Memphis Brew Bus Tour with Three Local Breweries & Tastings

If you’re into craft beer and looking to explore Memphis beyond its famous music scene, this Brew Bus tour might be just what you need. Although I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gone through the reviews, details, and feedback to give you a clear picture of whether it’s worth your time and money.

What stands out immediately is the chance to visit three top local breweries in one afternoon—without the stress of driving—and to get a behind-the-scenes look at Memphis’s growing brewing scene. Plus, with friendly guides and generous tastings, it seems to be a solid, fun way to enjoy the city’s craft beer culture.

A couple of considerations should be top of mind, though. The tour lasts around three and a half hours, which might be a tad long if you’re not used to scheduled group activities or if you prefer a more relaxed, wandering experience. Also, the group size is capped at 20, making it intimate but possibly less flexible if you’re seeking a more private, personalized visit.

This tour appears best suited for beer lovers, friends traveling together, or anyone wanting to get a local, insider perspective on Memphis’s brewing scene while enjoying some quality samples.

Key Points

• Curated visits to three top Memphis breweries give you a taste of the city’s craft scene.
• Private transportation and a knowledgeable guide make the experience smooth and engaging.
• Generous tastings and snacks ensure you’re well-fed and quenched throughout.
• Accessible for most travelers with most being able to join, just keep in mind the age restriction of 21+.
• Value for money is highlighted by reviews, with many saying it’s worth the price.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows you to cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.

What the Tour Offers

An Introduction to Memphis’s Craft Beer Scene

While Memphis’s music might be what you’re most familiar with, its craft beer scene is thriving and definitely worth exploring. This tour is designed to show you the best of what local breweries have to offer, providing a behind-the-scenes look that you probably wouldn’t get on your own.

The meeting point at 552 S Main St in downtown Memphis is convenient, especially if you’re staying near the core of the city. From there, a private, comfortable vehicle whisks you around to three different breweries.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The main event is visiting three breweries that are considered the top options in Memphis. Each stop is a chance to enjoy exclusive samples—some reviewers mention that the tastings are ample, giving you a real feel for each brewery’s style.

One reviewer emphasized how the last stop with a variety of beers and sours was particularly enjoyable, hinting at the diversity of options you’ll encounter. Another pointed out that these breweries are willing and happy to have visitors, which means you’ll likely get a warm welcome and potentially some insightful conversations about their craft.

The Experience on the Bus

The private transportation is a big plus—it takes away the hassle of figuring out transportation logistics and allows you to relax. The guide adds an extra layer of fun, sharing stories, anecdotes, and insights that make the experience more engaging. One review particularly highlighted that the guide was awesome, helping everyone feel comfortable and included.

Tasting and Snacking

All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included in the $64.75 price, along with snacks, bottled water, and alcohol. The generous tastings, combined with snacks, help keep your palate refreshed as you hop from brewery to brewery.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour tends to foster a friendly, social vibe. Many reviews mention making new friends during the tour, which makes it a great activity for solo travelers or groups.

Who Would Love This?

This tour is perfect for beer enthusiasts, couples celebrating special occasions, or groups of friends looking for a fun, social activity. It’s also suitable for those who prefer guided experiences over self-led exploration—especially if you’re new to Memphis’s brewing scene.

The Value of the Experience

When you consider the costs of individual brewery visits and tastings, this tour offers a good deal. You’re getting three exclusive brewery visits with ample samples, snacks, and transportation—all in a 3.5-hour window. Several reviewers confirmed it’s well worth the price, especially since it includes local insights and a fun guide who enhances the experience.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently mention friendly guides, interesting breweries, and great beer. One noted, “The tour was a lot of fun. Well worth the money,” while another commented that they had a great time and learned a lot about Memphis’s brewing scene. Many describe the tastings as generous and the overall atmosphere as relaxed and enjoyable.

Some reviews even mention special occasions like weddings or birthdays, highlighting that it’s a flexible experience suitable for celebrations. And, if you’re concerned about safety or alcohol limits, remember that the minimum age is 21, and service animals are allowed.

The Downsides

No experience is perfect, and this tour is no exception. The main complaint from one review was that the first brewery didn’t have a guide and didn’t expect us, which made the start a bit rushed. Also, the tour ran nearly four hours, which might be a little long for some, especially if you need to be somewhere afterward.

Plus, since the tour is designed for a maximum of 20 people, it might not be the best fit if you’re seeking a highly private or customizable experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Brew Bus experience is best suited for those who enjoy craft beer and want a relaxed, guided look at Memphis’s breweries. It’s great for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers keen to meet new people and learn about local brewers.

If you prefer a more flexible or private experience, or if you’re not into craft beer, then this might not be the perfect fit. Be prepared for a social atmosphere and a bit of a time commitment—but many say it’s absolutely worth it.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for those under 21?
No, the minimum age is 21, so it’s geared toward adults interested in tasting craft beers.

What’s included in the price?
All taxes, fees, handling charges, beverages (including alcohol), snacks, bottled water, and the driver/guide are included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, starting at 2:00 pm and returning to the original meeting point.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation is included, making it easy to hop between breweries comfortably and safely.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.

How many people can join?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, which keeps things intimate and lively.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides are friendly, engaging, and well-versed in the Memphis beer scene, adding value to the experience.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, snacks and bottled water are included, along with generous tastings at each brewery.

Can service animals join?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Final Thoughts

The Memphis Brew Bus tour offers a fun, social, and informative way to experience local craft breweries without the hassle of planning or driving. It’s a smart choice if you’re eager to explore Memphis’s emerging brewing scene, enjoy ample tastings, and learn from friendly guides. While it might be a bit lengthy and has a couple of minor hiccups, most reviews rave about the value, the quality of breweries, and the camaraderie.

This tour will appeal most to beer lovers, curious travelers, or groups looking for a lively activity in Memphis. If you enjoy discovering local flavors and prefer guided experiences, it’s likely to be a highlight of your trip. Just be ready to spend a relaxed afternoon tasting some of Memphis’s best brews and making new friends along the way.

Happy brewing in Memphis!