Newfoundland Beer Tasting Tour in St. John’s

Newfoundland Beer Tasting Tour in St. John’s: A Beer Lover’s Dream with Local Charm

If you’re visiting St. John’s and want to experience a true taste of Newfoundland’s brewing scene, this Newfoundland Beer Tasting Tour offers a fantastic way to do just that. For $61 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours exploring three different breweries and bars, sampling 7 distinct beers brewed locally. Led by engaging guides, this tour combines history, humor, and a little bit of the craft beer magic—a perfect mix for those curious about the island’s drink culture and its stories.

What we love about this experience is how it balances educational insights with delicious tasting opportunities. You’ll learn about Newfoundland’s long brewing past, from the early days to today’s vibrant craft beer scene, all while tasting everything from sour beers made with sea salt to a complex stout. The small-group setting creates an intimate atmosphere, ideal for chatting with your guide and fellow beer enthusiasts alike.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance or people under 19, so plan accordingly. Also, it’s mostly a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a smart choice. If you’re a fan of local stories, craft beers, and enjoy a relaxed, friendly vibe, this tour will suit you perfectly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Local focus: All beers are brewed in Newfoundland, giving you an authentic taste of the island’s brewing culture.
• Rich stories: Guides share entertaining tales about prohibition, gangsters, and even the connection to Jimmy Kimmel.
• Hands-on learning: You’ll receive a crash course on how to taste craft beers and understand brewing techniques.
• Multiple stops: The tour visits three different breweries or bars, each with its own unique ambiance and specialties.
• Diverse beer selection: Expect a variety of styles, from a sea salt sour to a dark stout, providing a well-rounded tasting experience.
• Customer praise: With a 4.9/5 rating based on 8 reviews, most travelers find this tour educational, fun, and well-organized.

A Closer Look at the Newfoundland Beer Tasting Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off on George Street at the statue titled “A Time,” a lively spot that sets the perfect tone for an afternoon of discovery. After meeting your guide, the group heads off to explore three different breweries and bars. With a duration of 2.5 hours, it’s a comfortably paced experience—long enough to enjoy the beers and stories but not so lengthy that it drags on.

The small-group size ensures personal attention, and the live English-speaking guide keeps things engaging with stories, humor, and recommendations. The tour fee includes samples of local beer, totaling 7 tastings that add up to about 2 pints of beer in total—a generous amount for a casual afternoon.

Visiting the Breweries and Bars

Each stop offers a chance to enjoy distinctive Newfoundland brews. One of the highlights is trying a sour brewed with Newfoundland sea salt, which showcases how local ingredients influence beer flavors. You’ll also encounter a complex stout, along with a variety of ales and lagers, each with their own character and story.

The stops are carefully selected to highlight both historic breweries and modern craft beer pioneers. As you sip, your guide will share tales of Newfoundland’s prohibition era and the gangsters that once ran afoul of the law—stories that bring a lively human touch to the tasting experience. Plus, you’ll hear fun tidbits like the local connection to Jimmy Kimmel, which adds a modern flavor to the historical narrative.

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Learning the Art of Beer Tasting

One of the tour’s standout features is the crash course in craft beer tasting. Guides teach you how to appreciate different styles, aromas, and flavors, which is especially useful if you’re new to craft beer. This element elevates the experience from just drinking to truly understanding what makes each beer unique.

Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with one mentioning Pierre’s engaging storytelling and anecdotes about beer strikes. Another reviewer appreciated Axel’s perfect English and local knowledge, making the experience both educational and personable.

Authentic, Local Experiences

Beyond the beer, this tour offers a glimpse into St. John’s vibrant beer culture. Each stop is a chance to chat with local staff and get recommendations on what to explore afterward. The tour also provides insights into how breweries have evolved over time, reflecting the city’s growth and resilience.

Practical Considerations

Since the tour involves walking between stops, comfortable shoes are recommended. It’s mostly a relaxed, social experience, so expect friendly chatter and plenty of opportunities to ask questions. As the tour is not suitable for children under 19, or those with gluten intolerance, plan accordingly.

Overall Value

Given the price of $61, most travelers agree this offers excellent value — you’re sampling seven beers and gaining historical insights without breaking the bank. The reviews consistently praise the well-organized schedule and the variety of beers, making it a worthwhile addition to your St. John’s itinerary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun, relaxed way to explore St. John’s, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers eager to try something local and authentic. Food isn’t included, but the tour’s stops are in lively pubs where you can continue sampling after the tour ends.

This experience suits those who enjoy small-group settings with personalized attention, and it’s particularly appealing if you appreciate stories and humor as much as the beers. Keep in mind, if gluten or age restrictions are tight concerns, this might not be your best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Since the focus is on beer tasting, you might find that some beers contain ingredients that are not vegan-friendly, but the tour doesn’t specify dietary restrictions. It’s best to ask the guide directly.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
This tour is designed around beer tasting, so it’s not suitable for those who abstain from alcohol. Non-drinkers will likely not find it fulfilling.

How many breweries or bars will we visit?
You will visit three different breweries or bars during the tour, each offering a unique atmosphere and beer selection.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking between stops, so it may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.

What is the age requirement?
Participants must be 19 years or older, in alignment with local laws.

Are food options available during the tour?
Food is not included in the tour, but you can plan to eat before or after at the pub stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking between venues. Dress casually for a laid-back pub atmosphere.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Newfoundland Beer Tasting Tour offers a delightful blend of storytelling, local flavors, and relaxed exploration. It’s a perfect choice if you want to understand Newfoundland’s brewing roots, enjoy delicious local beers, and have a good laugh with a knowledgeable guide. The tour’s affordability and focus on authentic, local brews make it a standout activity for anyone wanting to connect with St. John’s in a fun and flavorful way.

Ideal for beer enthusiasts, history lovers, or those simply looking to enjoy a social afternoon in a scenic city, this tour promises memorable moments and a deeper appreciation of Newfoundland’s craft beer scene. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or just passing through, it’s an experience that adds flavor—literally—to your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: