Burlington Signature Guided Brewery Tour

Explore Burlington’s Craft Beer Scene with a Guided Brewery Tour

The Burlington Signature Guided Brewery Tour offers a fantastic way to experience Vermont’s vibrant craft beer culture. Priced at $105 per person, this tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it an ideal afternoon or early evening outing. It departs from Burlington, USA, with pick-up points on Cherry Street or Williston Road, and features transportation included, so visitors can enjoy tastings without worrying about driving.

Notably rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 130 reviews, with 96% recommending the experience, this tour is praised for its personalized small-group setting and insightful guides. It’s booked an average of 38 days in advance, reflecting strong popularity among beer enthusiasts. While the tour is accessible to most, it requires participants to be 21 or older with closed-toe shoes and a valid ID, and it operates in all weather conditions.

Key Points

• Visit three local craft breweries in Burlington, Vermont
• Taste up to 12 beers from a variety of styles, including IPAs, lagers, and stouts
• Transportation is included, eliminating the need to drive
• Small groups ensure a more personal and engaging experience
• Tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes
• Snacks are included at one of the brewery stops

Burlington’s Top Craft Breweries on the Tour

The tour takes you to three distinct breweries, each offering a unique perspective on Vermont’s brewing scene. These stops include 1st Republic Brewing Co, Queen City Brewery, and Zero Gravity Craft Brewery. Each location highlights different brewing styles and histories, providing a comprehensive look at the local beer landscape.

Inside the Brew Bus: Learning the Vermont Brewing Story

Starting from either Cherry Street or Williston Road, the Brew Bus leads the way through Burlington’s beer hotspots. As the group travels, the guide shares stories about Vermont’s brewing history and the colorful personalities behind these establishments. This storytelling element enhances the experience, making it more than just tasting; it’s a cultural journey through Vermont’s craft beer evolution.

Meet the Owners and Brewers at Each Stop

A standout feature of this tour is the opportunity to meet brewery owners and brewers face-to-face. At 1st Republic Brewing, founders Shawn Trout and Mike Drake, both military veterans, serve beers crafted with their backgrounds in mind. At Queen City Brewery, the owners are longtime friends who produce traditional ales and lagers with complex, unexpected flavors, including their signature Steinbeer. Zero Gravity Brewery offers insight into their growth from a brewpub into a full-scale production facility, with destiny Saxon and Paul Sayler sharing their passion for brewing.

Tasting Vermont’s Iconic Beers

Participants get to sample up to 12 different beers throughout the tour, focusing on classic styles like IPAs, lagers, and stouts. At each brewery, guided tastings highlight the brewing process, the ingredients used, and what makes each beer special. This hands-on approach helps visitors understand how grain, hops, and yeast come together to create the flavors they enjoy.

The Stops: What Makes Each Brewery Unique

1st Republic Brewing is known for its Veteran-crafted beers and a welcoming taproom atmosphere that encourages gathering for fun and games. The founders’ military backgrounds add a distinct character to their beers, and the brewery’s 2018 VT Veteran Owned Small Business of the Year accolade speaks to their community involvement.

Queen City Brewery stands out for its innovative approach, creating beers with unexpected notes that deliver complex flavors. Their Steinbeer is a rare style that showcases their focus on fermentation and aging techniques. The brewery’s long-standing friendship and passion for brewing help produce a diverse lineup of traditional and specialty beers.

Zero Gravity Craft Brewery traces its roots to American Flatbread and has grown into a prominent name in Vermont brewing. Their 30-barrel facility in Burlington’s South End Arts District produces a balanced mix of flagship beers and experimental brews, with the brewery’s history reflecting a commitment to quality and innovation.

Logistics and Practical Tips for the Tour

The meeting points are conveniently located, and the round-trip transportation ensures a worry-free experience. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though most participants are 21 or older with valid ID. It’s advisable to arrive at least 10 minutes early for the start, and closed-toe shoes are required for safety reasons, especially in brewery environments.

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dressing appropriately for the day’s forecast is recommended. The experience includes snacks at one of the breweries, complementing the beer tastings and enhancing the overall enjoyment.

The Importance of a Knowledgeable Guide

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ expertise and their ability to share engaging stories about each brewery’s history and beer styles. Guides like Nick, Soren, and Makayla are noted for their friendly demeanor and knowledgeability, making the experience both educational and fun. Their insights help participants appreciate the craftsmanship behind Vermont’s beers.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policies

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changes in plans. Should the weather turn unfavorable or minimum numbers are not met, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. This ensures a reliable booking experience for visitors planning their trip to Burlington.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This brewery tour is perfect for beer enthusiasts looking for a deep dive into Vermont’s craft scene. It’s also ideal for small groups seeking a personalized experience, as the group size is limited to 14 travelers. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a connoisseur, the guided tastings and behind-the-scenes access make this a memorable beer adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Burlington Brewery Experience

The Burlington Signature Guided Brewery Tour offers a comprehensive look at Vermont’s craft beer culture, paired with delicious tastings and insider stories from passionate brewers. The small-group setting, transportation included, and variety of breweries make it stand out among local beer tours. It provides a balanced mix of education, tasting, and social interaction—a must for anyone eager to explore Burlington’s brewing excellence.

While the tour is well-loved for guides and beer quality, travelers should be prepared for weather conditions and remember that the price includes up to 12 beers and snacks. This tour suits those who want a relaxed, engaging, and informative experience that highlights Vermont’s craft beer innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation is included, making it easy to enjoy the tastings without concern for driving.

What are the age restrictions?
Participants must be 21 or older with a valid ID. No exceptions are made for younger travelers.

How many breweries will I visit?
You visit three breweries—1st Republic Brewing Co, Queen City Brewery, and Zero Gravity Craft Brewery.

How many beers can I expect to taste?
Up to 12 different beers are sampled across the stops, focusing on a variety of styles.

Are food options available during the tour?
Yes, snacks are included at one of the brewery stops.

What should I wear?
Participants must wear closed-toe shoes for safety. Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour runs rain or shine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers or those with dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian options are available if advised at booking, but the focus is primarily on beer tasting.

Where do the tours start?
Meet on Cherry Street or Williston Road in Burlington, with transportation provided from these points.

Is this tour good for groups?
Absolutely, the small-group size ensures a personalized experience, making it ideal for friends or small parties.