Fairbanks Distillery and Craft Beer Pub Crawl

Travelers seeking a taste of Fairbanks’s lively craft beverage scene will find this 3-hour pub crawl a well-paced, engaging way to sample local spirits and beers. Offered by CoveredGround Tours, this experience is designed for those who want to enjoy Alaska’s unique distilling and brewing culture without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar spots on their own.

What we love is the tour’s well-organized schedule—visiting three distilleries and a brewery with complimentary tastings at each stop—and its up-close access to local establishments that might otherwise stay hidden. Plus, the easy pickup and return logistics make it a relaxed evening, especially handy for travelers with tight schedules or those heading to see the Northern Lights.

One thing to consider is that this tour is strictly for those 21 and over, and it offers a limited number of participants—just 12—making for a more intimate experience. Also, since it’s primarily focused on tastings, it’s best suited for those who enjoy exploring flavors and socializing over drinks rather than a heavy sightseeing itinerary.

This pub crawl is perfect if you’re a curious traveler wanting to get a local flavor, meet fellow visitors, or simply enjoy an authentic night out in Fairbanks’s downtown. Whether you’re prepping for a Northern Lights adventure or just want to unwind after a day of exploring, this tour offers a relaxed yet informative way to enjoy the city’s craft scene.

Key Points

• Authentic tasting experience with complimentary spirits and craft beers at local breweries and distilleries.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off at Salty’s on 2nd in downtown Fairbanks, making it easy to join.
• Limited group size of up to 12 travelers ensures a personalized vibe and better interaction.
• Three distillery visits plus a brewery, providing variety and insight into Alaska’s craft beverage scene.
• Relaxed, adult-only atmosphere perfect for socializing and discovering local flavors.
• 30-minute stops at each venue give enough time to enjoy tastings without feeling rushed.

An In-Depth Look at the Fairbanks Distillery and Craft Beer Tour

When we consider a tour like this, the main appeal is its focus on local craftsmanship. In Fairbanks, a city better known for its outdoor adventures, the burgeoning craft beverage scene offers a delightful surprise. By choosing this tour, you’re not just tasting drinks—you’re experiencing Alaska’s artisanal spirit and beer culture in a friendly, approachable setting.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at Salty’s on 2nd, in the heart of downtown Fairbanks, at 6 PM. This starting point is ideal because it’s near public transportation and well-known among locals and visitors alike. It’s a good place to gather, meet your fellow travelers, and get ready for an evening of flavor exploration.

Your first stop is the Fairbanks nightlife scene, where you get a quick glimpse of the city’s evening vibe. While no specific admission is required here, it’s an opportunity to soak in the local ambiance before heading to the first distillery. This early exposure adds a layer of context, showing you what locals enjoy after hours.

Next, the tour visits Ursa Major Distilling, a favorite among visitors. Here, the focus is on small-batch spirits like vodka, rum, and gin. The 30-minute tasting gives you a solid introduction to Alaska’s craft distilling, and reviewers have praised the stop for its friendly staff and high-quality drinks. One visitor commented, “Had a great time and got to see local establishments I never would have seen otherwise,” highlighting how this tour offers access to hidden gems.

Following that is the Fairbanks Distilling Company, another highlight. This stop emphasizes handcrafted spirits—a term that suggests more care, local ingredients, and a focus on flavor. Again, a 30-minute tasting allows for a relaxed experience, and the staff’s knowledge makes it easy to learn about Alaska’s distilling traditions.

The final distillery is Hoarfrost Vodka Distilling, which rounds out the experience with more artisanal spirits. The chance to taste multiple unique spirits makes this stop especially appealing for those interested in distinctive flavors and local innovation.

At each venue, the price of the tour includes one complimentary alcoholic drink—a thoughtful touch that means you can sample without immediately reaching for your wallet. You’re also free to purchase additional drinks if something particularly strikes your fancy, which many travelers do, especially after discovering a new favorite.

Transport and Atmosphere

The private transportation provided ensures you won’t need to worry about navigating between spots or designating a driver—a significant advantage in a city like Fairbanks, especially after some drinks. The group size maxes out at 12, fostering a comfortable, social environment.

The relaxed pace, with around 30-minute stops, strikes a good balance between allowing enough time to savor each drink and keep the evening lively. The tour runs from 6 PM to 9 PM, fitting nicely into a dinner or post-dinner plans.

Authentic and Genuine Experience

Travelers consistently praise this tour for its authentic vibe and local insights. As one reviewer put it, “Great drinks and great vibes,” capturing how the tour combines informative tastings with a friendly atmosphere. Another mentioned it’s an ideal way to meet other visitors and see parts of Fairbanks they might not explore on their own.

The cost of $75 per person isn’t just about the tastings; it also covers the transportation and guided experience. When compared to the cost of individual drinks at local venues, this is a reasonable price for such a curated experience, especially considering the personalized attention and small group size.

Considerations for Travelers

While this tour is a fantastic way to explore Fairbanks’s craft scene, it’s important to remember it’s adult-only and geared toward those interested in sampling and socializing. It’s not a typical sightseeing tour with historical sites or scenic stops—though you get a glimpse of the city’s nightlife and local vibe.

Because it’s focused on tastings, it’s best suited for people who enjoy flavor exploration and casual drinking in a friendly environment. Also, given the strict age requirement and limited group size, booking in advance (on average, about 41 days ahead) is advisable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This pub crawl is perfect for adventurous food and drink enthusiasts wanting an authentic taste of Fairbanks’s craft scene. It’s an especially good choice for solo travelers or small groups seeking a social evening that’s both relaxed and informative. If you enjoy discovering local flavors, meeting new people, and exploring authentic local establishments, this tour will hit the mark.

It’s also an excellent way to wind down after a day of outdoor activities or to prepare for an Aurora viewing—a fun, lively way to start the night before heading off to see the Northern Lights.

The Sum Up

The Fairbanks Distillery and Craft Beer Pub Crawl offers a friendly, well-organized way to sample Alaska’s burgeoning craft spirits and beers. With just enough time at each stop, a relaxed pace, and a small group environment, it provides a genuine, intimate insight into the city’s local beverage scene. The inclusion of complimentary tastings and transportation makes it a worthwhile experience for those looking to enrich their visit without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar venues alone.

If you’re keen on discovering local flavors, enjoy social outings, or want a memorable way to cap off your day in Fairbanks, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for adults who appreciate craft spirits and are looking for a fun, laid-back evening amidst their Alaskan adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for someone who doesn’t drink much?
Yes, absolutely. The tour offers one complimentary drink at each stop, but you can choose to enjoy just those or purchase more if you wish. It’s flexible and relaxed.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 3 hours, from 6 PM to 9 PM, making it a manageable evening activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Salty’s on 2nd in downtown Fairbanks and returns there at the end of the tour. Pickup and drop-off are included.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation, four complimentary tastings (one at each stop), and guided visits to three distilleries and one brewery.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are not included, but tipping your bartender and driver is always appreciated if you’re pleased with the service.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 41 days in advance, as spots fill up quickly given the small group size and popularity.

This tour stands out as a fun, authentic way to see a different side of Fairbanks — one that celebrates local craftsmanship and community. Whether you’re a spirits connoisseur or just curious to see what Alaska’s craft scene has to offer, it’s a lively, memorable experience worth considering.