Chicago: Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus

Discover Chicago’s Craft Beer Scene with the Barrel Bus Tour

Imagine cruising through the city streets on a barrel-shaped bus, a quirky and fun way to explore some of Chicago’s finest craft breweries. For about $100 per person, you’ll hop aboard this 4-hour tour, which includes visits to three distinct breweries plus an exclusive VIP behind-the-scenes look at one of the city’s top nano-breweries. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience blends learning, tasting, and socializing in one well-rounded package.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the interactive tour guide (often highlighted as friendly and packed with info) helps you understand what makes Chicago’s craft beer scene so lively and innovative. Second, the custom-engineered barrel bus offers a quirky, memorable way to travel, making the experience more engaging than traditional brewery hopping. A slight caveat is that the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues or under 21, so it’s best suited for beer lovers with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore Chicago’s microbrewery culture. If you enjoy small-group tours, behind-the-scenes access, and tasting local brews, this is likely to be a highlight of your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique transportation: The barrel-shaped bus creates a memorable, fun atmosphere.
• Behind-the-scenes access: VIP tour at a top nano-brewery offers insights you can’t get elsewhere.
• Variety of breweries: Explore three distinct venues, each offering different styles and atmospheres.
• Tastings: Expect to sample approximately 45-55 ounces of craft beer, enough to satisfy your curiosity and palate.
• Guided experience: A professional guide provides live commentary, making the tour both educational and entertaining.
• Convenience: Transportation and logistics are arranged, so you focus on enjoying the beers and sights.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect on the Chicago Craft Brewery Tour

When we first learned about this tour, we appreciated how it combines education, entertainment, and local flavor. The day begins at a meeting point in front of a McDonald’s across from the Rainforest Cafe, a convenient and recognizable spot for most travelers. From there, you’ll step into a custom-engineered barrel bus, which immediately sets a playful tone for the day.

The Barrel Bus Experience

The journey starts with a sense of anticipation. We found the barrel-shaped bus to be surprisingly comfortable, with enough space for a group of curious beer enthusiasts. The live commentary from your guide, likely Ted or David based on reviews, helps set the scene, sharing anecdotes about Chicago’s brewing history and the specific breweries you’ll visit.

Visiting Breweries: Revolution, Burning Bush, and Great Central

Your first stop is at Revolution Brewery, where the tour of their production facilities gives you a rare glimpse of how craft beer is made on a larger scale. According to reviews, this is a highlight—”the tour of Revolution Brewery is a real highlight,” says a visitor—offering insights that go beyond just tasting.

Next, your group visits two more venues—Burning Bush and Great Central—both praised for their comfortable tasting rooms and excellent beers. One reviewer mentioned, “We got to see some breweries that would have been difficult to get to via public transit,” which underscores the advantage of the tour’s convenience and curated visits.

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VIP Behind-the-Scenes at a Nano-Brewery

The VIP tour at the nano-brewery is a key part of the experience. Here, you’ll learn about the beer-making process directly from those who craft the beer, with some reviewers calling it a “great tour”. This behind-the-scenes access offers a more personal understanding of the art and science behind each brew.

Tasting and Socializing

Throughout the tour, you’ll sample around 45-55 ounces of craft beer, roughly equivalent to 6-8 small glasses. The reviews highlight the variety and quality of the beers, with many guests noting the delicious selections and the friendly atmosphere. The guide also fosters interaction through party games and engaging commentary, creating a lively, social environment.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about 4 hours, with availability in both morning and afternoon slots. It’s designed primarily for adults over 21 and is not wheelchair accessible, so keep that in mind. The tour takes place rain or shine, so weather won’t disrupt your plans, and packing a passport or ID and closed-toe shoes is recommended.

The Value: Is it Worth the Price?

At $100 per person, this tour offers great value considering the multiple brewery visits, VIP access, and curated experience. You’re not just paying for tastings, but also for expert guidance, the novelty of the barrel bus, and behind-the-scenes insights. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the variety of beers, making it clear that this is a well-rounded way to explore Chicago’s craft beer scene.

While food isn’t included, the focus remains on beer tasting and education. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic, small-scale breweries and enjoys fun, social outings, this tour will likely exceed your expectations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beer lovers, curious travelers, and those looking for a unique way to see Chicago. It’s especially suited for people interested in microbreweries and behind-the-scenes access. It’s a fantastic way to meet new people, learn about craft beer, and enjoy a lighthearted, engaging day. However, if you have mobility issues or are under 21, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

The Sum Up

The Chicago Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus combines entertainment, education, and authentic local flavor in a way that’s accessible and fun. The quaint barrel-shaped bus makes the journey memorable, while the visits to innovative breweries reveal the city’s lively craft beer culture. With knowledgeable guides, engaging commentary, and generous tastings, this tour offers excellent value for those eager to explore Chicago’s microbrewery scene in a relaxed setting.

Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or just looking for a fun day out, this experience delivers more than just drinks—it’s a chance to discover the stories behind the beers and enjoy Chicago’s vibrant brewing community.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers or those who don’t want to taste alcohol?
This tour is designed around beer tasting, so non-drinkers might find it less enjoyable. However, the focus is on learning about the brewing process, so if you prefer to observe or learn without tasting, you could still enjoy the guides and the atmosphere.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is only suitable for those over 21, as it involves alcohol consumption and identification is required.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
While the specific group size isn’t stated, the tour is a small-group experience, ensuring personalized attention from the guide.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Absolutely. You can reserve your spot online, and with the “Reserve & Pay Later” option, you can secure your place without immediate payment.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, the tour runs regardless of weather, so come prepared for the forecast.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the transportation is included, and you’ll travel on a custom-engineered barrel-shaped bus between breweries.

This brewery tour offers a delightful combination of fun, learning, and tasting—a perfect way to spend part of your visit to Chicago if you love discovering local flavors and meeting fellow travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: