Calgary may be famed for its stunning mountain views and lively rodeo scene, but it’s also a city with a surprisingly rich craft beer culture and a colorful street art scene. Those looking to combine local brews with urban art or explore Calgary’s vibrant nightlife will find plenty of options. We especially like the Calgary Street Art & Craft Beer 3 Hour Tasting Tour for its unique blend of visual artistry and local flavors, offering a small-group experience that’s both personal and insightful. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Calgary’s creative side, with exclusive murals and tasty brews in a lively neighborhood.
Whether you’re into urban murals, award-winning breweries, or just want to hop from bar to bar with a guide, Calgary’s drinking tours offer something for every style of traveler. From casual strolls to behind-the-scenes brewery visits, these experiences are designed to give you a memorable sip of Calgary’s local scene.
1. Calgary Street Art & Craft Beer 3 Hour Tasting Tour
This tour is a delightful mix of urban art and craft beer tasting, perfect for those who want to see Calgary’s vibrant street murals while sampling some of its best breweries. The tour begins with a visit to Bottlescrew Bill’s & Buzzards, where you can enjoy your first craft beer sample before heading out into the Beltline Urban Mural Project, an area bursting with colorful murals and dynamic street art. The guide provides exclusive stories about the artists and murals, making the experience both entertaining and educational. After exploring the murals for about two hours, you’ll finish with more craft beer samples at a local brewery, rounding out a well-balanced tour.
What makes this tour stand out is its small-group setting, which ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The inclusion of local recommendations for nightlife and dining on 17th Ave gives travelers a great head start on their evening plans. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see parts of Calgary many visitors miss, all while enjoying beer and art. At $80.99 per person for roughly three hours, it’s a good value for an intimate, fun way to experience the city’s creative and culinary offerings.
Bottom Line: A fun, compact tour that combines Calgary’s street art with craft beer sampling — perfect for those who want an active, artsy outing with local flavor.
2. Calgary: Street Art & Craft Beer Walking Tour w/ Tastings
At number two on our list, this walking tour offers a similar vibe but with a slightly higher price point and a focus on stunning murals in Calgary’s Beltline neighborhood. Over three hours, you’ll meet a local guide who shares insights into the murals and the artists behind them while exploring Calgary’s hip streets on foot. The highlight is visiting two craft breweries where you’ll enjoy four 4 oz tasters plus a 16 oz pint, making it a satisfying experience for beer lovers.
What makes this tour appealing is its easy walking pace and intimate setting, which fosters conversations among travelers. The guide’s local knowledge means you’ll get tips on where to eat, drink, and explore later in the city. The reviews give it a near-perfect score of 4.9/5, praising the authentic guide and the quality of the beer tastings. It’s well-suited for visitors who want a relaxed pace and a good dose of urban art combined with quality craft beer.
Bottom Line: An accessible, engaging walk through Calgary’s street art scene paired with tastings at two top breweries, ideal for beer and art enthusiasts alike.
3. Calgary: Brewery Tours at Award-Winning Venues
If your idea of a good time revolves around learning about beer and visiting top-tier breweries, this tour is your best bet. It’s an educational and entertaining experience that visits Calgary’s award-winning breweries, focusing on their flagship and seasonal beers. The tour includes stops at Bow River Brewing, where you’ll sample multiple beers, and OT Brewing Company, known for its innovative brews. The final stop, Born Brewing Co., offers a relaxed space where you can write your own story over a beer.
The guides are described as funny and knowledgeable, often sharing insights about the brewing process and the local beer scene. The tour also emphasizes building relationships with the breweries, which often have staff who are cicerones or beer judging students. For $82, the tour lasts around 3.5 hours and includes transportation, making it a convenient all-in-one experience. Reviewers highlight the quality of the beers, the friendliness of the guides, and the behind-the-scenes access. It’s especially suitable for beer aficionados who want a deeper dive into Calgary’s craft brewing scene.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, behind-the-scenes brewery tour that combines education, fun, and high-quality beer — great for those serious about their craft.
