumpy Troll Brewery whips up award-winning, handcrafted ales and lagers are brewed on-site daily as well as food that the whole family will love. If you can't choose just one of their beers, they serve flights so you can taste several. They also offer growlers and bottles to go – sold directly out of their taproom.

Bonus: While in town, go on the Trollway Tour too (there are 36 to find!).

While in Mt. Horeb, also make a stop-over at Brix Cider for some artisanal hard cider. Hang out on the patio in the warm months or cozy up inside during the winter time. Their taproom also serves up Farm-to-Table food sourced from local farms.

Brix's ciders are made from 100% locally grown apples and fruit. Don't miss out on one of the taproom favorites, the honey-forward Troll Juice, and you can also grab a flight of 4 ciders to try before you buy.

Most of our Brix Cider ciders are dry (because that’s the way they like them) but they do offer some off-dry and semi-sweet options too.