Memphis Brew Bus Tour with Three Local Breweries & Tastings

Discovering Memphis’ Craft Beer Scene: A Brew Bus Tour That Keeps It Real

Memphis may be world-famous for its music, but it’s also quietly making a name for itself in the craft beer world. This Memphis Brew Bus Tour offers a fantastic blend of local flavor, behind-the-scenes access, and relaxed socializing, all for around $65 per person. Starting from a convenient downtown spot at 2:00 pm, you’ll spend about three and a half hours hopping between three top Memphis breweries, sampling exclusive brews, and learning about the city’s emerging brew scene—all comfortably transported in private, air-conditioned vans.

What we love about this tour is the personalized experience it offers. Unlike visiting breweries on your own, this guided journey provides insight into each operation with knowledgeable guides, and the friendly atmosphere encourages conversation and discovery. Plus, the included snacks, bottled water, and generous tastings make this a fantastic value — especially considering the exclusive samples you get at each stop.

Of course, a possible consideration is the timing — it’s a three-and-a-half-hour experience, which can feel rushed if you’re hoping for a more leisurely pace or to linger longer at each brewery. Also, since the tour involves group sizes capped at 20, it’s ideal for travelers who want a intimate, social experience without feeling crowded.

This tour suits anyone with a curiosity about craft beer, a love for local Memphis culture, or those celebrating special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries. If you appreciate authentic experiences over touristy stops and want to see Memphis from a different angle, this is a fun, engaging way to do it.

Key Points

• Authentic Access: Behind-the-scenes visits to three local breweries in Memphis.
• Local Insights: An engaging guide shares stories and anecdotes about Memphis’ brewing scene.
• Comfortable Transport: Private, air-conditioned transportation ensures a stress-free experience.
• Inclusive Tastings: Multiple exclusive samples, snacks, bottled water, and some alcoholic beverages included.
• Group Size: Intimate group of up to 20 travelers enhances the social vibe.
• Great Value: For around $65, you get a well-rounded, engaging experience with plenty of tasting opportunities.

An In-Depth Look at the Memphis Brew Bus Experience

The Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at 552 S Main St in downtown Memphis, a location that’s easy to access whether you’re staying in the city center or arriving via public transportation. Starting at 2:00 pm, the tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, a length that balances enough time at each brewery without feeling rushed. This timeframe makes it ideal for an afternoon adventure, leaving you free to enjoy other activities later in the day.

Transportation and Group Size

One of the biggest perks is the private transportation—a comfortable van that whisks you between breweries. This isn’t just about convenience; it adds a layer of safety and relaxation, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Memphis or prefer not to navigate on your own. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the group remains intimate enough for lively conversations but small enough to feel personalized.

The Itinerary and Breweries Visited

While the exact list of breweries isn’t detailed, each stop is carefully chosen for its quality and local character. Expect a behind-the-scenes look at each brewery, where staff are happy to share their brewing process and philosophy. The reviews highlight that every brewery was welcoming and eager to serve us great beer and share their stories.

Tasting Experience

Sampling is at the heart of this tour. You’ll get to taste exclusive samples—a feature that’s especially appreciated according to reviews. One guest noted, “The beer stops gave out AMPLE tastings,” indicating that the value extends beyond just a few sips. Several reviews mention enjoying varied options, including sour beers and a broad selection at the last stop, which was noted for its “large variety of beers and sours.” This diversity makes the tour appealing whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a connoisseur.

Guide and Atmosphere

The guide—often praised for their knowledge and friendliness—plays a crucial role. Reviewers mention guides like Damon who are “awesome” and make the experience fun and informative. The lively anecdotes and local insights add a charming touch, giving you context beyond just tasting beers. The atmosphere is described as fun, social, and welcoming, perfect for making new friends or celebrating a special day.

Snacks and Non-Alcoholic Offerings

To offset the alcohol, the tour includes snacks and bottled water, ensuring everyone stays refreshed and comfortable. This thoughtful touch enhances the experience—especially important during a couple of hours of tasting and socializing.

Price and Overall Value

At $64.75 per person, this tour offers excellent value. When you consider the insider access, the variety of tastings, transportation, and guided commentary, it’s clear that you’re paying for an authentic, memorable experience rather than just a series of drinks. Reviews consistently emphasize that it’s “well worth the money,” with guests making new friends and discovering Memphis’s brewing talent.

Possible Drawbacks

The main point to consider is the timed nature of the tour—if you’re someone who prefers to linger longer at a single brewery or explore on your own, this might feel a bit rushed. The tour tends to run for almost four hours, which some reviewers found a little tight, especially if they had evening plans afterward. Also, minimum age is 21, so it’s not suitable for minors.

Who Should Book This?

If you love craft beer, enjoy social experiences, or want to see a different side of Memphis beyond the typical tourist spots, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially suited to those celebrating a special occasion, or travelers who prefer guided experiences with local insights. However, if your priority is a leisurely, unstructured visit to breweries, you might find this format a bit too organized.

Final Thoughts

This Memphis Brew Bus tour offers a thoughtful, authentic slice of local craft beer culture. With knowledgeable guides, exclusive tastings, and a pleasant, intimate group atmosphere, it’s both fun and educational. We loved the way it showcased Memphis’s emerging brewing talent while avoiding the crowded, touristy scene. The private transport and behind-the-scenes access mean you’re not just tasting beer—you’re learning about it and supporting local businesses.

For anyone curious about Memphis’s craft beer scene or simply looking for a lively afternoon activity, this tour strikes a good balance of value, authenticity, and entertainment. It’s a perfect choice for groups, couples, or solo travelers eager to connect over great brews in a friendly, relaxed setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
You need to be at least 21 years old, but most travelers can participate if they enjoy tasting beer and socializing. The group size keeps it intimate and friendly.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 552 S Main St, Memphis. The tour starts at 2:00 pm, and transportation is included for the duration.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, providing a well-paced experience without feeling rushed.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes all taxes, fees, handling charges, beverages, snacks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages during the tastings.

What is the transportation like?
A private, comfortable van takes you between breweries, making the experience relaxed and convenient.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

In summary, this Memphis Brew Bus tour offers a lively, engaging introduction to Memphis’s craft beer scene, perfect for those who value local flavor and insider access. Whether you’re celebrating, making new friends, or just want to sample some tasty brews, this guided experience will give you a memorable glimpse into Memphis’s vibrant brewing culture.