Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group) - Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group)

If you’re looking to explore Edmonton’s vibrant craft beer landscape without the hassle of planning and driving, the Edmonton Brewery Tour offered by Canadian Craft Tours is a top choice. For around $104 per person, this 3.5-hour guided journey takes you to three standout breweries—Bent Stick Brewing Co., Omen Brewing, and Longroof Brewing Co.—each with its own character and brewing philosophy. The tour includes shuttle transportation, making it easy to relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about navigating between stops.

What really makes this tour shine is the educational behind-the-scenes look at each brewery, combined with generous tastings and friendly guides—most notably Dave, who is praised for his knowledge and approachable manner. We love the convenience of pickup and drop-off, which eliminates the need to coordinate transportation, and the small group size (max 24 people) ensures a personal experience.

A minor consideration is that this tour is non-refundable and dependent on good weather, so if you’re planning on a rainy day, check the weather forecast or consider rescheduling. This experience suits beer enthusiasts, travelers wanting a local taste, or groups of friends seeking a fun, educational outing. It’s a fantastic way to spend a few hours sampling Edmonton’s best brews while learning about the city’s growing craft beer scene.

Key Points

Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group) - Key Points

  • All-Inclusive Experience: Tastings, transportation, and behind-the-scenes insights.
  • Small Group Size: Up to 24 travelers ensuring personalized attention.
  • Expert Guide: Friendly and knowledgeable guide (Dave) providing insights into craft beer.
  • Convenient Logistics: Pickup and drop-off included, making it hassle-free.
  • Authentic Local Breweries: Visit three breweries with distinct personalities.
  • Weather Policy: Canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather.

A Detailed Look at Edmonton’s Only Shuttle Guided Brewery Tour

Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group) - A Detailed Look at Edmonton’s Only Shuttle Guided Brewery Tour

When it comes to exploring local craft breweries, a guided tour can turn a simple tasting into a memorable experience. The Edmonton Brewery Tour by Canadian Craft Tours offers just that—a well-organized, friendly, and educational journey through three standout breweries, each with its own vibe and brewing style.

Location and Duration

Starting at 9815 Jasper Ave, a central spot in Edmonton, the tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes. This duration strikes a good balance—enough time to visit three breweries without feeling rushed, and with the comfort of shuttle transportation between locations. The tour is designed for groups of at least 10 people, with a maximum of 24, which helps maintain an intimate atmosphere.

What’s Included?

The $103.92 price covers guided visits, tastings, shuttle transportation, and custom pickups and drop-offs—a real plus for those unfamiliar with Edmonton or simply wanting to avoid the hassle of navigating on their own. The tour is mobile ticketed, so you can simply show your phone, and it’s easy to coordinate with public transportation options nearby.

The Stops: A Breakdown

Bent Stick Brewing Co. (45 minutes)

Our journey kicks off at Bent Stick Brewing, a welcoming spot that’s both human and dog-friendly. Their new location offers more space than their old Fort Road shop, making it a comfortable stop for everyone—including your furry friends, if they’re calm and friendly.

This brewery’s focus on friendly atmospheres and community is evident. While admission is free, you’ll have the chance to taste some of their offerings and learn about their brewing philosophy from knowledgeable staff. A highlight is their approach to being inclusive; the fact that dogs are allowed shows a commitment to making everyone feel at home.

Omen Brewing (45 minutes)

Next, we visit Omen Brewing, a brewery owned and operated by the Oswald family. Their specialty is darker beer styles, appealing to those who prefer rich, roasted flavors. If you’re a dark beer enthusiast or simply curious about the nuances of stout, porter, or other dark brews, Omen is a great stop.

The staff’s passion for their craft shines through, and the atmosphere is relaxed but vibrant. Since admission is free, you can comfortably sample their lineup, which is primarily dark beers, and learn about the brewing process from those who are deeply invested in their product.

Longroof Brewing Co. (45 minutes)

Our final stop is Longroof Brewing, a brewery that invites guests into their open-concept taproom. One of the appealing features here is the original bar from the Empress Ale House on Whyte, giving the space a piece of Edmonton’s brewing history.

The brewery boasts an inviting atmosphere where you can see the brewing operation up close, thanks to their open design. It’s the perfect place to reflect on what you’ve learned and taste a few more brews. The staff here are welcoming, and the experience offers a good sense of the local brewing scene’s diversity.

What Travelers Say

Authentic reviews highlight Dave, the tour guide, as a real asset—friendly, knowledgeable, and insightful. One reviewer mentioned, “Dave had great insight into the craft beer scene,” which enhances the experience beyond just tasting.

Participants appreciate the variety of breweries and the chance to taste a good selection of beers in a relaxed atmosphere. The fact that these breweries are described as friendly and welcoming makes the experience even more enjoyable.

Practicalities and Considerations

While most travelers will find this tour accessible, note that cancellation is non-refundable. Weather can influence the day’s plans, as the experience requires good weather conditions, but if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Given the small group size and group discounts, it’s also a fun option for friends or small families looking to explore Edmonton’s craft scene together.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for beer lovers of all levels, whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning to appreciate craft brews. It’s also a good choice if you’re visiting Edmonton and want a guided, educational experience—especially since transportation is taken care of. The small group setting offers a more personal touch, and the informative guides add value for those interested in the stories behind each brewery.

If you enjoy learning about local crafts and want to visit breweries that are friendly and community-oriented, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also ideal for groups of friends wanting a fun night out or travelers eager for a taste of Edmonton’s craft beer scene.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group) - Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price of about $104, you get a well-organized, engaging, and tastings-rich experience that takes the hassle out of brewery hopping. The inclusion of transportation means you can focus on the tasting and learning, rather than worrying about driving or parking. The friendly and knowledgeable guide (notably Dave) makes a real difference, turning what could be a simple beer tasting into an educational journey.

While the experience is primarily focused on the breweries themselves, the added convenience and personable approach make it a valuable outing for many travelers. Whether you’re a local wanting to explore Edmonton’s brewing scene or a visitor eager to understand what makes local beer special, this tour offers value, authenticity, and fun.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, shuttle transportation is part of the package, making it easy to relax and enjoy the brewery visits without worrying about driving.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, including visits to three breweries and tastings.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is suitable for adults, but specific age restrictions are not detailed.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 24 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personal experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for dog owners?
Yes, Bent Stick Brewing Co. is dog-friendly, provided your furry friend is calm and friendly.

What about pricing and value?
At $103.92, the price includes tastings, transportation, and expert guidance—offering good value for a memorable, insightful day in Edmonton.

In summary, the Edmonton Brewery Tour offers a balanced mix of educational insight, authentic local breweries, and hassle-free logistics. Perfect for beer enthusiasts, travelers, or groups of friends looking for a fun and informative outing, it’s an excellent way to get a taste of Edmonton’s craft scene in a relaxed, friendly setting.