The Original Charlotte Brewery Tour – Craft Beer Experience

A no-nonsense look at the Charlotte Brewery Tour that promises a relaxed, engaging, and educational journey through the city’s thriving craft beer scene. For $150 per person, you get about five hours of visiting four breweries, tasting plenty of beer, and enjoying a hearty meal at Midwood Smokehouse. Led by knowledgeable guides—often praised for their enthusiasm and expertise—this tour is perfect for those curious about beer-making or simply looking to spend a fun afternoon in good company.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the small group size—limited to 14 participants—which ensures personal attention and a more intimate atmosphere—and the inclusion of a quality meal. Unlike many tours that cram in too many stops or rush through tastings, here we found the stops well-paced, and the guide’s insights made the beers much more meaningful.

One potential consideration is that, despite the name, the tour does not always offer beer flights at every stop. Some guests, as reviews point out, might be expecting full flights at each brewery, but often only receive small pours or tasters, with flights at the restaurant. If you’re a beer connoisseur craving large pours or flights at every brewery, this might be a small disappointment.

This tour suits anyone with a genuine interest in craft beer, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned enthusiast. It’s also a great pick for those who enjoy good storytelling about brewing, relaxing transportation, and a lively but manageable group.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Limited to 14 travelers, so you get plenty of attention from your guide.
• Beer and Food Included: Enjoy craft beer tastings at four breweries plus a satisfying meal at Midwood Smokehouse.
• Educational Focus: Guides are praised for their knowledge, making the tour informative and engaging.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle—no need to worry about navigating or parking.
• Pacing and Timing: The tour is well-structured, with most stops lasting around an hour, although the meal is scheduled about 2.5 hours in.
• Advance Booking Recommended: The tour is popular, booked on average 31 days in advance, so plan ahead.

The Complete Experience: What to Expect on the Charlotte Brewery Tour

Starting Point: The Westin Charlotte

The tour kicks off at The Westin Charlotte in the downtown area, a central, convenient meeting point. We’re greeted by our guide and given a quick overview. The initial five-minute stop gives everyone a chance to settle in and get acquainted. From here, the adventure begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned ride to the first brewery.

Visit to Petty Thieves Brewing Co

The first stop is Petty Thieves Brewing Co, where we spend about an hour. This brewery is appreciated for its welcoming vibe and quality craft beers. The guide provides insights into the brewing process, which elevates the tasting experience—suddenly those small sips become much more meaningful when you understand how each beer is crafted. Reviewers mention that guides are “knowledgeable and fun,” which is a big plus when learning about beer.

Exploring Protagonist Brewery

Next, we head to Protagonist Brewery. Again, about an hour here. Guests often comment on the “world of beers” encountered—this brewery offers a variety of styles, appealing to different palates. Our guide Jan, praised for her knowledge, shares stories and details that help us understand what makes each beer unique. The focus on quality and variety highlights Charlotte’s growing craft scene.

Lunch at Midwood Smokehouse

After two breweries, it’s time for our included meal at Midwood Smokehouse. This is a well-rated stop—plenty of reviews rave about how delicious the food is. It’s a chance to relax, refuel, and discuss what we’ve learned so far. The timing of the meal—about two and a half hours into the tour—is noted by some guests as a long wait before eating, but most agree the food is worth it.

Lower Left Brewing Co.

Refreshed, we head to Lower Left Brewing Co. for our final tasting hour. This brewery often receives praise for its innovative brews and friendly staff. Guests report that they “tried a variety of beer” and appreciated the opportunity to expand their tasting horizons. Many reviews highlight the guide’s ability to share “great info” and make the experience both fun and educational.

Return to The Westin Charlotte

The tour wraps up with a short ride back. The last five-minute stop at The Westin allows us to reflect on the day’s highlights, exchange contact info, and purchase any favorite beers.

Why This Tour Works for You

The beauty of this experience is how it balances education, relaxation, and social fun. You’re not just drinking; you’re learning how beer is made, why different styles taste the way they do, and how to appreciate craft brews more deeply. The small-group setting means you get personal attention, and the included transportation removes the stress of navigating Charlotte’s breweries on your own.

The group size limitation and the knowledgeable guides are often praised in reviews, making the experience approachable whether you’re a beer novice or a seasoned drinker. Plus, the mix of brewery visits with a sit-down meal offers a well-rounded afternoon—no rushing, lots of tasting, and plenty of opportunity to ask questions.

The tour’s price point of $150 is fair considering the included beer tastings, meal, transportation, and expert guiding. Compared to other local options, this offers good value, especially given the high ratings and the consistently positive reviews.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for anyone curious about craft beer, whether you’re visiting Charlotte for a weekend or a local looking to explore your city’s breweries. It’s also perfect for groups celebrating a special occasion, like birthdays or friends’ get-togethers. If you’re someone who enjoys learning the story behind what you drink, you’ll find this particularly satisfying.

If you’re expecting full beer flights at each stop, keep in mind that the tour typically involves small pours, with flights available mainly at the restaurant. That’s something to consider if you’re a serious beer connoisseur craving large samples.

Final Thoughts

The Original Charlotte Brewery Tour offers a well-organized, friendly, and educational way to enjoy the city’s craft beer scene. The small group setting, guided by passionate and knowledgeable hosts, makes it stand out as a more personal alternative to larger, more commercial tours. The inclusion of a meal at Midwood Smokehouse adds a local touch and helps pace the day comfortably.

This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, informative exploration of Charlotte’s breweries without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for travelers eager to understand what makes craft beer special or for locals looking for a fun, social afternoon. The consistent praise about guides like Vinnie and Jan shows how much a knowledgeable, enthusiastic guide can elevate a straightforward beer tasting into a memorable experience.

For anyone looking to combine a taste of Charlotte’s local flavor, some education, and a friendly atmosphere, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to book early—this popular experience fills up quickly!

FAQ

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, the tour is usually booked about 31 days ahead, so it’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers visits to four breweries, all beer tastings, a meal at Midwood Smokehouse, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about five hours, with most stops lasting around an hour plus a meal break.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at The Westin Charlotte, located at 601 S College St.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within that window are not refundable.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers or those under 21?
Most travelers can participate, but since beer is included, it’s mainly designed for adults of drinking age. Non-drinkers might still enjoy the guide’s insights and the social aspect.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

What if I can’t keep up or want to skip a stop?
The tour is designed as a group experience, but with small groups, guides are usually flexible to some extent.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour transports you comfortably between locations in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What should I wear or bring?
Casual attire is fine, and bring your ID and a good attitude for tasting and learning.