Cleveland: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack

If you’re into craft beer and looking for a way to experience Cleveland beyond the usual sightseeing, this guided brewery tour might just be what you need. It’s designed for those who want more than just tasting a few beers — you get the chance to see how Cleveland’s best breweries operate, learn from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy some delicious pairings along the way.

Two things we really like about this experience are its focus on educational insights and the comfort of round-trip transportation. Getting behind the scenes at three unique breweries with a local expert makes the whole experience more meaningful — you’re not just sampling but understanding what makes Cleveland’s craft beer scene special. Plus, the included snacks and multiple tastings add to its value, giving you a relaxed, well-rounded afternoon.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour is strictly for those 21 and over — no exceptions. Also, it doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to meet at the designated spot. Overall, if you’re a beer aficionado or simply curious about Cleveland’s brewing culture, this tour will give you a solid, enjoyable look into the city’s craft scene.

Who will love this? It’s especially suited for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy craft beer and want an engaging, informative experience. It’s also a good pick if you prefer a laid-back, guided approach rather than navigating breweries on your own.

Key Points

• Educational experience: Learn about Cleveland breweries from local guides who share interesting facts and behind-the-scenes insights.
• Variety of tastings: Sample up to 12 different beer styles across three stops, offering plenty of variety.
• Local breweries: Visit some of Cleveland’s best, including a nano brewery built with a lot of character and a brewpub inspired by Northwest styles.
• Inclusion of snacks: Each stop features a carefully paired snack, enhancing the tasting experience.
• Comfortable transportation: Round-trip transportation means you can relax and enjoy the tour without worries.
• Duration & flexibility: The 3.5-hour tour is usually offered in the afternoon or evening, fitting easily into most travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Cleveland Brewery Tour

This tour from City Brew Tours Cleveland promises a fun, educational peek into Cleveland’s craft beer world. It’s designed to give you a comprehensive look at what makes this city’s breweries special, all while keeping the experience relaxing and engaging.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at a location right in downtown Cleveland — in front of the DoubleTree by Hilton Cleveland Downtown Lakeside. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle with your group and guide, ready for your brewery adventure.

First stop: Brick and Barrel
Founded in 2014 by Karl Spiesman, this nano brewery has a story as charming as its beers. We love hearing how this place was built brick by brick, and how the space features reclaimed materials like church pews and a blackboard bar top from a defunct schoolhouse. It’s a cozy spot that combines history and craft, making it a fantastic introduction.

Next: A second brewery, like Terrestrial Brewing
Here, your guide will take you behind the scenes to see the impressive keg management system. You get a close look at how they handle 150-pound kegs and their cool walk-in cooler. It’s these little details that elevate the experience, making you appreciate the effort that goes into each pint.

Third stop: The final brewery varies based on the day, offering options that highlight Cleveland’s diversity. Each spot is selected for its unique character and brewing style, making sure you’ll see a good range of what Cleveland offers.

What You’ll Taste and Learn

Throughout the tour, you’ll sample up to 12 beers, a generous number that covers a broad spectrum of styles. This isn’t just about quantity — your guides are there to explain what you’re drinking, from the brewing process to flavor profiles, making each sip more meaningful.

The included snack is another highlight. It’s thoughtfully paired with the beers, elevating the tasting experience without feeling like a quick snack run. From reviews, it sounds like the snacks are tasty and complementary, adding a savory element to the beer tasting.

The Atmosphere and Guides

Reviews sing praises about the knowledgeable guides. Elle from Canada mentions Bob as “amazing,” highlighting his ability to share interesting facts without ever feeling overbearing. Ashleigh also notes how helpful and informative Hannah was, making the experience relaxing and enjoyable. It’s clear that the guides are a key part of what makes this tour worthwhile.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Logistics

At $105 per person for 3.5 hours, this tour offers good value, especially considering the multiple tastings, snacks, and behind-the-scenes access. It’s a more immersive experience than just walking between breweries on your own. The tour operates in the afternoon or evening, giving flexibility depending on your plans.

Since transportation is included, you don’t have to worry about driving or navigating between breweries — just sit back and enjoy. Keep in mind, you need to arrive at least 10 minutes early at the meeting point, and you’ll need to bring a valid ID and wear closed-toe shoes. No open-toed shoes or intoxication are allowed for safety reasons, and the minimum age is 21.

The Real Deal: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Educational and engaging guides who make the process interesting.
– Variety of beers to taste, from different styles and breweries.
– Behind-the-scenes access, making the experience authentic and memorable.
– Comfort of round-trip transportation that makes logistics easier.
– Well-reviewed by past participants, with glowing feedback on the guides and overall experience.

Cons:
– No hotel pickup — meeting point is fixed, so plan accordingly.
– The tour is only for those 21 and over, so not suitable for families or those underage.
– If you’re not a big beer drinker, the 12 tastings might be a lot in one go.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re genuinely interested in craft beer and want a guided, educational experience, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for couples looking for a relaxed activity, friends wanting to sample Cleveland’s brewing scene together, or solo travelers eager to make new connections. It’s also ideal if you prefer not to navigate multiple breweries on your own or worry about transportation.

However, if you’re traveling with kids or looking for a family-friendly activity, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re not a big beer fan, the focus on tastings and brewery access may not appeal to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation is provided, so you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about driving or parking.

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $105 per person, which covers tastings, snacks, guides, and transportation.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your planning.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is in front of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cleveland Downtown Lakeside, 1111 Lakeside Ave E.

What should I bring?
Bring a valid ID (passport or state ID) and wear closed-toe shoes. No open-toed shoes are allowed for safety reasons.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
Since the tour involves alcohol tastings, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or anyone avoiding alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, typically in the afternoon or evening.

Final Thoughts

This Cleveland brewery tour offers a well-rounded, entertaining look into the city’s craft beer scene. The combination of behind-the-scenes access, expert guides, and generous tastings makes it a compelling choice for anyone who loves beer and wants to learn more about its local roots. While it’s not suited for families or underage travelers, for beer enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, it’s a chance to enjoy Cleveland from a flavorful new perspective.

If you’re after an authentic, educational, and relaxed brewery experience, this guided tour could be just what you’re looking for — a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening, with plenty to learn and taste.

You can check availability for your dates here: