Calgary Brewery Tour

Discover Calgary’s Award-Winning Craft Breweries with a Guided Tour

The Calgary Brewery Tour offers an engaging way to explore the city’s thriving craft beer scene. Priced at $89.07 per person, this 3.5-hour experience takes you behind the scenes of three notable breweries—Bow River Brewing, OT Brewing Company, and Born Brewing Co.—each known for their award-winning beers. With air-conditioned transportation and one beer flight included at each stop, this tour combines education, tasting, and local culture in a compact, well-organized format. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a max group size of 14 and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

While the tour requires a minimum of 4 guests to proceed, its affordable price point and knowledgeable guides make it an appealing choice for beer enthusiasts or visitors wanting a curated taste of Calgary’s craft brewing scene. The meeting point at Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown offers convenient access, and the mobile ticket system simplifies booking. It’s a solid option for those eager to learn about local breweries and enjoy generous pours in a friendly, educational environment.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The $89.07 price covers about 3 hours 30 minutes of brewery visits and sampling.
• Three Brewery Stops: Visit Bow River Brewing, OT Brewing Company, and Born Brewing Co. for a diverse tasting experience.
• All-Inclusive Samples: Each participant receives one beer flight at each brewery, featuring IPA, lagers, and seasonal brews.
• Expert Guidance: The tour is led by a beer geek guide who shares insights and points out places of interest during transportation.
• Flexible Booking: The free cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
• Accessible and Convenient: The tour starts near public transportation and accommodates service animals.

Starting the Tour at Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown

The tour begins at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown, located at 239 12 Ave SW. This central location makes it easy to meet the group, and the tour ends back at the same spot, providing straightforward logistics. The mobile ticket system streamlines check-in, allowing guests to focus on the experience ahead. The tour’s small group size maximizes interaction and personalized attention from the guide.

Visiting Bow River Brewing: A Craft Beer Haven

The first stop, Bow River Brewing, features eight beers on tap, including a variety of seasonal brews. This brewery’s range ensures there’s something for every craft beer lover, from traditional lagers to innovative IPAs. During 45 minutes, guests sample generous pours and learn about the brewing process. The brewery’s recognition in Provincial, National, and World Beer Competitions underscores its quality. Visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to discover new favorites in a relaxed setting.

Exploring OT Brewing Company: A Place to Savor and Reflect

Next, the tour visits OT Brewing Company, where the focus is on enjoying crafted beers that invite you to pause and appreciate. The guide encourages guests to take a second to be in the moment with their great OT brew. This stop also lasts 45 minutes and features sampling of a flight of beers, including lagers and other styles. The brewery emphasizes the personal connection through its inviting ambiance, making it a perfect spot for conversations and appreciation of local brewing talent.

Born Brewing Co.: Engaging with Calgary’s Creative Spirit

The final stop, Born Brewing Co., is described as a space where strangers become friends over good brews. The brewery aims to authentically engage with Calgary’s vibrant city and offers a space for you to write your own story. During 45 minutes, guests sample more custom-crafted beers and can soak up the lively, community-oriented vibe. This brewery’s reputation for creating a welcoming environment makes it a fitting conclusion to the tour.

What’s Included and What Not

The tour package includes an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation between breweries, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. Each guest receives a flight of beer samples at each of the three locations, providing ample opportunity to taste and compare different styles. However, gratuities and hotel pick-up are not included, so guests should plan accordingly if they wish to tip or arrange transportation from their accommodation.

Practical Details for Participants

The meeting point at Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown is near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors. The tour is designed for most travelers, including those with service animals. The maximum group size of 14 allows for a more intimate experience, and confirmation is instant at booking. Guests are advised that the tour might be rescheduled if fewer than 4 guests sign up.

The Experience as Reported in Reviews

While limited, the available reviews are highly positive. One reviewer praises the knowledgeable guide, Conner, for his friendly demeanor and depth of beer knowledge. They appreciated the generous pours and the variety of IPAs and lagers sampled across the stops. The reviewer also notes that Conner shared interesting points of interest during the drive, adding an educational element to the experience.

Calgary Brewery Tour: Who Will Enjoy It Most?

This tour is especially well-suited for craft beer enthusiasts eager to learn about local breweries and sample a variety of styles. It’s also a good choice for visitors who prefer guided experiences with educational commentary and social atmosphere. The small group size and comfortable transportation make it a relaxed, engaging way to spend part of a day exploring Calgary’s vibrant brewing scene.

Calgary Brewery Tour: Final Thoughts

The Calgary Brewery Tour offers a value-filled experience that combines local craft beers, behind-the-scenes insights, and friendly guidance. The inclusion of three brewery visits and beer flights at each stop ensures a comprehensive taste of Calgary’s brewing talent. While it may not suit those seeking a food pairing or longer tour, it excels as a focused, educational, and social outing for those interested in craft beer.

This tour’s affordable price and flexible cancellation policy make it an attractive option for visitors wanting a curated, fun exploration of Calgary’s beer scene. The knowledgeable guides and well-chosen venues turn a simple beer tasting into a memorable cultural experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Calgary Brewery Tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, including visits to three breweries and sampling.

Which breweries are included in the tour?
Guests visit Bow River Brewing, OT Brewing Company, and Born Brewing Co..

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, each person receives one beer flight at each of the three breweries.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle to transport guests between breweries.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the tour start time.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The group size is limited for a more comfortable experience.