The Original Charlotte Brewery Tour – Craft Beer Experience

Discover Charlotte’s Craft Beer Scene with the Original Brewery Tour

The Original Charlotte Brewery Tour – Craft Beer Experience offers an engaging way to explore Charlotte’s local brewing culture. Priced at $150.00 per person, this 5-hour tour takes visitors to four distinct breweries, with an included dinner at Midwood Smokehouse. The tour departs from the Westin Charlotte and features small group sizes limited to 14 participants for more personalized attention.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the focus on educating guests about the brewing process, complemented by tastings of craft beers and a delicious meal. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfortable travel between stops, making the experience enjoyable regardless of the weather. While some reviews highlight a desire for clearer expectations around beer flights, overall, this tour earns high praise for knowledgeable guides and a friendly atmosphere.

This outing suits beer enthusiasts, curious newcomers, and those seeking a fun, educational activity in Charlotte. Just note that most bookings are made about a month in advance, so planning ahead is recommended.

Key Points

• Price and duration: At $150 per person for 5 hours, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Charlotte’s craft breweries.
• Small group size: Limited to 14 participants, ensuring more interaction with the guide.
• Includes meal: A dinner at Midwood Smokehouse is part of the experience.
• Beer tastings included in the price, with stops at four breweries.
• Educational focus: Guides share detailed information about the brewing process.
• Convenient meeting point: Starts and ends at the Westin Charlotte.

Starting at the Westin Charlotte: Convenient Meeting and Ending Point

The tour begins at the Westin Charlotte, located at 601 S College St. The meeting point features free admission and is near public transportation, making access straightforward. The tour also loops back to the same start point after visiting all stops, simplifying logistics and ensuring guests know exactly where they need to be.

Start times are flexible with confirmation received at booking, and the mobile ticket system allows for easy access. The short 5-minute stops at the beginning and end help keep the schedule tight and efficient. This central location makes it easy for visitors to plan their day around the tour.

Visiting Petty Thieves Brewing Co and Protagonist Brewery

The tour makes two notable brewery stops: Petty Thieves Brewing Co and Protagonist. Each brewery visit lasts about an hour, providing ample time for tasting and learning.

Petty Thieves Brewing Co is known for its unique craft beers, and guests are given the opportunity to sample several. Similarly, Protagonist offers a chance to experience the local brewing talent firsthand. Both stops are designed to give insight into each brewery’s style and approach, making them more than just tasting sessions—they are educational experiences led by guides who explain the brewing methods.

The Inclusion of Dinner at Midwood Smokehouse

One of the tour’s highlights is the included meal at Midwood Smokehouse. This stop lasts about an hour, giving guests time to relax and enjoy Southern-style barbecue in a casual setting. The meal serves as a perfect break after sampling multiple beers, though some reviews suggest that guests should be aware that eating does not happen until 2.5 hours into the tour.

The quality of the food is praised, and it adds a satisfying touch to the overall experience. The combination of food and beer education provides a well-rounded outing suitable for those who want more than just beer tasting.

Sampling at Lower Left Brewing Co. and Final Remarks

The last brewery stop is at Lower Left Brewing Co., also lasting around an hour. This final visit provides an opportunity to taste more craft beers and reflect on the day’s learning.

The small group format ensures guided attention and the chance to ask questions about each brewery’s unique processes. The tour ends back at the Westin Charlotte, making pickup and departure simple.

The Role of the Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The guides, such as Vinnie and Jan, receive high praise for their expertise and friendly approach. Reviews describe guides as knowledgeable, fun, and engaging, with a talent for explaining the brewing process clearly. These guides make the experience accessible for all, whether guests are craft beer connoisseurs or newcomers.

Some reviews mention that guests should be aware that no large beer flights are served during the stops; instead, small glasses are poured by the guide. This is important for expectations but does not detract from the overall educational quality of the tour.

The Pacing and Timing of the Tour: Managing Expectations

The tour’s pacing is generally well-received, with enough time at each brewery to taste and learn without feeling rushed. However, a few reviews recommend that future guests be made aware that food is served after 2.5 hours, which might impact those expecting to eat earlier.

Participants experience a balance between beer sampling and learning opportunities, with a relaxed yet organized schedule. The air-conditioned transport keeps everyone comfortable during transitions.

The Cost and Booking Process: Worthwhile Investment

At $150 per person, the tour offers value through its inclusion of multiple brewery visits, a meal, and expert-guided education. Most people book the tour approximately 31 days in advance, highlighting the popularity and demand.

Since the tour is capped at 14 travelers, the small group size enhances interaction and makes the experience more intimate. The free cancellation policy provides flexibility, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

The personalized attention from guides, especially their ability to blend beer education with fun stories, distinguishes this tour. The small group setting makes for a more engaging experience compared to larger, less personal brewery visits.

The inclusion of a meal at Midwood Smokehouse, combined with expert guidance and craft beer tastings, offers a complete outing that balances learning and leisure. While some reviews note a desire for clearer communication about the beer flights, the overall positive feedback confirms this tour’s standing as a top choice for exploring Charlotte’s craft beer scene.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Craft Beer Tour for Enthusiasts and Beginners

The Original Charlotte Brewery Tour provides a comprehensive and friendly introduction to the city’s brewing landscape. With small group sizes, expert guides, and an included meal, it delivers a balanced mix of education and enjoyment.

While some guests would prefer more clarity about how beer is served during stops, the high praise for guides’ knowledge and friendliness makes this tour particularly appealing. It’s best suited for those eager to learn about beer, enjoy social experiences, and try a variety of local brews in a relaxed setting.

This tour offers good value for its price and duration, making it a fun and informative outing in Charlotte. Booking ahead is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak times.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including brewery visits, dining, and transport.

What is included in the tour price?
Beer tastings at four breweries and a dinner at Midwood Smokehouse are included in the $150 price.

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

Are transportation arrangements provided?
Yes, guests travel in an air-conditioned vehicle between stops.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 14 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

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

Are guides knowledgeable about beer?
Absolutely, guides like Vinnie and Jan are praised for their expertise and engaging explanations.

Will I get large beer flights?
No, the tour provides small glasses during stops, with beer served by guides rather than large flights.

Is the tour suitable for non-beer drinkers?
While beer is the focus, some guests find that they enjoy the tastings even if they aren’t regular beer drinkers.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about a month ahead, given the popularity of the tour.