Beer & Brewing
Tap into Wisconsin’s Brewing History
Travel back in time and experience the rich history of Wisconsin’s brewing heritage at Old World Wisconsin’s Beer & Brewing area. Discover how the tavern, a beloved centerpiece of local culture, shaped the social fabric of the community. Explore the vibrant tradition of beer gardens, where generations gathered to connect, share stories, celebrate—and of course, sip! Experience firsthand how brewers from generations past perfected their craft and engage with our beermakers as they take you through the historic brewing process from kettle to pint.
NEW
Wittnebel’s Tavern
Raise your glass & relive the past at our new historic tavern
Step into a piece of history at the newly restored Wittnebel’s Tavern, originally opened by the Wittnebel family in the early 1900s. For over 80 years, this beloved gathering spot was a staple in the Old Ashippun community and now it’s making a historic return at Old World Wisconsin. Meticulously restored to transport you back to the lively post-Prohibition 1930s, the tavern is a true time capsule. From its original 13.5-foot bar worn by generations of tavern-goers to the retro checkerboard floors, every detail captures the spirit of a bygone era. Relive the past as you sip an exclusive Old World Wisconsin brew while bartenders decked out in Depression-era attire serve up nostalgia. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind immersive experience!
Old World Beer & Brewing
Explore Wittnebel’s Tavern, Biergarten and other activities!
The Brewhouse
Discover Wisconsin’s rich brewing heritage
Welcome to the heart of the brewing process! In the Brewing Experience, presented by the Cleary-Kumm Family, our historic brewers guide you through every step of beermaking the way it used to be, using traditional ingredients — some grown in the gardens on site! You’ll feel the heat of the kettle, breathe in the rich aromas as the beer brews over an open fire, and watch as authentic period recipes are crafted right before your eyes. Engage with our brewers, roll up your sleeves and join in hands-on activities, and sample our historic brews as part of this trip through Wisconsin’s brewing legacy.
Hands-On History Workshop:
Ales & Lagers
Thursday, July 10 | 10AM – 3PM
Strap in and get ready for a hoppin’ good time! Join us at Old World Wisconsin for an interactive workshop where you’ll work firsthand to brew your very own beer. Together, we’ll heat up copper kettles and mix up fresh ingredients to create a brew straight out of the 1860s—the type of beer commonly found on early Wisconsin farms.
Old World’s new beer and brewing experiences bring the sights, smells, tastes and history of Wisconsin’s rich taphouse culture to life.
NEW
The Beirgarten
Relax and enjoy a taste of Wisconsin
Biergartens, or beer gardens, have long been known as vibrant spaces for community gathering and social connection. A modern space with historic German influences adjacent to Wittnebel’s Tavern, our new outdoor Biergarten is the perfect place to sit back and take in the beautiful Kettle Moraine landscape while enjoying Wisconsin-made beers and non-alcoholic beverages.
Wisconsin’s Flavorful Ingredients
A good beer starts with good ingredients! Walk through a garden of all the materials and flavors that come together to make the perfect pint.
See how these crops are planted, grown, and harvested, and explore how slight modifications in the combination of just a few ingredients can drastically alter a beer’s look and taste.
Support the New Arrivals Campaign
There’s more in store for Old World Wisconsin! The New Arrivals Campaign will help improve guests’ first moments at Old World Wisconsin with a new Guest Services Center, amenities and other site improvements. Give today to support even more unforgettable moments with history at Old World Wisconsin! Learn how your gift can support this project.
