Calgary Street Art & Craft Beer 3 Hour Tasting Tour

If you’re considering a way to experience Calgary beyond its typical tourist spots, the Calgary Street Art & Craft Beer 3 Hour Tasting Tour might just be what you’re looking for. This tour offers a relaxed, friendly introduction to the city’s dynamic mural scene combined with some of its best local brews. It’s a balanced mix of visual art and craft beer sampling, making it a great pick for those who enjoy exploring the city’s cultural side while sipping on some quality drinks.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are two standout features: First, the knowledgeable guides who unpack the stories behind the murals and introduce you to Calgary’s thriving street art scene; second, the well-curated brewery visits that give you a taste of local flavors in a fun, social setting. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves a fair bit of walking, especially during the mural exploration, so comfortable shoes are a must.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy art, local culture, and craft beer, and who don’t mind a bit of walking and outdoor exploration. If you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, you’ll likely find this experience engaging and insightful. Families with older kids might enjoy it too, especially if everyone loves street art or trying new beers.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers a more personalized, relaxed vibe.
• Expert guides share unique stories behind the murals and breweries.
• Two brewery stops include sampling eight craft beers, which are generous 4 oz pours.
• It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are essential.
• The tour length is just about three hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
• Ideal for art lovers and beer enthusiasts who want a mix of visual and cultural discovery.

Starting with a Warm Welcome and a Beer

The tour kicks off at Toonie Tours Calgary, located conveniently in the heart of the city at 151 8 Ave SW. Here, you’ll meet your guide and the small group, usually capped at 12 people, which helps foster a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The first stop involves sampling a few beers at Bottlescrew Bill’s & Buzzards, two local favorites.

This initial tasting sets the tone—expect a laid-back start where you get to know your fellow travelers while enjoying some local brews. It’s a great way to loosen up and get excited about what’s to come. Plus, according to reviews, guides like Jamie and Toby make the experience engaging and personalized, sharing insider stories and answering questions with enthusiasm. One reviewer even mentioned that despite a booking hiccup, the staff was quick to sort things out, and Darrel, the guide, made the experience outstanding.

Exploring Calgary’s Vibrant Street Art Scene

The core of this tour is the Beltline Urban Murals Project, a two-hour stroll through Calgary’s downtown walls. The murals are vibrant, eclectic, and tell a story about the city’s creative spirit. Walking through this colorful display, you’ll learn about different artists and the stories behind their work.

Many reviews highlight the depth of knowledge the guides bring. One reviewer appreciated how Daryl provided “backstories on the artists and murals,” giving a much richer appreciation of the art. Others noted that the tour revealed hidden pieces of Calgary that few visitors discover on their own. This isn’t just a walk-by tour; it’s a deep dive into the local art scene, with passionate storytelling making the murals come alive.

The murals’ variety is impressive—ranging from abstract designs to detailed portraits—and their placement in a lively urban setting adds to the excitement. Be prepared for some walking, as you’ll be exploring different murals across the district. The pace is generally comfortable, but on hotter days, you might find a little more rest or shade appreciated, as one reviewer noted trudging through the snow in winter.

Discovering Local Pubs and Breweries

After the murals, the tour transitions into a social phase with visits to two well-chosen breweries. The stops are thoughtfully selected, allowing you to sample a total of eight craft beers, each served in generous 4 oz pours. This generous tasting helps you get a true sense of Calgary’s burgeoning craft beer scene.

One reviewer described the brewery visits as great “pit stops to get to know one another,” emphasizing the friendly atmosphere. The breweries tend to have character, and guides often share insider tips on where to explore further after the tour. The final brewery stop is often at a place like the Four Dogs Taproom, which is praised for its local character and excellent beers, rounding out the experience nicely.

From reviews, the beers are well-appreciated, and the stories about the breweries and their founders add context that enriches the tasting experience. Even if you’re not a beer expert, you’ll find the selections approachable and enjoyable.

Practical Details and Value

Cost-wise, at roughly $81 per person, the tour offers good value—especially considering the inclusions of eight craft beer tastings and the personalized storytelling. For those who love art and beer, this tour combines two of Calgary’s most engaging local offerings in a manageable, three-hour package.

The tour is easy to book, booked on average 51 days in advance, and confirmation arrives immediately after booking. It’s suitable for most travelers—most can participate, and it’s near public transportation, making it easily accessible. Keep in mind, the tour is designed for adults, given the alcohol tastings, and involves some walking, so comfortable shoes are again recommended.

What We Loved and What Could Be Better

What truly stood out in reviews was the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. They don’t just point out murals—they tell stories, share background info, and help you appreciate Calgary’s street art on a deeper level. The brewery stops also received praise for their character and the quality of beers.

However, a few small points were noted: in hot weather, the pace might need adjusting, and the beer portion at the second brewery might be slightly inconsistent in volume, with one reviewer mentioning a typo about the pour size.

The tour delivers a fun, informative experience that feels well-balanced. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed but insightful way to explore Calgary’s creative side while enjoying some local brews.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re interested in urban art and craft beer, especially if you enjoy guided tours that offer stories and background. It’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, small groups, or even small families with older kids curious about street art and beers.

If you’re short on time but want a meaningful taste of Calgary’s local culture, this tour packs a lot into three hours. It’s also a good choice if you want a social, relaxed activity that doesn’t require too much physical effort but still offers plenty of sights, stories, and flavors.

Final Thoughts

The Calgary Street Art & Craft Beer Tour offers a compelling mix of vibrant visuals and local flavors, making it a memorable way to see the city’s creative pulse. It’s well-organized, personable, and offers genuine insights into Calgary’s street art scene and craft beer culture.

You’ll leave with a richer understanding of the murals, some new favorite beers, and stories to tell. If you love discovering hidden gems, engaging guides, and enjoying a good drink in good company, this is a tour worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour involves sampling craft beers, so it is designed for adults. While it’s family-friendly in terms of walking and urban exploration, children wouldn’t participate in the tastings.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience runs approximately three hours, making it a manageable activity for an afternoon or early evening outing.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 51 days in advance, as it tends to fill up quickly. Confirmation is immediate upon booking.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers guided exploration of murals, two brewery stops with eight 4 oz beer samples, and local tips from your guide.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to access without a car.

What if I don’t drink alcohol?
Since the tour is centered on craft beer tasting, it’s mainly suitable for those who enjoy beer. If you don’t drink, you might consider other tours in Calgary that focus on different themes.

How strenuous is the tour?
It involves walking around the murals district, so comfortable shoes are advised. In hot weather, the pace might be slow to moderate, but overall it’s a relaxed outdoor walk.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.

If you’re curious about Calgary’s street art and want to enjoy some local brews with a knowledgeable guide by your side, this tour can be a highlight of your trip. It’s a fun, relaxed way to get to know the city in a different light—artistic, social, and tasty all at once.