If you’re heading to Asheville, North Carolina, and have even a modest interest in craft beer, this guided brewery tour offers a balanced mix of fun, education, and tasting. For just $99 per person, you’ll spend about four hours visiting three breweries or cider houses, gaining VIP access behind the scenes, sampling up to 12 beers, and munching on a pretzel snack. It’s a great way to get a genuine taste of Asheville’s thriving beer culture without the hassle of planning or navigating on your own.
What really stands out about this tour is the personalized insight provided by your local guide, who will introduce you to award-winning beers and share intriguing stories about the breweries’ histories. We also appreciate that transportation is taken care of, making your experience stress-free, especially after a few tastings.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a lively social atmosphere, are of legal drinking age, and are curious about how Asheville became a craft beer hub.
Key Points
- Includes up to 12 craft beer samples, offering a good variety for most beer lovers.
- VIP access gives you a behind-the-scenes look at local breweries.
- Comfortable round-trip transportation ensures a relaxed experience.
- Tasty pretzel snacks help balance the beer tasting session.
- Flexible timing in the afternoon or evening, depending on availability.
- Not suitable for pregnant women or anyone under 21, as alcohol is involved.
An authentic taste of Asheville’s craft beer scene in four hours
We love that this tour offers a local, behind-the-scenes perspective on Asheville’s famous brewery scene. With guides who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, you get more than just tastings; you gain a glimpse into the history, brewing process, and community spirit that make Asheville a beer lover’s paradise.
At a price point of $99, this tour balances affordability and value. You’re not just paying for the brews, but also for the expert guidance, convenient transportation, and the fun of trying a diverse selection of beers—something you might not easily discover on your own.
One of the best features is the VIP access to three breweries, such as Green Man, Archetype, DSSOLV, or One World, with the possibility of seeing how beer is actually made. The variety of beer styles — from pilsners to stouts — means there’s something for all, whether you’re a casual drinker or a seasoned connoisseur. As one reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide explained the different styles and the history behind each brewery,” adding authenticity to the experience.
The tour includes a tasty pretzel snack, which helps to balance the flavors and gives you a break from the tasting. This small but thoughtful touch makes a difference, especially after sampling several beers. The round-trip transportation in a comfortable vehicle is also a highlight, removing the worry of navigating or coordinating rides after enjoying a few drinks.
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What to Expect on the Tour
The itinerary is designed to give you an immersive experience without feeling rushed. Your guide will pick you up at the meeting point in front of the Renaissance Asheville, located at 31 Woodfin St., and then you’ll head out to three breweries or cider houses. While the specific stops may vary, some of the top brewery affiliates likely include well-known names like Green Man, Archetype, DSSOLV, and One World.
Each brewery has its own atmosphere—some modern and sleek, others more rustic and cozy—and your guide will offer insights into their unique stories. You’ll enjoy sample sizes that add up to around 12 tastings—enough to get a real sense of each brewery’s offerings but not so much that you’ll be over the limit. The focus is on quality over quantity, with a chance to savor each pour.
The VIP access means you might see areas usually off-limits to the public, such as brewing tanks or barrel rooms, giving you a better understanding of the craft and effort behind each beer. The beer styles vary widely, from lighter pilsners to darker stouts, so you’ll get to taste a spectrum of flavors.
The pretzel snack is served midway through the tasting, giving you a salty palate cleanser and something to soak up the alcohol. Many enjoy this simple but effective addition, especially since it enhances the tasting experience without overwhelming it.
Transportation and Group Size
Transportation is round-trip and in a comfortable vehicle, which is a huge plus for relaxing and socializing. The group size is generally small enough to keep the experience intimate, allowing for personalized attention from your guide.
Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, you’ll need to plan how to get to the meeting point. If you’re staying downtown Asheville, it’s easily accessible. If not, you might need to arrange a ride or public transit.
The tour runs in the afternoon or evening, giving flexibility to fit into your broader Asheville itinerary. Be aware that the tour operates rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather — a raincoat or umbrella might come in handy.
Price and Value Analysis
At $99, the tour offers a well-rounded experience. You’re getting access to up to 12 samples, which, depending on your drinking pace, can be quite generous. The expert guide adds educational value and local flavor, transforming a casual tasting into an insightful experience.
Compared to DIY brewery visits, this guided tour is a smart choice — you don’t have to worry about driving after a few drinks or missing out on hidden gems. It’s a particularly good value for travelers new to Asheville or craft beer, or those who want a structured way to explore without the hassle.
More Great Tours NearbyWho’s This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for beer enthusiasts, casual drinkers, and curious travelers who want to understand Asheville’s brewing culture without the stress of logistics. It’s also perfect for groups or couples looking for a lively, social outing. However, since pregnant women and under-21s are not permitted, it’s not suitable for minors.
If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local traditions and tastes in a relaxed atmosphere, this tour will deliver. It’s especially appealing if you prefer guided experiences over self-led exploration and appreciate a mix of education, tasting, and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip transportation in a comfortable vehicle is included, so you don’t have to worry about navigating or arranging rides.
Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is in front of the Renaissance Asheville at 31 Woodfin St.
Are there vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for the snacks.
How many breweries are visited on the tour?
Typically, three breweries or cider houses are visited, but the specific stops can vary.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s only for those 21 and over, and pregnant women are not permitted to participate.
What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport, weather-appropriate clothing, and closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort.
Final thoughts
This guided brewery tour in Asheville offers more than just tastings — it’s an opportunity to uncover the stories behind some of the region’s most acclaimed craft breweries. With expert guides, VIP access, and comfortable transportation, it’s a fun, educational way to spend an afternoon or evening. Whether you’re new to craft beer or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the variety and authentic experience this tour provides.
Ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free way to explore Asheville’s brewing scene, this tour balances value, comfort, and insight. It’s especially perfect if you enjoy social outings, learning about local culture, and savoring thoughtfully curated beer samples. Just remember to plan your transportation to and from the meeting point, and you’re all set for a memorable taste of Asheville’s craft beer magic.
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