Lake Winnebago breweries are at the heart of Wisconsin’s legendary brewing culture. This scenic region offers more than just stunning lakeside views—it’s a powerhouse of craft beer and local wine destinations. From crisp lagers served dockside to bold reds sipped in rustic vineyards, every corner around Lake Winnebago delivers unique Midwest flavor. Whether traveling by car, kayak, or bike, exploring the area’s breweries and wineries promises an unforgettable tasting adventure.
Breweries in Fond du Lac: The Southern Gateway to Flavor
At Lake Winnebago’s southern tip, Fond du Lac offers a welcoming start for beer lovers and families alike. This historic town blends lakeside charm with a lively craft beverage scene.
Stone Arch Tied House leads the way among local favorites. As a satellite taproom of the renowned Stone Arch Brewpub in Appleton, its cozy setting inside a century-old lakeside building sets the mood for enjoying small-batch brews and hearty Midwest cuisine. Events like trivia nights add to the fun.
Another can’t-miss stop is The Cellar District. Housed in a revitalized warehouse, this spot operates as both microbrewery and vibrant gastropub. Their rotating tap list features in-house brews and guest favorites, all paired with unique dishes created using regional ingredients. Grab a seat on the summer patio for a perfect mix of sunshine and suds.
Families can make a full day of it by visiting Lakeside Park and the Children’s Museum of Fond du Lac—perfect bookends to any brewery hop.
Appleton and the Fox Cities: Craft Beer Meets Urban Energy
Moving northward, Appleton buzzes with creative energy—and that spirit pours directly into its breweries. Conveniently located near the eastern edge of Lake Winnebago, this city blends arts, culture, and an ever-growing lineup of craft beer spots.
Stop by McFleshman’s Brewing Co., a standout among Lake Winnebago breweries specializing in traditional English-style ales. Their historic downtown taproom features real cask ales, European-style lagers, and a dog-friendly beer garden complete with weekend live music.
Don’t miss Stone Arch Brewpub either. Located in the historic Between the Locks building, it’s one of Wisconsin’s oldest continually operating breweries. Go underground into their basement taproom to enjoy their famous Scottish Ale or seasonal specialties amid a unique atmosphere.
Outdoor lovers can hop on the Fox River Trail, which winds through neighborhoods like Little Chute and Kimberly—perfect for pairing fresh air with fresh pours.
Hidden Gems on Lake Winnebago’s Eastern Shore
For those seeking intimate taprooms and countryside charm, head east. Small towns like Chilton, Hilbert, and Malone host some of the most underrated Lake Winnebago breweries and wineries.
Rowland’s Calumet Brewing Company in Chilton evokes the heart of German brewing tradition. They’ve crafted classic beers since the 1990s, with the fan-favorite Hefeweizen—full of banana and clove aromas—earning widespread praise. Enjoy a pint on their porch after exploring nearby Ledge View Nature Center.
Nearby in Malone, Ziegler Winery offers a boutique wine-tasting experience among rolling hills and farmland. Their estate-grown varietals like Marquette and Frontenac reflect Wisconsin’s unique terroir, best savored on a rustic patio during sunset. The winery frequently hosts live music, food vendors, and lawn games for all ages.
Wineries of the Western Shore: A Vineyard Lover’s Escape
Lake Winnebago’s west side is wine country at its finest. Here, glacier-sculpted soils and cool summer nights create ideal conditions for cold-climate grapes.
Vines & Rushes Winery in Ripon is a must-visit spot. This family-owned vineyard sets the bar high with award-winning wines like their signature Frontenac Gris. Fridays bring wood-fired pizza nights and live acoustic music—the perfect pairing for a summer evening.
Further south, just outside Oshkosh, Rushford Meadery & Winery specializes in honey and fruit wines. Tours and tastings take place inside a restored barn, offering meads infused with elderberry or spiced apple. Time your visit with the spring bloom for orchard tours and photo-worthy views.
Back in Oshkosh, Fifth Ward Brewing Company puts an innovative spin on local beer. Their rotating lineup includes inventive options like cucumber-mint goses and tropical milkshake IPAs. With patio seating, food truck collaborations, and easy proximity to the Oshkosh Riverwalk, it’s a social hotspot year-round.
Breweries with Heart: Community-Focused Taprooms
Lake Winnebago breweries are more than just producers—they’re community hubs. Their relaxed, family- and dog-friendly atmospheres make for inclusive, memory-filled experiences.
Bare Bones Brewery in Oshkosh champions community engagement with weekly events like craft fairs, dog adoption days, and fundraisers. Their flagship IPA, Dog Daze, honors their pet-friendly mission. They even have an on-site dog park where pups can play while you sip.
In nearby Menasha, Emprize Brew Mill brings together bold brewing and social spirit. Founded by a veteran, this microbrewery leans into creative styles—think smoky porters, punchy double IPAs, and one-off releases. Weekly events such as art showcases and book clubs keep the taproom lively and welcoming.
No matter where you explore, Lake Winnebago breweries are warm spaces built on passion and pride. They invite newcomers and locals alike to connect over a pint and feel right at home.
Insider Tips for Lake Winnebago Brewery and Winery Adventures
Ready to plan the ultimate tasting tour around Lake Winnebago? Here are a few must-know strategies to enhance your experience:
- Grab a Beer & Wine Passport: Local tourism boards offer stamp-style passports for Lake Winnebago breweries and wineries. Collect enough stamps to earn rewards like free merch or tastings.
- Pedal the Oshkosh Riverwalk: Enjoy water views and vibrant murals while biking between local favorites like Bare Bones and Fifth Ward Brewing.
- Mark Your Calendar for Events: Attend signature festivals such as Fond du Lac Brew Fest each February or Appleton’s Octoberfest for autumn beers with local flair.
- Think Seasonally: Summer is ideal for patios and picnics, while winter brings rich brews served fireside in cozy taprooms.
- Add Outdoor Activities: Explore High Cliff State Park, kayak from Lakeside Park Marina, or hike scenic trails before treating yourself to a tasting flight.
Whether you’re in it for the hops, the grapes, or the lakeside vibe, Lake Winnebago breweries deliver exceptional experiences. Each taproom and vineyard invites you to connect with local flavors and friendly faces. So raise a glass, explore the trail, and discover why this corner of Wisconsin is a true brew and wine destination.
