Vancouver is a fantastic city for beer lovers, thanks to its thriving craft brew scene and scenic surroundings. Unlike other cities, Vancouver’s brewery tours often combine local flavor with unique experiences—like sampling fresh brews in lively neighbourhoods or enjoying stunning mountain views after a challenging hike. We particularly enjoy the Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour, which offers VIP access to some of the city’s most popular breweries without the hassle of driving or waiting in line. It’s a perfect way to explore Vancouver’s breweries in a friendly, relaxed setting.
If you’re into combining outdoor adventures with local beer tastings, the Stawamus Chief Hike & Local Brewery Tasting is a standout. Hike stunning trails with rewarding views, then celebrate your efforts with a refreshing local brew. For those who prefer exploring by foot and want insider knowledge, the North Vancouver Elite Walking Brewery Tour provides an intimate look at North Vancouver’s craft scene with plenty of tastings and stories about the area’s shipbuilding roots.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of Vancouver brewery experiences, from guided behind-the-scenes tours to outdoor hikes combined with tastings. Whether you’re after a relaxed small-group experience like the Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour, or an active day with panoramic views such as the Stawamus Chief Hike & Local Brewery Tasting, you’ll find options suited to different tastes and energy levels. Below, we explore each in detail.
1. Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour
At number 1, the Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour stands out for its combination of VIP access and convenient location. For just $92.70 per person, you spend around three hours exploring three highly-rated breweries without the stress of navigating Vancouver’s busy streets. The tour departs from Waterfront Station downtown, making it easy to join after breakfast or as part of a day downtown.
What makes this tour special is the exclusive behind-the-scenes access at each brewery. You’ll go beyond the usual tasting room and see how the beers are crafted, often with insider tips from knowledgeable guides. The tour includes priority seating and transportation between stops, so you avoid long waits and the hassle of parking. Plus, you’ll leave with a fun souvenir beer glass to remember your experience.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s friendly approach and the chance to try varieties you wouldn’t find at a bottle shop. Reviewers call it “an excellent brewery tour,” highlighting the efficiency, informative nature, and great group atmosphere. This tour is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, informative introduction to Vancouver’s craft beer scene.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a comfortable, well-organized experience that combines quality breweries with insider access, this tour delivers excellent value and fun in a small-group setting.
2. Stawamus Chief Hike & Local Brewery Tasting
Number 2 on our list offers a true taste of outdoor Vancouver life—hiking and beer tasting combined. For around $174.45, this roughly six-hour tour begins early, with a challenging hike on the Stawamus Chief Trail, renowned for its spectacular views of Squamish and Howe Sound. The hike is rated as difficult, so it’s best suited for those with a good fitness level and a love of mountain scenery.
What sets this experience apart is the reward after the hike: a visit to a local brewery to sample a variety of craft beers. The tour provides comfortable private transportation to and from the trailhead, making logistics hassle-free. During the hike, you’ll learn about the history of the bridge and enjoy panoramic vistas that are Instagram-worthy.
Guests have raved about the beautiful views and the quality of the beer at the brewery. One reviewer notes, “The trail was difficult but worth it, and the beer was excellent.” The guide is praised for being patient and knowledgeable, making the experience both invigorating and educational.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a full day of nature and craft beer. Keep in mind, the hike is demanding, but the payoff is a fantastic view and a well-earned pint.
3. North Vancouver Elite Walking Brewery Tour
For about $95.76, the North Vancouver Elite Walking Brewery Tour offers a more intimate exploration of the local craft scene—visiting five breweries with two tastings at each stop. This tour lasts around 2 to 3 hours and is ideal for those who enjoy a laid-back pace and rich storytelling.
Starting at the Quay Market & Food Hall, you’ll sample local brews and learn about the brewing process from passionate staff. The tour continues to the Shipyards, a lively waterfront area with a mix of history and modernity. The guide shares stories of North Vancouver’s shipbuilding past and its evolution into a hub of trendy breweries and eateries.
Guests regularly mention the variety of beers and the friendly, personalized approach of the guide. The tour is well-suited for beer enthusiasts who appreciate local culture and enjoy exploring on foot. The inclusion of tasty bites adds to the experience, making it more than just a tasting tour.
Bottom Line: If you want to get to know North Vancouver’s brewing scene intimately, with a focus on local stories and small-group service, this tour offers great value and a relaxed vibe.
4. Vancouver: Stawamus Chief Hike and Local Brewery Tasting
This tour offers a challenging hike and a rewarding beer stop, perfect for those who want to combine outdoor activity with craft beer. For $169, it spans six hours, beginning with an awe-inspiring hike through Stawamus Chief Park, which rewards hikers with panoramic views of Squamish and Howe Sound.
The hike is rated as demanding, but the views from the first summit make it worth the effort. After the trek, the group heads to a local favorite brewery for tastings. This structure is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy pushing themselves physically and then relaxing with a cold one.
Reviews highlight the magnificent scenery, with one customer noting the spectacular coastal mountain views. The guide’s focus on nature and local beer makes this experience uniquely Vancouver. The post-hike beer tasting is a fitting reward for a day of exertion.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers seeking a full day of outdoor adventure and craft beer with breathtaking scenery as a backdrop.
5. Vancouver: 3.5-Hour Craft Brewery Tour
This shorter, 3.5-hour tour at $86 per person offers an inside look at Vancouver’s craft beer scene with tastings and insightful commentary. It’s designed for those looking for a compact but informative experience that covers the essentials.
The tour includes a behind-the-scenes look at several breweries, where you’ll learn how beers are brewed and meet staff behind the operation. It’s a good choice for those with limited time or visitors who want a quick, engaging introduction to Vancouver’s breweries.
While it’s shorter, guests find it well-paced and informative, with some reviewers noting the friendly guide who makes everyone feel comfortable. This tour is best for craft beer newcomers or travelers with a packed schedule who still want quality tasting experiences.
Bottom Line: Compact and informative, ideal for those short on time but eager to taste Vancouver’s best brews and learn about the brewing process.
6. Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour
Rounding out the list is the Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour, priced at $88.44 for about three hours. It offers a customized, behind-the-scenes tasting experience at three local breweries, with a focus on personalized service.
The tour features stops at Andina Brewing, where you’ll enjoy Colombian-inspired beers, and other local favorites. The small group size ensures plenty of interaction with the guide, who shares inside tips about Vancouver’s beer scene. The tour includes skip-the-line access and pickup from a central location.
Guests appreciate the friendly guide and the opportunity to explore different brewery styles. The inclusion of tastings and insider tips makes it a good pick for beer enthusiasts wanting a tailored experience without the crowds.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at Vancouver’s breweries—great for those wanting an intimate, curated experience.
$88.44 per person
How to Choose Your Vancouver Brewery Experience
When selecting a brewery tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and whether you prefer outdoor adventures or relaxed small-group experiences. If you love combining hiking with beer, the Stawamus Chief Hike & Local Brewery Tasting is your best bet. For a comfortable, informative introduction, the Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour offers VIP access and excellent value.
If you’re after a more intimate exploration of North Vancouver’s scene, the North Vancouver Elite Walking Brewery Tour delivers personalized service. For those with limited time but a curiosity about Vancouver’s brewing process, the 3.5-Hour Craft Brewery Tour is perfect.
Finally, if you prefer a more customized experience with insider tips, the Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour provides a behind-the-scenes, friendly environment. Always book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
Vancouver’s brewery scene is diverse and lively. Whether you want to sip local beers at trendy spots, combine outdoor adventures with tastings, or enjoy personalized behind-the-scenes access, there’s a tour for you. We recommend considering your interests and fitness level to find the perfect match, and don’t forget to check availability ahead of time. Cheers to discovering Vancouver’s best craft brews!