Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk

Exploring Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk – Is It Worth It?

If you’re into beer and want to see a vibrant side of Pittsburgh, the Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk might just be your perfect outing. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the reviews highlight a lot of what makes it appealing: friendly guides, tasty local brews, and a walk through a neighborhood known for its creativity and character.

What really catches the eye is how this tour offers more than just tasting; it’s a chance to soak up the atmosphere of Lawrenceville, learn about its brewing history, and get personalized insights from guides who genuinely care about crafting good experiences. However, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s a fairly short tour, at about 2.5 hours, and is geared toward those 21+.

If you’re someone who loves discovering local breweries with a friendly crowd, this walk could be a highlight of your time in Pittsburgh. Just be prepared for the walking involved, and maybe bring some water for hydration. This tour seems best suited for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone who enjoys a good mix of culture, street art, and a relaxed social vibe.

Key Points

• Great for Beer Lovers: Tasting four different craft beers with local flair.
• Friendly Guides: Enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and flexible—reviews cheer for the guides’ personalities.
• Neighborhood Charm: You’ll walk through Lawrenceville, a lively Pittsburgh neighborhood full of shops, street art, and local landmarks.
• Inclusive Experience: Mostly about fun, beer, and local stories—perfect for casual explorers.
• Value for Price: At $69, the tour includes multiple tastings, snacks, and exclusive brewery access.
• Walking and Weather: Expect about 2.5 hours of walking; bring water especially on hot days.

The Full Breakdown: What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point at Lolev Beer

Your adventure kicks off at Lolev Beer, where you meet your guide and get your first taste of the local brewing scene. This initial stop isn’t just about drinking; it’s about setting the tone. According to reviews, guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making you feel comfortable right from the start. You’ll get to learn about this landmark in Lawrenceville and get a feel for the neighborhood vibe.

This part of the tour lasts about 20 minutes, and since admission is free, it’s a great way to get comfortable before moving onto the next stops. Expect some historical snippets and a warm welcome as you start your journey.

Strolling Along Butler Street

After your first tasting, you’ll walk along Butler Street, which is quite the hub of activity. It’s where Lawrenceville shines—filled with quirky shops, bakeries, cafes, and restaurants. This stretch is lively and colorful—perfect for people-watching and snapping photos of street art.

The walk itself is part of the charm, giving you a chance to see how locals live and work. From the reviews, it’s clear that guides excel at sharing stories about the neighborhood, making the walk feel both relaxed and informative.

Coven Brewing: Second Tasting

Next comes Coven Brewing, about 15 minutes away, where you’ll get your second round of local craft beers. This stop is a highlight for many, with tasters that showcase the diversity of Pittsburgh’s brewing talent. The brewery is small but packed with character, and the staff often appears enthusiastic about sharing their beers and stories.

For beer lovers, this stop is a treat—offering a glimpse into what makes Pittsburgh’s craft scene unique. You might find yourself trying a style you’ve never had before, which keeps the experience fresh and exciting.

Bierport Tap Room: A Curated Selection

Further along is the Bierport Tap Room, which features an impressive selection of local brews in a cozy setting. The review from Ashley notes that this place is a “delight,” and that the staff’s friendliness and knowledge elevate the tasting experience.

Here, you’ll get to sample more beers, potentially choosing your favorites. If you’re into exploring different styles, this is where you’ll find some of the most curated options during the tour, with the opportunity for some serious sips.

End at Eleventh Hour Brewing

The tour wraps up at Eleventh Hour Brewing, a family-run brewery about 1.3 miles from the starting point. This is a lovely spot to relax and reflect on your tasting journey. The fact that it’s family-run adds a personal touch, and reviews suggest it’s a welcoming place to finish.

Since it’s the final stop, it’s your chance to chat more with local brewers, learn about their process, and even meet some of the locals. Many guests appreciate how this stop feels authentic and less commercialized.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s $69 price is quite reasonable considering it includes four different beer tastings, a local snack, and VIP access to brewery operations. The access to behind-the-scenes brewery activities is a nice bonus, giving you a peek into how craft beers are made. Plus, the guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge add value that goes beyond just the beers.

On the flip side, gratuities are not included, so if you enjoy the experience, tipping your guides is appreciated. Also, bottled water isn’t provided, so bringing your own is a good idea, especially for warm days or if you’re not used to walking.

The Experience Details: Timing and Group Size

You’ll want to plan for roughly 2 hours 30 minutes of walking and tasting, which is manageable for most travelers looking for a laid-back afternoon. The group size is capped at 15, ensuring a more intimate, friendly vibe—something reviewers consistently praise.

The tour meets at Lolev Beer on Butler Street, with the ending point at Eleventh Hour Brewing on Charlotte Street. The walk between stops is about 1.3 miles total, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge—Kara mentions that John was “friendly and knowledgeable,” and David appreciated the “in-depth knowledge of beer” coupled with Pittsburgh’s local stories. People rave about the fun, social atmosphere and the chance to meet new friends, making it feel more like hanging out with a group of friends than a formal tour.

Ashley describes the tour as “super fun,” with her guide accommodating and making everything enjoyable. Renee appreciated the street art and landmarks, combined with beer tasting, and noted how guides bought beers and snacks, adding a personal touch.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you enjoy casual, social outings where you get to taste a variety of local beers. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a tasting—expect engaging stories, neighborhood vibes, and some sightseeing.

While not explicitly family-friendly due to age restrictions, it’s suited for anyone 21 and over wanting to discover Pittsburgh’s craft beer scene in a relaxed, friendly environment. It’s also a good choice for those new to beer or looking to get a feel for Lawrenceville’s culture without a big time commitment.

The Sum Up

Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk offers a well-rounded experience blending beer tasting, local history, and neighborhood charm. It’s a great way to connect with fellow travelers, learn about Pittsburgh’s brewing scene from passionate guides, and explore a neighborhood full of character.

If you’re into craft beers, enjoy walking around lively areas, and appreciate a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your visit. The reviews back up that it’s fun, informative, and worth the cost, especially when you consider the number of breweries and beers you’ll sample along the way.

While it’s not a deep dive into beer technicalities, it’s a genuine taste of Pittsburgh’s local craft culture—and that’s what makes it a rewarding experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
This tour is designed for those 21+ and focuses on tasting local beers. If you don’t drink alcohol, it might not be the best fit, but you could still enjoy the neighborhood walk and scenery.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including stops for tastings and walking between breweries.

Are the stops indoors or outdoors?
Most of the stops involve walking through the neighborhood, and breweries are indoors. Be prepared for some strolling outside, especially between stops.

Can I choose my beers during the tastings?
Yes, some of the tastings include options you can select, giving you a bit of control over what you try.

Is the tour family-friendly?
No, it’s strictly 21+ due to alcohol consumption. It’s best suited for adults.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a friendly, manageable experience.

What should I bring?
Bring water for hydration, comfortable walking shoes, and a good attitude. Snacks are included, but extra water is a good idea.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Lolev Beer on Butler Street and ends at Eleventh Hour Brewing on Charlotte Street.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most people book about 24 days ahead, which is recommended to secure a spot.

Whether you’re a dedicated beer enthusiast or just looking to explore a lively Pittsburgh neighborhood, this brewery walk offers a relaxed, social way to enjoy your time in town.