Viking Brewery Tour

If you’re thinking about adding a little Nordic flair to your trip to Washington’s Poulsbo, the Viking Brewery Tour might just be your speed. While we haven’t personally done this tour ourselves, it’s garnered some pretty glowing reviews and seems to be a lively way to spend a few hours exploring local breweries, learning about Viking lore, and sampling some tasty drinks.

What really stands out is how knowledgeable guides make the experience more engaging, and how the tour balances fun with a good dose of history and culture. Plus, the chance to sample four drinks—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—adds a nice variety for everyone.

On the flip side, keep in mind that this is a relatively short experience at around three hours, so if you’re after a full day of sightseeing or a more relaxed pace, it might feel a bit brief. Still, if you’re into craft beer, history, and a spirited atmosphere, this tour seems like a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a lively group setting and who want to get a taste of Poulsbo’s local flavor with a Norse twist.

Key Points

• Balanced experience: Combines craft beer tastings, local sights, and Viking lore.
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and fun approach.
• Flexible options: Includes non-alcoholic beverages, making it suitable for all.
• Good value: For $75, you get multiple drinks plus guided behind-the-scenes access.
• Intimate group size: Max of 10 travelers, which helps keep things personal.
• Convenient booking: Book at least a week in advance, with easy mobile ticket access.

What to Expect from the Viking Brewery Tour

This tour offers a mix of history, local culture, and craft brewing expertise, all wrapped into a lively 3-hour journey. Starting at The Sip, you’ll meet your guide—easily identifiable with a Viking horn—and kick things off with an interactive “pour your own sip” experience. This first stop features 36 rotating taps, so you’ll likely find something that piques your interest, whether you’re into hoppy IPAs, flavorful ales, or just want to explore different styles.

First Stop: The Sip (formerly the Slippery Pig)

This is where the adventure begins. Located at 18801 Front St NE, The Sip sets the tone with a friendly, local vibe. You’ll get to sample your first drink via a prepaid card, which is included in your ticket price. The highlight here is the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to learn about Poulsbo’s iconic sites like the historic Hostmark Building or the quaint Red Phone Booth.

A reviewer, Jennifer_W, sums it up well: “Kyle was very knowledgeable and super fun. He was able to answer some of our tough questions. We would definitely recommend!” That kind of praise for the guide’s expertise and energy makes you appreciate how much more engaging the tour can be when you have a passionate local leading the way.

Second Stop: Western Red Brewing

Next, you’ll walk roughly half a mile to Western Red Brewing. This part is particularly appealing because you’ll get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the brewhouse. Seeing the brewing process firsthand adds a layer of appreciation for craft beer that casual drinkers might not usually get to experience. The guide explains how their bold beers are crafted, giving you a glimpse of the equipment and techniques involved.

The tour mentions the opportunity to learn about the flavors and what makes their beers stand out. For many, this backstage peek elevates the tasting experience from simply drinking to understanding and appreciating the art of brewing.

Final Stop: Valhöll Brewing

The grand finale is at Valhöll Brewing, which lives up to its name with a decidedly Norse vibe. Here, guests will raise a large ceremonial toast from a 4-liter Scandinavian longhorn—definitely not your everyday beer glass. You’ll also learn about Viking ideals and what it meant to be a Viking, adding cultural depth to the experience.

The last tasting here is a pint, and the overall atmosphere is lively, with plenty of stories and camaraderie. As one reviewer put it, this spot is “on the nose” with Viking themes, which adds to the fun and immersive feel.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

Your ticket covers a total of four beverages: one prepaid card for the first stop, a pint at Western Red, a pint at Valhöll, and a ceremonial pull from the longhorn. Plus, you’ll gain insights into Viking lore and enjoy a backstage tour of a local brewery—these add educational value beyond just drinking.

Non-alcoholic options are available at all stops, which is great for those who prefer or need to avoid alcohol. The tour lasts about three hours, including walking between stops, which is manageable for most and keeps things lively without dragging on.

It’s also worth noting that tips are not included, so if you feel like your guide did a great job, a gratuity would be appreciated. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, making the experience intimate and more personalized.

How It Works: Booking & Practical Details

Booking is straightforward, with most travelers reserving about a week in advance. The tour includes mobile tickets, so there’s no fuss with paper printouts. Meeting at The Sip, you’ll start your adventure, and after about 45 minutes, you’ll move on to the next brewery. The whole route involves about half a mile of walking, so comfortable shoes are advisable.

The tour is recommended for most travelers, including those with service animals, and is close to public transportation options. The price of $75 per person is reasonable considering the guided behind-the-scenes access, tastings, and local insights you receive.

Final Thoughts: Is the Viking Brewery Tour Worth It?

This tour looks like a delightful way to experience Poulsbo’s local brewing scene with a touch of Viking fun. The expert guides are clearly a highlight, making the experience informative and entertaining. The mix of craft beer, local sights, and Norse mythology creates a unique vibe that appeals to beer lovers and curious explorers alike.

If you appreciate small-group experiences and want to learn more about the local brewing process while soaking up some Viking lore, this tour will likely hit the spot. The inclusive drinks and behind-the-scenes look add good value for the price, especially given the personalized attention and lively atmosphere.

However, if you’re not keen on walking or prefer more extensive touring, this might feel a touch brief. The focus on Viking themes is prominent, which could be less appealing if you’re not into Norse mythology or history. Still, for most who enjoy a good drink and a fun story, this tour seems like a solid choice.

FAQ

How long is the Viking Brewery Tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including walking between three stops and tasting sessions.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Sip, located at 18801 Front St NE, and concludes at Valhöll Brewing at 18970 3rd Ave NE.

What is included in the ticket price?
You get four beverages (a prepaid card at The Sip, a pint at Western Red, a pint at Valhöll, and a ceremonial pull from a 4-liter Viking horn), a guide with Viking lore, and a backstage brewery tour.

Are non-alcoholic drinks available?
Yes, non-alcoholic options are available at all stops.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s primarily aimed at adults interested in craft beer, history, and local culture.

How far do I need to walk during the tour?
About half a mile total, between stops.

What makes the guide stand out?
Guests praise guides for their knowledge and fun approach, making the stories and process engaging.

Is tipping expected?
Tips are not included, so if you enjoyed the experience, gratuity is appreciated.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 7 days ahead to secure their spot, especially during busy seasons.

If you’re looking for a lively, culturally infused beer adventure with a Norse twist in Poulsbo, this Viking Brewery Tour offers an enjoyable slice of local life along with some fun stories and great drinks. It’s a solid pick for those who love learning while they sip—and for anyone curious about the Viking spirit that Poulsbo celebrates so well.