Full day Long Island Brewery Tour

A Friendly Look at the Full Day Long Island Brewery Tour

If you’re a beer lover or just curious about what Long Island’s brewing scene has to offer, this full-day brewery tour promises a chance to sample some of the region’s best, often undiscovered, craft beers. While I haven’t personally joined this exact excursion, I’ve seen enough reviews and details to get a clear picture of what it’s all about—and honestly, it sounds like a fun, relaxed way to spend a day.

What really catches my eye are the small, cozy breweries you visit, along with the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes peek at the brewing process. Plus, the comfortable Wi-Fi-equipped transportation makes the whole experience convenient and stress-free. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour lasts about nine hours—so, if you’re not used to spending long days on your feet or in a group, it might be a bit much. But overall, this tour appears best suited for those who love craft beer, enjoy guided outings, and want a curated taste of Long Island’s burgeoning beer culture.

Key Points

• Exclusive brewery visits well off the typical tourist trail
• Comfortable transport with Wi-Fi, restroom, and bottled water
• Tastings paired with complimentary appetizers at each stop
• Behind-the-scenes insights into the brewing process
• Long day with a relaxed pace, suitable for beer enthusiasts
• Good cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour hits the sweet spot for those who like a mix of learning and tasting. For $150 a person, you get a full day of visiting three breweries in Long Island, along with guided transportation that’s both comfortable and equipped with Wi-Fi, a restroom, and bottled water. The price, in this case, is quite reasonable given the inclusions—especially considering the exclusive nature of the breweries you visit, which aren’t featured in guidebooks.

The tour includes alcoholic beverages and complimentary appetizers at each brewery, which helps balance the tasting experience without feeling like a free-for-all. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds value, especially since craft beer flights can be quite rich and filling. The small group size (up to 100 travelers, but likely smaller) allows for a more personalized experience and easier interaction with guides and brewers.

One thing to keep in mind is that the driver’s gratuity isn’t included, so if you enjoy the experience, tipping your guide is a good way to show appreciation. Also, since the tour is scheduled to last about 9 hours, it’s best for those who can comfortably handle a full day, including travel time and tasting sessions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

09:00 – Departure from Manhattan

The tour kicks off in Midtown Manhattan, with a pickup at 168 E 44th Street. From there, you’ll hop onto a comfortable bus that’s Wi-Fi-enabled, making it easy to plan your day or just relax and scroll through photos. The timing is perfect for a full-day experience—early enough to make the most of your time.

10:30 – Trolley Departure to Peconic Country Brewery

The first stop is the Peconic Country Brewery, which is notable for overlooking the Peconic River. You’ll spend around 90 minutes here, enjoying a beer flight paired with a cheese board. The setting sounds ideal for those who enjoy scenic views along with their beers, and the cheese board adds a nice touch of sophistication and flavor variety.

12:30 – Long Ireland Beer Company

Next up is Long Ireland Beer Company, regarded as the original craft brewery of Long Island. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore the brewery’s facilities and taste some of their signature brews. The description hints that this stop continues the relaxed, authentic vibe of the tour, providing a real taste of local craftsmanship.

The Final Stops and Return

Although the schedule details end after Long Ireland, the tour likely includes additional stops or continued tastings before heading back to Manhattan around 5-6 pm. The full-day structure means plenty of opportunities to sample different styles, learn from passionate brewers, and enjoy some downtime in between.

What You’ll Experience

Throughout the day, you’ll get insider insights into the brewing process—an aspect that many craft beer fans find fascinating. Engaging with passionate brewers and seeing the facilities behind the scenes makes the experience more than just drinking beer; it’s about understanding the craft.

The tastings are the main draw, but the accompanying cheese boards and appetizers elevate the experience, making it more of a leisurely, social affair rather than just a drink-fest. Plus, the scenic views at Peconic and the cozy atmospheres of the breweries help set the scene for a laid-back, enjoyable day.

The transportation is a highlight on its own—saving you from the hassle of driving and allowing you to fully relax and focus on the beers. The Wi-Fi and onboard amenities help make the long day comfortable, especially if you like to stay connected or plan your social media updates.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

On the plus side, reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views at certain stops, which really enrich the experience. They also appreciate the delicious food pairing at each brewery, which makes the tastings more satisfying and less overwhelming.

However, some travelers might find the long duration a bit tiring, especially if they’re not accustomed to long group tours. The group size can be large, which might reduce intimacy at times, but it generally remains manageable. Plus, since the gratuity isn’t included, be prepared to tip your guide if you’re happy with the service.

Another point is that the tour might be more suited for adults who enjoy craft beer and don’t mind spending a full day on their feet. It’s not explicitly family-friendly, but if you’re traveling with older teens who love beer, it could work.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re a fan of craft beers and want to explore Long Island’s breweries without the hassle of planning each stop. The guided aspect removes stress and makes it easier to focus on tasting and learning. The exclusive brewery visits give you access to places you might not discover on your own, and the combination of scenic views, good food, and expert guidance makes for a well-rounded experience.

On top of that, at $150, it’s a fair price for a full day of entertainment, education, and indulgence—especially since the transport and tastings are included. It’s ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, structured day with plenty of opportunities to sample local brews and connect with passionate brewers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy craft beer and social outings. If you’re keen on learning about the brewing process or discovering hidden gems in Long Island, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding. It also suits travelers who prefer guided trips that handle transportation and logistics, freeing you to focus on enjoying the beers.

While not explicitly designed as a family adventure, older teens with an interest in brewing or beer tasting could also enjoy it. If you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even as a small group, this tour offers a mix of social and educational elements that can appeal across the board.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The full day lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time, visits, and tastings. Expect to be on the bus for most of the day, with enough time at each brewery to enjoy your tastings and snacks.

What’s included in the price?
You get access to three breweries, tastings, complimentary appetizers at each stop, transportation in a Wi-Fi-equipped vehicle, bottled water, and restroom facilities on board. Alcoholic beverages are included in the tastings.

Is this tour suitable for wine lovers?
No, this is specifically a craft beer-focused tour. If you’re more into wine, you might want to look for a different experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the tour starts. You’ll receive a full refund if you cancel within this window.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is designed for adults, given the alcohol tastings. Service animals are allowed, but keep in mind the suitability for children or minors might vary.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 168 E 44th Street in Manhattan and ends back in Manhattan, near the original pickup point, with the exact drop-off details provided upon booking.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Full Day Long Island Brewery Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, engaging behind-the-scenes insights, and tasty craft beers. If you’re someone who loves exploring local breweries and enjoys guided experiences, it’s a solid choice. The well-curated stops, combined with good transportation and food, make for a memorable day—whether you’re a craft beer novice or a seasoned connoisseur.

While the long hours might not suit everyone, the opportunity to visit hidden gems and enjoy a day of tasting in a relaxed setting makes this tour worth considering. It’s especially appealing for those wanting to dive into Long Island’s vibrant beer scene without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

If you’re after a laid-back, educational, and flavorful adventure, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. Cheers to discovering new brews and making some fun memories!