Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour

If you’re dreaming of sampling some of Maine’s best brews and spirits while soaking up Portland’s lively atmosphere, a brewery and spirits bus tour might be just what you need. We haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, but from what we’ve gathered, it’s a friendly, relaxed way to get a behind-the-scenes look at Portland’s thriving craft scene without the hassle of planning each stop. Plus, the inclusion of transportation and exclusive access makes it quite appealing, especially if you want to avoid the typical pub crawl chaos.

What really stands out are the knowledgeable guides—they’re praised for their friendliness and insight—and the VIP access to breweries, which means fewer crowds and more personal attention. We also appreciate that the tour includes a local snack and water, giving it a bit of a balanced feel between tasting and relaxing. On the flip side, a potential drawback is its relatively short duration—just 2.5 hours—which might leave some wanting more if they’re big drinkers or craft enthusiasts. But if you’re looking for a quick, fun overview of Portland’s beverage scene, this tour can fit right into a busy day.

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy craft beers, wines, and spirits, and who prefer a guided, organized approach rather than navigating on their own. It’s particularly great if you’re in Portland for a short stay or want a hassle-free way to try a variety of local flavors without the worry of driving afterward.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transportation and reserved access at each venue
• Flexible options for different tastes—beer, wine, or spirits
• Guided tour led by local experts, adding insight and personality
• Includes a local snack and water, making the experience more than just tasting
• VIP access at breweries for a more personal experience
• Final stop at Portland Beer Hub with a large selection and discount benefits

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

The Portland brewery and spirits bus tour is designed to give you a taste of Maine’s craft beverage scene without the fuss. Starting at the Portland Beer Hub—located at 320 Fore Street in Portland’s Old Port—you’ll meet your guide inside the retail store. It’s a convenient spot, and arriving 15 minutes early ensures you won’t miss the fun begin. The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, usually in the afternoon, making it suitable for a daytime activity.

The tour is all about getting behind-the-scenes access at several local breweries, distilleries, and even a winery (depending on your chosen option). The guides are experts and often get rave reviews for their friendliness and knowledge—one review highlights a guide named John who was “very knowledgeable and funny.” You’ll learn about Portland’s craft alcohol history, which adds context to the tastings, and get to sample a variety of beverages.

The transportation is included, which means no worries about designated driving. This is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with Portland or prefer to relax and enjoy the experience. The bus makes it easy to hop from one spot to another without the hassle of parking or navigating city streets.

The Brewery & Spirits Stops

The final tasting takes place at the Portland Beer Hub, a hub of Maine brews with over 30 breweries represented. It’s a fitting end to the tour, giving you a chance to sample some of the best Maine can offer and perhaps pick up a few bottles to take home. Plus, with a 10% discount on additional draft or to-go purchases, it’s a good deal to extend your tasting experience if you wish.

Each stop offers reserved access, meaning you skip long lines and get a more intimate look at each producer. This VIP treatment is often praised in reviews and adds value to the experience. The included tastings vary depending on your chosen option, but regardless, you’ll get to enjoy a variety of beverages that showcase Maine’s craft prowess.

The Value for the Price

At $99 per person, this tour is fairly priced considering the inclusions—guided commentary, transportation, tastings, a snack, and VIP access. It’s a handy way to try multiple venues in a short period without the stress of organizing each visit yourself. When you factor in the guide’s local knowledge and the exclusive access, it becomes a pretty good deal for craft lovers.

Some reviews mention how knowledgeable the guides are, making the experience more enriching. One reviewer pointed out how their guide, Tina, and Pete, were “knowledgeable & professional, and willing to join in our fun,” which hints at the friendly, engaging atmosphere you can expect. The all-in-one convenience often outweighs the 2.5 hours’ duration for those looking for a quick, enjoyable dive into Portland’s beverage scene.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

We loved the idea of exploring Portland’s craft scene with a local guide—someone who knows the city and its breweries inside out. You’ll appreciate the VIP access, especially if you’re tired of crowded bars or want to learn more about the process behind these drinks. The included Maine snack adds a nice touch, giving you a breather between tastings.

However, some reviews highlight minor hiccups, like a refund mishap from one traveler who faced car trouble and rebooking issues. While such issues are rare, it’s worth noting that customer service experiences can vary, so keep a friendly line of communication open if plans change.

From what we see, this tour is ideal for adults who enjoy craft beverages and want a relaxed, organized experience. It’s not suited for minors, and since there’s no storage for purchases, plan accordingly if you want to buy bottles or merchandise.

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Why We Recommend It

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of fun, education, and convenience. It’s perfect for visitors who want to get a feel for Portland’s craft scene without the fuss of planning each stop. You get to sit back, sip, and listen to insightful guides who genuinely love what they do.

If you’re curious about Maine’s craft beer, wine, or spirits, but prefer a guided approach, this tour ticks all those boxes. And if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who shares your interest in good drinks, it’s a safe bet to add some extra enjoyment to your Portland visit.

Who It’s Best For

If you’re an adult with a taste for craft beverages and enjoy guided experiences, this tour suits you well. It’s particularly good for those wanting to learn more about Maine’s brewing and distilling culture while avoiding the hassle of organizing separate visits. It’s also a solid choice if you value VIP treatment, such as reserved access and transportation included.

While not tailored for kids or those under 21, it’s perfect for anyone looking to explore Portland’s drink scene in a friendly, informative way. It’s also a good fit for short-term visitors or those with a limited window who want a quick, memorable overview of Maine’s craft offerings.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is designed for adults over 21 due to the alcohol tastings involved.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 2.5 hours, usually in the afternoon, making it a good fit for a daytime activity.

What is included in the price?
The $99 fee covers a guided tour, transportation between stops, reserved access at each location, tastings (depending on your chosen option), a local snack, and water.

Can I customize my tasting experience?
You can choose from a variety of options to suit your taste buds—whether you prefer beer, wine, or spirits—so there’s some flexibility.

Where does the tour start?
Meet your guide inside the Portland Beer Hub at 320 Fore Street in downtown Portland’s Old Port area.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your ID or passport—necessary for age verification—and note that there’s no storage on the bus for purchases.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it flexible if plans change.

This Portland brewery and spirits bus tour offers a smart, relaxed way to experience Maine’s craft scene. Whether you’re a local with friends or a visitor wanting a curated experience, it combines fun, education, and convenience in a way that’s hard to beat. If you love trying new drinks and appreciate knowledgeable guides, it’s worth considering for your Portland itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: