Canandaigua Lake Brewery Tour

If you’re after a relaxing, flavor-filled experience in the scenic Finger Lakes, the Canandaigua Lake Brewery Tour offers a perfect mix of good company, local brews, and stunning views. For around $242 per person, you’ll spend about 5 to 6 hours exploring four well-loved breweries, with most tours booked about nine days in advance. The tour starts with convenient hotel pickup—no need to worry about driving or navigating—and takes you on a leisurely journey through some of the best craft beer spots in the Rochester area.

What we really love about this experience is how small it stays—capped at 12 participants—keeping things intimate, friendly, and engaging. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide like Gary, you’ll get personalized insights about the beers, the brewing process, and the local scene. The option to upgrade with a pub lunch adds a delicious local touch, making it a well-rounded outing for any beer lover or curious traveler craving authentic tastes and stories.

A potential consideration is that the tour is non-refundable and weather-dependent, so if you’re planning for a specific date, keep an eye on the forecast. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy craft beer, like small-group experiences, and want to learn about local breweries in a relaxed, friendly setting. If that sounds like you, read on for a detailed look at what to expect.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to 12 guests for a personalized experience.
• Learn & Taste: Guided tastings at four top breweries with educational insights.
• Flexible Options: Upgrade for a pub lunch featuring Irish-style fare.
• Relaxed & Safe: No need to drive; your guide handles transportation.
• Scenic & Authentic: Experience the Finger Lakes’ craft beer scene with local stories.
• Weather Consideration: Tour is weather-dependent, with flexibility for rescheduling or refunds.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point & Duration

The tour kicks off at 11:30 am from Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack in Farmington, NY. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle with your guide, who will likely be Gary based on reviews—a friendly, knowledgeable local. The experience lasts about 5 to 6 hours, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon without feeling rushed.

First Stop: Naked Dove Brewing Company

The journey begins in Canandaigua with Naked Dove Brewing Company. This microbrewery focuses on quality ingredients and consistent standards, aiming to craft beers that meet high expectations. We loved how they concentrate on doing one thing well—using top-notch ingredients to produce world-class beers locally. It’s a microbrewery that takes pride in quality control, so expect beers that are carefully brewed and thoughtfully presented.

You’ll spend around an hour here, sampling a variety of styles and learning about what goes into creating these beers. One reviewer praised their guide Gary for passing on detailed knowledge, making the tasting more than just sipping—it’s about understanding the craft behind each brew.

Second Stop: Peacemaker Brewing Company

Next up is Peacemaker Brewing in downtown Canandaigua. Famous for its connection to music—named after Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers—the brewery offers a diverse lineup, including IPAs, stouts, porters, and more. The names and stories behind their beers add a layer of personality to your tasting experience.

During this stop, which lasts about an hour, you’ll get a good sense of the creative spirit that fuels local craft breweries. Reviewers have appreciated the local stories Gary shared, making the visit feel authentic and personal. It’s a good reminder that craft brewing is as much about community and identity as it is about the beer itself.

Third Stop: Frequentem Brewing Co.

Frequentem Brewing is a newer player on Main Street, emphasizing putting out the best possible beer in a lively, good-vibes setting. The name, meaning “to gather with good vibes,” fits well—this is a friendly, welcoming spot where you can see the passion for craft brewing.

This stop is perfect for those seeking a modern, energetic atmosphere. Expect to taste a variety of fresh brews, and if you’re lucky, Gary might share some behind-the-scenes stories about the brewery’s recent growth. The reviews note that the brewery’s focus on quality and community shines through.

Final Stop: The Irish Mafia Brewing Company

The last brewery, The Irish Mafia, plays up its Irish roots with a fun, bold approach. Their signature drink, the Mighty Ego IPA, is a highlight, and the brewery’s dedication to quality shows in their craft. If you’re interested in pairing your beers with something more substantial, you can upgrade to the Great Growlers plus Lunch option, which features an Irish-inspired pub meal—think burgers with a twist—and a selection of their best brews.

This part of the tour typically lasts about two hours, giving you time to relax, enjoy your lunch, and chat about the day’s discoveries. Reviewers have especially praised the food and the friendly atmosphere, making it a fitting finale to your Finger Lakes beer adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized Experience: The small group size means you’ll get more attention from your guide and richer interactions. Gary, in particular, seems to be a hit for sharing his local knowledge and passion.

Diverse Breweries: Each stop offers a different vibe—from the quality-focused Naked Dove to the lively Irish Mafia—giving you a well-rounded taste of the region’s brewing scene.

Educational Tasting: The tour isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding the craft, ingredients, and stories behind the beers. This makes it especially interesting for those who appreciate the art of brewing.

Flexibility & Value: The option to add a pub lunch makes this a full-fledged outing rather than just a tasting, and the included hotel pickup simplifies logistics. At roughly $240, the price covers four brewery visits, tastings, and in some cases, a meal—pretty good value considering the personalized service and access.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, this trip offers a chance to sample some of the Finger Lakes’ best brews in a relaxed setting. It’s also ideal if you prefer small-group experiences with local guides who bring stories and insights to life. Travelers who enjoy learning about local culture through food and drink will find this tour richly rewarding.

Those who like their tours flexible—especially with the lunchtime upgrade—will appreciate the combination of tasting, socializing, and local flavor. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a taste of the Finger Lakes’ vibrant brewing scene without the hassle of planning logistics.

The Sum Up

The Canandaigua Lake Brewery Tour provides a lively, educational, and tasty excursion into the Finger Lakes’ craft beer culture. The small-group format, knowledgeable guide, and variety of breweries make it a standout experience for those wanting a genuine taste of the region, balanced with comfort and convenience. Whether you’re a craft beer veteran or just curious about local brews, this tour offers value, authentic characters, and plenty of memorable sips.

While weather can be a factor, the relaxed pace and engaging stops make it a worthwhile investment for a fun-filled day. If you’re seeking a mix of scenery, community stories, and great beer—this tour could be exactly what you need for a taste of Finger Lakes charm.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers or those under 21?
No, the minimum age is 21 years, and participants must have valid photo ID. The focus is on craft beer tasting, so it’s best for adult travelers.

How long does each brewery stop last?
Each stop lasts approximately one hour, giving enough time to taste, learn, and chat without feeling rushed.

Can I upgrade the tour to include lunch?
Yes, you can choose the Great Growlers plus Lunch option at booking, which adds an Irish-inspired pub meal to your day.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the guide, tastings at four breweries, and hotel pickup/drop-off if requested. Lunch is optional and priced separately.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, your guide will handle transportation in a comfortable vehicle, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or severe weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about nine days ahead to secure a spot, especially during peak season.

Can I join the tour with a small group?
Yes, the tour is capped at 12 travelers, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience.