Calgary Brewery Tour

Calgary Brewery Tour Review: A Beer Lover’s Guide to the City’s Craft Scene

If you’re visiting Calgary and enjoy a good brew, you might have come across the Calgary Brewery Tour offered by Canadian Craft Tours. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, we’ve gathered enough details and traveler impressions to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This kind of experience is a great pick for anyone curious about Calgary’s thriving craft beer scene, especially if you like behind-the-scenes insights paired with tastings.

What we really like about this tour is the focus on both education and fun—you get to visit three acclaimed breweries, sample a variety of beers, and hear from guides who are clearly passionate about their craft. Plus, the fact that it’s limited to a small group offers a more personal, relaxed vibe.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s itinerary can vary depending on availability, which might mean some breweries change from what’s listed here. Also, the minimum group size is four guests, so if you’re travelling solo or in a small group, check ahead or be flexible. This tour is probably best suited for those who enjoy beer tastings, are comfortable spending a few hours exploring local breweries, and want to deepen their understanding of craft brewing in Calgary.

Key Points

• Focused on craft beer: Visit some of Calgary’s award-winning breweries and learn about their brewing process.
• Small group experience: Limited to 14 travelers, fostering a friendly and conversational atmosphere.
• Inclusive tastings: Each stop includes a flight of beer samples, giving you a good variety without the need to purchase extra.
• Knowledgeable guides: The reviews highlight guides who are well-versed and enthusiastic about their beers and the city.
• Flexible itinerary: The breweries visited can change based on availability, so expect some variation.
• Practical details: The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, including transportation and sampling, and costs around $89 per person.

Exploring the Calgary Brewery Scene in Detail

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to give you a behind-the-scenes look at Calgary’s craft beer community. Starting at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, ready to explore three top breweries. The tour lasts roughly three and a half hours, making it a manageable yet comprehensive way to spend an afternoon or early evening.

Each brewery offers its own vibe, but overall, you’ll find welcoming spaces where craft beer is the focus. During each stop, you’ll sample a flight of beers, typically including a mix of IPAs, lagers, and seasonal options. The inclusion of generous pours is a highlight for many, and some reviews mention that guides are knowledgeable about each beer’s characteristics and the brewing process.

First Stop: Bow River Brewing

This first stop is a good introduction to Calgary’s craft scene. With eight beers on tap, Bow River Brewing showcases a variety of seasonal brews in a relaxed setting. Visitors can expect about 45 minutes here, enough time to taste several beers and take in the brewery’s atmosphere.

One reviewer, Tama_B, described their experience as “fantastic,” noting the generous-sized tap pours and the guide’s knowledge. It’s a place where you can really appreciate the craftsmanship behind each brew, especially if you’re into IPAs and lagers.

Second Stop: OT Brewing Company

Next, the tour takes you to OT Brewing, which emphasizes enjoying the moment. It’s a space where you can settle in with a great OT brew and just relax. This brewery is described as a venue where strangers become friends over good beer, so if you’re looking to socialise, you’ll find a friendly environment here.

The 45-minute visit is a perfect chance to explore a different style or flavor profile and get a sense of Calgary’s local brewing spirit. The guide will likely share stories that add depth to your tasting experience.

Final Stop: Born Brewing Co.

The last stop, Born Brewing Co., is portrayed as a place to write your own story, with a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors. Here, you’ll discover a space that encourages conversation and connection, making it a fitting end to your brewery journey. Guests can expect another 45-minute visit, during which you’ll sample more beers and soak in the vibrant city vibe.

This stop’s strength lies in its authenticity and community feel. As one review mentions, it’s a place where strangers become friends over good brews, a testament to the warm, communal atmosphere fostered at Born Brewing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and a flight of beer samples at each brewery—a total of three tastings included in the price. This setup offers a great way to try a variety of beers without worrying about extra costs.

However, gratuities and hotel pickup are not included, so plan accordingly. If you want to tip your guide or driver, that’s appreciated but not obligatory.

Price and Value

At around $89 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the three brewery visits, tastings, and guided insights. Since most similar experiences are booked about 59 days in advance, it’s wise to plan ahead to secure your spot.

Practical Considerations

The tour starts at the Fairfield Inn & Suites and ends back there, making it easy to join if you’re staying nearby. It’s suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and the tour being near public transit. The maximum group size of 14 keeps the experience intimate without feeling crowded.

Remember, fewer than four guests might mean rescheduling, so if you’re travelling in a very small group or solo, it’s good to check availability first.

The Bottom Line: Who Will Love This?

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just curious to learn more about Calgary’s local breweries, this tour provides a friendly, accessible way to do so. The knowledgeable guides make a big difference, making the experience both educational and fun. You’ll enjoy the chance to sample a wide array of beers and see behind the scenes at some of the city’s best breweries.

For travelers who want a relaxed pace, small-group intimacy, and a taste of Calgary’s vibrant beer scene, this tour hits the mark. It’s not a wild party tour, but rather a well-rounded, enjoyable experience perfect for those interested in quality craft beers and local stories.

Keep in mind, if you’re after a more extensive or themed brewery experience, or if you prefer to visit specific breweries, you might want to explore other options. But for a straightforward, friendly, and tasty introduction to Calgary’s craft scene, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ — Your Practical Questions Answered

What is the duration of the Calgary Brewery Tour?
It lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, including visits to three breweries and transportation time.

How many breweries will I visit?
You will visit three breweries, with each stop lasting approximately 45 minutes.

Are the beer samples included in the price?
Yes, each person gets a flight of beer samples at each brewery, which means you’ll taste a variety without extra cost.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle to get from one brewery to the next.

What if I’m traveling alone or with a small group?
The tour requires a minimum of 4 guests, so smaller parties may need to reschedule or join with others.

Are kids or family members allowed?
The tour is adult-focused, given the alcohol tastings, and typically not suitable for children.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown, making it easy to access if you’re staying nearby.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most of the experience involves walking and standing at breweries, so check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Will the breweries visited vary?
Yes, the exact breweries may change depending on availability, but they will be reputable, award-winning Calgary craft breweries.

This Calgary Brewery Tour offers a friendly, knowledgeable way to explore some of the city’s best craft beer spots. Whether you’re in town for a few days or a local looking to discover new favorites, it’s a good way to spend an afternoon with like-minded beer lovers and walk away with a better understanding of Calgary’s brewing talent.