Exploring Lake of the Woods Brewing Company: A Craft Beer Tour in Northern Ontario
When it comes to experiencing local flavors and learning about brewing, a brewery tour offers a wonderful blend of education and enjoyment. This particular tour at Lake of the Woods Brewing Company in Kenora, Ontario, offers a unique peek into the world of craft beer in a striking northern setting.
While we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a promising picture for anyone interested in beer, history, or just a good local story.
What we love about this experience? First, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at a small, heritage brewery—not just the tasting room but the actual brewing process, including sampling beer directly from tanks. Second, the chance to ring the old fire hall bell adds a bit of local charm and history to the visit.
The biggest consideration might be the relatively short duration—just 45 minutes—which means it’s a quick, focused tour rather than a full-day adventure.
This tour is ideal for beer enthusiasts, those curious about craft brewing, or travelers who want a local, authentic experience in Kenora. If you’re seeking a laid-back, educational outing that offers good value for money, this visit likely won’t disappoint.
This experience made our article of 3 Of The Best Brewery Tours In Ontario.
Key Points
- Unique behind-the-scenes access to a Northern Ontario brewery.
- Sample beer straight from the tanks, experiencing fresh craft brews.
- Historic building and fire hall bell add a local touch.
- Affordable price point at just over $23 per person for a 45-minute tour.
- Private tour ensures a personalized experience.
- Easy to book—most travelers book about 40 days in advance.
👉 See our pick of the 15 Must-Try Tours & Things To Do In Ontario
The Experience: What You Can Expect
The Lake of the Woods Brewing Company boasts the title of Ontario’s northernmost brewery, making it a noteworthy stop for those exploring Canada’s vast landscape. The tour starts at the brewery’s heritage building, which is itself a piece of local history. During the visit, you’ll learn about how they craft beer using just four ingredients: water, malt, yeast, and hops—a simple formula that highlights the artistry behind brewing.
The 45-minute tour is concise but packed with interesting insights. Your guide, who is praised for their knowledgeable and friendly manner, will walk you through the brewing process, explaining how each ingredient influences the final product. You’ll get to taste beers directly from the tanks, which is quite a treat for beer lovers—freshness matters, and nothing beats sampling beer not yet bottled or canned.
A highlight for many visitors is ringing the fire hall bell—a fun, memorable moment that ties the brewery’s history to the community. The building itself, once a fire hall, adds an authentic local flavor, and the tour’s setting in such a historic structure lends a sense of continuity between past and present.
You can also read our reviews of more drinking tours in Ontario
The Value of the Tour
At $23.70 per person, the tour offers excellent value. It’s a focused experience that delivers education and entertainment without a hefty price tag. Most travelers find it well worth the cost, especially because it’s a private tour, meaning you and your group get personalized attention.
Booking about 40 days in advance indicates it’s popular enough that planning ahead is a good idea. The location near public transportation makes it accessible for visitors staying in Kenora or passing through, though most will want to confirm transportation options before arriving.
The Setting and Atmosphere
The brewery’s historic building creates a welcoming, small-town atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel part of a local story—crafting beer in a place that has witnessed Kenora’s growth over the years. The fire hall bell adds an element of local pride, and many reviewers mention the warm welcome and knowledgeable staff.
Given the tour’s limited duration, it’s best suited for those who prefer concise, engaging experiences. If you’re curious about craft beer but not necessarily looking for a lengthy tour or tasting session, this fits perfectly.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Reserve early: Most bookings are made about 40 days in advance, and spots are private, so plan ahead.
- Arrive promptly at 2:00 pm for the start; late arrivals might miss part of the experience.
- Wear comfortable clothing—you’ll be inside a historic building, but it might not be temperature-controlled.
- Bring a sense of curiosity and enjoy the chance to ask questions—guides are praised for their knowledge.
- Participate in the bell ringing—a fun way to engage with the local history.
- Sample the tanks’ beer carefully—they’re fresh and potent.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, this tour offers a genuine look at a small-scale brewery in a picturesque northern setting. It’s also great for travelers who enjoy learning about local history and community stories, as the heritage building and fire hall bell add local flavor.
It’s perfect for those seeking an affordable, short, and meaningful experience—not a commercialized, tourist-heavy attraction but something with authenticity. Families with older children, couples, or even solo travelers will find it a worthwhile stop.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ontario
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. For just over $23, you get a focused, personal glimpse into Ontario’s craft beer scene, combined with the chance to enjoy a bit of local history. The small size and private nature of the tour ensure you won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed, and the knowledgeable guides help demystify the brewing process.
This experience rewards those looking for authenticity over extravagance. It’s especially suitable if you’re visiting Kenora or exploring Ontario’s north and want to squeeze in a memorable, educational activity that’s a little different from typical sightseeing.
In short, if craft beer or local history appeals to you, this brewery tour delivers good value, friendly atmosphere, and a taste of Ontario’s northern character.
Brewery Tour
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, offering a compact but engaging experience.
What is included in the tour?
You will visit the brewery’s heritage building, learn about the brewing process, sample beer directly from tanks, and ring the old fire hall bell.
Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.
How much does the tour cost?
The price is $23.70 per person, which many reviewers find to be excellent value considering the experience offered.
Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 40 days before their planned visit, as it’s a popular and private activity with limited spots.
Is transportation provided?
Transportation is not included, but the meeting point is near public transportation options in Kenora.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted to join the tour.
To sum it up, this brewery tour at Lake of the Woods Brewing Company offers a well-balanced, authentic look at Ontario’s craft beer scene with a dash of local history. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a brief but meaningful experience that combines education, taste, and community charm—all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just curious about brewing, this visit makes for a memorable, value-packed stop in Kenora.
