Jacksonville is home to one of the many breweries of the ever popular Budweiser Beer. A Bavarian brewery was established here in 1852 by George Schneider, and later acquired by Eberhard Anheuser. Anheuser's son-in-law, Adolphus Busch, later joined the business forming the Anheuser-Busch Company, as it is known today.
By 1901 one million barrels were produced annually at the brewery. During the 13-year period of National Prohibition the brewery was forced to diversify creating a range of non-alcohol products such as ice cream, root beer, and chocolate and grape-flavored drinks. Today the brewery produces two of the world's best-selling beers, the global brands of Budweiser and Bud Light.
Free guided tours of the brewery are available. The tour starts with a video presentation of the production of Budweiser, followed by a history of the immigrant families that started the company. The tour continues around the massive vats used for the fermentation process, where you can learn about the quality control process employed by the brewery. You can also view a collection of past advertisements for Budweiser, and find out why the Clydesdale horses became connected with the Budweiser label.
The 30 minute-tour ends in the hospitality room where you can enjoy a couple of complimentary drinks, and relax with a game of pool. There is also a gift shop selling branded clothing, glassware and other merchandise, and a replica of a Clydesdale horse for photo opportunities. The brewery is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10.00am — 4.00pm.
