Reno’s Original Brewery Tour

Reno’s Original Brewery Tour: A Relaxed and Insightful Sip into Reno’s Craft Beer Scene

If you’ve been dreaming of discovering Reno beyond the well-trodden sights and want to get a real taste (literally) of its craft beer culture, this Reno’s Original Brewery Tour might just hit the spot. Based on reviews and descriptions, it seems like a well-organized, engaging experience for anyone who appreciates good beer and a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

What really stands out is the VIP access to three different breweries — allowing you to sample up to a dozen different craft beers — and the fact that transportation is taken care of, so you can relax and truly enjoy the tasting without worrying about driving. Two other things we love: the tour is capped at a small group of 14, which means a more personal experience, and the guides are praised for their knowledge, making the whole thing both fun and educational.

One potential drawback? The tour lasts just under four hours, which is plenty of time for a good experience, but if you’re a serious beer connoisseur or looking for a more extended, in-depth dive into brewing, you might find it a bit quick. Also, since it’s booked about 19 days in advance on average, planning ahead is necessary if you want to secure a spot.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want an easygoing, beer-focused outing that combines local flavor, expert insights, and hassle-free logistics. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just curious to explore Reno’s microbrewery scene, this could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

• Small group experience: Max 14 travelers for a more personal touch.
• Expert-guided tour: Knowledgeable guides walk you through brewing techniques and local beer highlights.
• VIP brewery access: You visit three breweries with VIP entry, sampling up to a dozen beers.
• Hassle-free transportation: Comfortable bus ensures worry-free tasting, avoiding the need to drive.
• Variety of breweries: From well-established spots to innovative microbreweries, each stop has something unique.
• Tasting and snacks included: You get a flight of four beers at each brewery, with a snack at one stop.

What to Expect from the Reno’s Original Brewery Tour

When you hop onto this 3 hour 45 minutes tour, you’re stepping into a curated journey through Reno’s craft beer landscape. The focus isn’t just on drinking but on understanding what makes each brewery special — from their brewing methods to their community vibe.

Starting Point and Transportation

Meeting at the Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel & Spa, you’ll be greeted by your guide, who’s usually knowledgeable and personable—as praised in reviews. The bus is comfortable, with enough room for everyone, which makes the journey between breweries enjoyable rather than hurried. Since the tour is limited to 14 people, you’ll find it easy to ask questions and get personal attention.

First Stop: Imbib Custom Brews

Your first taste of Reno’s craft scene is at Imbib Custom Brews, a well-respected brewery with roots dating back to 2012. Here, you’ll sample a variety of hop-forward beers — IPAs, pale ales, hazys, and even some experimental styles. This brewery is particularly known for its barrel-aged beers, including sour beers from wine barrels and bourbon barrel-aged brews.

From the reviews, one person said: “Excellent tour, learned a lot. John, our tour guide has a vast knowledge of the history of beer, and brewing. I highly recommend.” This suggests you’ll be in good hands, gaining insights into brewing techniques and the story behind each brew.

Second Stop: Brewers Cabinet

Next, you move to Brewers Cabinet, one of Reno’s original craft breweries. It’s praised for its friendly atmosphere and creative beer selection. You’ll get to enjoy a paired snack, which adds a nice touch — making the experience more than just tasting. The focus here is on quality and innovation, and the brewery embodies a sense of community and camaraderie, according to reviews.

One reviewer said: “John had a lot of information on how beer is made (and its history) and we tried a lot of different beers from local breweries.” This highlights that your guide will share not only facts but also the stories that make each beer special.

Final Stop: Slieve Brewing Company

Your last visit is to Slieve Brewing, located in the historic Firehouse #2 building. It’s a smaller, yet passionate operation, run by a former home brewer turned professional. The setting in a firehouse adds a historic charm to the experience. Expect to sample beers that showcase the craftsmanship behind small-batch brewing.

End of Tour and Return

After the third brewery, the bus will return you to the starting point, with plenty of time to reflect on your new favorite brews. The entire experience is designed to keep things relaxed rather than rushed, making this perfect for those who want a taste of local life and craftsmanship.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The glowing 5-star reviews reinforce that this tour is well-loved. One participant mentioned: “So much fun! Toured three different breweries with a snack at one. John had a lot of information on how beer is made and its history.” This suggests the experience is both social and educational.

Another reviewer appreciated the guide: “John was a great guide and walked us through the various techniques and basics of brewing. The selection of breweries was great because we got to see the differences between large and very small batch production.” This highlights the value of seeing different scales of brewing, which you probably wouldn’t get on your own.

And since all reviews mention the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the beers, you can expect a warm, informative, and delicious experience overall.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At $89 per person, this tour offers a lot for craft beer lovers. You’re getting VIP access to three breweries, multiple tastings, snacks, and guided insights—all without the hassle of planning transportation or worrying about drinking and driving. For those who enjoy sampling a variety of beers and learning about local brewing culture, the price is fair.

It’s important to note that this experience is best suited for those who enjoy social outings, are open to trying new beers, and prefer guided tours to DIY brewery visits. The small group size enhances the overall experience, making it easier to connect with the guide and fellow participants.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast eager to explore Reno beyond the obvious sights, this tour is a great fit. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed, guided experience that balances education with fun. While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the focus on tasting and learning makes it suitable for older teens or adults interested in brewing.

The tour’s small group size and detailed insights make it perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting to connect with local brewers and fellow beer fans.

Final Thoughts

This Reno’s Original Brewery Tour is a well-rounded experience that offers more than just tasting beer. With knowledgeable guides, VIP brewery access, and a comfortable transportation setup, it’s a hassle-free way to dive into Reno’s craft beer scene. You’ll learn about the brewing process, sample a variety of local brews, and soak in the friendly atmosphere of the city’s microbreweries.

While it may be a bit brief for hardcore beer nerds, most will appreciate the mix of education, variety, and relaxed vibe. It’s especially suited for those wanting to explore local culture in a fun and social setting, making it a memorable part of any Reno visit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the main focus is on tasting beers, non-drinkers can still enjoy the tour as a social experience and learn about the brewing process. However, since tastings are included, it’s best for those comfortable with drinking alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, including visits to three breweries and transportation.

What’s included in the price?
You get VIP access to three breweries, a flight of four beers at each brewery (up to 12 beers total), a snack at one of the stops, and guided insights from an expert.

How many people are on each tour?
A maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 19 days in advance, as it tends to fill up quickly.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel & Spa.

Is the transportation included?
Yes, comfortable bus transportation is provided between breweries.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Would this tour be good for families or children?
It’s mainly designed for adults interested in beer. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, so consider that before booking.

Whether you’re a local looking to discover new breweries or a visitor eager to taste Reno’s craft scene, this tour offers an accessible, enjoyable way to experience the city’s vibrant microbrew culture. Cheers to a fun, flavorful adventure!