Travelers looking to combine a taste of Alaska’s local spirit scene with a fun, hands-on activity will find this Ketchikan Distillery Tour with Infusion Class to be a memorable highlight. For $161 per person, you’re treated to a two-hour journey into the art of distilling, all within the charming setting of a historic fire station in downtown Ketchikan. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience balances education, craft, and a bit of creativity, making it perfect for those curious about spirits or seeking a unique souvenir.
What we love about this tour is the opportunity to craft your own signature bottle, whether gin, vodka, whiskey, or agave spirits—plus, the chance to learn about the distillery’s local roots. The infused spirits you create and take home serve as a tangible memory of your trip, and the intimate setting allows for personal interaction and expert guidance.
One potential consideration is that this experience is not suitable for children or those under 21, limiting its appeal to adult travelers. Also, if you’re expecting a large, bustling tour, this might feel more personal and slower-paced, which is exactly what many will appreciate.
This tour is best suited for adults who enjoy hands-on activities, appreciate local craftsmanship, or want a lasting keepsake from Alaska. Whether you’re a spirit enthusiast or simply looking for an unusual activity, you’ll find this a fascinating, flavorful experience.
Key Points
- Hands-on infusion class: Craft your own spirit with botanicals, herbs, and spices.
- Historical setting: Tour a distillery located inside a historic fire station.
- Local spirits tasting: Sample house spirits while learning their stories.
- Custom labels: Design your own label to personalize your bottle.
- Duration & flexibility: Two hours, with morning and afternoon options, and flexible booking.
- Adult-only experience: Not suitable for children under 21 or babies.
A Closer Look at the Ketchikan Distillery Tour with Infusion Class
If you’re in Ketchikan and interested in spirits, this tour offers a rare chance to see a distillery in action while getting your hands dirty (or at least your hands infused). Set inside the charming, historic fire station building, Uncharted Alaska Distillery is where your adventure begins. The guides—likely locals or experts—walk you through the distilling process, helping you understand how local ingredients and craftsmanship come together to produce their spirits.
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The Setting: A Historic Fire Station
One of the first delights is the setting itself. Instead of a sterile, modern distillery, you’re exploring a place with character. The building’s history adds a layer of authenticity you won’t find in some commercial distilling tours. The guides often highlight this background, giving a sense of pride and tradition that permeates the experience.
The Tour: Learning the Process
The guided tour provides a clear, accessible explanation of how spirits are made—an informative component for anyone curious about the behind-the-scenes of alcohol production. We loved the way guides explained the distilling process without overwhelming us with technical jargon. Instead, they focused on storytelling and local connections, which made the experience more engaging.
The Infusion Class: Create Your Own Spirit
The heart of the experience lies in the infusion class, where you pick botanicals, herbs, and spices to flavor your alcohol. All ingredients are included, and you get to experiment with blending flavors to match your taste. This part is very interactive; guides are on hand to give suggestions, but you’re encouraged to be creative.
By the end, you’ll have a 375 ml bottle of your own infused spirit—a custom creation you designed yourself. You also get to create a personalized label, which adds a fun, DIY touch to your souvenir. Multiple reviews mention how satisfying it is to see your own label and to know you made it.
More Great Tours NearbyTasting & Education
Before the infusion, you’ll get to taste the house spirits—gin, vodka, whiskey, or agave—while hearing about the distillery’s history and its local sourcing. These tastings are relaxed and educational, often accompanied by stories that deepen your appreciation for the spirits.
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Value and Practicalities
At $161 per person, the tour is a fair value considering you leave with your own bottle and a comprehensive understanding of the distilling craft. The experience lasts about two hours, which is enough time to enjoy the tour, tasting, infusion, and labeling without feeling rushed.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in English, with flexible booking options allowing cancelation up to 24 hours in advance—handy if your plans change. It’s typically offered in both morning and afternoon slots, accommodating different schedules.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adults who enjoy DIY activities, local craftsmanship, or spirits tasting. It’s especially appealing for those wanting a personalized souvenir or a deeper understanding of Alaska’s craft distilling scene. If you’re traveling with a group of friends, there’s fun in sharing your custom spirits afterward. It’s less suited for children or non-drinkers, and those expecting a large group or a quick stop may find it more intimate and leisurely.
Why This Tour Stands Out
Unlike many tastings or scenic tours, this experience provides tangible, craft-based takeaway. The personalization of your own bottle and the chance to learn directly from knowledgeable guides make it a memorable part of any Ketchikan visit. The historic setting adds charm, making this more than just a tasting—it’s a craft adventure.
The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of all botanicals and spices means you can be as adventurous as you like. Plus, knowing you’ve crafted a one-of-a-kind spirit adds a layer of satisfaction that many travelers cherish.
Final Thoughts
The Ketchikan Distillery Tour with Infusion Class offers a delightful blend of education, creativity, and authentic local flavor. It’s a great pick for curious spirits lovers, craft enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a meaningful souvenir from their Alaska trip. The two-hour format strikes a good balance between being comprehensive yet relaxed, making it suitable even for those with tight schedules.
While it’s primarily an adult activity, it’s a perfect way to connect with Ketchikan’s local culture in a hands-on way. For those seeking a unique, memorable experience beyond the usual scenic or cultural tours, this craft distilling adventure will stand out.
If you value craftsmanship, personal touch, and learning about local products, you’ll likely find this tour to be a highlight of your visit.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this experience is only for travelers 21 years and older, as it involves alcohol.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately two hours, including the tour, tastings, infusion class, and label creation.
What do I take home?
You get a 375 ml bottle of your own infused spirit with a custom label that you design.
Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Are the ingredients included?
Yes, all botanicals, herbs, and spices needed to create your infusion are included.
Is the distillery accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
What spirits can I craft?
You can choose to craft gin, vodka, whiskey, or agave spirits.
Does the tour include a detailed explanation of distilling?
Yes, you’ll learn about the distilling process during the tour, guided by knowledgeable staff.
Can I do multiple infusions or just one?
The experience focuses on creating one signature infusion, but you may have options to experiment with flavors.
Is there a limit on the number of participants?
The description suggests a small group experience, providing personalized guidance.
In all, this distillery experience marries the charm of Ketchikan’s history with a creative, interactive activity. It’s a smart choice for those wanting to take home a piece of Alaska’s craft spirit scene, and an unusual twist on the typical shore excursion.
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