Private Custom Brewery Tour in a ’72 VW Bus – Roadies Local

If you’re considering a way to explore Wilmington’s burgeoning craft beer scene that’s a little more personal and memorable, this private tour in a vintage VW bus might just hit the spot. From what I’ve seen, it’s a cozy, customizable experience that combines the charm of a classic vehicle with the laid-back vibes of Wilmington’s local breweries. Perfect for small groups, this tour offers a mix of fun transportation, flexible stops, and plenty of chances to sample great beers along the way.

What really appeals to me about this experience are the personalized itinerary options and the nostalgic ride in a vintage VW. Plus, you get all the essentials like bottled water and a cooler, so you’re ready to enjoy the day without fuss. On the flip side, you’ll want to keep in mind that alcoholic beverages are not included, and the tour is limited to those 21 and over, which is worth considering if you’re traveling with younger friends or family. This seems ideal for anyone wanting a relaxed, intimate way to taste Wilmington’s craft brews—whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out.

Key Points

• Fully customizable itinerary tailored to your preferences
• Private group experience in a vintage VW Bus with a maximum of 7 people
• Flexible pickup locations in Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, or Kure Beach
• Includes essentials like bottled water, a cooler with ice, and souvenirs
• Duration of about 3 to 4 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop
• Cost of $350 for the entire group, making it a good value for small groups wanting a personalized experience

Why Choose This Tour?

This private brewery tour stands out because it’s all about creating a personal experience. Instead of joining a large group with a set itinerary, you get to pick your stops and set the pace. The vintage VW bus adds a layer of fun that many traditional brewery tours can’t match. It’s a way to travel back in time while exploring Wilmington’s local beer scene, which is home to over 20 craft breweries and counting.

The price of $350 for up to seven people can seem steep if you’re a solo traveler or a couple, but when you consider it’s a private tour with custom stops, it’s a solid deal for a personalized day out. Plus, since the tour includes all the basic amenities—water, cooler, souvenirs—it adds value by removing some of the logistical stress.

Most travelers book their spots about two months in advance, which indicates how popular and sought-after this experience is. It’s a good idea to plan ahead to lock in your preferred dates and stops.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off with a pickup at your chosen location. Whether you’re staying at a hotel, Airbnb, or even your home, the host will coordinate the exact spot, making this hassle-free. You’ll hop into the vintage VW bus, which is a real eye-catcher with its custom interior and seating for seven. The vehicle isn’t just a ride—it’s part of the fun, and it adds a nostalgic touch to your trip.

Stop 1: Wilmington

The journey begins with your pickup, and the first stop is typically a local brewery. You can choose your favorite—or ask for suggestions. The tour includes a 30-minute visit, giving you a chance to stretch, chat, and get your first taste of Wilmington’s craft beer scene. It’s a casual, no-pressure introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Stop 2: Waterline Brewing Company

This is your first tasting stop, and you’ll spend about 30-45 minutes soaking in the atmosphere and trying local beers. The flexibility here is great—you can stick with Waterline or switch to another brewery like Fly Trap Brewing, HiWire Brewing, or Ponysaurus if you prefer. It’s all about your preferences, and the host is happy to recommend based on your taste.

Stop 3: Edward Teach Brewing

The second brewery visit is a bit longer, around 30 to 60 minutes. It’s a perfect opportunity to sample a variety of brews and maybe grab some food from a food truck, as many breweries in Wilmington offer. Jim R, one of the happy reviewers, mentioned celebrating a birthday and having a “great time”—and part of that was enjoying the brewery’s offerings.

Stop 4: Flying Machine Brewing Company

The final brewery stop lasts around 45-60 minutes, which should be enough to relax, enjoy some more tastings, and soak up the casual brewery vibe. After this, the host will return you to your starting point, or take you to your final destination, whether that’s your hotel or home.

What’s Included & Not

The tour includes private transportation, bottled water, a cooler with ice, souvenir coozies, and a Bluetooth speaker for extra fun. The main thing to note is alcoholic beverages are not included, so you’ll be buying your own beers at each stop. The focus is on tasting local brews and enjoying the laid-back ride in a vintage classic.

Authentic Experiences & Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the relaxed vibe and friendly host, Rachel, who is described as accommodating and knowledgeable. Curt A mentioned that the van itself was “the center of attention” at each stop, which adds a fun, social element to the day. Ellen_O appreciated the small touches—cold water and snacks—that made the outing even more comfortable.

Jim R highlighted how the tour was perfect for celebrating a birthday, emphasizing the fun journey and the personalized approach. These reviews show that this tour isn’t just about drinking—it’s about creating a memorable, social experience that feels unique to your group.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Book in advance — this experience is popular, with most people booking about two months ahead.
• Plan your stops — tell your host your preferences or ask for recommendations, especially if you want to explore specific breweries.
• Bring along snacks or additional drinks — since the cooler has space, feel free to pack some extra snacks or non-alcoholic beverages.
• Dress comfortably — the bus ride is relaxed, but be prepared for outdoor stops, so comfortable shoes and casual attire work best.
• Arrive on time — the tour duration is about 3 to 4 hours, so plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for small groups of friends or couples wanting a private, tailored brewery tour with a nostalgic twist. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy craft beer and want a relaxed, social day in Wilmington. If you’re someone who appreciates vintage vehicles or enjoys a bit of adventure in your outings, you’ll find this tour charming and fun.

It’s less ideal for those traveling with kids or anyone who isn’t of legal drinking age, as alcohol isn’t included and the tour is for 21+. If you’re looking for a more structured wine or sightseeing tour, this might not be the best fit. But if you want a personalized beer tasting adventure with a relaxed vibe, this could be your favorite part of your trip.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
This tour is designed for adults 21 and over, as alcoholic beverages are not included and it’s a beer-focused experience. It’s best suited for friends or couples.

Can I customize the breweries I visit?
Absolutely. The tour is fully customizable, and you can choose your stops or ask for suggestions based on your preferences.

What’s the cost for the whole group?
The price is $350 for up to 7 people, making it a good deal for small groups wanting a private, personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
It generally lasts about 3 to 4 hours, providing plenty of time at each stop and for transportation.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation, bottled water, a cooler with ice, souvenir coozies, and a Bluetooth speaker. Beers are purchased separately at each brewery.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at a location of your choosing in Wilmington or nearby beaches and ends back at the same spot or your final destination.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

In all, this private brewery tour in a vintage VW bus offers a friendly, flexible way to enjoy Wilmington’s craft beer scene. Whether you’re a beer lover or just someone looking for a fun, social outing, it combines the charm of a classic vehicle with the relaxed pace of a personalized tour. Just remember to book ahead and share your preferences to make the most of this unique experience.