Underground Brooklyn Walking Brewery Tour

If you’re looking to sample some of Brooklyn’s best craft beers while exploring vibrant neighborhoods, the Underground Brooklyn Walking Brewery Tour might just be the perfect fit. Priced at $99 per person and lasting around 3.5 hours, this small-group experience takes you to three distinct breweries in different parts of Brooklyn, with transportation included. Led by knowledgeable guides, it promises a relaxed but engaging peek into Brooklyn’s thriving beer culture and a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process.

What we love about this tour is the personalized attention, thanks to the small group size (max 15 people), and the variety of breweries visited, each with its unique vibe and offerings. Plus, the included subway MetroCard makes moving between neighborhoods seamless, so you can focus on tasting and learning. On the downside, since the tour operates in all weather conditions, you might want to dress appropriately or be prepared for the occasional rain. This experience is ideal for those who enjoy craft beer, local flavor, and a bit of urban adventure.

If you appreciate authentic, small-scale brewery visits and enjoy discovering Brooklyn beyond the usual tourist paths, this tour could be just right. It’s especially suitable for curious travelers who want a behind-the-scenes look rather than just pub-hopping, and for those who appreciate guided insights into local brewing practices.

Key Points

• Authentic Brooklyn breweries: Visit three distinct breweries in different neighborhoods.
• All-inclusive: Tastings, snacks, and subway MetroCard included for convenience.
• Small group experience: Up to 15 travelers for a more personal touch.
• Insightful guides: Led by knowledgeable hosts like Eddi, who build a friendly, engaging atmosphere.
• Variety of breweries: From farmhouse ales and hazy IPAs to organic, farm-sourced beers.
• Weather-proof operation: Rain or shine, it runs, so dress accordingly.

What to Expect from the Underground Brooklyn Walking Brewery Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of tastings, education, and local flavor. Starting at Sound + Fury Brewery and Kitchen in Brooklyn’s DUMBO area, it kicks off with a visit to Wild East Brewing Co. Here, you’ll sample some of their farmhouse ales, hazy IPAs, and barrel-aged sours. The setting is relaxed, with about 50 minutes to enjoy the beers and learn about their brewing philosophies.

The next stop takes you to Five Boroughs Brewing in Sunset Park. Led by hosts Blake and Kevin, this brewery is a community hub where Brooklynites converge from all five boroughs. Expect about 50 minutes of tasting local beers and hearing about their dedication to making great beer while supporting local artisans.

Your final stop is Big aLICe Brewing, which emphasizes organic and local ingredients. As a licensed New York State farm brewery, they partner with local hop farmers and maltsters, making this visit a showcase of Brooklyn’s farm-to-bottle movement. Again, roughly 50 minutes are dedicated to tasting and learning.

Throughout the tour, guides share insights into the brewing process, and you’ll get a behind-the-scenes view that’s rare on typical brewery visits. The tour concludes back at the starting point, but you’ll leave with a new appreciation for Brooklyn’s craft beer scene and possibly some new friends.

A Closer Look at Each Stop

Wild East Brewing Co

This brewery specializes in farmhouse ales, hazy IPAs, and barrel-aged sours, offering a taste of Brooklyn’s innovative brewing style. The tasting session provides a rare chance to try beers that showcase both traditional techniques and experimental flavors. As one reviewer noted, the experience is a 30 to 50-minute glimpse into one of Brooklyn’s most creative breweries.

Five Boroughs Brewing

Located in Sunset Park, this brewery is a community favorite. Led by engaging guides Blake and Kevin, it’s clear they’re passionate about making great beer and creating a welcoming environment. The brewery’s commitment to local ingredients and community support adds a meaningful layer to your tasting experience. One guest remarked, “We finished the tour as friends,” highlighting the social and friendly vibe.

Big aLICe Brewing

This farm brewery focuses on organic, locally sourced ingredients and partnership with New York hop and malt farms. As a result, their beers often reflect Brooklyn’s farm-to-table ethos. Visitors often find this stop particularly informative and flavorful, appreciating the emphasis on supporting local agriculture. The brewery’s dedication to sustainability and quality shines through in every sip.

Transportation and Logistics

Starting at Sound + Fury Brewery and Kitchen in Brooklyn’s DUMBO, the tour is designed for ease of access—near public transportation and with the included MetroCard. Moving between breweries in different neighborhoods—Sunset Park and other parts of Brooklyn—is made simple and comfortable, so you won’t need to worry about navigating the subway system on your own.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes. Expect to spend around 50 minutes at each brewery, with some flexibility depending on the group’s pace and interest. Since the tour operates rain or shine, bring a rain jacket or comfortable shoes, especially if you want to keep your feet dry while exploring Brooklyn’s streets.

The Experience: Pros, Cons, and Who Should Sign Up

Pros:

• The small group size ensures a more engaging and personalized experience.
• Having tastings at three different breweries offers a broad taste of Brooklyn’s craft scene.
• Guides like Eddi are praised for their knowledge and ability to create a friendly atmosphere.
• The transportation included makes moving around Brooklyn hassle-free, especially for those unfamiliar with public transit.
• The variety of breweries, from farmhouse styles to organic offerings, keeps the experience fresh and educational.

Cons:

• Some reviews mention cancellation issues, so it’s wise to book well in advance.
• The weather can impact the experience—be prepared for outdoor walking and unpredictable conditions.
• It’s a moderate physical activity, so travelers with mobility challenges should plan accordingly.

Who is this best suited for?

This tour is perfect for beer enthusiasts eager to explore Brooklyn’s craft brewing scene beyond the typical bar crawl. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples looking for a relaxed, personable experience. If you’re curious about local ingredients, brewing techniques, or Brooklyn neighborhoods, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $99, you get a comprehensive, guided journey through Brooklyn’s brewing culture, with tastings, snacks, and transportation all included. The knowledgeable guides and diverse brewery selection make it a rewarding experience, especially if you enjoy discovering local artisans and learning about the craft behind the beers.

However, do keep in mind that booking well in advance is recommended due to limited availability and the possibility of cancellations. If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and authentic way to spend an afternoon in Brooklyn—especially if you’re a fan of craft beer—this tour offers good value and memorable moments.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, with about 50 minutes spent at each brewery.

What is included in the price?
Tastings at three breweries, a complimentary snack, and a MetroCard for transportation between neighborhoods.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes subway fare via a MetroCard, making it easy to move between different Brooklyn neighborhoods.

What kind of beers will I taste?
You’ll sample farmhouse ales, hazy IPAs, barrel-aged sours, and organic beers, reflecting Brooklyn’s diverse brewing styles.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers or vegetarians?
Vegetarian options are available; however, the tour is focused on beer tasting and is open only to those aged 21 and over.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required for safety, and dress appropriately for the weather. The tour operates in all weather conditions.

If you’re craving a behind-the-scenes look at Brooklyn’s craft beer scene, combined with the convenience of guided transport and small-group intimacy, this tour offers a delightful way to spend an afternoon. Just plan ahead, dress for the weather, and get ready to sip your way through Brooklyn’s vibrant brewing culture.