Where the Hops Grow! Yakima Brewery Tour

If you’re into craft beer and curious about where your favorite brews come from, this Where the Hops Grow! Yakima Brewery Tour might just be your new favorite way to spend an afternoon. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we’ve seen and the glowing reviews, it’s a well-rounded experience that combines scenic landscapes with a good dose of beer culture.

What really catches our eye are two standout features: first, the guides seem to be knowledgeable and friendly, making sure everyone feels welcome and informed. Second, the views along the way are reportedly breathtaking—rolling landscapes dotted with orchards and hop fields that make the tour feel more like a mini scenic drive with tastings.

Of course, no experience is perfect. One thing to keep in mind is that beverage tasting fees are not included in the ticket price, so if you want to sample the brews at each stop, you’ll need to budget for that. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and want to learn about hop production while sampling some of the best local beers. If you’re a craft beer lover, this tour could be a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation for the craft, while also soaking up some stunning views of Washington’s lush landscape.

Key Points

• Focus on Hop Production: The tour highlights Yakima Valley’s status as the “Hop Capital of the U.S.,” producing 75% of the nation’s hops.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect serene landscapes, orchards, and rolling hills ideal for photography or just enjoying a peaceful drive.
• Tasting Opportunities: While the ticket price doesn’t include drinks, visiting award-winning breweries means you’ll likely indulge in some excellent craft beers and brews.
• Informative Guides: Reviews praise guides like Wendy and Dana for their helpfulness and flexibility, making the experience both educational and fun.
• Flexible Timing: The 5-hour tour is paced well, allowing plenty of time at each brewery without feeling rushed.
• Includes Snacks: Pretzels and bottled water are included, adding a nice touch of refreshment during the trip.

An In-Depth Look at the Yakima Brewery Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at 102 N Naches Ave, Yakima, at noon. The group size is capped at 14, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging—more like hanging out with friends than a large bus tour. There’s an option for pickup, which is handy if you’re staying nearby, and the mobile ticket system makes planning straightforward.

You’ll spend about 5 hours exploring the breweries, with the tour ending back at the start point. The experience is designed to be relaxed, with most travelers finding the pace just right for savoring the scenery and the beers.

The Scenic Route through Yakima Valley

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the drive through Yakima Valley itself. It’s described as a landscape of rolling hills, orchards of apples, cherries, peaches, and nectarines—an idyllic setting that’s perfect for fans of rural scenery. As you travel through this lush region, you’ll get a feel for the agricultural backbone that supplies the hops and fruits to the breweries you’ll visit later.

The views are so appreciated that one reviewer even mentions how “the views were amazing at Cowiche Creek Brewing Co.” This suggests that many of the brewery stops are also visually appealing, offering a chance to snap some great photos.

Visiting 3-4 Yakima Breweries

The main event is visiting three to four breweries, each with its own personality—small-batch producers and more widely known craft breweries. The tours are designed to give you a real sense of the variety in the region, from innovative new brews to classic favorites.

While tasting fees aren’t included in the $45 ticket, the breweries are described as award-winning and welcoming, making it easy to sample their offerings. Keep in mind that you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to indulge at each stop.

What to Expect at Each Brewery

Based on reviews, you can expect a laid-back atmosphere where guides like Wendy and Dana make sure everyone feels comfortable. Wendy, in particular, is praised for her communication and hospitality, ensuring the day flows smoothly.

At each brewery, you might find a mix of tasting options, from crisp IPAs to flavorful ales, often paired with some light snacks like pretzels. The breweries also tend to be accommodating, with reviewers noting that all stops are friendly and welcoming.

Highlights and Challenges

While the experience is generally highly rated, one aspect to consider is the extra cost of tasting fees. If you’re a serious beer enthusiast, be prepared for this additional expense. Also, since most of the stops are in rural areas, transportation relies on the tour’s vehicle, so you won’t have much flexibility to explore independently once you’re at each brewery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for craft beer lovers, those interested in agriculture and hop farming, or travelers who want a taste of rural Washington. It’s also ideal for small groups who enjoy relaxed, social experiences with knowledgeable guides. If you’re seeking a quick, scenic, and educational outing that combines nature, culture, and craft beer, this tour hits the mark.

Why It’s Worth Considering

At $45 per person, the price is reasonable given the length and the quality of the experience. The fact that most reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and the stunning scenery shows that you’re getting a lot of value for your money. Plus, the ability to cancel free up to 24 hours before means you can plan with confidence.

The inclusion of snacks and bottled water adds to the comfort, especially on a longer day. The small group size enhances the personal feel, ensuring that everyone gets attention and the guides can tailor the experience a bit.

Potential Drawbacks

The main downside is the need to budget separately for tasting fees, which could add up if you indulge at every brewery. Also, since the tour is 5 hours long, it’s best suited for those who can comfortably spend a good chunk of time outdoors and tasting beers without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re passionate about craft beer, curious about hop farming, or simply looking for a scenic way to explore Washington’s agricultural heartland, this tour offers a great mix. It’s especially suited for small groups who enjoy relaxed pacing and engaging guides. The stunning views and the chance to visit award-winning breweries make it a worthwhile outing.

However, if you’re not into tasting beers or prefer a more flexible, independent experience, this might not be the best fit. Remember to factor in extra costs for tastings and plan accordingly.

This Yakima Brewery Tour appears to be a well-loved, thoughtfully designed experience that balances scenery, education, and great brews. It’s a fantastic way to spend half a day learning about what makes Yakima the hop-growing capital, all while savoring some of the best local beers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for anyone under 21?
No, all tours are for guests age 21 and over, as it involves tasting alcoholic beverages.

Does the tour include tastings?
No, tasting fees are not included in the ticket price. You’ll pay separately at each brewery for the beers you choose to sample.

What’s included in the tour price?
The $45 ticket covers the guided tour, snacks (pretzels and bottled water), and transportation. It does not include alcoholic beverages or tasting fees.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 hours, including travel time, stops, and tasting opportunities.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it more convenient if you’re staying nearby.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a day outdoors; bring layers if the weather changes. No special gear needed.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate.

If you’re in Seattle and looking to explore Washington’s hop and craft beer scene without the fuss, this tour offers a pretty compelling way to do just that. Cheers to discovering great brews and stunning views!