Brewery and Distillery Tour in Kansas City

If you’re thinking about hitting up Kansas City’s buzzing craft scene, this brewery and distillery tour might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-organized, enjoyable way to spend a few hours exploring the city’s hidden drink spots. It’s designed for adults who love a good drink, want to learn about the process, and prefer a relaxed, guided experience rather than figuring everything out on their own.

What really catches our eye are two things: First, the small-group setting really enhances the personal touch—no crowded buses here, just a handful of fellow enthusiasts and a knowledgeable guide. Second, the behind-the-scenes VIP access at some stops promises a peek into the inner workings of Kansas City’s brewing and distilling world, which adds value beyond just the tasting.

That said, a possible consideration is the price of $98 per person, which isn’t cheap but could be worth it if you’re into craft drinks and insider access. The tour runs about three hours and is perfect for those who want a manageable, well-curated experience. If you like the idea of sampling multiple spots without the hassle of driving, this tour seems like a great pick—especially for couples or small groups looking for a fun, educational outing.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates good drinks, enjoys a relaxed pace, and values expert guides, this tour is likely to hit the right notes. It also caters well to those interested in learning about the production process, not just tasting, and values the chance to escape the usual tourist trail.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: You’ll join a small group, making the experience more personal and engaging.
• All-Inclusive Sampling: Taste a variety of beers and spirits at multiple stops, with all samples included.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Enjoy VIP tours and insider looks at some of Kansas City’s best-kept secrets.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel comfortably between stops in a minibus, so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Age Restriction: You need to be 21 or older to participate, so it’s a grown-up outing.

This tour offers a neat look into Kansas City’s craft beverage scene, with a focus on quality, education, and fun. Starting at Made in KC – Midtown, you’ll meet your guide, who will be your host and driver for the next few hours. The small group size means you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd—more like a private club of enthusiasts.

Visiting Multiple Spots for a Well-Rounded Experience

The itinerary includes visits to several breweries and a distillery, with a mix of stops in different parts of town. Each stop offers VIP access, which is a standout feature. This could mean behind-the-scenes tours—seeing how your drinks are made, learning about ingredients, or watching the process up close. The reviews mention some well-known establishments like Cinder Block, Emperial, Stockyards, Big Rip, and Double Shift, with one review noting a side trip to Restless Spirits Distillery.

Tasting and Sampling

The main appeal is the generous range of samples included in the ticket price. You’ll sample various beers and spirits, gaining insight into their flavors, production methods, and what makes each unique. Reviewers like Shelly_T loved getting to know the tour guide Arlene, saying she was great at sharing stories and making the experience fun. Jeff J appreciated how knowledgeable guides like Jake added to the enjoyment and even scored some fresh, hot pretzels along the way.

The Guide and Group Dynamics

From multiple reviews, guides are highly praised. Arlene and Jake are highlighted as engaging, friendly, and knowledgeable. Their ability to balance education with casual conversation makes the tour enjoyable rather than formal or stiff. It’s a bonus that the small group size enables better interaction and a more relaxed vibe.

Transportation and Timing

The minibus provides a comfortable way to hop between locations, taking the hassle out of parking or navigating around the city. The tour lasts about three hours, a manageable chunk of time that fits well into a day of sightseeing or as a standalone activity. The start point is conveniently located at Made in KC – Midtown, with easy access to public transportation.

While the tour’s specifics are somewhat flexible, the core idea is that you’ll visit three or more stops, each with a focus on quality and insider knowledge.

• The breweries likely showcase different styles—from local favorites to innovative craft brews. The mention of stops like Big Rip and Double Shift suggests you’ll encounter a variety of beer styles, from IPAs to lagers.
• The distillery visit at Restless Spirits adds a different flavor to the day, giving you a taste of spirits production alongside beers.

What Do You Get for the Price?

At $98 per person, you’re paying for a curated, guided experience with all tastings included. The positive reviews suggest the value exceeds just the drinks—you’re also gaining knowledge, VIP access, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a good deal if you enjoy craft drinks and learning about their production, but perhaps less appealing if you’re only after a few tastings without the extras.

What about the Experience?

The reviews paint a picture of fun, engaging guides who make the journey interesting. The VIP behind-the-scenes access is a highlight, offering a peek into areas normally off-limits to the public. Plus, the small group setting enhances the experience, making conversation and questions easy to manage.

Potential Drawbacks

The main potential downside is the price, which might seem steep for some, especially if you’re not a big drinker or craft beer enthusiast. Plus, since the tour is adults-only, it’s not suitable if you’re traveling with family or young children. It’s also worth noting that most travelers book about a month in advance, indicating it’s popular and might fill up quickly.

This experience is best suited for adults who appreciate craft beers and spirits, enjoy learning about how their favorite drinks are made, and like a more intimate setting. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a relaxed, educational outing. If you’re new to craft drinks, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making it approachable. But if you’re just after a quick tasting without much learning or VIP access, this might feel a bit too curated.

For those looking to expand their knowledge, sample some top-notch local beverages, and enjoy a personalized tour experience, this Kansas City brewery and distillery tour delivers on all fronts. The combination of VIP behind-the-scenes visits, local expert guides, and a relaxed pace makes it stand out among typical pub crawls.

While the price might give some pause, the reviews suggest that most guests find it worth the money, thanks to the quality of the stops, the depth of knowledge shared, and the overall fun vibe. If you’re into craft drinks and want to explore Kansas City’s hidden drink spots with a friendly group, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Is this tour suitable for anyone under 21?
No, the minimum age is 21, so it’s only for adults. It’s designed for those who enjoy tasting and learning about spirits and beer.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, making it a manageable and fun afternoon activity.

What’s included in the price?
All tastings at three stops are included, along with transportation between them and a guided narration. VIP behind-the-scenes access is part of the experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Made in KC – Midtown and finishes back at the same location, with the itinerary designed for convenience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 14 travelers, ensuring a cozy and engaging atmosphere.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a comfortable minibus for quick and relaxed travel between stops.

Are snacks or food included?
The tour focus is on drinks; however, some stops may offer snacks like pretzels, as noted in reviews.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers reserve about 27 days in advance, so it’s wise to plan ahead to secure your spot.

If you’re after a fun, informative day exploring Kansas City’s beverage scene with expert guides and VIP access, this brewery and distillery tour could be just right. It combines the pleasures of tasting with the thrill of discovery, all in a cozy setting that feels less like a tour and more like hanging out with friends who know their drinks.