26-03-2025
After years of work, Old World Wisconsin is opening its historic tavern and beer garden this spring
An authentic 1930s tavern is making its way to Old World Wisconsin this spring, part of a years-long project to create a full immersive experience celebrating Wisconsin's brewing history.
Wittnebel's Tavern will open to the public on Saturday, May 17, about four years after it was transported from its original home in Old Ashippun, near Oconomowoc.
The tavern, which was founded in 1906 and operated by two generations of the Wittnebel family until 1987, has since been restored to how it looked post-prohibition, according to a March 24 press release.
Exterior renovations on the tavern wrapped up in June 2023, while interior renovations will be completed as it receives funding. The tavern still has some of its original elements, including its back bar, while others have been recreated, the release said.
Wittnebel's will have its flagship brew "Kettle Brau" on tap. The post-prohibition inspired lager was created in partnership with Mequon, Wisconsin-based Fox Town Brewery, according to the release.
The historic tavern will be accompanied by an outdoor beer garden.
Located in Eagle, Old World Wisconsin is owned and operated by the Wisconsin Historical Society. As part of its quest to create an immersive brewing experience, the 600-acre historical center also opened a brewhouse in June 2022.
Angela Titus, WHS assistant deputy director and chief program officer, said in the release the expansion is "bringing history to life in new and engaging ways," adding that attendees can experience Wisconsin's brewing history "from one era to the next."
Tickets for the grand opening weekend, which will include a ribbon cutting, live music, and more, can be purchased online. WHS members will receive free admission.
You can visit Old World Wisconsin's website for more information.
Jim Riccioli and Jordyn Noennig contributed to this report.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Old World Wisconsin to open Wittnebel's Tavern this spring
