Fort Worth BBQ & Brews Tour w/Transportation – Cowtown Tour Co.

If you’re thinking about diving into Fort Worth’s vibrant food scene, especially its famous BBQ and craft beers, this BBQ & Brews Tour could be just what you need. It’s a guided, ride-along experience that promises to take away the hassle of planning, giving you a chance to relax, indulge, and learn about the city along the way. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gathered enough details to give you the honest scoop on what to expect—and whether it might be right for you.

What really caught my attention are a couple of things: first, the focus on local flavor—sampling award-winning BBQ and craft beers at multiple stops—and second, the knowledgeable guide who shares stories about Fort Worth’s landmarks and history. That said, the tour isn’t meant for those under 21 unless accompanied by a guardian, and it lasts about 4 to 5 hours, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a laid-back, flavorful afternoon.

One thing to consider is the price—$129 per person—which seems fair given the multiple stops, tastings, and the guided nature of the tour. But it’s always good to weigh whether you’re more interested in just the food or the historical insights as well. Overall, if you’re a foodie, a lover of craft beers, or visiting Fort Worth for a special occasion, this tour strikes a nice balance between fun and flavor.

Key Points

• Taste local favorites at three different breweries and two BBQ spots, ensuring you leave full and happy.
• Learn about Fort Worth’s landmarks like JFK’s tribute and the Tarrant County Courthouse through your guide’s stories.
• Enjoy hassle-free transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the day comfortable.
• Limited group size (max 11 guests) for a more intimate experience.
• Includes non-alcoholic drinks and bottled water—great for staying refreshed.
• Good value considering the multiple tastings, transportation, and guided tour.

A Deep Dive into the Fort Worth BBQ & Brews Tour

The Itinerary and Stops: What’s Included

The tour kicks off at the Trinity Metro Park & Ride at 1:00 pm, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus. From there, the route makes several stops that let you soak in a bit of Fort Worth’s unique character while enjoying some of its best food and drink spots.

First Stop: Fort Worth Landmarks
Your journey begins with a quick tour of downtown, passing by iconic sites like the JFK Tribute and the Tarrant County Courthouse. These stops aren’t just for sightseeing—they help set the scene, giving you context about the city while also providing some excellent photo opportunities.

Historical Highlights
The JFK Tribute is a brief 5-minute stop, but it’s an important piece of local history, plus a good chance to stretch your legs. Passing the courthouse and Vandervoorts (established in 1933 and said to be Fort Worth’s first restaurant) adds layers to your understanding of the area’s past. The Vandervoorts stop, in particular, offers insight into local culinary history, since the company played a big role in supplying dairy to restaurants across the area.

Food & Drink Stops
The main event is at two BBQ spots and three breweries. The BBQ stops promise generous samples—enough to satisfy your appetite—so you’re not just nibbling, but genuinely tasting the flavors that define Fort Worth’s barbecue scene. The breweries, on the other hand, offer complimentary samples of craft beers, perfect for those who enjoy exploring local brews without the pressure of full-sized pours.

The Neighborhood Walkway
A highlight is a charming walkway through the Near Southside, where you can check out local retail and eateries. It’s a little slice of Fort Worth’s lively community vibe, making the journey more than just a tasting tour; it’s about soaking up the local atmosphere.

What’s the Value?

Given the $129 price point, the value lies in the combination of guided storytelling, multiple tastings, transportation, and the intimate group setting. It’s a pretty good deal for a 4- to 5-hour experience that covers both food, drinks, and local sights.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned transportation, making the experience comfortable regardless of the weather outside. With a maximum of 11 guests, the group remains small enough to feel personal, but still lively. This is a definite plus if you prefer an experience where you can easily ask questions and chat with your guide.

The Food & Drink Experience

The BBQ is described as mouthwatering and generous, with samples from award-winning joints. Since the stops are carefully curated, you’re likely to get a good sense of what makes Fort Worth’s barbecue special. Similarly, the craft beer tastings are curated, with complimentary samples at each brewery—though full-sized drinks are not included, so those who want to indulge more might need to buy extra.

The Guide & Stories

Reviews mention knowledgeable guides who share interesting tidbits about Fort Worth’s landmarks and history. If you’re keen on learning a bit as you eat and drink, this tour’s commentary adds a layer that elevates the tasting experience beyond just food.

Downsides & Considerations

While the experience is clearly well-organized, it’s important to note that alcoholic beverages are not included in full size, which might be a downside for those expecting unlimited drinks. Also, the 21+ age restriction means it’s not suitable for families with children or teenagers. Lastly, since the tour is about 4-5 hours, it’s best for those who can comfortably sit and walk a bit without fatigue.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour really suits food lovers, especially those interested in barbecue and craft beer. It also works well for small groups wanting a personalized, guided experience. If you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a fun, relaxed afternoon with friends, you’ll likely enjoy it. Out-of-towners wanting a taste of Fort Worth’s local flavor and history will find it particularly appealing.

It’s not ideal for anyone under 21 unless accompanied by an adult, and it might not be perfect if you prefer a more flexible, less structured food experience. But if you’re eager to explore Fort Worth’s culinary scene with some local insights, this tour offers a good mix of flavors, stories, and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, you’ll be driven around Fort Worth in an air-conditioned minibus, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop.

Are drinks included? Non-alcoholic beverages are included at BBQ stops, and each brewery offers complimentary samples—full-sized drinks are not included.

Can I bring children? No, this tour is for those 21 and over unless accompanied by a guardian, as it involves sampling alcohol.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind.

How many people will be in my group? The group is limited to 11 guests, ensuring a more personal experience.

What’s the starting point? The tour begins at Trinity Metro Park & Ride at 1:00 pm.

Do I need to prepare anything? Just bring your appetite, a sense of adventure, and your ID for the breweries.

Is this tour suitable for a rainy day? It requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour family-friendly? No, since it involves alcohol and the legal drinking age is 21+, but it’s perfect for adult groups looking for a fun afternoon.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a relaxed but flavorful way to experience Fort Worth, this BBQ & Brews Tour offers a little bit of everything—delicious local food, craft beer tastings, and a peek into the city’s notable sights. The guided approach means you won’t need to worry about planning your route or finding the best spots; instead, you’ll be led through a curated experience that highlights both taste and history.

It’s especially suitable for adventurous foodies, small groups celebrating something special, or visitors eager to get a taste of local flavors without the hassle. Just remember, it’s a tour that’s about savoring moments (and food), so go in with an appetite and a curiosity for Fort Worth’s stories.

This experience offers great value, especially if you enjoy guided tastings combined with a bit of local sightseeing. It’s a fun, tasty day out that balances relaxation with a bit of learning, making it a memorable part of any trip to Fort Worth.