Planning your visit? Here’s everything you need to know about Barnstormer Distillery.
Still have questions? Call us at (815) 269-4069 or email marketing@barnstormerdistillery.com
Planning Your Visit
What are your hours?
Hours:
- Friday 3-8pm (Food 4-7pm)
- Saturday 11am-8pm (Food 12-7pm)
- Sunday 11am-5pm (Food 11-4:30pm)
Weekend food service by The Brasserie at Barnstormer
Where are you located and how do I find you?
6969 South Main Street, Rockford, IL
Take our quarter-mile gravel road to the aircraft hangar at the top of the hill. GPS might get confused, but don’t worry – you’re going the right way! Look for the hangar.
Do I need a reservation?
Walk-ins are always welcome! However, we recommend calling ahead for groups of 8 or more to guarantee seating. Call (815) 269-4069 to reserve your spot.
Is there a cover charge or tasting fee?
No cover charge! You simply pay for the cocktails and spirits you order. Our bartenders are happy to help you explore our 20+ handcrafted spirits.
Can I buy bottles to take home?
Yes! We sell bottles of our spirits at the distillery. Many of the spirits we produce can only be found for sale at the Hangar. Since we can only sell what we produce on-site, you’ll find unique spirits you can’t get anywhere else.
Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, we accept all major credit cards as well as cash.
Food & Drinks
What about food?
The Brasserie serves farm-fresh dishes on weekends that pair perfectly with our spirits. Chef Tim’s weekly specials and towering smash burgers are customer favorites!
To ensure the best experience, we ask that you don’t bring outside food or beverages without prior approval. Come taste what our kitchen has to offer!
Do you serve beer and wine?
Not yet! Current Illinois law doesn’t allow craft distilleries to sell beer and wine. However, new legislation has passed and will take effect in July or August 2025, at which point we’ll be able to offer beer and wine alongside our handcrafted spirits.
In the meantime, you can enjoy our 20+ award-winning spirits and Addie’s craft cocktails!
What kind of spirits do you make?
We create 20+ handcrafted spirits including whiskeys, vodkas, gins, and experimental creations you won’t find anywhere else. Master Distiller Tim isn’t afraid to break tradition – from Corn/Pear Whiskey to shelf-stable Cucumber Vodka.
Do you make cocktails?
Absolutely! Master Mixologist Addie creates personalized cocktail journeys using only our handcrafted spirits. Tell her your preferences and she’ll craft something perfect for your palate – or surprise you with something adventurous.
Family & Pets
Are children welcome?
Yes! We’re family-friendly with bag toss and a variety of indoor and outdoor games. Children are welcome throughout the property under proper supervision.
Please note: We’re a working farm with gravel parking, uneven ground, outdoor areas, and farm features. We recommend proper walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Our restrooms don’t currently have changing tables.
Important: If exploring our wooded areas, please stay on marked trails to avoid poison ivy.
As long as guests are respectful of others and the grounds, kids are free to enjoy our non-posted areas!
Can I bring my dog?
We love dogs! They’re welcome in our outdoor grass areas anytime. For everyone’s safety, we require:
- All dogs must be on a leash
- Owners must clean up after their pets (we have bags available behind the bar)
- Dogs must be friendly with children and other animals
Please note: Dogs are not allowed inside the Distillery or Hangar, but they’re welcome throughout our outdoor property. We have water dishes and usually have treats on hand!
We have resident animals and lots of wildlife on the property, so please keep your pup leashed for their safety.
Groups & Events
Can you accommodate large groups?
Groups of 8+? Yes! We recommend calling ahead at (815) 269-4069 to reserve seating and ensure we can accommodate your party.
Groups of 15-100? Our Hangar and Event Spaces are available for private events and tours by appointment. During summer and music nights, we offer:
- Tented Area – Accommodates up to 50 people under cover
- VIP Gazebo with Fire Pit – Accommodates up to 15 people in an intimate setting
Perfect for corporate gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions.
Contact us for private event details →
Do you offer tours?
Yes! We offer tours of our distillery and 22-acre farm where we grow some of our ingredients.
Can I host a private event at Barnstormer?
Absolutely! Our unique aircraft hangar setting and outdoor spaces are perfect for:
- Corporate events & team building
- Birthday parties & celebrations
- Rehearsal dinners & wedding events
- Private tastings
Available event spaces:
- Hangar – Indoor space with unique aircraft hangar atmosphere
- Tented Area – Up to 50 people under cover (summer/music nights)
- VIP Gazebo with Fire Pit – Up to 15 people in an intimate setting
Call (815) 269-4069 or email marketing@barnstormerdistillery.com for availability and pricing.
About Our Spirits
What makes your spirits different?
We throw out the rulebook! Master Distiller Tim uses 95% local grain from within 20 miles and creates spirits using taste, smell, and touch – not computers. Our “cold distillation” process creates shelf-stable flavored spirits that taste as fresh as the day they were made.
Do you have seasonal specials?
Yes! Tim is always experimenting with new creations and Addie updates our cocktail menu seasonally. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for weekly updates on new releases and specials.
Can I create my own custom barrel?
Yes! Our Custom Barrel Program lets you work hands-on with Tim to create your own personalized spirit. You’ll grind grain, witness distillation, barrel your spirit, and return for tastings as it ages.
Visiting Tips
What should I wear?
Casual and comfortable! We’re a working farm with gravel parking, outdoor areas, and uneven terrain. We recommend:
- Comfortable walking shoes (avoid heels)
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Layers (the hangar can be cool or warm depending on season)
Is the facility wheelchair accessible?
Our hangar tasting room is accessible, though some outdoor areas have gravel and uneven terrain. Call ahead at (815) 269-4069 if you have specific accessibility questions and we’ll help plan your visit.
Can I take photos?
Please do! Our aircraft hangar setting is incredibly photogenic. Tag us on social media – we love seeing your Barnstormer experiences!
Future Plans
Are you expanding or opening new locations?
We’re growing! Starting July 2026, we’ll be adding beer and wine to our offerings thanks to new Illinois legislation. We’re also exploring a new event space to better serve larger groups and weddings. Additionally, you’ll soon find our spirits in select Chicago locations.
Stay tuned to our Facebook and Instagram for announcements, and thank you for being part of the Barnstormer family as we grow!
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help!
☎️ Call: (815) 269-4069
📧 Email: marketing@barnstormerdistillery.com
📍 Visit: 6969 South Main Street, Rockford, IL
Or better yet – come visit us this weekend and experience Illinois’ most unique craft distillery!
| Upcoming Events | View Full Calendar | See Our Spirits | Gift Cards Available | Tours | Custom Barrels | Contact