Portland Axe Throwing and Two Local Breweries Van Tour

If you’re visiting Portland and looking for a mix of craft beer, a bit of adventure, and local atmosphere, this tour offers a unique way to spend an afternoon. For $99 per person, you’ll get around three and a half hours of tasting Portland’s innovative breweries and trying your hand at axe-throwing—all in a small-group setting of no more than 13 travelers.

What truly makes this experience stand out are a few standout features. First, the quality of the brewery visits—you’ll start at Orange Bike Brewing, a newer yet highly regarded spot known for crisp, balanced beers and a welcoming atmosphere. Second, the axe-throwing session with safety and coaching, which feels more like a fun challenge than a serious lumberjack contest, but still leaves you feeling accomplished.

A potential consideration is the timing—the tour begins at 11:45 am, so it’s perfect for a mid-morning start but might not suit night owls or those with tight schedules later in the day. It’s best suited for those who enjoy casual drinking, a bit of physical activity, and making new friends in a lively but relaxed setting.

This tour appeals most to travelers who appreciate craft beer and want an authentic Portland experience that combines local flavor with a dash of adrenaline. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur, a thrill-seeker, or just after something different from the typical sightseeing, this tour offers a playful and memorable way to explore Portland’s vibrant vibe.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines two breweries and axe-throwing in a well-paced 3.5-hour experience
• Authentic local breweries: Visits to Orange Bike Brewing and Modestman Brewing showcase Portland’s craft scene
• Inclusive activity: Axe-throwing is suitable for beginners with coaching and safety guidance provided
• Small-group vibe: Max 13 travelers, ensuring a personal and engaging experience
• Value for money: Price includes tastings, safety coaching, and snacks, making it a practical, all-in-one outing
• Convenient start and end: Begins at Portland Beer Hub and ends back at the same spot, simplifying logistics

A Deep Dive into the Portland Axe Throwing and Brewery Tour

Starting Point: Portland Beer Hub

The tour kicks off at the Portland Beer Hub, located at 320 Fore St. This spot is a natural choice for beer enthusiasts, offering a lively, friendly environment that sets the tone for the day. The group meets here around 11:45 am; you’ll begin with a guided tasting at Orange Bike Brewing. We loved how the guide quickly made everyone feel comfortable, explaining the beers’ profiles and Portland’s craft beer ethos—something that makes the experience both educational and enjoyable.

First Stop: Orange Bike Brewing Company

Orange Bike Brewing is a newer addition to Portland’s exploding craft beer scene. With a bright, modern taproom, it invites you to relax and focus on tasting. The emphasis here is on clean, balanced flavors and creativity—perfect for those who prefer beers that are flavorful yet approachable.

Your tasting is guided, so you’ll learn about each brew’s ingredients and what makes them special. One visitor shared, “I appreciated how the guide explained the different styles; it made me appreciate the beers even more.” At around an hour, this stop offers enough time to sample a few unique brews without feeling rushed. It’s a good way to get a taste of Portland’s innovative brewing culture.

Second Stop: The Axe Pit

Next, the adrenaline kicks in at The Axe Pit, where you’re introduced to axe-throwing. Here, safety is a priority; your guide provides a thorough safety briefing and coaching to ensure everyone feels confident. No experience is needed, just a willingness to try something new.

We loved the way the instructor kept the mood light while teaching proper technique, making it accessible for all skill levels. The target area is lively, and the energy is contagious. You’ll get a full hour of this activity, and many find it surprisingly satisfying to hit the bullseye, even on their first try. One reviewer noted, “I didn’t expect to enjoy axe-throwing so much, but it turned out to be a highlight of the day.”

Final Brewery: Modestman Brewing

After working up an appetite for adventure, the tour concludes at Modestman Brewing, originally from New Hampshire but now with a Portland location. This brewery is known for bold, carefully crafted beers, especially juicy IPAs and flavorful ales. It’s a fitting capstone, showcasing Portland’s diverse craft beer scene.

The relaxed atmosphere here allows for lingering and socializing, and your guide might share insights into the brewing process or Portland’s beer culture. Around an hour is allocated for this final tasting, giving you the chance to reflect on the experience and perhaps sample a few more unique brews.

Tour End: Back at Portland Beer Hub

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, close to public transportation options. The flexible timing makes it ideal whether you want to continue exploring or head off to dinner.

What You Can Expect for the Price

At $99, this experience offers good value—especially when you consider the guided tastings, axe-throwing coaching, snacks, and the intimate group size. The tour is fully guided, so you don’t have to worry about logistics or figuring out where to go next. Bottled water is provided throughout, keeping you hydrated, and a locally made Maine snack adds a nice touch of regional flavor.

The tour’s focus on local breweries and interactive fun makes it appealing for those wanting a relaxed, engaging day with a bit of physical activity. The small-group setup fosters a friendly atmosphere, so it’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or friends looking for a memorable experience.

Practical Considerations

The timing is ideal for a late-morning start, leaving plenty of time afterward for other Portland explorations. However, weather can influence the outdoor axe-throwing; if rain or wind strikes, the activity might be affected, though the provider offers rescheduling or refunds in such cases. The maximum group size of 13 ensures personalized attention and a lively, friendly environment.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits a broad range of travelers. Beer lovers will appreciate the carefully curated brewery visits, while those seeking something more active will enjoy the axe-throwing segment. It’s especially well-suited for people who enjoy learning about local culture in a relaxed setting, and who don’t mind getting a little messy or muddy in the process.

Those traveling with friends, partners, or even solo with a sense of adventure will find the tour welcoming. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded travelers and enjoy Portland’s creative spirit beyond the usual sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a lively and authentic way to experience Portland’s thriving craft beer scene combined with a fun physical challenge. The knowledgeable guides make each stop informative and lively, adding value beyond just tasting beers. The axe-throwing activity injects a playful element that most participants find surprisingly enjoyable, even if they’ve never tried it before.

While it’s not a deep dive into Portland’s history or landmarks, it provides a snapshot of what makes this city special: its love for craft, community, and a little bit of spirited fun. For anyone wanting a casual, engaging, and memorable Portland outing, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQs

Is there an age limit for this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but since alcohol is involved, you need to be of legal drinking age in Oregon (21+). The axe-throwing activity is suitable for beginners with coaching provided.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including visits to two breweries and an hour of axe-throwing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Portland Beer Hub, 320 Fore St, and ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Rescheduling is possible if weather cancels outdoor activities.

Are beverages provided?
Yes, tastings of craft beers are included at both breweries, along with bottled water and a Maine snack.

Is transportation included?
Transportation between stops is via a private van, provided as part of the tour. The tour is designed for convenience and comfort.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 13 travelers ensures a friendly, personalized experience.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Guides are praised for their friendly demeanor and informative commentary.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for a brewery environment and outdoor activity like axe-throwing.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While tastings are part of the experience, non-drinkers can still enjoy the activities and socialize, but they should be aware of the alcohol involved.

This tour combines Portland’s craft beer culture with an energetic activity, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable way to spend part of your visit. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, it’s a fun and engaging way to get a taste of Portland’s local spirit.