Calgary: Brewery Tour

If you’re looking to get a genuine sense of Calgary’s vibrant craft beer culture, this Brewery Tour by Canadian Craft Tours offers an engaging way to do so. It’s not just about tasting beer; it’s about understanding how Calgary’s brewing history and lively local scene come together in every pint. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just curious about Calgary’s brewing community, this tour promises a fun, educational, and flavorful experience.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on behind-the-scenes access at one of the breweries—giving you a peek into the actual brewing process. Plus, the inclusion of a beer flight with 12 different styles means you’ll sample a wide variety—from crisp lagers to rich stouts—without feeling rushed. The only potential drawback? With a 3-hour timeframe, it’s a fairly quick tour, so if you’re a true connoisseur wanting a deep dive into brewing techniques, you might wish for more time. Still, it’s perfect for those who want a lively overview of Calgary’s craft beer scene.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy good stories, flavorful beers, and want a relaxed, social outing with knowledgeable guides. It’s especially ideal for visitors new to Calgary who want a taste of local culture, or anyone looking for a laid-back way to spend an afternoon with new friends.

Key Points

• Authentic Access: Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Calgary’s breweries.
• Diverse Beer Tasting: Enjoy 12 styles from lagers to stouts in a single session.
• Educational Value: Learn about the brewing process and Calgary’s beer history from a passionate guide.
• Convenient & Comfortable: Pre-booked venues with reserved seating and transportation included.
• Meet Local Brewers: Gain insights directly from knowledgeable guides with a friendly approach.
• Family & Mobility Considerations: Must be 18+ with valid ID; not suitable for pregnant women or mobility-impaired travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Calgary Brewery Tour

This 3-hour tour offers a well-balanced mix of tasting, learning, and sightseeing across three different breweries. It begins outside the Fairfield Inn and Suites, a central point that makes meeting easy for most travelers. The guide, easily recognizable in a black shirt with the Canadian Craft Tours logo, ensures everyone is gathered and ready for a fun journey.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Once everyone is assembled, transportation kicks off, whisking you to three distinct breweries that highlight Calgary’s diverse brewing landscape. Each stop is intentionally selected to showcase a different style or approach, giving you a broad taste of local craft beer.

Brewery 1: Behind-the-Scenes Access

The first brewery offers a behind-the-scenes tour, which is often the highlight for beer aficionados. We loved the way this part allowed us to see the actual brewing equipment and learn how different styles are crafted from raw ingredients. The guide’s educational commentary added context, explaining how local ingredients and brewing traditions influence the final product. This intimate look reveals the craftsmanship and effort that go into each beer, transforming your tasting into a deeper appreciation.

The Beer Flight

At each venue, you’ll enjoy a beer flight featuring 12 distinct styles. The flights are carefully curated, allowing you to sample a range of flavors—from light lagers perfect for a hot day to richer, more complex stouts for those cooler moments. The variety means you’ll likely find new favorites while gaining a broader understanding of what different brewing styles entail.

The reviews praise the flexibility of the beer options, with one guest mentioning they appreciated the wide variety of beer styles and new releases available. Sampling across multiple breweries also helps highlight each venue’s unique take on brewing.

Learning from the Guide

Your guide is a local beer enthusiast, providing not just facts but also engaging stories and fun insights about Calgary’s brewing history. Multiple reviews emphasize how knowledgeable guides make the experience memorable. One reviewer noted, “Connor was a great host and driver. He was knowledgeable about the beers and also kept us laughing.”

The Breweries: What Makes Each Special

While specific names aren’t provided, the tour emphasizes quality venues with pre-booked seating, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. This reserved seating means no standing in line and allows you to focus on enjoying the experience rather than logistics.

You might find that each brewery offers something different—some might be newer, innovative craft spots, while others could be more established, traditional breweries. The variety helps keep the tour lively and diverse, giving a well-rounded impression of Calgary’s brewing scene.

Group Size, Transportation, and Comfort

The tour maintains a cozy group size, making conversation easy and the experience personal. Transportation is included, so you don’t have to worry about driving, especially after sampling multiple beers. The vehicle ride between breweries is quick and comfortable, helping to maximize your tasting time at each stop.

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Practical Details and Price

Priced for good value, the tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of planning individual brewery visits. The ability to reserve and pay later adds flexibility, which is especially useful for last-minute planners or those adjusting their schedules.

Accessibility and Considerations

Participants need to be at least 18 years old with valid photo ID, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility challenges. Proper footwear and water are recommended to stay comfortable throughout the tour.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

The combination of learning, sampling, and socializing makes it a hit for those who enjoy relaxed, friendly outings. The knowledgeable guides, who are described as personable and fun, elevate the experience from just a beer tasting to a memorable local experience.

If you’re a beer lover, this tour offers a fantastic overview of Calgary’s craft scene in a manageable, engaging format. It’s also a good choice if you prefer to leave the logistics to someone else and just focus on enjoying yourself.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Sign Up?

This brewery tour is best suited for those wanting an authentic taste of Calgary’s craft beer culture without heavy technical detail. It’s a great option for casual drinkers, curious travelers, or groups seeking a convivial outing. The emphasis on educational insights and behind-the-scenes access adds a layer of authenticity that many casual beer tours lack.

For anyone who values local guides with genuine knowledge and appreciates a variety of beer styles in a short, lively session, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing to visitors wanting a friendly, relaxed way to spend part of their Calgary visit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beer beginners?
Absolutely. The tour provides a broad sampling of styles, making it ideal for those new to craft beer. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, ready to answer questions and help you navigate the flight.

How many breweries are visited during the tour?
You will visit three different breweries, each offering their own unique atmosphere and beer selection.

Can I join this tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
No. Participants must be at least 18 years old with valid ID. This tour is focused on beer tasting, so it’s not suitable for those who cannot or choose not to drink.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking and standing at each brewery. Bring a camera for photos and some water to stay hydrated.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation between breweries is part of the tour, allowing you to enjoy the experience without worrying about driving.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.

This Calgary Brewery Tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Alberta’s craft beer scene, guided by passionate locals who love sharing their knowledge. It’s a relaxed, friendly experience that’s perfect for those who want to explore Calgary’s brewing culture without fuss or complication. Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll come away with new favorites and a deeper appreciation for Calgary’s vibrant craft beer community.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby