The Beer Bus- History & Craft Beer in St. Augustine

Looking for an engaging way to experience St. Augustine beyond the usual sights? The Beer Bus—History & Craft Beer tour offers a lively blend of local flavor, history, and fun on a 3.5-hour journey through some of the city’s best breweries and distilleries. For just $79 per person, you’ll hop on a bus, visit three stops, and sample over 10 craft beers and artisanal spirits. A perfect option for those wanting to combine tasting, learning, and a touch of the city’s story in one laid-back outing.

We love how this tour isn’t just about drinking—though that’s a big part of it—but about understanding the local craft scene and getting a taste of the city’s vibrant history through knowledgeable guides. The stops at Dog Rose Brewing, Sailbird Distilling, and Old Coast Ales each showcase distinctive local character and craftsmanship, making it a well-rounded experience.

One potential drawback? The 3.5-hour duration means you’ll be moving at a steady pace, so if you’re not a fan of tasting multiple samples or prefer more relaxed, longer visits, you might find it a bit quick. Still, it’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy variety and want a fun, educational outing that packs a punch of flavor and local stories.

If you’re a beer lover, a curious traveler eager to learn about the city’s history, or simply someone who enjoys good company with a good drink, this tour offers a great value. It’s especially appealing if you want to support local businesses while gaining insight into St. Augustine’s lively craft beverage scene.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Brewery & Distillery Visit: Three stops in 3.5 hours, sampling a variety of craft brews and spirits.
• Local Flavor & Authenticity: Focus on St. Augustine’s independent breweries and distilleries, showcasing unique styles.
• Educational & Entertaining Guides: Guides like Amanda and others know their stuff and bring the city’s stories to life.
• Value for Money: At $79, you get tastings, transport, and insight—a good deal for craft beverage enthusiasts.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging tour.
• Food & Drink Pairing: Starting pre-tour at Hillary’s Chicago Pizza, you’ll enjoy pairing local craft beers with a hearty slice of Chicago-style pizza.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point & Pre-Game at Hillary’s Chicago Pizza

The tour kicks off at Hillary’s Chicago Pizza, a cozy spot owned by Hillary, a Chicago native who brings deep-dish tradition to Florida. Here, we get to pre-game with some authentic pizza—think made-from-scratch dough, bold sauces, and top-quality toppings. The atmosphere is welcoming, and it’s a nice warm-up before heading out. The pairing of pizza with local craft beers is a thoughtful touch, giving you a taste of how local flavors can complement each other.

Stop 1: Dog Rose Brewing Co.

Our first stop, Dog Rose Brewing, is situated in Lincolnville, an historic neighborhood just a few blocks from the city’s heart. Open since 2017, this brewery takes pride in brewing style-driven ales and lagers with quality ingredients. You’ll find a variety of options—from a German-style Hefeweizen and Maibock to more adventurous fruited sours and West Coast IPAs.

What we truly appreciated is the spacious yet cozy taproom—a perfect setting to relax and chat with fellow beer enthusiasts. The brewery’s Ambrosia maple bar is a highlight, offering a friendly, inviting vibe. As one reviewer remarked, the brewery is “spacious and open, yet cozy and inviting,” making it a comfortable spot to enjoy your tastings.

Stop 2: Sailbird Distilling Company

Next, we visited Sailbird Distilling, a hidden gem that specializes in craft spirits and small-batch liquors. Here, the focus is on exquisite, handcrafted spirits that tell a story—from unique flavor profiles to artisanal techniques. The founders, Brian and Susan Lieberman, are passionate about quality, and that passion comes through in every sip.

The tasting room offers a variety of spirits, and you can enjoy delicious cocktails that highlight the distillery’s craftsmanship. The experience is elevated by the stories behind each spirit—a chance to understand what makes these spirits special. The rotating food pairings add another layer, making every visit feel like a mini culinary adventure.

Stop 3: Old Coast Ales

Our last stop, Old Coast Ales, embodies the relaxed coastal charm of St. Augustine. Known for brewing a rotating selection of beers, from refreshing IPAs to richer stouts, this brewery emphasizes Florida-inspired flavors. The ambiance is laid-back, perfect for unwinding after a busy day of tasting.

Many reviews mention the friendly staff and the local, handcrafted quality of the brews. It’s a spot where you can sit back, soak in the coastal atmosphere, and discover new favorites. The food offerings here are also well-regarded, making it a great place to finish your beer journey.

Final segment: Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up back at Hillary’s, giving you a chance to continue chatting or grab a final slice of pizza. The overall experience combines learning, tasting, and socializing, offering a wonderful snapshot of St. Augustine’s craft scene.

Authenticity & Value

This tour is about more than just tasting drinks; it’s an opportunity to support local businesses and gain insider knowledge. Guides like Amanda and others are praised for their expertise and personable approach, making the experience engaging and informative. The small group size ensures you won’t feel rushed and can ask questions, making it especially worthwhile for those who love to learn as they go.

At $79 per person, including tastings and transportation, the tour provides solid value—especially considering the quality of the breweries and spirits visited. The guided commentary adds context, turning what could be a simple pub crawl into a meaningful exploration of St. Augustine’s craft beverage scene.

Practical Tips

• The tour does involve walking between stops but also includes transportation, which makes moving from one location to another hassle-free.
• Book 19 days in advance on average, reflecting its popularity.
• Since most travelers can participate, it’s suitable for a wide range of ages and interests. Service animals are allowed, and sign language interpretation is available upon request.
• Remember, cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for craft beer and spirits enthusiasts looking for a fun, social outing that combines local history and flavors. It’s also great for travelers who prefer small-group experiences with knowledgeable guides. If you enjoy tasting different styles and are curious about how local breweries and distilleries craft their products, you’ll find this tour both enjoyable and educational.

However, if you’re more interested in historic sightseeing without the focus on beverages, or if you prefer longer, more in-depth brewery visits, you might want to explore other options. But for an engaging, flavorful overview of St. Augustine’s craft scene, this tour hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but the focus on alcohol means it’s best suited for those 21 and over.

How long is each stop?
Each brewery and distillery stop lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, giving enough time for tastings and some conversation.

Does the tour include food?
Pre-tour, you start with pizza at Hillary’s, and some stops include food pairings that complement the spirits and beers.

Are beverages included in the price?
Yes, over 10 samples are included in the tour price, giving you a good taste of local craft offerings.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 12 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

To sum it up, the Beer Bus—History & Craft Beer in St. Augustine offers a lively and authentic peek into the city’s craft beverage scene. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting more than just sightseeing, enjoying delicious drinks, and learning about local culture through engaging guides. Whether you’re a dedicated beer lover or simply eager to discover St. Augustine from a different angle, this tour provides value, variety, and a good dose of fun.