If you’re considering a craft beverage tour in Ithaca, this Downtown Ithaca Craft Beverage Tour promises a taste of the local scene, but it’s definitely one you’ll want to approach with realistic expectations. It’s marketed as a fun, short outing that introduces you to some of the region’s best drinks paired with snacks in a lively downtown setting. We’re here to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.
Two things we like about this tour are the variety of beverages offered—from local wines and craft beers to artisan ciders and creative cocktails—and the pairing of these drinks with tasty local snacks. The tour’s focus on storytelling, the history of drinks in New York State, and neighborhood favorites add a layer of interest beyond just sipping.
On the flip side, a key consideration is the inconsistency in guide availability, highlighted by recent reviews where the tour guide didn’t show up. That, combined with the modest duration of around two hours for the price, makes this a more casual experience rather than an in-depth exploration.
This tour will suit travelers who enjoy sampling local drinks in a small, intimate group setting and are looking for a relaxed social outing rather than a deeply educational experience. If you’re a foodie or a casual drinker interested in tasting your way through Ithaca’s beverage scene, it might be worth a try — just keep the potential guide issue in mind.
Key Points
Flexible duration of about two hours makes it easy to fit into a busy day.
Includes four stops, offering a good variety of drinks and snacks.
Focus on local history and stories enhances the tasting experience.
Limited group size (max 10) creates an intimate atmosphere.
Price around $58 per person is reasonable, but value depends on tour execution.
Recent reviews indicate issues with guide reliability — worth confirming before booking.
What’s Included and What’s Not
This tour is quite straightforward. It includes samples of craft beer, local wine, artisan cider, and a craft cocktail, along with three light food tastings paired with the drinks. You also get exclusive coupons from all tasting locations, which might be handy if you want to revisit some spots later.
However, it’s important to note that gratuities for the bartenders are included, but the guide’s tip is not. You’ll want to budget extra if you feel the guide provided good service.
Planning more time in Ithaca? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Meeting Points and Logistics
The tour begins at 110 W Green St and wraps up at 408 E State St, with the start time set at 3:30 p.m. The tour lasts roughly two hours, making it a manageable afternoon or early evening activity. It’s near public transportation, which is convenient, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level—mostly standing and walking between stops.
It’s also a plus that service animals are allowed, making it accessible for travelers with pets. Since the tour involves alcohol sampling, it’s strictly for guests over 21 with valid IDs.
The Itinerary in Detail
The tour’s single stop is set in downtown Ithaca, where you’ll visit four local businesses. At each, you’ll sample a different type of beverage—craft beer, artisan cider, local wine, and a craft cocktail. The idea is to give you a diverse tasting experience that highlights the region’s craft beverage offerings and their histories.
Alongside the drinks, you’ll enjoy light food tastings—probably some local snacks that pair well with each drink—adding a flavorful touch to the experience. The tour also offers insights into each hotel’s history and what makes their offerings unique. It’s a good way to get a sense of Ithaca’s neighborhood vibe and its beverage culture.
What Travelers Are Saying
Reviews are mixed. The overall rating is around 2.6 out of 5, which signals some concerns. One review painfully notes, “The tour guide never showed up. The phone number we were given to contact the tour guide was not in service.” That’s a pretty glaring flaw, especially for first-time visitors relying on tour reliability.
Another reviewer mentioned that they were waiting for a refund after the guide’s absence, which raises questions about organizational issues and customer service. While that’s not typical of all experiences, it’s something to keep in mind.
On the positive side, those who did attend appreciated the selection of wines and the pairing of food and drinks, calling the tastings “delicious” and highlighting the local flavor and story behind each drink. The coupons from the establishments could be a nice bonus for future visits.
Is it Worth It?
For $58, you’re getting a moderate-sized tour with four stops, sampling about two drinks per person, plus snacks. If everything runs smoothly, that’s a decent way to sample Ithaca’s beverage scene without committing to full-sized drinks or more expensive tours. But if the main appeal is learning detailed history or enjoying a guided experience with a reliable host, you might find the execution a bit lacking.
The short duration and limited number of stops mean it’s best suited for those wanting a quick, casual afternoon activity rather than a deep dive into Ithaca’s craft scene.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is a good fit for casual drinkers, local food lovers, and guests with a flexible schedule who want a taste of Ithaca’s beverage offerings in a relaxed setting. It’s especially appealing if you’re intrigued by the stories behind local drinks and enjoy small-group experiences. However, travelers who prioritize a well-organized and consistently guided tour might want to consider other options or confirm the guide’s availability beforehand.
The Sum Up
All in all, this Downtown Ithaca Craft Beverage Tour offers a nice introduction to local drinks and some good snacks, but it’s a bit hit-or-miss in terms of execution. The limited guide reliability, combined with the short duration and small scope, makes it more of a light sampling experience rather than a comprehensive or in-depth tour.
If you’re someone who enjoys trying different drinks in a friendly, informal atmosphere and doesn’t mind some potential hiccups, it could be a fun way to spend an afternoon. Just keep in mind that recent reviews suggest double-checking the guide’s confirmation before you book.
For those interested in exploring Ithaca’s wine, beer, and cider scene more thoroughly, there are other experiences available, but this tour can serve as a quick taste of the local flavor if you’re in the neighborhood and looking for a casual outing.
Remember, always read the latest reviews and confirm details before booking, especially when recent feedback points to issues with guide availability.
Ithaca is Foodies: Downtown Ithaca Craft Beverage Tour
“The tour guide never showed up. The phone number we were given to contact the tour guide was not in service. I requested a refund from Viator and…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, this tour is only open to guests over 21 with valid ID, as it involves alcohol sampling.
What is included in the tour?
You get to sample craft beer, artisan cider, local wine, and a craft cocktail, along with three light food tastings and exclusive coupons from each location.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about two hours, making it a manageable activity for an afternoon or early evening.
Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at 110 W Green St and ends at 408 E State St in downtown Ithaca.
Is gratuity included?
Gratuity for bartenders is included, but you’ll want to tip your guide separately if you feel they provided good service.
What if the guide doesn’t show up?
Recent reviews mention instances where the guide didn’t arrive, so it’s wise to confirm the guide’s availability before your scheduled time.
Can I book last-minute?
It’s best to book at least a few weeks in advance—average booking is about 22 days ahead—so last-minute spots may be limited.
What’s the price of this tour?
It costs roughly $58.47 per person, which is reasonable for the drinks and snacks but consider the overall value and recent reviews.
Is transportation provided between stops?
No, this is a walking tour within downtown Ithaca, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to move between venues.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Hopefully, this gives you a clear and honest picture of what to expect from the Ithaca is Foodies Downtown Ithaca Craft Beverage Tour. It can be a charming way to sample local drinks, but it’s best to go in with realistic expectations and a little caution about guide availability. Happy sipping!