Saint John, Canada’s oldest incorporated city, boasts a rich brewing history that spans over a century and a half. The ‘150 Years of Beer Tour’ invites visitors to uncover the stories behind this enduring tradition, exploring the city’s thriving craft beer scene. From the iconic Moosehead Brewery to a trio of thriving local producers, this captivating walking tour promises a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art of beer-making, complete with opportunities to sample a diverse range of locally crafted brews. For beer enthusiasts and history buffs alike, this immersive experience offers a unique window into Saint John’s deep-rooted connection with the world of beer.
Key Points
- Discover Saint John’s rich 150-year brewing history, from Canada’s oldest independent brewery Moosehead to the city’s thriving craft beer scene.
- Explore three craft breweries, go behind the scenes, and sample 3-4 locally crafted beers at each stop.
- Learn about the brewing process and unique characteristics of each beer from an expert local guide.
- Experience Moosehead Brewery’s enduring legacy, traditional methods, and renowned lager as part of the tour.
- Suitable for both seasoned beer enthusiasts and curious newcomers, with all food and drink samples included.
Tour Overview
The Saint John: 150 Years of Beer Tour is a 2-hour walking experience that allows visitors to discover the city’s rich brewing history and sample craft beers from local breweries.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour takes participants to three craft breweries, where they’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewhouses and learn about the brewing process.
Guests can expect to sample 3-4 beers at each stop, including offerings from Canada’s oldest independently-owned brewery, Moosehead.
The tour is a rain-or-shine event and may include exposure to allergens like wheat and gluten. A minimum of two participants is required, and all food and drink tastings are included in the price.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Saint John New Brunswick.
Brewing History
Saint John boasts a rich brewing history that dates back over 150 years, with the hotel of Canada’s oldest independently-owned brewery, Moosehead, in 1867.
Throughout the decades, Saint John has been at the forefront of the Canadian brewing industry, with numerous breweries thriving in the region.
The tour explores this storied past, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and the evolution of the craft beer scene.
Guests will have the opportunity to visit three local breweries, sampling a variety of beers that showcase the rich heritage and innovative spirit of Saint John’s brewing community.
This walking tour offers a unique glimpse into the city’s deep-rooted connection to the art of beer-making.
Craft Brewery Visits
On this tour, visitors will explore three of Saint John’s thriving craft breweries, where they’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and sample an array of locally crafted beers. From Canada’s oldest independently-owned brewery, Moosehead, to rising local stars, each stop offers a unique insight into the art of beer making. Guests will learn about the brewing techniques, taste test 3-4 different brews, and gain a deeper appreciation for the craft. Whether it’s a crisp lager, hoppy IPA, or smooth stout, there’s something for every beer lover on this immersive journey through Saint John’s vibrant brewing scene.
| Brewery | Beer Styles | Tasting Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Moosehead | Lager, Pale Ale, Amber Ale | Canada’s oldest independent brewery, known for its clean, balanced flavors |
| Picaroons | IPA, Stout, Belgian-style | Innovative brews with bold, complex profiles |
| Crooked Tooth | Pilsner, Wheat Ale, Sour | Experimental and flavor-forward offerings |
Beer Sampling Experience
Guests can expect to sample 3-4 different craft beers at each of the three stops, offering a diverse flavor profile that showcases the ingenuity and creativity of Saint John’s brewmasters.
From crisp, refreshing lagers to bold, hoppy IPAs, the tour provides a comprehensive tasting experience that allows visitors to explore the city’s rich brewing heritage.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the expert guide will provide insights into the brewing process and the unique characteristics of each sample.
More Great Tours NearbyMoosehead Brewery Insight
As the oldest independently-owned brewery in Canada, Moosehead has a rich and storied history that visitors can explore during the Saint John: 150 Years of Beer Tour.
The guide will provide an insider’s look at Moosehead’s brewing operations, sharing insights into the company’s commitment to quality and its role in shaping the local beer scene over the past century and a half.
Guests will learn about Moosehead’s traditional brewing methods and have the opportunity to sample their renowned lager, which has been a beloved fixture in New Brunswick for generations.
The brewery’s enduring legacy is a testament to its dedication to crafting exceptional beer and its deep roots in the community.
Tour Inclusions
The Saint John: 150 Years of Beer Tour includes a local guide and live commentary, allowing visitors to discover the brewing history and craft beer scene of the city. In addition, the tour provides tastings of 3-4 beers at each of the 3 featured craft breweries, along with all food and drink samples. Local taxes are also covered in the tour price.
| Tour Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Local Guide | Provides live commentary and expertise |
| Beer Tastings | 3-4 beers sampled at each of 3 breweries |
| All Food/Drink | Includes all tasting samples |
| Local Taxes | Tour price covers applicable taxes |
Important Considerations
While the tour covers a range of local craft beers and brewery experiences, there are a few important considerations for participants.
Minimum group size is 2 people, and the tour operates rain or shine. Visitors should also be aware that they may encounter allergens like wheat and gluten during the brewery visits.
The tour focuses on sampling beers, so participants should plan accordingly and be prepared to enjoy the tasting experience responsibly. Plus, guests with any dietary restrictions or concerns are encouraged to communicate them to the tour organizers in advance to ensure the best possible experience.
Booking and Meeting Point
Participants can reserve their spots for the Saint John: 150 Years of Beer Tour and pay later, meeting at the Saint John City Market‘s Germain Street entrance. The tour operator makes booking easy, allowing guests to secure their place ahead of time without having to pay upfront.
On the day of the tour, attendees will gather at the designated meeting point, the iconic Saint John City Market, which has been a hub of the community for over a century. From there, the local guide will lead the group on a journey through the city’s rich brewing history and introduce them to the best craft beer Saint John has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Beer on the Tour?
No, participants cannot bring their own beer on the tour. The tour includes all food and drink tastings, so bringing outside beverages would not be allowed. The tour focuses on sampling local craft beers at the featured breweries.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible. The itinerary includes stops at breweries that accommodate guests with mobility challenges, and the walking portions can be adjusted to suit individual needs. Participants are encouraged to discuss any accessibility requirements when booking the tour.
Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book the tour in advance, as the minimum number of participants is 2. This ensures the tour operates as scheduled and you secure your spot on the experience.
Can I Take the Tour in a Language Other Than English?
The tour is offered in English only. No other language options are available. Participants should book the tour in advance to secure their spot, as the minimum group size requirement must be met.
Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?
Pets are typically not allowed on the tour, as the tour visits working breweries where animals are generally prohibited for safety and hygiene reasons. Participants are advised to leave their pets at home when booking the tour.
Recap
This captivating 150-year beer tour in Saint John offers an immersive experience for beer enthusiasts.
Visitors will explore the city’s rich brewing heritage, go behind the scenes at thriving craft breweries, and sample a variety of locally crafted beers.
From crisp lagers to bold IPAs, the tour showcases Saint John’s deep-rooted connection to the art of beer-making.
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