Austin’s reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World is well-earned, but the city’s craft beer scene is just as vibrant. With dozens of innovative breweries, you’ll find plenty of ways to sample local brews—from guided bus tours with a soundtrack to pedal-powered microbrewery hops. One standout is the Brew Bus: Austin Brewery Tour with Live Band, which combines live music, local brews, and a small meal for a fun, stress-free experience. Whether you’re a serious beer enthusiast or a casual sipper, Austin offers tours that suit a range of tastes and schedules.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best brewery tours Austin has to offer, balancing detailed descriptions with practical advice. We’ve included options for every traveler, from intimate pedicab rides to indulgent hill country limousines. Ready to explore Austin’s craft beer scene? Let’s get started.
1. The Brew Bus: Austin Brewery Tour with Live Band
This lively tour combines local craft beers, live music from Austin artists, and a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Traveling aboard a comfortable bus, you’ll make two stops at three breweries—though the specific locations vary, each offers tastings included in the $125 fee. What sets this apart is the live band onboard, turning a simple brewery hop into a mobile concert. Plus, a small meal from a food truck is included, making it perfect for those wanting a laid-back, social experience.
Guests love the casual vibe and the extra touches, like the tour guide sending photos afterward and the drummer’s Polaroid souvenir. The tour is ideal for visitors who want to avoid planning logistics and just enjoy a memorable day of drinks, music, and camaraderie. The all-included tastings and meal make it good value, especially considering the entertainment factor.
Bottom Line: A lively, musical way to explore Austin’s breweries with a relaxed, inclusive vibe. Perfect for groups looking for a fun, no-stress outing.
2. 4-Hour Austin Signature Brewery Tour
This small-group tour hits three popular breweries—Zilker Brewing, Brewtorium, and Celis Brewery—and is designed for those who prefer a more personalized experience. For $99.99, the tour includes all tastings, a beer-inspired meal, and round-trip transport from the easy-to-find meeting spot at the Fairmont Austin.
What makes this tour stand out are the specific brewery selections: Zilker Brewing emphasizes American Belgo-style and hop-forward beers, Brewtorium is known for its German lagers, and Celis Brewery has Belgian roots. The guides are knowledgeable and keep the group intimate (max 14), making it ideal for beer enthusiasts who appreciate detailed tasting notes and a relaxed pace. Guests frequently comment on the high quality of the beers and the friendly guide, Jeff, who clearly loves sharing his expertise.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, small-group tour offering excellent value for those wanting a deep dive into Austin’s craft beer scene without the hassle of planning.
3. Private Austin Brewery Tour by Pedicab with All-Inclusive Beer Flight Option
For a unique, eco-friendly experience, this private pedicab tour takes you to three of Austin’s award-winning breweries. The pedicab allows you to enjoy Austin’s warm weather while the guide pedals you from spot to spot. You can choose to pay for beers as you go or opt for the all-inclusive option for a worry-free experience costing $69.50 per person.
The tour hits favorites like Zilker Brewing, Lazarus Brewing Co., and the locally female-owned 417 Red River St. Reviews highlight the laid-back vibe and the fun, knowledgeable host. The tour is perfect for those who want an intimate, active way to experience Austin’s craft scene without the stress of driving. The flexible payment options also appeal to different budgets and drinking preferences.
Bottom Line: A highly personalized, relaxed tour that combines Austin’s craft breweries with the city’s spirited outdoor culture. Ideal for those who value a casual, guided bike experience.
4. Hill Country Brewery Limousine Tour
This luxury limousine tour offers an all-inclusive, VIP experience through the scenic Texas Hill Country. For around $250, you’ll enjoy luxurious transportation, a behind-the-scenes look at renowned breweries like Jester King, Twisted X, and Vista Brewing, plus generous tastings and food options. The private limo or Mercedes Benz party buses ensure a comfortable, stylish ride while you sample some of the best craft beers in the region.
The tour is tailored for those seeking a premium experience—perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in Austin’s finest brews with zero hassle. Reviews note the personalized service and the opportunity to taste wild ales and small-batch brews you might not find elsewhere. With a focus on the beauty of Texas Hill Country, this is more than just a brewery tour; it’s a mini-vacation.
Bottom Line: A top-tier option for connoisseurs and special occasions, offering a luxurious way to explore the region’s acclaimed breweries.
$250.00 per person
5. Austin: Brewery Tour with Live Music and Beer Tastings
This tour blends beer tasting, live local music, and a small meal from a food truck. For $130, you’ll visit three breweries and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Austin’s craft scene. The tour emphasizes music and socializing, with the band performing onboard and at stops, creating a lively, energetic vibe. The tastings are included at each brewery, and the guide offers insights into Austin’s growing beer culture.
While the reviews aren’t listed, the combination of music, beer, and casual dining makes this a good pick for those who want a multi-sensory experience. The small meal and included first-round beers add value, especially for travelers who want to relax and mingle.
Bottom Line: An upbeat, entertaining tour ideal for music lovers who want to combine Austin’s craft beer with its thriving live music scene.
$130 per person
6. Austin: East Austin Brewery Tour by Pedicab
This pedicab tour is a relaxed way to explore East Austin’s award-winning breweries. At $65 per person for about two hours, you’ll visit three breweries with a knowledgeable guide and sample award-winning beers at each stop. The tour emphasizes the local microbrewery scene and Austin’s outdoor-friendly vibe. The pedicab offers a fun, breezy way to see the city’s east side while learning about its craft beer culture.
Reviews note the laid-back atmosphere and the host Caleb, who shares his knowledge of Austin’s east side like a local. It’s perfect for beer lovers who prefer a casual, active outing with an emphasis on Austin’s community-driven breweries.
Bottom Line: A cost-effective, relaxed way to experience East Austin’s beer scene while enjoying Austin’s outdoor weather.
$65 per person
7. Austin: Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery
Combine cooking and beer tasting at this fun, hands-on pasta-making class. For $75, you’ll learn to make fresh pasta from scratch, guided by an expert chef, while sipping on locally brewed beer. The class includes making and cooking gourmet shrimp Alfredo and a bruschetta topping, making it perfect for foodies who want to enjoy Austin’s brew scene and culinary skills.
Guests rave about the approachable, beginner-friendly instruction and the relaxed environment. It’s great for couples, groups, or solo travelers wanting to learn a new skill in a friendly brewery setting. The combination of cooking and craft beer makes this a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: A tasty way to improve your culinary skills while enjoying Austin’s local beers—ideal for food lovers and curious cooks.
$75 per person
8. Austin: Street Art and Brewery Bike Tour
This bike tour blends art, culture, and craft beer. For $77, you’ll explore Austin’s murals and street art, stopping at three breweries along the way to enjoy a flight at each. It’s a fun, active way to see the city’s colorful side, learning about the murals and Austin’s urban history from your guide.
Reviews highlight the enjoyable combination of biking, art, and beer, with some noting the great photos opportunities and the informative commentary. This tour is best suited for those who want an interactive, culturally rich experience that combines physical activity with local flavor.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers interested in Austin’s street art scene and craft beer—all in one fun outing.
$77 per person
9. Brewery 5K Fun Run, BBQ, and Texas History Museum in Austin
This energetic day includes a 5K fun run starting and ending at a different brewery each week, followed by free beer, swag, and a hearty Texas BBQ at Terry Black’s. The tour combines fitness, food, and local culture, making it a lively option for active, social travelers. Post-run, you’ll enjoy some of Austin’s best BBQ and relax while passing iconic sights like Ladybird Lake and the Texas Capitol.
It’s a longer, more involved day that’s best suited for sports enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. The unique mix of exercise and local flavor makes it a memorable way to start a weekend.
Bottom Line: A great choice for active visitors wanting to combine a 5K with Austin’s best BBQ and breweries.
$175.00 per person
10. Hands-on Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Austin
This pasta-making class combines culinary skills with local craft beers. For $75, you’ll learn to knead, roll, and cut pasta from scratch with an expert chef, then cook a flavorful shrimp Alfredo and bruschetta. It’s perfect for foodies who want a hands-on experience and enjoy pairing cooking with beer.
Guests praise the friendly instruction and the chance to create a gourmet meal in a relaxed brewery environment. It’s well-suited for groups, couples, or solo travelers eager to learn something new while enjoying Austin’s brews. The class offers real value for the price and a memorable culinary experience.
Bottom Line: A fun, interactive way to improve your pasta skills while tasting Austin’s local beers—ideal for culinary adventurers.
$75.00 per person
11. Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Austin
Similar to the previous, this pasta class guides you through making fresh tagliatelle and marinara sauce, infused with Italian herbs. At $75, it’s a bite-sized experience perfect for those wanting a quick yet engaging culinary session. The focus is on technique, with the chance to enjoy your homemade pasta paired with local beers.
While reviews are not listed, the detailed instruction and authentic Italian approach make it attractive for food lovers wanting a hands-on experience. It’s a great way to learn new skills and enjoy Austin’s craft beer scene in a friendly setting.
Bottom Line: A compact, skill-building class that combines Italian cuisine with Austin brewing—great for a quick culinary escape.
$75.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Brewery Tour in Austin
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. For example, if you love live music and a lively atmosphere, the Brew Bus offers a musical twist. Those seeking a luxury experience should look at the Hill Country Limousine Tour, while active travelers might prefer the pedicab options.
Budget-conscious visitors can opt for the small-group brewery tour or the East Austin pedicab. If you’re interested in adding a culinary twist, the pasta-making classes combine food and beer, perfect for foodies.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours and weekends. Many tours include tastings, meals, and transportation, so check what’s included to avoid unexpected expenses.
Final Thoughts
Austin’s beer scene offers a range of experiences, from energetic bus tours with live music to luxury hill country excursions. If you’re after a casual, social day, the Brew Bus and live music tour are perfect picks. For a more intimate, eco-friendly experience, pedicab tours deliver personalized service with a local touch.
Luxury seekers and connoisseurs should consider the Hill Country Limousine Tour for a VIP day among Texas’s finest breweries. Meanwhile, culinary enthusiasts will enjoy the pasta classes, which combine hands-on cooking with local beers.
Whatever your style, Austin’s brewery tours promise a memorable, flavorful adventure—so book early and prepare to toast the Texas craft scene.