Reno’s Original Brewery Tour

A Closer Look at Reno’s Original Brewery Tour

If you’re a fan of craft beer and want to explore Reno beyond the usual sights, this Reno’s Original Brewery Tour offers an engaging way to sample some of the city’s best microbrews. For $89 per person, the approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes journey takes you to three carefully selected local breweries, each with its own distinctive style and atmosphere. Led by an expert guide, you’ll learn about each brewery’s backstory, brewing techniques, and what makes their beers special—plus, you get to enjoy up to a dozen tastings.

What we particularly like about this tour are two key points: First, the VIP access to three breweries—which means fewer crowds and more personalized interaction—plus, the comfortable bus transportation ensures you can indulge without worrying about driving. Second, the tour’s educational aspect shines through, with guides sharing insights into the brewing process and local beer history, making the experience both fun and informative.

One thing to consider: the tour visits only three breweries, so if you’re hoping for a more extensive pub crawl, this might feel a bit brief. It’s best suited for those who appreciate quality over quantity and want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Reno’s craft brewing scene.

This experience is ideal for beer enthusiasts, travelers keen on discovering local flavors, or anyone interested in supporting small, innovative breweries. Whether you’re a solo visitor, a couple, or a group of friends, you’ll find this tour offers a balanced mix of education, socializing, and tasting.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: It provides a genuine look into Reno’s craft beer scene, not just touristy spots.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides share insights into brewing techniques and history.
• VIP Access & Transportation: Skip the crowds and relax in comfortable bus transport between breweries.
• Diverse Brewery Selections: From well-known favorites to experimental styles, the stops are thoughtfully chosen.
• Tasting Variety: Up to a dozen different beers, including IPAs, pale ales, sours, and barrel-aged brews.
• Ideal for Curious Beer Lovers: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, educational outing.

A Detailed Journey Through Reno’s Craft Beer Scene

Starting Point at the Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel & Spa

The tour kicks off at the Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel & Spa—a central spot that’s easy to find whether you’re staying nearby or just arriving in town. From here, you’ll board a cozy, air-conditioned bus that will whisk you to your brewery stops, making it convenient to focus on what matters most: the beer.

First Stop: Imbib Custom Brews

Our first visit is to Imbib Custom Brews, a standout for their award-winning, hop-forward beers. They’ve been brewing in Northern Nevada since 2012 with a creative approach. We loved how this brewery offers a diverse lineup, from classic IPAs and hazys to experimental styles like dry-hopped sour beers and barrel-aged brews.

Your guide will help you understand what makes their beers tick—whether it’s the west coast hop bitterness or the nuances of barrel aging. The 50-minute visit includes a tasting of several options, and you’ll get a chance to see their innovative process firsthand.

Second Stop: The Brewer’s Cabinet

Next, you arrive at The Brewer’s Cabinet, one of Reno’s original craft breweries. Known for their inviting atmosphere and community focus, this brewery is a favorite for locals. Here, you’ll try a paired snack—a nice touch that complements the beer tasting and rounds out the experience.

This stop is about more than just beer; it’s about connection and community. You’ll learn how they emphasize quality and innovation, and the guide will highlight the differences between their larger and smaller batch production. As one reviewer notes, “John had a lot of information on how beer is made and its history,” making the visit both educational and enjoyable.

Final Stop: Slieve Brewing Company

The last brewery on our route is Slieve Brewing, housed in Reno’s original Firehouse #2. This brewery is the passion project of a former home brewer turned professional, and you’ll enjoy seeing how this passion translates into a commitment to quality.

Expect more intimate tasting experiences here, with the chance to explore unique styles and small-batch brews. This stop provides a perfect contrast to the previous breweries, showcasing Reno’s diverse craft beer landscape.

Returning to the Starting Point

After roughly 50 minutes at each brewery, the bus will return you to the Renaissance Hotel, ending your tour where you began. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed, informative, and above all, fun.

What Do Travelers Say?

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially noting John’s expertise. One comment states, “John, our tour guide, has a vast knowledge of the history of beer, and brewing,” which adds depth to the experience. Many appreciate the comfortable transport and the chance to sample a wide array of beers without the worry of driving.

Another reviewer mentions, “So much fun! Toured three different breweries with a snack at one. John had a lot of information on how beer is made and we tried various beers from local breweries.” The emphasis on local flavors and educational value seems to stand out.

Analyzing the Value

At $89 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the VIP brewery access, tastings of up to a dozen beers, and expert guidance. The price includes all tastings and the snacks at the second stop, making it a comprehensive package. It’s well-suited for those wanting a guided, all-inclusive experience that goes beyond just drinking—it’s about learning and supporting local businesses.

While the tour is relatively short, the quality of the breweries and the depth of information provided by the guides create a memorable outing. For serious beer enthusiasts, this offers a chance to discover new styles and nuances that might be harder to find on your own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for beer lovers, curious travelers, or locals wanting to explore Reno’s craft scene in a relaxed setting. It’s especially good if you value learning about brewing techniques or want an easy-going social experience. If you appreciate small-group tours with personalized attention, this is a great fit. It’s also suitable for those who prefer not to worry about transportation or logistics during their tasting journey.

FAQs about Reno’s Original Brewery Tour

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, including visits to three breweries and transportation.

What is included in the price?
All tastings of up to a dozen beers, VIP brewery access, snacks at the second brewery, and comfortable bus transportation are included.

Where does the tour meet?
The tour starts at the Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel & Spa, a central location easy to access.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the focus is on alcohol tasting, so it’s intended for adults.

How many people are on the tour?
A maximum of 14 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

Is transportation provided between breweries?
Yes, the tour includes comfortable bus transport, allowing you to relax and enjoy the tastings.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

Reno’s Original Brewery Tour offers a well-rounded experience for anyone interested in craft beer, local culture, and good company. Its combination of expert guides, VIP brewery access, and a variety of beer styles makes it a worthwhile outing for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs. The tour balances educational insight with relaxed socializing, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

If you’re looking to support local breweries, learn about the brewing process, or simply enjoy some quality beers in a fun, safe environment, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a perfect way to see a different side of Reno—one that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and community.

Whether you’re visiting Reno for the first time or are a local looking to explore your city’s brewing gems, this tour promises a memorable, flavorful adventure.