Illinois Distilleries

If you’ve just arrived in “The Prairie State,” or this is the state you call home, you might be wondering what Illinois distilleries have to offer. Luckily, Illinois is a vibrant, active distilling scene – especially with Chicago at the heart of this amazing lakeside state. You’ll find dedicated, passionate distillers operating some of the greatest distilleries in the country here; and they’re open to visitors!

If you fly into O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, you’ll be close to seven of the Illinois distilleries on your list. Depending on where you stay, eight more distilleries are within an hour’s drive or train ride from you – Wheeling, Highwood, and Evanston to the north; Geneva to the west; Riverside just outside of Metro Chicago; and Alsip and Thornton to the south.

Make sure to make use of the buses, trains, and subways in Chicago – they can save you a lot of money on a rental car and are often more efficient than driving through the city. While you’re in Chicago, we encourage you not to miss out on some amazing sights: the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the Lincoln Park Zoo!

Once you’ve stopped in at all of the Illinois distilleries in and around Chicago, the real journey begins. After all, you’ve only seen fifteen of this amazing state’s forty-plus distilleries! We recommend that you take a look at what the rest of Illinois has to offer – then build an itinerary based on how far you want to drive in a day. 

If you only have time for a single road trip while you’re visiting Illinois distilleries, we highly recommend Balum Bros. Distilling Co. in Galena – a three-hour drive outside of Chicago.

Regardless, we recommend you take your time and enjoy all that “The Windy City” and the rest of this great state have to offer!

Illinois Liquor Laws & Regulations

Illinois Craft Distillers Association

11 Must-Visit Distilleries in Illinois

Raise Your Spirts by Visiting These 6 Chicago Distilleries