Kansas City is known for its rich barbecue, jazz roots, and, increasingly, its lively drinks scene. If you’re looking to explore local breweries, wineries, and distilleries without the hassle of driving yourself, the city offers some excellent guided tours. Among these, we particularly like experiences that combine behind-the-scenes access, tastings, and local favorites. One standout is the Kansas City Brewery, Winery, and Distillery Tour, which balances variety and expert guidance. It’s a perfect way to enjoy Kansas City’s craft drinks with friends or on a special occasion.
Whether you prefer a small-group vibe or a busload of fellow enthusiasts, these tours are designed to showcase Kansas City’s best-kept secrets. We’ve reviewed options that include VIP access, behind-the-scenes tours, and all-inclusive tastings. Here’s a quick overview of the top choices, followed by in-depth looks at what makes each one unique.
1. Kansas City Brewery, Winery, and Distillery Tour
For around $98, this Kansas City Brewery, Winery, and Distillery Tour is a well-rounded choice for anyone wanting a broad taste of the city’s craft scene. It offers approximately three hours of guided touring, with all tastings included, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs. The tour visits a popular craft brewery, a local winery, and a distillery beloved by locals, avoiding the typical tourist spots.
What makes this experience stand out is the air-conditioned bus that takes you comfortably from spot to spot. The guides are not just drivers but also storytellers, providing context and history at each location. Visitors consistently praise the tour for its friendly vibe and insightful commentary. One reviewer notes, “Our guide Jeff made the day fun and informative,” while another mentions the distillery as a personal favorite. This tour is especially suitable for birthdays, bachelor(ette)s, or any celebration where you want to relax and learn about Kansas City’s drinks culture.
Bottom Line: A balanced, informative tour that combines convenience and local charm, perfect for first-timers and seasoned craft drink enthusiasts alike.
2. Brewery and Distillery Tour in Kansas City
At just $98, the Brewery and Distillery Tour in Kansas City offers a more intimate experience with a strong focus on local favorites. This tour is designed for adults seeking a personalized, small-group outing, with approximately three hours of exploration. It emphasizes VIP access, giving you behind-the-scenes looks at some of Kansas City’s lesser-known breweries and distilleries.
Traveling by comfortable minibus, you’ll sample a variety of beers and spirits, with all tastings included. Guests consistently mention the friendly guide, Arlene, who makes the experience lively and educational. One review states, “We loved talking to Arlene and discovering KC’s hidden drink spots,” highlighting the tour’s relaxed vibe. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a more personal touch and the chance to ask questions about the production process.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups craving a tailored experience and detailed insights into Kansas City’s craft brewing and distilling scene.
3. Kansas City Brewery Tour
For craft beer lovers, the Kansas City Brewery Tour is a niche favorite, priced at $98 for three hours. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at three popular breweries, emphasizing VIP access and direct sampling from the source. This tour is especially appealing if you want to focus solely on Kansas City’s craft beer scene.
The tour includes VIP tours and tutored tastings, making it ideal for those wanting in-depth knowledge of brewing techniques and stories. Guests often mention that the exclusive access and small group setting make this tour feel more personal. The fact that all samples are included adds value, especially for serious beer enthusiasts. It’s a short, focused experience suited for those who prefer craft beer over other types of drinks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for dedicated beer fans who want an insider’s look at Kansas City’s best breweries with ample sampling and expert guidance.
How to Choose Your Drinking Tour
When selecting among these tours, consider your preferences and priorities. If you want a comprehensive experience with a variety of drinks, the Kansas City Brewery, Winery, and Distillery Tour offers the best mix. For a more intimate, personalized journey through Kansas City’s lesser-known spots, the Brewery and Distillery Tour is excellent. Meanwhile, dedicated craft beer lovers should opt for the Kansas City Brewery Tour, which focuses solely on local breweries with VIP access.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a small group or a larger bus. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak times or weekends, to secure your spot. Also, consider joining tours that include all tastings and VIP access for the best value.
Final Thoughts
Kansas City’s drinking tours offer a tasty way to explore the city beyond its famous barbecue. Whether you want a broad experience covering breweries, wineries, and distilleries, or a focused beer-centric tour, these options deliver authentic, behind-the-scenes access. The Kansas City Brewery, Winery, and Distillery Tour stands out for its variety and ease, while the small-group Brewery and Distillery Tour is ideal for those craving a more personal touch. Craft beer enthusiasts will find the Kansas City Brewery Tour offers a focused dive into local brewing secrets.
Whatever your taste, these tours promise a fun, flavorful way to experience Kansas City’s unique drink scene. Be sure to book early and choose the tour that best fits your style—your taste buds will thank you.