Nashville Beer, Bourbon, and Barbecue Guided Food & Drink Tour

Explore Nashville’s Food and Drink Scene with a Focus on BBQ, Beer, and Bourbon

The Nashville Beer, Bourbon, and Barbecue Guided Food & Drink Tour offers an engaging way to experience Music City’s culinary delights. For $189 per person, this 4-hour journey takes you to some of the most popular local spots, combining tastings of smoked meats, craft beers, and whiskeys with insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides. The tour departs from 308 Rep. John Lewis Way S at 11:30 am and promises an intimate experience with a small group of no more than 14 people.

This tour is ideal for those interested in Nashville’s vibrant food and drink culture who want a relaxed, informative outing. It features distillery visits, local BBQ stops, and craft beer flights, making it perfect for enthusiasts of authentic flavors. While the focus is on quality experiences, potential guests should be aware that additional alcoholic drinks are offered for purchase and that the tour is non-refundable.

Key Points

• Duration: 4 hours, starting at 11:30 am from downtown Nashville
• Price: $189 per person, including all taxes and fees
• Highlights: Distillery tour with tastings, BBQ meal at Central BBQ, craft beer flight at New Heights Brewing
• Group Size: Small group capped at 14 travelers for a more personal experience
• Age Requirement: Minimum age of 21 years with valid ID
• Weather: Operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately
• Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle included for all stops
• Reviews: Consistently rated 5 stars with high praise for guides, stops, and overall experience

Starting Point and Tour Timing in Downtown Nashville

The tour begins at 308 Rep. John Lewis Way S at 11:30 am sharp. This central location makes it easy to access via public transit or walking from many downtown hotels. The air-conditioned vehicle transports the group between stops, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a convenient outing for those with limited time in Nashville. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, providing a logical and straightforward finish.

Sampling the Best BBQ at Central BBQ in Hillsboro

Your first stop features a BBQ trio meal at Central BBQ, a well-regarded spot in the Hillsboro area. Expect to enjoy a variety of smoked meats, with enough to satisfy multiple tastes. The 1-hour stop offers a relaxed setting to sample authentic Nashville-style barbecue while learning about its preparation and history.

Guests often appreciate the high-quality food, with some noting it’s a good introduction to local flavors. The meat is smoked to perfection, and the casual atmosphere makes it a comfortable starting point for the tour.

Craft Beer and BBQ Tasting at New Heights Brewing Company

Next, the group heads to New Heights Brewing Company, where a BBQ meal paired with a beer flight awaits. This 1-hour stop combines craft beer tasting with a complimentary BBQ meal, providing a satisfying combination. The flight showcases a selection of local brews, allowing guests to compare flavors and styles.

The brewery’s atmosphere is lively, and the guide shares insights into the brewing process and Nashville’s craft beer scene. This stop is especially popular among those who enjoy beer tasting paired with good food.

Tennessee Whiskey and Distillery Experiences

Included in the tour is a distillery tour with tastings that explore Tennessee whiskey traditions. The guide explains the stories behind Nashville’s most popular distilleries and whiskey brands, enriching the tasting experience. This part of the tour is both educational and flavorful, offering sampling opportunities for winning whiskeys and local bourbons.

Guests appreciate the expert commentary, which adds context and history to the tastings. The experience provides a well-rounded look at Nashville’s liquor history and the craftsmanship involved.

Locations and Venues Visited During the Tour

• Central BBQ in Hillsboro: Known for its smoked meats, this spot provides a satisfying barbecue trio.
• New Heights Brewing Company: A local brewery offering craft beers and BBQ.
• The distillery: Details of the specific distillery are not provided, but it offers an immersive whiskey tour with tastings.

All venues are selected for their popularity and authenticity, giving guests a local perspective on Nashville’s food and drink landscape.

Transport and Guide Experience

The tour features transport by air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort between stops. The expert guide leads the group with live commentary, sharing stories and background on each venue and Nashville’s overall food and drink scene. The guides have received praise for their knowledge, personality, and ability to keep the pace lively.

Guests report that the guide’s storytelling enhances the experience, making each stop more meaningful. The small group size keeps interactions personal and relaxed, avoiding the feeling of being rushed.

Physical and Weather Considerations

Participants should have moderate physical fitness as some walking and standing are required at stops. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for the weather is advised. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing will help guests enjoy the full experience.

There is no specific mention of accessibility features, but the use of an air-conditioned vehicle suggests a level of convenience for most guests.

Value and Strengths of the Tour

The $189 price covers all taxes, fees, tastings, and transportation. Guests receive an immersive experience with visits to both food and drink venues, making it a comprehensive introduction to Nashville’s culinary scene. The inclusion of multiple tastings, paired with expert insights, ensures good value for money.

Reviewers consistently praise guides like Ray, Bob, and Emily for their knowledge, friendly manner, and ability to enhance the experience. The stops are seen as high quality and well chosen, with some noting the distillery visits as especially informative.

Limitations and Considerations

While most reviews highlight the tour’s strengths, some mention that the BBQ stop might not fully meet expectations, with one noting it was a sandwich rather than traditional BBQ. Plus, additional alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, so guests interested in more than the included tastings should plan accordingly.

Since cancellations are non-refundable, travelers should confirm their plans before booking. The tour does not specify special accommodations for those with accessibility needs, so those requiring assistance should inquire beforehand.

Final Thoughts on the Nashville Beer, Bourbon, and Barbecue Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of food, drink, and Nashville culture in a relaxed, small-group setting. It’s especially suited for whiskey and beer enthusiasts, as well as anyone keen on sampling Nashville’s best BBQ. The knowledgeable guides and curated stops make for an informative and enjoyable outing.

While it may not be solely focused on BBQ, the combination of tastings, stories, and local vibes delivers a comprehensive taste of Nashville’s culinary scene. The 4-hour duration fits well into a day of sightseeing or relaxation, and the small-group format ensures a personal touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The $189 fee covers the 4-hour guided experience, distillery tour and tastings, craft beer flight, lunch at Central BBQ, transportation, expert guide, bottled water, and all taxes and fees.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be 21 years or older with a valid ID to partake in the alcohol tastings.

What stops are part of the tour?
Guests visit Central BBQ for barbecue, New Heights Brewing Company for beer, and a local distillery for whiskey tastings. The exact distillery isn’t specified, but it’s part of the curated experience.

How is transportation handled?
All stops are connected via air-conditioned vehicle, making travel comfortable and efficient throughout the tour.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine, so guests should dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

What makes this tour stand out?
The small group size, quality stops, and expert guides like Ray, Bob, and Emily are highly praised. The tour provides insights into Nashville’s food and drink culture along with tastings that showcase local flavors.

Can I purchase more alcohol during the tour?
Additional alcoholic drinks are available for purchase at each venue, but they are not included in the base price.

Is this tour ideal for non-drinkers?
While primarily focused on beer, whiskey, and BBQ, non-drinkers can still enjoy the food stops and learning about Nashville’s culinary scene.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 32 days in advance, indicating a good idea to reserve early for peak times.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is a pre-set experience with no mention of customization options. It’s best suited for those looking for a structured, curated route.

Would this tour suit someone seeking a deep dive into Nashville’s music scene?
No, this tour emphasizes food and drink, not music history or sightseeing. It complements a music-focused visit but isn’t centered on the city’s musical heritage.

This Nashville Beer, Bourbon, and Barbecue Guided Food & Drink Tour combines tastings, stories, and local flavors in a way that highlights Nashville’s culinary scene for spirited and food-loving travelers. Its well-curated stops and small group setting make it a memorable way to enjoy the city’s rich food and drink culture.