Will be visiting Chicago later this month (Saturday, Sept 15th to Wednesday, Sept. 19th). Will be staying in the Oak Park area and will have a rental car. Wondering if anyone knows of any Beer events/Oktoberfest events that will be going on during this time. We have a pretty good idea of specific breweries to hit, but was hoping someone could point out a few areas where we could park & hit a few breweries within walking distance. I have already come up with: (Forbidden Root-On Tour-Goose Island-Finch-All Rise Brewing). Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Finally, not into IPAs, more into red ales, wit, belgium, oktoberfest styles. Particularly fond of "smoked" beers. Sorry this is a bit long winded, but seems to be endless possibilities in the Chicagoland area. CHEERS!!
You're in luck, there is a good thread with Chicago recs here https://www.beeradvocate.com/commun...nd-resource-thread-autumn-winter-2018.586964/ The 3rd post has a rec which might be up your alley. Good luck.
If you like smoked beer, I would recommend Dovetail's Rauchbier. It's not as smoky as some, but it's quite delicious, beautifully balanced. Like most Dovetail offerings. I see that Old_Irving_Brewery is currently pouring both a Belgian Tripel and a Dubbel. And the food at Old Irving is very good.
I'd recommend taking the Green Line L train to Ashland, taking an Uber to FR, then working your way back down to the train. The route is about 2 miles through a mostly industrial corridor, though it's easy enough to Uber from stop to stop if the surroundings make you or your companions feel uneasy. Also, Great Central is there if you're in the area anyway (though it's only 1/2 or full pints).
Pipeworks just distro’d their first ever Oktoberfest, FYI Also - check here for events a couple days beforehand: http://www.chicagonow.com/the-beeronaut
It's 95% smoked malt! (But thank you, the balance comes from the hopping) We also have our oak-smoked wheat beer on right now, and our Märzen-style. Alas, our Oktoberfest party isn't until October 6 & 7, but we're in the spirit in the taproom. Come visit us and then have a German meal at Laschet's, a nice walk from the brewery! (Also, arguably, the best place to drink Oktoberfests in the city)
