Sanford: Guided Craft Beer Walking Tour with Tastings

Imagine wandering through the charming streets of Historic Downtown Sanford, stopping at some of the most acclaimed craft breweries in Florida—all in just 1.5 hours. For $39 per person, this guided tour offers a lively peek into Sanford’s evolving beer culture, led by a knowledgeable BJCP Certified Beer Judge. Your journey begins at the Sanford Homebrew Shop, and from there, you’ll explore two more renowned spots—Dees Brothers Brewery and Wops Hops Brewing Company & Kitchen—while sampling beers and hearing stories that bring each place to life.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances education and tasting. You’ll learn about beer styles, flavor profiles, and the local history of brewing in Sanford, which has shifted from a quiet waterfront town to a vibrant destination teeming with craft breweries. Plus, the small-group format ensures plenty of time for questions and personal interaction, making it feel more like hanging out with friends who just happen to be beer experts.

A possible consideration is the walking aspect—since you’ll move from one brewery to the next, comfortable shoes are a must. Also, this tour is strictly for those over 21, which is standard but worth noting if you’re traveling with family or young friends. Overall, if you enjoy craft beer, local stories, and a relaxed, authentic atmosphere, this tour suits travelers looking for a fun, immersive experience without breaking the bank.

Perfect for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a lively evening in Sanford’s downtown, this tour offers a chance to see the city from a different perspective—through the lens of its breweries and local flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Affordable and concise at just 1.5 hours for a well-rounded experience.
Led by a certified beer judge, adding depth to the tasting and learning.
Visit three top breweries—Sanford Homebrew Shop, Dees Brothers, and Wops Hops—each offering unique flavors and stories.
Learn about Sanford’s brewing history, transforming from a waterfront town to a craft beer hub.
Small group experience for personalized attention and engaging conversations.
Inclusive of beer tastings, making it a true sampling journey.

Appreciate having local insight? Here are other guided experiences in Sanford we've examined

Sanford: Guided SUP or Kayak Manatee-Watching Tour

Exploring Sanford’s Craft Beer Scene

Sanford is often described as Florida’s best-kept secret, especially when it comes to its burgeoning craft beer scene. This city, with its historic streets and lively waterfront, has seen a surge of local breweries that are making a name for themselves. The guided tour offers a fantastic gateway into this world, especially for those who love learning about beer as much as drinking it.

The tour begins at the Sanford Homebrew Shop, affectionately known as the Community Brewhouse. Here, you’re greeted not just by the aroma of hops but by the knowledgeable guides who are eager to share the story of Sanford’s brewing evolution. As one reviewer notes, “Our guide Mike was a wealth of information, explaining beer styles in a way that even a newcomer could appreciate.” This early introduction sets a friendly, educational tone and helps you understand what makes each brewery special.

From there, your group heads to Dees Brothers Brewery. This spot is appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere and innovative brews. Guests often comment on the “distinctive flavor profiles and great variety,” with some tasting experimental beers that showcase local creativity. The guide will point out the nuances that make each beer unique, whether it’s a crisp lager or a hoppy IPA.

Next stop is Wops Hops Brewing Company & Kitchen, which combines a cozy pub vibe with award-winning craft beers. Visitors frequently mention their satisfaction, highlighting “the friendly staff and the chance to talk shop about beer styles.” The tastings here often include a small but curated selection, giving you a taste of Sanford’s best.

Each visit lasts roughly 30-40 minutes, allowing enough time to savor the beer, ask questions, and soak in the stories behind the brands. The guide’s background as a BJCP Certified Beer Judge means you’ll get insights into brewing techniques, flavor profiles, and the history behind each brewery—making the experience both fun and educational.

What to Expect During the Tour

The Start Point: Sanford Homebrew Shop

Your adventure kicks off inside this cozy space, which acts as the meeting point. Expect a warm welcome from the staff, who are passionate about both homebrewing and the local scene. Here, your guide will introduce Sanford’s journey from a sleepy town to a craft beer destination, setting the scene for what’s to come.

More Great Tours Nearby

Walking Between Breweries

The tour involves a moderate walk from one venue to another, within Sanford’s historic downtown. This is a chance to enjoy the architecture and street life, with the guide sharing anecdotes about the area’s past and present. Comfortable shoes are recommended because you’ll be on your feet for about 1.5 hours.

While you're exploring Sanford, here are other experiences we've looked into

Beer Tastings at Each Stop

At each brewery, you’ll sample a curated selection—usually three beers—that represent different styles or brewing techniques. These tastings are more than just drinking; they’re an opportunity to compare, analyze, and deepen your appreciation of craft beer. It’s common to find surprises here—beers that challenge expectations, or favorites that become instant companions.

The Stories Behind the Brews

What makes this tour stand out is the storytelling. Our guide, a certified beer judge, shared the background of each brewery and the history of beer in Sanford. You’ll hear about how Sanford transformed from a port city to a hotbed of craft brewing, and how each brewery contributes to the local culture.

End of the Tour

By the end, you’ll have a well-rounded understanding of Sanford’s beer scene, plus a handful of new favorites and stories to share. The small group format, often just a handful of people, ensures a relaxed atmosphere where questions and conversations flow naturally.

The Value of the Experience

At $39, this tour offers a lot of value for craft beer lovers and curious explorers alike. For roughly 90 minutes, you’re getting not just tastings but insights that elevate your understanding of beer styles, local brewing scenes, and the city’s history. The inclusion of three brewery visits means a variety of flavors and atmospheres—something that independent visits might not easily provide without more planning and expense.

The guided element, especially with an expert like a BJCP Certified Beer Judge, is what sets this apart. You won’t just be tasting beers; you’ll be learning about what makes them special, from flavor profiles to brewing techniques. This knowledge enriches your appreciation and can even influence your future beer choices.

The tour’s focus on Sanford’s transformation from a historic waterfront gateway to a lively craft beer hub adds context and depth—making your visit more engaging than just sampling. Plus, the small group size means you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, and the opportunity for questions is plentiful.

While the walking component is manageable, it’s worth noting that it’s a social, casual stroll, so comfortable shoes are advisable. The evening start time (usually around 5 pm) makes this a perfect way to kick off a relaxed night in Sanford, especially after a day of sightseeing or exploring.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for craft beer enthusiasts eager to learn more about local brews and styles. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic, small-group tours that focus on storytelling and genuine experiences. If you’re in Sanford for a short trip or staying in Orlando nearby, this offers a fun, low-key way to connect with the local scene.

It’s less suited for those under 21 or anyone looking for a longer, more in-depth brewery tour. But if your goal is a quick, enjoyable introduction to Sanford’s craft beer culture within a lively, friendly atmosphere, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, since the tour involves beer tastings and is strictly for those over 21, non-drinkers or designated drivers might want to consider other experiences.

How much walking is involved?
You’ll walk from the Sanford Homebrew Shop to two different breweries within Sanford’s downtown, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The walk is moderate and part of the experience, offering a chance to enjoy the city’s streets.

What is included in the price?
The $39 covers the guided tour, visiting three breweries with beer tastings at each stop, and learning about the history of downtown Sanford and its breweries.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What time does the tour start?
The tour typically begins at 5:00 pm, making it easy to fit into an evening plan.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always good to double-check with the provider when booking.

Final Thoughts

For anyone curious about craft beer, Sanford’s local breweries, or simply seeking a fun, informative way to spend an evening, this tour hits just the right notes. It offers a relaxed, authentic look at a town that’s quickly gaining a reputation for quality brewing and friendly neighborhoods.

The combination of knowledgeable guidance, engaging storytelling, and tastings makes it a worthwhile experience—especially if you enjoy small-group interactions that feel more like a local friend showing you around than a commercial tour. It’s a great way to deepen your appreciation for craft beer while exploring a lively Florida town.

Whether you’re a seasoned beer drinker or new to the scene, you’ll leave with not only a few new favorites but also a better understanding of why Sanford is quickly becoming a must-visit for beer lovers. Just bring your curiosity, your comfortable shoes, and an appetite for good stories and good brews.