Imagine spending an afternoon exploring Phoenix’s craft beer scene in the company of knowledgeable guides, visiting three top breweries, sampling up to 12 beers, and snacking on local treats. This 3.5-hour guided tour offers a chance to taste and learn about Arizona’s booming craft beer industry, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Scottsdale and Tempe. Led by a friendly, well-informed guide, this experience is perfect for those curious about beer, eager to meet locals, and wanting a taste of authentic Arizona brewing culture.
What we love about this tour is how it combines tastings with behind-the-scenes insights—you won’t just sip beer; you’ll learn about how it’s made and what makes each brewery unique. Another highlight is the inclusion of a tasty snack, which helps soak up all those flavorful beers. However, a potential consideration is that the tour can be quite social, which might not appeal if you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience. Still, if you’re looking to meet fellow travelers and locals alike, this is a great choice.
This tour is best suited for adults over 21 who enjoy craft beer, appreciate casual, guided experiences, and want a balanced blend of education and tasting. If you’re after a fun, social outing with memorable flavors and a chance to discover new local favorites, you’ll likely find this tour both enjoyable and worthwhile.
Contents
Key Points
- Craft Beer Focus: Visit three breweries and taste up to 12 different beers.
- Behind-the-Scenes Access: Learn about the brewing process directly from the experts.
- Local Flavor: Enjoy a snack that complements the beer and immerses you in the local scene.
- Informative Guides: Guides like Luke earn praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
- Small Group Size: Limited to 12 people, ensuring a more personalized experience.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
An In-Depth Look at the Scottsdale Brew Tour
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins conveniently at the entrance of the Home2 Suites by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town, where you’ll spot a white Ford Transit Van wrapped with the City Brew Tours logos. The guide will be wearing a “Beer Guide” shirt, making it easy to identify your group. From there, the journey kicks off with a short 15-minute van ride to the first brewery. This setup means you won’t have to worry about navigating or parking—just sit back and get ready for a relaxed, social experience.
First Brewery Visit
The initial stop usually lasts around 50 minutes at a local bar, where you’ll taste some of Phoenix’s best craft beers. This part sets the tone—expect a lively atmosphere, friendly service, and a chance to sample beers that showcase the local brewing talent. The guide will offer insights into what makes each beer special, perhaps touching on the ingredients or brewing style. This first stop is where many meet fellow beer enthusiasts, and some guests noted how the guides are skilled at matching tastings to individual preferences.
Midpoint and Tempe Town Lake View
After the first brewery, a brief 15-minute van ride takes you past the scenic Tempe Town Lake—a nice visual break and a bit of local scenery en route to the next venue. While the tour doesn’t stop here, it’s a good moment to appreciate the local landscape and get excited for the upcoming tastings.
Second Brewery with Food Tasting
The second stop is typically around 55 minutes long and includes a guided tour, beer tastings, and a food pairing. Here, you’ll get an even deeper look into the brewing process and sample a variety of beers tailored to your preferences, thanks to a guide like Luke, who has been praised for his flexibility and knowledge. The added food component—likely some local snacks—serves to balance the beer and enhance the overall experience. The reviews highlight the value of this stop, especially with the guide’s attentiveness to individual tastes.
Final Brewery and Wrap-up
The last stop, lasting around 45 minutes, provides an opportunity to revisit favorite beers or explore new ones. It’s a relaxed environment to chat with locals, other travelers, and your guide. Afterward, you’ll return to the starting point, completing a well-rounded afternoon of tasting, learning, and socializing.
Tour Size and Atmosphere
With groups capped at 12, the experience tends to be intimate enough for meaningful conversations and personalized attention. This small group setting is a plus, especially if you’re shy or want a more tailored experience. One review notes the tour’s “great fun” and the guide’s ability to make everyone feel engaged.
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What Sets This Tour Apart
Knowledgeable Guides
Guests like Jane from the UK rave about Luke, describing him as courteous, helpful, and extremely knowledgeable about the breweries and craft beer. This kind of expertise elevates the experience, making the tastings more meaningful, especially if you’re new to craft beer.
Authentic Local Experience
Visiting Phoenix’s top breweries offers a taste of the regional craft beer scene that visitors can’t get from supermarket brands. You’re drinking with locals and learning about the culture that fuels Arizona’s craft beer growth.
Value for Money
For the price of around three and a half hours, you get up to 12 tastings, guided insights, and a snack—a solid value considering the variety and behind-the-scenes access. One reviewer called it a “great value for money,” especially given the personalized touch.
Practical Details and Considerations
- Duration: 3.5 hours, making it a manageable but satisfying outing.
- Price: While not explicitly stated, the value lies in numerous tastings, guide expertise, and included snacks.
- Booking Flexibility: You can reserve and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
- Group Size: Limited to 12, ensuring individual attention.
- Age and Identification: Strictly 21+, with valid ID required. No exceptions.
- Dress Code: Closed-toe shoes are mandatory—a practical consideration if you wish to explore brewery floors.
- What to Bring: Passport or US ID, cash, and a good attitude.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?
This tour suits beer enthusiasts eager to taste diverse local brews and learn about the brewing process. It’s also ideal for social travelers who enjoy meeting new people in a lively, relaxed setting. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner looking for a fun, informative outing, this is a good pick. However, if you prefer a quiet, solitary experience or have mobility issues (since the tour involves getting in and out of vans and standing), you might want to consider other options. Also, pregnant women and non-drinkers should note that alcohol consumption is a key part of this experience.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Thoughts
The Scottsdale Original Brew Tour offers a balanced mix of tasting, learning, and socializing. It stands out for its small group size, engaging guides, and authentic local breweries. Whether you’re a craft beer veteran or just curious to see what Arizona’s brewing scene has to offer, you’ll likely find this journey both enjoyable and informative.
The inclusion of up to 12 tastings and a snack ensures you get a genuine sense of regional flavors without feeling rushed. Plus, the behind-the-scenes access brings an educational layer that many casual drinkers will appreciate. While it’s not a private tour, the small-group format fosters a friendly, welcoming vibe.
Overall, if you’re in Scottsdale or Phoenix and looking for an engaging way to experience local craft beer culture, this tour delivers on value, authenticity, and fun. It’s perfect for groups who love tasting new flavors, making new friends, and learning about what makes Arizona’s breweries special.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, this tour is only for those 21 and older, and alcohol consumption is part of the experience. Non-drinkers or pregnant women might want to look for alternative activities.
How many breweries will we visit?
You’ll visit three breweries during the tour.
How many tastings are included?
Up to 12 different beer samples are included, giving you a good variety to enjoy.
Do I need to bring my ID?
Yes, a valid passport, driver’s license, or US ID is required for age verification.
Is food provided?
A snack is included to complement the tastings, but a full meal is not part of the tour.
How long is each stop?
Stops are approximately 50, 55, and 45 minutes long, allowing enough time to taste and learn without feeling rushed.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to between 4 and 10 people, ensuring a more personal experience.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required; comfortable clothing suitable for walking and brewery environments is recommended.
This beer tour in Scottsdale offers a wonderful way to explore Arizona’s craft scene, meet fellow travelers, and enjoy some delicious local brews—all in a friendly, guided setting. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just eager to try something new, it’s a tasting adventure worth considering.
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