Collingwood and Blue Mountain Brewery Tour

If you’re looking to explore some of Ontario’s lesser-known breweries and enjoy a laid-back, informative experience, the Collingwood and Blue Mountain Brewery Tour might just be what you need. This 4-hour guided outing offers a chance to sample local brews while learning about the area’s brewing history from guides who truly know their stuff. While it’s not a party-heavy pub crawl, it’s a friendly, educational look at what makes this region’s craft beer scene tick.

What really stands out about this tour are two things: first, the knowledgeable guides who make each stop memorable with stories and insights, and second, the quality of the tastings—each brewery offers a flight of beers that allow you to really appreciate the nuances of the local craft. That said, it’s worth noting that food isn’t included and you’ll want to bring a bottle of water or plan to grab a snack at some point. If you’re a beer lover who enjoys learning about what you drink, this tour lines up well for your tastes. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a relaxed, small-group atmosphere over a high-energy party vibe.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, passionate guides enhance the experience with stories and beer insights.
• Tastings Included: Each brewery provides a flight of beers, giving you a good sense of their offerings.
• Flexible and Convenient: Pickup options and a group size capped at 20 make for a comfortable outing.
• No Food Included: You’ll need to bring your own water and plan to buy lunch if you want to eat.
• Good Value: At around $109, the tour offers a decent sampling of Ontario’s craft breweries, especially considering the educational aspect.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour is weather-sensitive, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if cancellations happen due to poor weather.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off at Endswell Beer, a local brewery where you’ll get a 50-minute guided tasting featuring four 5oz pours. This is a great way to immerse yourself immediately—your guide will share the area’s brewing history and perhaps some interesting tidbits about Collingwood’s beer scene. The tasting isn’t just about drinking; it’s about appreciating what makes each beer special, and the guide makes sure to share enough context to elevate your understanding.

Next, you’ll head to Collingwood Brewery, another 50-minute stop where you’ll enjoy another guided tasting. Here, you might find yourself in a lively, friendly environment. Sometimes, there are food trucks outside, so grabbing a snack or lunch becomes easy if you’re hungry. The brewery’s atmosphere adds to the experience, whether you’re chatting with your group or just soaking in the local vibe.

The last stop is Side Launch Brewing Company, where you’ll enjoy a final flight. The guide will walk you through the brewing process, which is perfect if you’re curious about how your favorite beverages are made. Sometimes, this brewery hosts live music, which can add a fun, relaxed energy to your tasting session. The hour-long visit here caps off the tour, leaving you with a decent variety of beers and some solid knowledge about craft brewing.

What Makes This Tour a Good Value

At $109.82 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest around, but considering the guided tastings at three breweries and the fact that you’re riding comfortably between stops, it’s a fair deal. The price gets you not just beer, but also insights from local guides who are passionate about their craft. And with group discounts available, it can become quite a reasonable outing for friends or couples.

The inclusion of alcoholic beverages at each stop, with a dedicated beer flight for every guest, ensures you get your money’s worth. Plus, because the tour is capped at 20 travelers, the setting remains intimate enough for genuine conversations and a less rushed experience. If you’re someone who appreciates good beer, a friendly guide, and a small-group vibe, this tour offers a lot without feeling overly commercialized.

The Real Experience: What It’s Like

We loved the way the guides not only introduced each brewery but also shared stories and background that made each sip more meaningful. You’ll find the tastings are generous, with five ounces per sample, which is enough to really savor the flavors without feeling overwhelmed. The breweries themselves have a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, often with outdoor seating or food trucks, which makes for a relaxed day out.

One reviewer noted, “The guide was so knowledgeable and friendly, making the whole experience fun and educational.” Others appreciated the opportunity to sample a variety of beers—some even said it was “a perfect introduction to Ontario’s craft scene.” The tour’s pacing felt just right: not rushed, with plenty of time to chat, take photos, or just enjoy your drinks.

On the downside, since food isn’t included, you’ll want to plan ahead or be prepared to purchase snacks or lunch at the brewery. Also, if you’re someone who prefers to stay overnight or wants a more extensive brewery visit, this tour keeps things more casual and focused on quick, quality tastings.

Practical Details That Matter

The tour begins at 156 Jozo Weider Blvd and ends back at the same spot, so transportation logistics are straightforward. You’ll want to arrive a few minutes early to check in, and since the tour is near public transit options, it’s accessible if you’re relying on transit.

Most travelers aged 18 and up can participate, making it suitable for young adults or older. The group size of 20 keeps it intimate but lively enough for good group dynamics. Weather can impact the experience — if it’s rainy or cold, you might find some outdoor areas less enjoyable, so dressing appropriately helps.

Booking on average occurs about 28 days in advance, which is handy if you’re planning ahead. Cancellation policies are flexible—free up to 24 hours before the tour—giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Summary: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This brewery tour is a solid choice for beer enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, educational outing. It’s perfect if you enjoy small-group experiences, appreciate guided insights, and prefer a balanced mix of tasting and learning. It’s also suitable for those who like to explore local gems without the fuss of a large party or the pressure of a big city scene.

If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who shares your interest in craft beer, you’ll find this tour offers a genuine taste of Ontario’s brewing culture. It’s less about partying and more about appreciating the craft, making it a good fit for travelers who want to connect with local producers and walk away with new knowledge—and a few good beers to take home.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people under 18?
No, all guests must be 18 or older, as alcohol is served at each brewery.

Does the tour provide food?
No, food isn’t included, but some breweries have food trucks on-site if you want to purchase snacks or lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring a reusable water bottle, especially since bottled water isn’t included. Casual, weather-appropriate clothing is also recommended.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, with stops totaling about 2.5 hours of tasting time at three breweries.

Are transportation and pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the tour begins and ends at the same location.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re in Ontario and enjoy discovering local brews with a friendly guide, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a laid-back way to enjoy some of the region’s best craft beers while learning a bit about the local scene. Just remember to plan for snacks and bring your curiosity along—you’re in for a pleasant, flavorful day.