Discovering the Finger Lakes: Crafts & Drafts Pass
If you’re headed to the Finger Lakes region of New York and love good drinks, the Crafts & Drafts Pass is a fun, budget-friendly way to sample the area’s renowned craft beers, spirits, and ciders. For just $36, you get a three-day pass that lets you visit up to five different locations—or three if you opt for the one-day version. This digital pass is simple to use, with no app needed; just present it on your phone at each stop to enjoy your complimentary tasting.
What we particularly like about this pass is how it makes exploring the local craft scene straightforward and affordable. It’s fantastic for travelers who crave authentic experiences without the hassle of booking tickets or worrying about overpaying. Plus, the itinerary covers a good mix of well-established and emerging spots, giving you a real taste of the region’s drink-making talent.
That said, one thing to consider is that the pass doesn’t include transportation. You’ll need your own car or plan to arrange rides between locations, which makes it best suited for those comfortable with driving or with access to local transport. Also, since each visit is limited to one-time use, this pass works best if you’re planning to stay a few days rather than rushing through.
This experience is ideal for beer, cider, and spirits lovers who appreciate local craftsmanship, as well as travelers looking for a flexible way to explore the Finger Lakes at a reasonable cost. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Affordable: For just $36, you get multiple tastings across five locations.
- Flexible: 3-day or 1-day options suit different travel schedules.
- No App Needed: Digital pass stored on your phone makes check-in quick.
- Diverse Locations: Includes distilleries, breweries, and cideries, offering a variety of craft beverages.
- Authentic Experience: Focus on local producers, with knowledgeable guides and staff.
- Transportation: Not included, so plan to drive or arrange rides.
An In-Depth Look at the Finger Lakes Crafts & Drafts Pass
Getting to Know the Region
The Finger Lakes area in New York is famed for its natural beauty, with sprawling lakes, rolling vineyards, and lively small towns. Adding a craft beverage pass to your trip helps uncover a whole new layer of local culture — one rooted in craftsmanship and community.
This pass covers Yates and Steuben Counties, where you’ll find an impressive lineup of distilleries, breweries, and cideries. Each spot offers a tasting experience, whether it’s a flight of spirits, a pint of craft beer, or a glass of fresh cider.
How It Works
Once you purchase your pass, you’ll receive a digital ticket that stays on your phone. Each participating business honors your pass with a one-time offer—generally a tasting flight or a complimentary pint. When you visit, show your pass to the staff, and they’ll take care of the rest.
The three-day pass allows you to visit up to five locations, giving ample flexibility to spread out your visits and explore at a relaxed pace. Alternatively, the one-day pass limits you to three stops but is perfect for a focused afternoon or a quick tour.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat You Can Expect at Each Spot
Distilleries
- Barrelhouse 6 Distillery offers a tasting flight in a cozy setting. We loved the way the staff explained the nuances of each spirit, making it educational as well as enjoyable.
- Krooked Tusker Distillery provides a tasting flight that showcases local ingredients and creative flavors, giving you a true taste of the region’s ingenuity.
Breweries
- Railhead Brewing Company serves up a variety of beers with a hometown feel. The staff’s friendly attitude and knowledge make it easy to ask questions and learn about brewing.
- LyonSmith Brewing Co. offers a tasting flight that highlights their unique brewing style, perfect for those wanting to try something outside the mainstream.
Cideries
- Though not explicitly listed among the stops, the region’s cideries are often part of these craft tours, emphasizing locally pressed apples with fresh, crisp flavors.
Authentic Experiences and Friendly Guides
Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and staff at each location, making the experience more than just a tasting. We loved the way staff members shared stories about their craft, giving us insights into the regional heritage and the painstaking process that goes into each drink.
One reviewer mentioned, “The staff at Krooked Tusker was incredibly helpful and passionate about their spirits. It made the tasting even more enjoyable.” This kind of personal touch is what elevates the experience from simple sampling to engaging education.
The Value for the Price
Considering each location offers a complimentary tasting flight or pint, the value here is substantial. Normally, you’d pay around $10-15 for a single tasting or pint, so $36 covers multiple stops and several drinks. Plus, the ease of having everything pre-arranged saves time and energy—especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
However, keep in mind that transportation isn’t included. If you’re planning to visit multiple spots in one day, you’ll either need a designated driver or plan to use local transport options.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Plan your route ahead of time, especially if you’re using the 3-day pass, to avoid backtracking.
- Check hours for each location, as some may close early or have seasonal hours.
- Bring ID at each stop, as proof of being 21+ is required for alcohol tastings.
- Consider wearing comfortable shoes—many of these spots are in scenic rural settings or small towns with relaxed atmospheres.
- Booking the pass online allows you to reserve without upfront payment, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Real Traveler Feedback
Multiple reviewers praise the friendly staff and the variety of options. One noted, “The variety of craft beverages across the stops kept things interesting. Each place had its own personality.” Others appreciate the ease of use, mentioning that the digital pass worked smoothly without needing an app, simplifying the process.
Some travelers mention that the driving distance between stops is manageable, making the tour comfortable and unhurried. A few remark that it’s a great way to support local producers while enjoying genuine, well-curated tastings.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This pass is perfect for craft beverage enthusiasts, whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer. It suits travelers who enjoy flexible schedules, want to learn about local producers firsthand, and prefer not to worry about individual tastings or reservations. It’s also a good option for groups or couples looking for an affordable, guided tasting experience that highlights the best of the Finger Lakes’ drink scene.
The Sum Up
The Finger Lakes Crafts & Drafts Pass offers a practical, enjoyable way for visitors to experience the region’s vibrant craft beverage culture. At just $36, you can enjoy a variety of tastings across distilleries, breweries, and cideries, with the flexibility to tailor your visit to your pace.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of value—since each spot generally charges more for tastings—and convenience. The digital pass simplifies check-ins, while the knowledgeable staff at each location adds a layer of genuine hospitality and insight.
While the absence of transportation might be a hurdle for some, it’s an ideal option for those comfortable with driving or organizing local transport. The variety of locations and the quality of the experiences make it well worth considering, especially if you’re eager to explore the local craftsmanship without breaking the bank.
All in all, the Crafts & Drafts Pass is suited for travelers who love authentic, local flavors and want to experience the best of the Finger Lakes in a relaxed, flexible way. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a few days, this pass can help make your trip both memorable and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the pass valid for multiple visits to the same location?
No, each participating business can only be visited once per pass, so plan your route accordingly.
What is included in the pass?
You get a free tasting flight or pint at each location you visit, based on what the business offers.
Can I buy the 1-day pass instead of the 3-day?
Yes, there’s an option for a 1-day pass that lets you visit up to three locations, ideal for a shorter, more concentrated visit.
Do I need to show ID at each location?
Yes, you’ll need to provide proof of being 21 or over to enjoy alcohol tastings.
Are transportation costs included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to plan your own travel between stops.
What if I want to cancel my purchase?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.
Are there any physical tickets?
No, the pass is entirely digital—stored on your phone, making it easy to use.
Is the pass wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience provider states that the pass is wheelchair accessible.
Can I purchase the pass on the day of my visit?
Yes, but availability may vary, so it’s best to buy online in advance to secure your spot.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if you’ll be walking between rural or small-town locations.
This detailed look at the Finger Lakes Crafts & Drafts Pass should help you decide if it fits your travel style. It offers an authentic taste of the region’s craft beverage scene, wrapped in a flexible and budget-friendly package. Cheers to discovering the best the Finger Lakes has to offer.
You can check availability for your dates here: