Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus

Have you ever tried a "wild" cider aged in authentic oak barrels? Barrelhouse (Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus) is a unique destination in Knoxville that will change your perspective on traditional drinks. As the city's first cidery and meadery, it is one of only five exclusive wild cooperage houses in the entire USA, specializing in complex lambics and innovative aging methods.

The interior of Barrelhouse features a cozy rustic-bohemian style, where massive wooden barrels sit harmoniously alongside vibrant contemporary art. It is a space built for socializing, with 40 taps offering over 60 types of drinks—ranging from craft cider and mead to local beer, kombucha, and even the exclusive Unicorn Tears wine.

The venue positions itself as a friendly community hub. Families come here to enjoy delicious food and Graffiti Garden sodas, while groups of friends relax on the outdoor terrace. The combination of an accessible menu, high-quality products, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Barrelhouse a must-visit on any Tennessee itinerary.

For more details about upcoming events or space reservations, you can use the venue's official communication channels.

There is never a dull moment at Barrelhouse, as the venue thrives on a constant schedule of events. The main draw is, of course, the tasting. You can order a flight of various ciders and meads to find your perfect flavor. For true enthusiasts, there is the Mug Club, where members receive personal mugs and special perks.

Every day of the week features a different activity. Mondays offer the chance to take the stage at open mic night or join the run club. Tuesdays are for music bingo (Singo), Wednesdays for poker and free comedy shows, and Thursdays feature exciting trivia nights. On weekends, they often host brunches and festivals focused on cider and cheese pairings.

If you prefer a more relaxed vibe, there is a large selection of board games, pinball, and cozy lounge areas. The restaurant menu features excellent pizzas, pastas, and salads that pair perfectly with your drink of choice. Additionally, the site is home to TAPestry—a stylish, multi-functional event space for concerts and parties that can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Finding Barrelhouse is easy, as it is located at 621 Lamar St, right in the heart of Knoxville's historic district. If you are traveling by car, the venue provides its own parking lot, which is a major advantage in this part of the city.

For those who prefer public transport or walking, the establishment is within easy reach of the main streets. You can also get here by taxi or rideshare from anywhere in the city. The Old City area where the bar is located is very atmospheric, so a walk to your destination will allow you to enjoy the local architecture and vibe.

The history of Barrelhouse is closely tied to its founders, Aaron and Stephanie Carson. Their passion for experimentation and desire to create innovative drinks led to the opening of Tennessee's first craft cidery in Kingsport in 2016. The success of that venture and the city's booming craft culture inspired them to expand.

In October 2020, Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus opened its doors in Knoxville. The venue quickly evolved from a simple bar into a multi-functional space where traditional barrel-aging techniques meet modern tastes. Expanding their offerings to include meads and rare "wild" ciders has made it a unique destination on the USA map.

Notably, the establishment goes beyond just gastronomy. Barrelhouse was one of the first participants in the city's Safe Bars program. This means the entire staff has undergone specialized training to ensure guest safety and create a comfortable, inclusive atmosphere for every visitor.

To fully appreciate the variety of drinks and soak up the atmosphere, we recommend setting aside 2 to 3 hours for your visit. This gives you enough time to browse the menu, try several types of cider or mead, and enjoy a meal from the local kitchen.

If your visit coincides with a themed evening, such as live music or trivia nights, time can fly by, and you’ll likely want to stay for the entire evening. For a quick look around or to pick up some drinks to go, 30–40 minutes is plenty.

The venue is open daily, making it easy to fit into your travel plans. The operating hours for Barrelhouse in Knoxville are as follows:

• Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
• Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM

Please note that the kitchen may close slightly earlier than the bar itself, and holiday hours may vary, so it’s a good idea to check their social media before you visit.

After tasting rare ciders at Barrelhouse, it's worth taking some time to explore the surroundings. The Old City district in Knoxville is full of interesting locations, from historic homes to modern entertainment hubs, all within a few minutes' drive or walk.