Behind the Scenes

Behind the Scenes

Ever wonder what goes into making some of those famous products Milwaukee is known for? Well, here's your chance. Tour the factories that turn out some of the best known goods in the country.

It's Miller Time! Head over to Milwaukee's famous Miller Brewing Companyfor a free, guided walking tour. Travel back in time to the days when beer was delivered by way of horse-drawn wagon and caves were used to cool the "wort" during the fermentation process. Fast forward to the present day and get a look at the high-tech brewhouse and packaging center used in today's production of over 50 brands of beer. Taste some of these beers at the conclusion of your tour. Complimentary beverages are served at the historic Miller Inn or beer garden. Soda is provided for guests under 21. Cap off your visit with a stop at Miller's Girl in the Moon gift shop.

With malt beverages in mind, head over to the Old German Beer Hall for lunch. Modeled in the spirit of the Hofbrauhaus Munchen, originally commissioned in Munich by Duke Wilhelm V in 1589, Milwaukee's Old German Beer Hall offers a glimpse of Bavarian culture and social life. Munch on traditional German festival food, including sausages and beer radish, while sipping beer brewed in Munich according to the over 400-year-old Bavarian purity law.

Save room for dessert because we've got someplace sure to satisfy even the strongest sweet tooth. Prefer to top your meal off with something salty, not a problem! Stop by Quality Candy/Buddy Squirrel for a state-of-the-art kitchen tour that will show you how award-winning confections and fabulous roasted nuts and gourmet popcorn are made. This may be the most taste tempting tour you may ever take.

See how the Harley-Davidson gets it rumble! Visit Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations where you can view the assembly process of engines and transmissions from start to finish. Walk the factory floor where you'll watch Sportster and Buell powertrains take shape on the assembly line and see engines hot-tested to ensure they meet the strict Harley-Davidson standards. You'll be guided through the Genuine Motor Parts and Screamin' Eagle manufacturing process and stop in the Engine Remanufacturing Department. You'll even get the chance to see how it feels to sit atop the finished product! For those who want to take a piece of this Milwaukee institution home with them, there is a gift shop that features tour-related merchandise.

Spend your evening onboard the Edelweiss for a relaxing dinner cruise. Take in the great views of downtown while traveling the Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan.