Calgary Brewery Tour

Calgary Brewery Tour: A Taste of the City’s Best Brew

If you’re visiting Calgary and have a fondness for craft beer, this tour offers a great way to explore some of the city’s most acclaimed breweries. Priced at around $89 per person, it lasts about three and a half hours and visits three local breweries, each with its own unique vibe and specialties. Led by knowledgeable guides—like Conner, who received rave reviews—you’ll get behind-the-scenes access, tasting flights, and plenty of stories about Calgary’s vibrant beer scene. The tour starts in downtown Calgary at the Fairfield Inn & Suites and includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it comfortable and convenient.

What we really love about this experience is the variety of breweries visited—they all showcase different styles and atmospheres, giving you a well-rounded view of Calgary’s craft beer offerings. Plus, the inclusion of tastings at each stop means you’ll get a generous sampling of the local brews without having to worry about ordering. The tour’s small group size (max 14 people) helps keep things intimate and engaging, and the friendly guides add a personal touch to the experience.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the venues may vary depending on availability, which means your specific stops could change. Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. This setup works well if you’re staying nearby, but it’s something to consider if you’re based farther out.

This tour is best suited for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers wanting to learn about local breweries, or anyone looking for a relaxed, social outing in Calgary. It’s especially attractive for those who enjoy casual, behind-the-scenes experiences rather than formal tastings or large group tours.

Key Points

• Visit three top Calgary breweries showcasing award-winning and seasonal beers
• Guided by knowledgeable, personable hosts who share insights and local sights
• Includes a tasting flight at each brewery, offering a generous sample of local brews
• Small group size ensures a more personal, engaging experience
• Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle adds to comfort and convenience
• Tour variation depending on brewery availability might mean different stops each time

In-Depth Look at the Calgary Brewery Tour

An Introduction to Calgary’s Craft Beer Scene

Calgary isn’t just about cowboys and rodeos; it’s also a hub for innovative craft brewing. With several breweries that have earned provincial, national, and even international awards, the city’s beer scene is vibrant and diverse. This tour taps into that energy, giving you a curated look at three standout breweries. The fact that the tour is partnered with many of these breweries speaks to the quality and reputation of the stops.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown, conveniently located in the heart of the city. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that will take you on a scenic drive through Calgary’s neighborhoods. The small group size (up to 14 guests) makes for a friendly, intimate experience, perfect for conversations and questions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Bow River Brewing
Your first stop is Bow River Brewing, a place known for its eight beers on tap and seasonal options. Here, you’ll spend about 45 minutes tasting a variety of beers, including IPAs and lagers, and learning about their brewing process. The brewery’s reputation for award-winning brews means you’re likely to encounter some of the best beers in Calgary. Tama_B from a recent review praised their “generous-sized tap pours” and the guide’s knowledge, saying, “Conner was knowledgeable about the beers.” This stop sets the tone—a mix of quality, variety, and local pride.

Stop 2: OT Brewing Company
Next, the tour moves to OT Brewing Company, a brewery that encourages taking a moment to enjoy the brews and surroundings. The focus here is on creating a space for patrons to relax and appreciate their drink, regardless of personal meaning behind the initials. Another 45-minute visit allows you to try their selection and hear stories from your guide about Calgary’s evolving beer scene. Tama_B also commented on the engaging guide, making the visit more than just a tasting.

Stop 3: Born Brewing Co.
Your final stop is Born Brewing Co., a brewery famous for fostering a sense of community. Their slogan, “a space for you to write your own story,” hints at a welcoming atmosphere where strangers become friends over shared brews. This spot is great for those who appreciate authentic local culture as much as good beer. Again, you’ll enjoy about 45 minutes of sampling and chatting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $89.07 per person is quite reasonable when you consider the three tastings included—a flight at each brewery—plus the convenience of transportation. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay comfortable while moving between stops, and the knowledgeable guides elevate the experience by sharing insights about the beers and local sights.

However, gratuities are not included, and there’s no hotel pickup, so plan accordingly. Travelers staying outside the downtown area will need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Insights

One frequent praise from past participants is the knowledgeability of the guides, especially Conner, who was described as “great” and “great host.” These guides aren’t just there to pour beers—they share stories, answer questions, and point out interesting sights as you drive around. This makes the tour feel more personal and educational.

The reviews reflect satisfaction, with Tama_B giving a perfect 5-star rating, emphasizing the generosity of the pours and the guide’s expertise. Such feedback suggests you’ll leave not just with a good buzz but with a better understanding of Calgary’s brewing landscape.

The Value Perspective

At around $89, the tour offers good value—especially considering the three tasting flights and guided commentary. Compared to typical craft beer tastings in bars, this guided tour provides a more immersive experience, plus the convenience of transportation.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the variable nature of the breweries visited, which might impact your experience if you have specific preferences. Also, since it’s a group tour, you won’t have complete control over the stops, but this tends to be part of its charm. If you’re expecting a purely tasting-focused experience without guide commentary, this might not be the best fit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re a craft beer lover eager to explore Calgary’s local breweries without the hassle of organizing logistics yourself. It’s perfect for social travelers, couples, or small groups who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and savoring generous samples. It also suits those who want an authentic taste of Calgary’s vibrant beer scene in a relaxed, friendly setting.

The Sum Up

The Calgary Brewery Tour offers a well-balanced combination of education, sampling, and local culture. With three distinct breweries, each with its own character, you’ll get a snapshot of Calgary’s award-winning craft scene. The knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging, and the included tastings deliver real value.

While the stops may vary and the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, these are minor considerations compared to the overall enjoyment and insight you’ll gain. It’s a fun, relaxed way to spend an afternoon, especially if you’re curious about Calgary’s craft beer and want to support local brewers.

We think this tour is best suited for beer lovers, curious travelers, and small groups seeking a memorable, authentic Calgary experience. If you’re open to meeting new people and discovering local flavors, this is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the tour is centered around beer tastings, non-drinkers can often opt for non-alcoholic beverages or simply enjoy the atmosphere and guide’s commentary. It’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand.

How long does each brewery stop last?
Each brewery visit lasts about 45 minutes, giving plenty of time for tasting and chatting.

What should I wear on the tour?
Casual, comfortable clothing is perfect. Since the tour involves driving in an air-conditioned vehicle, dress accordingly, especially if the weather is warm.

Are the breweries accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour details don’t specify accessibility, so it’s best to contact Canadian Craft Tours directly if you have specific needs.

Can I join the tour if I’m traveling alone?
Absolutely. The small group size makes it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
Yes, a minimum of 4 guests is required for the tour to operate. If not met, you may need to reschedule or get a refund.

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, the tour is typically booked 59 days in advance, and booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

This Calgary Brewery Tour offers a fun, authentic glimpse into the city’s craft beer scene, combining great brews, friendly guides, and comfortable transportation. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or simply curious to taste some local favorites, it’s a well-organized way to spend an afternoon in Calgary.