Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour

Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour offers a unique blend of craft beer tasting with stories of Sanford’s haunted past. For just $42.99 per person, you get about an hour and a half of guided exploration through three local establishments, led by Gary Holmes, a BJCP Certified Beer Judge. Starting at 8:30 PM on a cozy evening, this tour combines historic charm, local flavors, and ghostly tales—though it’s worth noting there’s no ghost-hunting involved. We love how this tour immerses you in Sanford’s craft beer scene while sharing stories straight from the locals, making it both informative and entertaining.
Two key highlights: the intimate group size of just 12 travelers ensures a personal experience, and the inclusion of beer samples at each stop offers great value. One potential drawback? The tour’s late start might not suit early risers or those with early plans the next day. Overall, it’s perfect for beer enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone curious about Sanford’s spooky side.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: Visit three Sanford breweries, each with its own character and brewing style.
• Expert guidance: Led by Gary Holmes, a certified beer judge who shares insights about craft brewing and local stories.
• Flexible and intimate: Small group sizes and digital waivers streamline the experience.
• Evening atmosphere: The 8:30 PM start creates a relaxed, twilight vibe perfect for storytelling.
• All-inclusive: Samples are included, so you only need to bring your ID and curiosity.
• Cancellable: Free cancellation policy offers peace of mind if plans change.

Exploring Sanford’s Haunted Beer Scene: A Detailed Review

If you’re looking for an evening activity that combines craft beer, local history, and a touch of the eerie, Sanford’s Haunted Brewery Tour might be just what you need. Held in the charming, historic downtown area of Sanford—just north of Orlando—this tour takes you through three local breweries, each with its own character, while sharing stories about Sanford’s ghostly legends. It’s a creative way to enjoy the town’s vibrant brewing scene without the typical bar crawl hustle.

What to Expect and Why We Like It

The tour costs $42.99 per person and lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The small group size—up to 12 travelers—means you get a personable experience, where the guide, Gary Holmes, takes the time to share not just the beers, but the stories behind them. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of craft beer sampling and local storytelling, making it appealing whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just enjoy a good ghost story.

Two aspects we especially appreciate are the thorough approach to local brewing—visiting a homebrew shop that’s also a nano-brewery and two established craft breweries—and the late evening start, which fosters a relaxed, atmospheric vibe perfect for storytelling. The inclusion of all beer samples means you can savor a variety of local flavors without worrying about extra costs.

A possible consideration is the timing—if you’re not a night owl or have early commitments the next day, the 8:30 PM start might be a little late for some. Also, since the tour is focused on Sanford’s local breweries, those seeking a more touristy or expansive experience might find it on the smaller side.

This tour suits adults over 21 who enjoy craft beer, local history, or ghost stories in a laid-back setting. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging way to experience Sanford’s nightlife.

In-Depth Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Sanford Homebrew Shop

Your evening begins at the Sanford Homebrew Shop, which is more than just a retail space. It doubles as a nano-brewery, making tiny batches of artisan beer that showcase local creativity. The shop is a must-visit for homebrewers and beer lovers alike, offering a behind-the-scenes look at small-batch brewing. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, sampling some of their unique small-batch beers.

The shop’s atmosphere is welcoming and informal. We loved the way the owner or staff often share brewing tips and stories, giving you a sense of the local craft beer scene’s passion. Free admission here makes it a low-risk start to the tour, and it’s an excellent introduction to Sanford’s brewing culture.

Stop 2: Dees Brothers Brewery

Next, you head to Dees Brothers Brewery, housed in a building that’s over a century old. This adds a sense of history to your tasting experience. The brewery offers a broad selection of craft beers brewed locally, providing a snapshot of Sanford’s brewing diversity. You’ll spend around 30 minutes here, sampling their flagship and seasonal brews.

The building’s historic charm adds to the ambience. Reviewers mention the “friendly staff and interesting stories about the brewery’s history,” which enhances the experience. This stop highlights the local craftsmanship and gives you a deeper appreciation of the town’s brewing heritage.

Stop 3: Deviant Wolfe Brewery

The final stop is Deviant Wolfe Brewery, known for its passionate experimentation with beer styles. They brew a broad selection of true-to-style beers, but with a twist—there’s always a new experimental brew on tap. You’ll spend about 30 minutes, tasting a range of styles and chatting with the staff about their brewing philosophies.

This brewery embodies the innovative spirit of Sanford’s craft scene. Reviewers have praised the “creative beers and knowledgeable staff,” which makes it an exciting end to your tasting tour. Plus, the relaxed taproom setting is perfect for ending on a high note.

The Storytelling & Ghostly Vibe

Throughout the tour, Gary shares local legends and historical stories gathered from Sanford residents, adding a spooky, atmospheric layer to your evening. While the tour explicitly states it’s not ghost-hunting, many find the stories compelling and spooky enough to give a slight chill. The late evening start helps create a more “haunted” vibe, especially as the streets quiet down and the brewery lights glow warmly.

Practical Details & Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended—most travelers book about 12 days ahead—to secure a spot.
• The tour is mobile ticketed—convenient for quick check-in.
• It’s near public transportation, making it easy to get to the start point at 115 Magnolia Ave.
• Participants must be 21+ and fill out a digital waiver before the tour.
• Service animals are allowed, which is considerate for travelers with support animals.
• If the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled, but you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

The Value Proposition

Compared to larger, more commercial beer tours, this experience offers authenticity and intimacy. The inclusion of free samples at each stop means you get a good variety of local beers for the price, and the small group makes conversation and questions easy. The stories and history shared by Gary add depth that you might not find on a typical pub crawl.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for craft beer enthusiasts, history lovers, and those interested in local Sanford culture. It caters well to travelers who appreciate small-group tours, storytelling, and a relaxed evening atmosphere. If you’re looking for a tour that combines local flavor with a spooky twist, this is an excellent choice.

It’s also ideal for adults 21 and over who want to explore Sanford’s nightlife without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Expect a leisurely pace, plenty of opportunities to ask questions, and a taste of the local brewing scene—all in a setting that appreciates the town’s haunted stories.

FAQ

Is there an age restriction for this tour?
Yes, you must be 21 or older to participate, as alcohol samples are included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes beer samples at all three stops and the guided storytelling experience.

Do I need to print my ticket?
No, a mobile ticket is sufficient—just show it at the meeting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The itinerary involves walking between three stops, all within Sanford’s downtown, but the exact accessibility depends on the individual. It’s best to check with the provider if needed.

Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted, but other pets are not mentioned as welcome.

What should I bring?
Just your ID, a sense of curiosity, and perhaps a small bag for souvenirs if you wish—remember, all samples are included.

In the end, Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour offers a charming, authentic way to spend an evening. It’s perfect for those who want to experience local craft beer, hear intriguing stories, and enjoy Sanford’s historic atmosphere—all in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re a beer lover, a history buff, or just seeking a fun night out, this tour delivers a memorable blend of flavors and tales.