Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket

If you’re looking for a way to experience Richmond beyond its historic streets and vibrant arts, a craft beverage crawl might be just the ticket. The Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl by Junket offers a guided journey through some of the city’s most dynamic breweries, cideries, and meaderies — all in a manageable three-hour window. This tour promises a taste of Richmond’s thriving craft scene, with expert guides, tastings, and a behind-the-scenes look at how these beverages come to life.

Two things we love about this experience? First, the guides, who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about showcasing Richmond’s local producers. Second, the variety of stops, each with its unique character, from historic buildings to experimental brews. One potential drawback? The tour doesn’t include transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to get between spots. Still, this makes it flexible for those who prefer to walk, Uber, or combine with other local explorations.

It’s ideal for beer lovers, cider enthusiasts, or mead fans eager to learn about production processes while sampling exceptional drinks. Whether you’re celebrating a bachelorette weekend, planning a private group outing, or just want to explore Richmond’s craft scene with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers authentic experiences with excellent value.

Key Points

• Authentic Richmond Experience: Focuses on local craft breweries, cideries, and meaderies in Scotts Addition.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Experts lead the tour, sharing insights about production and history.
• Tastings Included: One drink at each location offers a relaxed way to enjoy multiple beverages.
• Flexible Schedule: The three-hour tour is paced comfortably, allowing time to savor each stop.
• No Transportation Provided: Participants need to arrange their own transit between stops.
• Ideal for Groups: Perfect for private parties, couples, or solo travelers wanting a guided, social experience.

Exploring Richmond’s Craft Scene: What You Can Expect

The Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl by Junket offers a well-rounded look at the city’s vibrant craft beverage scene in a relatively short time. It’s designed to be both enjoyable and educational, perfect for those who want to sip and learn without the commitment of a full-day tour or a DIY crawl.

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour begins at Buskey Cider (2910 W Leigh St), starting promptly at 3:00 pm. From there, the group typically visits five stops, each lasting about 36 minutes. The end point is back at the starting location, making it convenient if you plan your evening around this activity.

The Stops in Detail

Buskey Cider: Located in a former train depot, this cidery sets a perfect tone for a craft-focused afternoon. Their dry-hopped cider offers a floral, crisp flavor, providing a refreshing start. Cider is often underappreciated, but Buskey’s bold take makes it clear why this spot is a local favorite. As one reviewer notes, their seasonal releases keep things exciting.

Strangeways Brewing: Known for wild ales and experimental brews, this brewery is a playground for the adventurous. The quirky flavors and funky fermentation techniques make it stand out. You might find yourself trying the “Wake Me Up,” a brew that embodies their eccentric spirit. The guide will explain their approach to fermentation, adding depth to your tasting experience.

Ardent Craft Ales: A garage-born brewery turned local star, Ardent blends traditional brewing methods with creativity. Their Honey Ginger Ale is a favorite among visitors, offering a balance of sweetness and spice. The focus here is on quality and innovation—think modern techniques with a nod to old-world craftsmanship.

Black Heath Meadery: Richmond’s first meadery, Black Heath, adds an ancient twist to the tour. Their Scarlett Cyser, made from Virginia apples and honey, showcases the art of honey-based fermentation. The guide shares stories about mead’s historical roots, making this stop both tasty and educational.

Blue Bee Cider: Housed in a restored 19th-century stable, Blue Bee honors Virginia’s apple-growing heritage. Their Hewes Crab cider, crafted from a nearly lost colonial apple, is a highlight. It’s a subtle, well-balanced cider that connects the craft to local history. This stop offers a peaceful, picturesque setting to finish the tour.

The Role of the Guides and the Learning Experience

Throughout the tour, guides provide insights into production processes and the history of each hotel. Their professionalism and enthusiasm enrich the experience, making it more than just a drink tasting. One reviewer praised the “knowledgeable guides” who made the stops engaging and informative.

Cost and Value

At $86 per person, the tour provides good value considering it includes five tastings and guided commentary. You’re paying for a curated experience that simplifies the planning and offers a deeper understanding of Richmond’s craft scene than a solo visit would. Keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so budget for Ubers or walking if necessary.

Group Size and Practicalities

Limited to 35 participants, the tour maintains a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The group size is perfect for interaction and personalized attention. It’s accessible for most travelers, with service animals permitted and a start time that suits afternoon explorers. The tour is not suitable for those under 21, so plan accordingly.

Why This Tour Works

This beer, cider, and mead crawl offers a balanced mix of tasting, learning, and social interaction. The stops are carefully chosen for their authenticity and variety, giving you a broad view of Richmond’s craft beverage landscape. The guides’ local knowledge and engaging storytelling make each stop more meaningful.

Considering the price, you’re not just paying for drinks but for a curated, professionally guided experience that enriches your understanding of local craftsmanship. It’s especially valuable if you’re curious about how regional products are made and want to support small, independent producers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous drinkers eager to discover Richmond’s craft scene. It’s perfect for groups of friends or couples, as it encourages conversation and shared discoveries. If you’re interested in learning about how these beverages are made and want a relaxed but informative outing, this tour is a good fit.

However, if you prefer independent exploring or need transportation included, you might want to plan ahead. The tour’s focus on local, authentic establishments makes it less about touristy clichés and more about genuine craftsmanship.

The Sum Up

The Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl by Junket stands out as a well-organized, authentic way to experience the city’s craft alcohol scene. With knowledgeable guides, a well-chosen selection of stops, and included tastings, it strikes a balance between education and enjoyment. It’s perfect for those who appreciate quality drinks and want to learn about the local craft industry in a friendly, social setting.

This tour offers good value for the price, especially for craft beverage enthusiasts eager to explore Richmond’s latest creations and historic roots. The manageable duration and intimate group size make it accessible and enjoyable. Whether you’re visiting Richmond for the first time or a local wanting to discover new spots, this guided crawl brings a fresh perspective to Virginia’s craft beverage landscape.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour? No, transportation is not provided, so you will need to arrange your own way to travel between stops, whether by walking, biking, Uber, or car.

What is the tour start time? The tour begins at 3:00 pm at Buskey Cider.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes approximately 3 hours, with about 36 minutes spent at each stop.

Are beverages included? Yes, each participant receives one beverage at each stop, chosen by the guide.

Can I join if I am under 21? No, this tour is for those 21 and older due to alcohol consumption regulations.

Is it suitable for private groups or special events? Yes, this tour is perfect for private groups, bachelorette parties, and special gatherings.

What is the maximum group size? The tour can accommodate up to 35 travelers.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, it’s recommended to book ahead as the tour operates year-round and spots can fill up.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re eager to combine local history with a taste of Richmond’s craft scene, this guided crawl is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. Cheers to discovery!