Queenstown: Craft Beer Brewery Tour with Lunch

Queenstown: Craft Beer Brewery Tour with Lunch – A Closer Look

Imagine spending your afternoon exploring Queenstown’s vibrant craft beer scene, guided by someone who truly knows the local scene—perhaps a born-and-raised local, like our guide Lewis. For $108 per person and lasting about five hours, this tour takes you off the busy streets of Queenstown’s CBD to visit three boutique breweries, sample up to 13 different local beers, and enjoy a thoughtfully curated lunch pairing each course with a specially selected brew. It’s a perfect mix of scenic landscapes, creative craft brewing, and delicious food.

What we really like about this experience is the personal touch of a local guide who is passionate about Queenstown’s brewing culture and the small-group atmosphere that keeps the experience intimate and relaxed. We also appreciate the inclusive nature—tastings are plentiful, and the lunch is designed to satisfy even the heartiest appetite, all while offering the flexibility to choose your preferred beers.

One thing to consider is that the tour requires a minimum of two participants to run, so if you’re traveling alone or in a small group, it’s worth confirming availability in advance. Also, while the focus is on craft beer, if you’re not a beer drinker, there are wine, cider, and ginger beer options, so you won’t feel left out.

This tour suits adventurous food and drink lovers, those interested in local culture and scenery, and anyone wanting a leisurely, informative day out with a knowledgeable guide. If you enjoy small-group experiences that combine scenery, culture, and good company, this is a fantastic choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Local Expertise: Guided by a passionate Queenstown native, ensuring authentic insights.
• Variety of Beers: Up to 13 craft beers across three breweries, with options for non-beer drinkers.
• Gourmet Lunch: Carefully curated beer and food pairings, catering to different dietary needs.
• Scenic Journey: Enjoy picturesque views of lakes and mountains between stops.
• Flexible and Inclusive: Transport, pick-up, and drop-off included; vouchers for further discounts.
• Small Group: Intimate atmosphere enhances learning and enjoyment.

A Detailed Look at the Queenstown Craft Beer Tour

The Itinerary and Brewery Stops

The tour begins with a convenient pick-up from your Queenstown accommodation, which helps eliminate stress and allows you to relax right from the start. As you travel to the first brewery, your guide will likely fill you in on Queenstown’s brewing scene and local history, setting the tone for an engaging afternoon.

At each of the three local breweries, you’ll experience a blend of guided tours and tastings. The second brewery, in particular, offers an in-depth look at the brewing process, giving enthusiasts and curious visitors alike a glimpse into the art and science behind the craft.

The breweries are carefully selected to showcase diverse styles and flavors—from robust stouts to crisp lagers—ensuring there’s something to satisfy all palates. The opportunity to handpick your preferred beers means you can focus on the styles you enjoy most.

The Beer Tastings

With up to 13 tastings included, you’ll get to sample a wide range of local brews. The reviews emphasize that the value for money is high, with travelers noting that they enjoyed “a lot of drinks for the price of the tour,” including the lunch. The variety also means you can compare styles and discover new favorites, all while learning about what makes Queenstown’s craft scene unique.

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The Lunch Experience

The lunch is a highlight—an exclusive food and beer pairing that complements the tastings perfectly. The menu is thoughtfully curated to accommodate various dietary needs and aims to be filling without overwhelming. Reviewers mention that the lunch was very satisfying, with one noting it included a beer per course during a four-course meal, making it both delicious and substantial.

Scenic Drive and Local Stories

As you move between breweries, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Queenstown’s lakes and mountain scenery. The guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, shares stories about the town and its surroundings, adding depth and context to your experience.

Transportation and Convenience

Transportation is handled smoothly, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included. This convenience is a big plus, especially after a few drinks. The small-group format ensures personal attention, and the post-tour discount vouchers are a nice bonus for those who want to explore even more of Queenstown’s beverage scene or retail offerings.

Authenticity and Value

The reviews unanimously praise the friendly guide, Lewis, for his local knowledge and approachable style. The small group setting and the inclusive tastings create a relaxed environment. The cost-effectiveness is evident, especially considering the quality and quantity of drinks, the lunch, transport, and extra discounts.

Considerations Before Booking

While the tour is generally rated 5/5, keep in mind it requires at least two participants to operate. If you’re traveling solo, it’s worth verifying availability beforehand. Also, the tour is not suitable for children under 10, given the nature of alcohol consumption. However, the availability of wine, cider, and ginger beer options means non-beer drinkers won’t feel left out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beer aficionados interested in exploring Queenstown’s local craft scene. It’s also ideal for food lovers who enjoy pairing flavors and trying new brews. If you’re seeking a relaxed, intimate atmosphere with scenic views and engaging stories, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Travelers who value local insights and a small-group experience will find this tour particularly rewarding. Those who appreciate good value for a mix of tastings, excellent food, and scenic travel will also be very pleased. And because there are alternative drinks available, it’s suited to a broad range of tastes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, all transportation, a local guide, an interactive brewery tour, tastings at three breweries, a beer and food paired lunch, and post-tour discount beer vouchers.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately five hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
Yes, the lunch is carefully curated to cater to various dietary needs, though you may want to discuss specific requirements with the tour operator.

Can I purchase more food or tastings during the tour?
Absolutely, you can buy additional foods and tastings at each brewery if you wish to extend your experience.

What types of drinks are available besides beer?
While the focus is on craft beer, some breweries offer local wine, cider, and alcoholic ginger beer options for non-beer drinkers.

What if I don’t want to drink alcohol?
While alcohol consumption is part of the experience, non-drinkers can opt for alternative beverages like cider or ginger beer, ensuring everyone enjoys the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 10. The experience is designed for adults due to alcohol tastings.

What is the minimum number of participants for the tour to run?
A minimum of two participants is required. If the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How do I know where I will be picked up?
Pickup locations are most often in Queenstown and will be confirmed after booking. If you have a specific location, discuss it with the operator.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothes suitable for a scenic drive and brewery visits. Bring layers if the weather is variable, and don’t forget to bring your taste for adventure!

Final Thoughts

This Queenstown craft beer tour combines the best of local brewing, scenic beauty, and delicious food into a well-rounded experience. It offers a relaxed, informative, and social way to discover what makes Queenstown’s beverage scene special. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or simply looking for a fun, local activity with a scenic backdrop, this tour offers excellent value and authentic experiences.

The knowledgeable guides, especially the local-born Lewis, make all the difference—bringing stories and insights that enrich your understanding of Queenstown’s brewing culture. The variety of beers and the carefully curated lunch ensure you won’t leave hungry or thirsty.

While it’s best suited for those aged 10 and up, the inclusive approach with alternative drinks makes it accessible to a wider audience. Just remember to book in advance if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, as it hinges on minimum numbers.

In essence, this craft beer journey is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon in Queenstown—delightful, engaging, and full of flavors and scenery that stay with you long after the last sip.

You can check availability for your dates here: