Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau’s Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!

Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau’s Brewery & Sightseeing Tour! – The Lowdown

If you’re visiting Juneau and want to get a taste of what makes this city special beyond its famous glaciers and wildlife, a craft brewery tour like this one could be just what you’re after. It promises a relaxed way to explore the local scene, sample some excellent beers, and enjoy breathtaking views, all packed into a manageable 3-hour 45-minute window.

What really appeals to us about this tour is how it combines craft beer tasting with scenic sightseeing. The fact that it takes you beyond downtown to lesser-visited spots means you’ll see more of Juneau’s real charm. Plus, the guides seem to know their stuff and keep things friendly and fun. One thing to keep in mind: It’s not a party-heavy experience—more about quality, local brews, and stunning vistas—so if you’re expecting wild bar crawl vibes, this might be a different adventure altogether.

A potential consideration is the tour’s age restriction for youth. If you’re traveling with kids over 10, they can join but won’t get to sample beers. That said, the scenery and local insights are still there for them. This tour suits those who appreciate a good beer, enjoy scenic views, and want a relaxed, guided experience that feels authentic rather than touristy.

If this sounds like your kind of outing—combining good drinks with fantastic sights—then you’ll likely find this tour engaging and rewarding.

Key Points

• Local flavor: The tour features Juneau’s finest craft breweries, highlighting the city’s brewing heritage.
• Scenic highlights: Stops like Brotherhood Bridge offer stunning views of glaciers and the landscape.
• Small group experience: With a maximum of 14 travelers, it maintains an intimate, friendly atmosphere.
• Guided insight: Knowledgeable guides like Derrick share local stories and tips, enriching the experience.
• Flexibility in booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.
• Value for money: For $159, you get five tasting flights, snacks, and scenic stops, making it a well-rounded outing.

The Details: What You Can Expect

Starting Out in Downtown Juneau

The tour kicks off at Elizabeth Peratrovich Plaza—right in the heart of Juneau. From here, you’ll head out for an adventure that mixes craft brewing with sightseeing. The small group size ensures everyone gets personalized attention, and the mobile ticket makes check-in straightforward.

First Stop: Devil’s Club Brewing Company

Your first taste of Juneau’s creativity at Devil’s Club Brewing, a spot renowned for its fresh, innovative brews. Located within downtown, this brewery offers a friendly vibe where you can get a sense of the local brewing scene. The 45-minute stop includes a tasting flight, giving you a good overview of their offerings.

Second Stop: Alaskan Brewing Co.

Next, you’ll visit Alaska’s original craft brewery, established back in 1986. The award-winning Alaskan Brewing Company is well-known and respected, offering a warm, welcoming taproom. This is a chance to sample some of their signature beers and enjoy snacks like chips and kelp salsa from Barnacle Foods—something a bit different and local. The 45-minute visit here is a highlight for beer lovers and those curious about Alaska’s brewing history.

Scenic Stop: Brotherhood Bridge

After the breweries, you’ll hop out for about 10 minutes at Brotherhood Bridge, a famous viewpoint. If weather cooperates, you’ll see breathtaking views of Mendenhall Glacier, the river, and surrounding towers. This stop isn’t just a photo op; it’s a moment to appreciate Juneau’s majestic natural beauty.

Third Brewery: Forbidden Peak Brewing

The tour’s peak is the visit to Forbidden Peak Brewing in Auke Bay. Located above the harbor, it’s not often on the typical tourist trail—a real local favorite. Here, you can soak in views of the harbor and enjoy another 45-minute tasting flight. This brewery offers a chance to experience Juneau’s craft scene in a more relaxed, scenic setting.

Final Stop: Overstreet Park and the Whale Statue

The last stop is at Juneau’s iconic waterfront whale statue, a favorite local landmark since 2018. This quick 10-minute stop offers a chance to snap some photos and reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in your ticket are five signature tastings at each brewery and some local snacks in the second stop, which add to the experience. You’ll also get to enjoy scenic views that are part of the tour’s magic.

On the flip side, gratuities are not included—so if you enjoyed your guide, a tip is appreciated. Youths over 10 can join but won’t get a beer, which is worth noting if you’re traveling with family.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour is designed to be intimate, with a max of 14 guests, which usually translates into a more personalized and relaxed experience. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transit, making it easy to find your way.

Duration & Cost

At just under four hours, it’s a decent length that doesn’t overstay its welcome. For $159, the price is fair considering the quality of breweries, scenic stops, and snacks included. When you think about it, you’re paying for a well-rounded afternoon of tasting, learning, and sightseeing.

Authentic Perspectives from Past Travelers

One reviewer, Lucie_M, sums it up nicely: “Had a great time getting off our cruise ship and enjoying some local beers with Derrick as our guide. Derrick is a local with lots of inside information about Juneau. It’s nice to get out of the tourist sections and experience the local scene and even better with a beer in your hand!”

This highlights what many seem to love about the tour: knowledgeable guides, local insights, and the chance to see parts of Juneau you might not explore on your own. The scenic views at Brotherhood Bridge also come highly recommended, offering a memorable backdrop to your tasting adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy craft beer, scenic landscapes, and guided local stories. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, engaging experience that balances drinks with stunning views. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer smaller groups for a more personal touch and want to avoid overly commercialized tours.

However, if you’re traveling with children over 10, they can join but won’t sample beers. If you’re after a family-friendly activity with no alcohol involved, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This Craft Brews & Epic Views tour in Juneau offers a well-crafted blend of local flavor, scenic beauty, and insider knowledge. It’s especially good for beer lovers and those wanting to see more of Juneau than just the usual highlights. The stops at unique breweries and the beautiful Brotherhood Bridge viewpoint make for a memorable day that’s both relaxed and engaging.

While it’s not a wild party tour, the intimate size, expert guides, and authentic local vibe make it a worthwhile choice for anyone looking to experience Juneau’s craft beer scene in a scenic setting. The inclusion of snacks, scenic stops, and tasting flights makes the value clear, especially for those who want more than just a quick taste of the city.

Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a scenery lover, or simply curious about Juneau’s local culture, this tour provides a genuine, enjoyable way to spend part of your visit. Just remember to book ahead—most travelers do so about three to four months in advance—and come ready to enjoy some of Alaska’s finest brews and views.

FAQs

Can youth participate in this tour?
Yes, youths over 10 years old can join with a parent or guardian. They won’t get to sample beers, but they can enjoy the scenic stops and learn about Juneau.

What do I need to bring?
Just a valid ID and proof of guardianship for minors. Since most of the stops are outdoors, dress for the weather—layers are usually best.

Is transportation provided between breweries?
The tour includes all stops on the planned itinerary, so transportation between sites is part of the experience, either walking or via vehicle organized by the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. After that, your payment isn’t refundable.

How many people are on the tour?
The group size is limited to 14 travelers, making it easier to connect with your guide and enjoy a more personal experience.

What’s the duration of each brewery stop?
Each brewery stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving you enough time to taste and soak in the atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
While the tastings are part of the experience, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic views, snacks, and the overall relaxed vibe of the tour.

This detailed look should help you decide if the Craft Brews & Epic Views tour is right for your Juneau visit. It’s a comfortable, scenic, and tasty way to experience a slice of local life with plenty of memorable sights to take in along the way.