Sanford: Guided Craft Beer Walking Tour with Tastings

Discover Sanford’s Craft Beer Scene for $39

The Sanford: Guided Craft Beer Walking Tour offers a flavorful journey through Historic Downtown Sanford, Florida, with a focus on award-winning breweries. Priced at $39 per person and lasting 1.5 hours, this tour combines beer tastings, local history, and insider stories. It departs from the Sanford Homebrew Shop, also known as the Community Brewhouse, and takes you on a walk through the city’s vibrant brewery district.

This tour stands out for its personalized experience, led by a BJCP Certified Beer Judge, who guides participants through tasting three revered establishments: Sanford Homebrew Shop, Dees Brothers Brewery, and Wops Hops Brewing Company & Kitchen. With small group sizes, guests get a chance to ask questions, learn about beer styles, and understand the city’s transformation from a historic waterfront gateway to a bustling craft beer hub.

While the 1.5-hour duration allows enough time to savor beers and hear engaging stories, participants should be prepared for a little walking between stops. The tour is wheelchair accessible and starts at 5:00 pm, primarily in the evening, making it ideal for a relaxed, after-work outing.

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Key Points

• Price: $39 per person for a 1.5-hour guided tour
• Location: Departs from Sanford Homebrew Shop in Historic Downtown Sanford
• Focus: Tasting beers from award-winning breweries and exploring the history of craft beer in Sanford
• Guide: Led by a BJCP Certified Beer Judge, ensuring expert insights
• Stops: Visit three respected breweries—Sanford Homebrew Shop, Dees Brothers Brewery, and Wops Hops Brewing
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible and suitable for most guests over 21

Starting Point at Sanford Homebrew Shop

The tour kicks off inside the Sanford Homebrew Shop, also known as the Community Brewhouse, located near Magnolia Square in Historic Downtown Sanford. This venue provides the perfect setting to begin your journey into the local craft beer scene. The meeting point inside the shop ensures a smooth start, with plenty of space for the group to gather before heading out.

Participants should bring a valid ID or passport to partake in tastings, and the casual atmosphere invites questions and conversations about beer styles, brewing techniques, and local culture. The shop’s central location makes it easy to find and convenient for those staying nearby.

Exploring Sanford’s Award-Winning Breweries

During the tour, you’ll visit three distinct breweries, each with its own character and specialty. The Sanford Homebrew Shop offers insights into homebrewing and beer styles, setting the tone for the experience. Dees Brothers Brewery showcases a variety of crafted brews, often with innovative twists, while Wops Hops Brewing Company & Kitchen combines beer with delicious food, highlighting the city’s culinary vibrancy.

Each stop provides a sample of beers carefully curated by the guide, emphasizing local flavor and craftsmanship. Expect to learn about the flavor profiles of different styles, making this a great tour for both beer novices and connoisseurs.

The Expertise Behind the Tour

The guide leading this experience is a BJCP Certified Beer Judge, bringing professional knowledge and passion for beer. This expertise shines as the guide shares stories behind each brewery’s history, styles, and brewery innovations. Their ability to talk shop makes the experience engaging and informative, turning tasting into a learning opportunity.

The guide’s personal approach ensures that questions are encouraged along the way, creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Whether explaining the difference between IPA and pilsner or sharing tidbits about Sanford’s beer history, the guide enhances the experience through stories and expertise.

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The Walk Through Historic Downtown Sanford

Following the initial meet-up, the tour proceeds on a walk between breweries, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic and historic surroundings of Sanford. The walk takes you from the Community Brewhouse to Dees Brothers Brewery and then to Wops Hops Brewing, with plenty of opportunities to appreciate the vibe of Sanford’s downtown district.

The route highlights Sanford’s transition from a historic waterfront city to a lively destination packed with restaurants, art galleries, and festivals. The walking aspect is manageable and adds a casual, social element to the tour.

Tasting Highlights at Three Revered Breweries

At each brewery, you sample beer from three establishments, experiencing a curated selection that showcases local talent. The beers are chosen for their reputation and flavor profiles, giving a well-rounded taste of Sanford’s craft brewing scene.

Dees Brothers Brewery is known for its creative brews, while Wops Hops Brewing blends beer and cuisine, offering a taste of Sanford’s culinary scene. The Sanford Homebrew Shop provides insights into homebrewing traditions and beer styles, enriching the tasting experience.

Guests will find the beers enjoyable and educational, with the guide explaining how different styles are crafted and what to look for in each pour.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour lasts at least 90 minutes and begins at 5:00 pm, making it a pleasant early evening activity. It is designed for adults over 21, with no exceptions. The meeting point inside the Sanford Homebrew Shop is easily accessible, and the walks between brewery stops are suitable for most guests.

The tour offers free cancellation if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans. Guests are encouraged to bring ID or passport to enjoy the tastings.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience appeals most to those interested in craft beer, local history, and Sanford’s urban vibe. It’s perfect for beer enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of beer styles, as well as newcomers eager to learn in a friendly setting. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for those who enjoy engaging conversations.

The evening timing suits visitors seeking a relaxed, social outing after daytime sightseeing or as a date night activity.

The Sum Up: A Flavorful Walk Through Sanford’s Beer Scene

The Sanford Guided Craft Beer Walking Tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines tastings, local history, and expert insight into Sanford’s craft brewing culture. For $39, guests receive a personalized tour led by a certified expert and visit three notable breweries, all within a compact 1.5-hour window.

While the walking adds a pleasant outdoor element, participants should be prepared for some walking between stops. The tour is an excellent choice for adults over 21 interested in beer, local stories, and social fun. Its accessible and informative nature makes it a solid option for anyone wanting to explore Sanford’s vibrant brewery scene in a relaxed, guided format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
This tour involves beer tastings and requires guests to be over 21 with ID or passport. Non-drinkers can still enjoy the history, stories, and guide’s insights, but sampling is part of the experience.

How much beer is sampled during the tour?
Guests sample beer from three breweries, with a curated selection at each stop. The specific amount per stop isn’t detailed but is enough to provide a meaningful tasting and flavor exploration.

Can the tour accommodate wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and the venue and walks are suitable for most guests with mobility needs.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests should bring passport or ID for tasting purposes. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking between breweries.

Is this tour available in the daytime?
The tour typically starts at 5:00 pm and is mainly an evening activity, making it ideal for a relaxed after-work outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby