Kansas City: Tom's Town Distillery Tour & Spirits Tasting

Summary

Walk the distillery floors taste KC spirits hear Boss Tom tales

You’ll step behind the scenes at Tom’s Town Distilling Co., hear Kansas City stories from locals who know their stuff, and sample craft spirits right where they’re made. Expect laughter over tastings and a glimpse into Prohibition history — plus that unforgettable scent of fresh gin in the air.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever smelled gin before it’s gin?” our guide grinned, waving us toward these big copper stills at Tom’s Town in Kansas City. I didn’t know what to expect — the air was warm and sharp, almost citrusy but with something herbal underneath. There were maybe a dozen of us, all sort of shuffling around trying not to look too eager, but honestly, I was pretty curious about how you go from grain to glass right here in the city.

We started upstairs (there are stairs — heads up if that matters), where our guide told stories about Boss Tom Pendergast and how he basically ran KC back in the day. The way she said “Boss Tom” made it sound like he might walk in any minute. I kept thinking about how wild it must’ve been during Prohibition — she had this old photo of downtown, and you could almost hear jazz leaking through the walls. Someone in our group asked if the place was haunted; she just laughed and poured us a little taste of bourbon instead.

The tasting part is what sticks with me most. You stand around this long wooden bar, glasses lined up like little soldiers. The gin hit first — floral but not sweet, kind of lingers on your tongue. Then vodka, then bourbon (my favorite, honestly). Everyone tried to describe what they tasted; some got really into it (“notes of vanilla” — sure), others just smiled and nodded. It felt casual, like being let in on a secret recipe without any pressure to pretend you’re an expert. And yeah, Li laughed when I tried to say “baijiu” in Mandarin — probably butchered it.

I walked out with this weirdly happy feeling — maybe from the spirits or maybe just because we’d all shared something real for an hour. If you’re looking for a day trip in Kansas City that isn’t just another museum stop, this distillery tour is worth it. Still think about that smell when we first walked in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tom's Town Distillery tour and tasting

• Walk through distillery
• Learn distilling process
• Hear Kansas City history
• Taste award-winning spirits

Top questions

How long does the Tom's Town distillery tour last?

The tour lasts about one hour from start to finish.

Is there a tasting included on the distillery tour?

Yes, each tour includes a tasting of all their spirits.

How many people can join each tour?

Each tour has space for up to 20 people per group.

Do I need to book my spot ahead of time?

Yes, reservations are required and close one hour before the start time.

Are there stairs on the Tom's Town distillery tour?

Yes, you’ll need to walk up and down stairs during the tour.

Is the distillery accessible by public transportation?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Can I bring my service animal on the tour?

Service animals are allowed at Tom's Town Distilling Co.

Is lunch or food included with the distillery experience?

No meals are included; only spirit tastings are provided.

What’s included

Your visit includes a guided walking tour through Tom’s Town Distilling Co., stories from local guides about Kansas City history under Boss Tom’s rule, and tastings of each house-made spirit before you head out again — just reserve online ahead of time so your spot is set.