If you’re considering a brewery tour in Jacksonville, the Jax Brewery Tour offered by Go Tukn might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a laid-back, 3.5-hour experience that combines local craft breweries, a touch of sightseeing, and, of course, plenty of beer. We haven’t done this tour ourselves, but based on reviews and the lineup of stops, it looks like a solid choice for those who want to sip their way through Jacksonville’s brewing culture without the hassle of finding rides or worrying about transportation.
What really caught our eye are the friendly guides and the fun tuk-tuk rides, which add a unique twist to the classic brewery crawl. Plus, the tour includes one pint per brewery, making it easy to sample and compare different styles while staying relaxed. That said, the tour is marketed as a shuttle-style experience, so if you’re expecting a deep-dive into brewing techniques or extensive tasting sessions, this might be more about fun and convenience than a serious beer education.
One potential consideration is that it’s not a full-day experience; it’s relatively short, and food isn’t included — though some breweries have food trucks or vendors. This tour suits travelers who want a taste of Jacksonville’s craft scene, enjoy guided experiences, and prefer that all the logistics are handled for them. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling in a group and appreciate local, family-owned businesses.
Key Points
- Convenient Transportation: Tuk-tuks whisk you between breweries, saving hassle and adding a fun element.
- Local Breweries: Stops include some of Jacksonville’s most beloved spots, like Bold City and Myrtle Avenue.
- Sampling Included: One pint per brewery makes it easy to enjoy different styles and brands.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Guests praise the guides for their friendliness and insight.
- Flexible Options: Free hotel pickups in certain areas and optional group bus transport.
- Cost-Effective for the Experience: While at $134.65, it might seem pricey for a few drinks, the all-in-one package adds value by removing transportation concerns.
In-Depth Look at the Jax Brewery Tour
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What’s the Tour All About?
This tour is designed to let you explore some of Jacksonville’s best craft breweries without worrying about driving or navigating on your own. Over approximately three and a half hours, you’ll visit four carefully selected breweries, each offering a chance to sample their beers. The tour makes use of European-style tuk-tuks, which are a quirky, fun way to move from one location to another, making the experience more memorable.
The itinerary is flexible, with the guide choosing stops based on the day’s activities and timings, but you’ll typically visit a mix of well-established breweries and newer craft spots.
The Brewing Stops
Bold City Brewery is the first stop. Known for its partnership with Pabst to recreate Jacksonville’s original beer, this brewery offers a peek into Jacksonville’s brewing history while serving up some excellent craft options. The 30-minute visit here is enough to soak in the vibe and enjoy your first pint.
Next is King Maker Brewing, which offers a larger, more unique space with a vibrant atmosphere. Their food truck often provides food options, and guests rave about their pretzels — “the best darn pretzel around,” as some say. Again, 30 minutes is enough to sample a couple of drinks and soak in the environment.
Myrtle Avenue Brewery adds a bit of local charm, with an owner famous for consulting with other breweries. The spot is a favorite among visitors, especially on weekends when food vendors are on-site. The 30-minute stop gives you a glimpse of Jacksonville’s brewing talent.
The tour also includes a visit to Tepeyolot Cerveceria, a brewery that combines Mexican food with craft beer. Here, you can enjoy a cold brew alongside pinball machines and friendly owners. The 30-minute window is just enough to relax and enjoy the vibe.
Ruby Beach Brewery is in a historic downtown Jacksonville building, making it a great spot for some city views and great beer. The last regular stop is Bold City Downtown, the smaller downtown sibling of Bold City Brewery, and one of the city’s original breweries. This 30-minute visit caps off the tour with a taste of Jacksonville’s brewing roots.
What’s Included and What’s Not?
The tour includes a friendly, knowledgeable guide, free hotel pick-up in certain locations, and a pint at each brewery. These are definite upsides, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the city or those who prefer a relaxed, guided experience. The tour is also limited to 18 travelers, so it maintains an intimate, friendly atmosphere.
However, tips for the guides are not included but highly encouraged, and food isn’t part of the package — although some breweries have food trucks. For larger groups, bus pickup is available, which is a plus if you’re traveling with friends or family.
The Experience from Travelers’ Perspectives
One review called the tour a “brewery shuttle,” noting that the guide was great but suggesting it might be better described as a shuttle service rather than a deep dive into brewing. They mentioned it could be more economical to just hail a taxi, but most agree that the convenience and guided aspect add value.
Participants love the friendly guides and the fun tuk-tuk rides. They appreciate the chance to visit multiple local breweries without the stress of planning or driving. The views of Jacksonville and the relaxed pace make it an enjoyable outing, especially for those who like sampling different beers and exploring city spots.
The Price & Value
At $134.65 per person, this might seem on the higher side if you’re only counting the beers, but the cost covers transportation, guide service, and the convenience of multiple brewery visits without the need to organize anything yourself. If you factor in the cost of taxis or rideshare, plus the time saved, it probably offers good value for those wanting a curated experience.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideal for beer enthusiasts who want to taste Jacksonville’s local brews without the hassle of planning logistics. It suits travelers who enjoy guided experiences, especially if they appreciate a quirky ride in tuk-tuks. It’s also a good fit for small groups or friends who want a fun, social outing.
If you’re after an in-depth brewing lesson or more extensive tastings, this might not be your best bet. But for a casual, fun, and well-organized way to explore Jacksonville’s craft beer scene, it hits the spot.
FAQs About the Jax Brewery Tour
Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, participants must be 21 or older to join the tour, as it involves alcohol consumption.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including visits to four breweries.
Are drinks included?
Yes, you get one pint per brewery, so four pints in total, which makes for a relaxed sampling experience.
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation between breweries is via tuk-tuks, which are fun, small European-style vehicles.
Can I get a pickup at my hotel?
Yes, free pick-up is available at certain hotels, and you can also meet directly at the headquarters in Downtown Jacksonville.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time and get a full refund.
How many people can join?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, keeping it intimate and manageable.
Is food included in the tour?
No, food isn’t included, but some breweries have food trucks or vendors, and you’re encouraged to purchase bites on-site.
What kind of breweries will I visit?
The stops include a mix of well-established and locally loved spots, like Bold City and Myrtle Avenue, often praised for their welcoming atmospheres.
Is tipping the guide necessary?
Tips are not included but are highly encouraged if you enjoyed the tour and guide’s service.
Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included)
“Guide was great. However, would not advertise this as a brewery tour as much as a brewery shuttle. Would have been more cost effective to negotiate…”
Final Thoughts
The Jax Brewery Tour by Go Tukn offers a relaxed, enjoyable way to sample Jacksonville’s craft beer scene without the fuss of planning or driving. The combination of friendly, knowledgeable guides, local breweries, and fun tuk-tuk rides makes for a memorable outing, especially if you’re into trying different beers and exploring city neighborhoods.
While it’s not a beer connoisseur’s deep dive, it’s perfect for visitors looking for a fun, social, and low-stress experience. The tour’s focus on local, family-owned businesses and the scenic views of Jacksonville’s cityscape give it a genuine local flavor that many travelers appreciate.
If you’re visiting Jacksonville and want a blend of sightseeing, great beer, and some local color, this tour could be just what you need. Just remember to plan ahead and go with an open mind for a relaxed and friendly craft beer journey.