4. Calgary: Brewery Tour
This tour offers a three-and-a-half-hour behind-the-scenes look into Calgary’s award-winning breweries, perfect for anyone curious about the brewing process and the stories behind Calgary’s best beers. The itinerary includes visits to Bow River Brewing, OT Brewing, and Born Brewing Co. Each stop offers about 45 minutes of tasting and exploration. The tour is designed to give participants a sense of the variety and quality of Calgary’s craft beer scene, with a focus on local, award-winning breweries.
Rated 4.0/5 based on reviews, this tour is appreciated for its educational value and personalized experience. The guide’s expertise shines through, making it easy to understand the nuances of each brewery’s style. It’s suitable for those who want a relaxed, informative tour with ample beer sampling. The main potential drawback is the variable availability of venues, so planning ahead is advised. It’s a good choice for beer lovers who prefer a more structured, behind-the-scenes look.
Bottom Line: An in-depth brewery experience that highlights Calgary’s award winners and provides a good foundation for appreciating local craft beer.
5. Calgary: Private Nightlife Tour with Bar Hopping
Looking to experience Calgary’s nightlife with a personal touch? This private tour offers a customized night out with a local guide who takes you to the city’s best bars, clubs, and restaurants. The tour lasts around four hours and includes transportation in a new model car for comfort and safety. It’s ideal for groups wanting an exclusive, tailored experience of Calgary after dark, possibly for birthdays, bachelor parties, or just a memorable night out.
The guide’s local knowledge ensures you visit the most lively and authentic venues, avoiding tourist traps. Although no reviews are available yet, the private nature means it can be adapted to your preferences, whether you want a relaxed bar crawl or a lively club experience. It’s best suited for those who want a personalized, hassle-free night with insider tips. Cost-wise, it’s on the higher side, but the exclusive experience and comfort make it worthwhile for groups.
Bottom Line: The perfect choice for those wanting a custom, private night out in Calgary, especially for celebrating special occasions.
$576 per group up to 3
6. Calgary Bar Crawl: Cruisin’ Calgary
For the more budget-conscious or those who love interactive activities, this Calgary Bar Crawl offers an engaging way to explore local watering holes. Priced at just $12.31 per person, it’s a quick, two-hour adventure led by the Let’s Roam app, which guides you to landmarks and hidden gems around Calgary. You’ll answer trivia questions and complete challenges, making it fun and educational all at once.
While there are no reviews yet, the format suits groups who enjoy team challenges or bachelorette parties, as well as those new to Calgary wanting a guided yet flexible experience. The crawl covers landmarks and lesser-known spots, giving a good sense of Calgary’s local bar scene without a hefty price tag. It’s a flexible, light-hearted option for an evening activity or a casual introduction to Calgary’s nightlife.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, interactive way to discover Calgary’s best bars, perfect for smaller groups or those who love games.
$12.31 per person
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Calgary
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, interest level, and desired pace. If you want a deep dive into Calgary’s craft beer scene, the Brewery Tours at Award-Winning Venues or the Calgary Brewery Tour provide detailed behind-the-scenes access. For a more creative and artistic experience, the Street Art & Craft Beer Tours combine visual art with tastings, perfect for those who love urban culture.
If your priority is nightlife or celebrating a special occasion, the Private Nightlife Tour offers exclusive access, while the Calgary Bar Crawl is a fun, inexpensive way to explore multiple spots with minimal fuss. Think about time of day, group size, and personal interests when choosing. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Calgary offers a surprising variety of drinking tours suited for different tastes and budgets. For a lively mix of street art and craft beer, the Calgary Street Art & Craft Beer 3 Hour Tasting Tour is a standout. For those passionate about beer education, the Brewery Tours provide behind-the-scenes access to award-winning breweries. If nightlife is your focus, a private bar-hopping experience can be tailored to your group’s vibe, or try the bar crawl for a relaxed, social activity.
No matter your preference, Calgary’s lively scene and authentic flavors won’t disappoint. Booking these tours early will ensure you get the best experience, especially during busy travel periods. Enjoy exploring Calgary’s liquid delights and vibrant streets — and remember, the best drink is the one enjoyed responsibly in good company.