Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket

Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: A Balanced Look at a Flavorful Experience

If you’re curious about Richmond’s thriving craft beverage scene, the Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl by Junket offers a lively, well-organized way to sample some of the city’s best breweries, cideries, and meaderies—all in about three hours. Designed for groups of up to 35, this tour packs in five stops that highlight Richmond’s diverse brewing heritage, innovative flavors, and historical charm.

What we love about this experience is the expertly-led insight at each stop—knowing guides share not just the drinks, but the stories behind them. We also appreciate the variety: from traditional cider houses to experimental craft breweries, there’s something for every taste. The only potential consideration is the pace; with five stops packed into three hours, you’ll want to be ready for a lively, energetic crawl. This tour suits beer lovers, cider enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a fun way to explore Richmond’s craft scene with friends or in a private group.

Key Points

• Authentic Richmond hotspots: Visit top-rated breweries, cideries, and meaderies in Scotts Addition.
• Expert guides: Led by knowledgeable, engaging guides who share stories and production insights.
• Tastings included: Enjoy one thoughtfully-selected beverage at each stop, making the most of your visit.
• Value for price: For $86, you get a guided experience, five tastings, and a peek into Richmond’s craft culture.
• Flexible and social: Ideal for private groups, celebrations, or curious travelers seeking a relaxed, fun outing.
• Accessible and educational: Most travelers can participate; the tour incorporates well-researched history and approachable explanations.

A Closer Look at the Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl

This tour offers a well-rounded, practical way to get acquainted with Richmond’s burgeoning craft scene. For those who appreciate historical venues, the tour starts at Buskey Cider, housed in a former train depot—an atmosphere that instantly connects the past with modern flavors. Here, you’ll taste a dry-hopped cider with a floral twist, which is a nice nod to traditional cider-making but with contemporary flair. It’s a good first stop because it sets a relaxed tone and showcases how the city reuses historic spaces.

Next, you’ll visit Strangeways Brewing, known for its wild ales and experimental brews. If you’re intrigued by a bit of the unusual, this stop delivers. Their “Wake Me Up” beer, for example, hints at creative brewing that pushes boundaries. The guides’ enthusiasm really enhances the experience here, explaining the fermentation process and what makes their approach unique. Some reviewers highlight the “wonderland of eccentric flavors” as a highlight, especially if you’re open to trying something outside the mainstream.

Ardent Craft Ales brings a blend of Old World techniques and modern innovation to the table. Once a garage brewery, it’s now a local favorite, especially for their Honey Ginger ale. This stop exemplifies Richmond’s craft evolution—small beginnings, now producing beloved beers. What we found valuable here is the chance to see how a once humble operation can grow without losing its artisanal roots.

The fourth stop, Black Heath Meadery, introduces you to the ancient art of honey fermentation. As Richmond’s first meadery, they’re doing something quite special—using Virginia apples and local honey to craft award-winning meads. Their Scarlett Cyser is a standout, combining sweetness and complexity. Since mead isn’t as common as beer or cider, this stop offers a taste of something a little different, adding depth to your understanding of craft beverages.

Finally, at Blue Bee Cider, you’ll visit a stunning restored 19th-century stable. Their ciders, especially the Hewes Crab made from a nearly lost colonial apple variety, connect you to Virginia’s orchard heritage. The guide’s insights into the apple-growing history make this a particularly educational stop, and the setting provides a memorable backdrop for tasting.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour runs from 3:00 pm, starting at Buskey Cider, with each stop lasting approximately 36 minutes. The group size, capped at 35, ensures a lively but manageable experience—guides can offer personalized insights and answer questions along the way. Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll meet directly at the first stop, and the tour ends back at the same spot.

The inclusion of one beverage per location is a good way to balance tasting with the opportunity to learn. The guide’s well-researched history enhances each visit, making it more than just a drinking session—it’s an educational journey into Richmond’s craft culture. The tour is suitable for most travelers over 21, with service animals allowed and the proximity to public transportation making it easy to access.

The Value of $86

At $86 per person, this experience offers a lot—five stops, guided commentary, and well-curated tastings. While it might seem like a premium price for just three hours, keep in mind that you’re getting expert narration and the chance to sample some of Richmond’s best craft drinks without the hassle of planning individual visits. If you’re a craft beverage aficionado or simply enjoy social outings, this tour offers a good balance of education, fun, and local flavor.

Group and Private Experience

Whether you’re visiting solo, with friends, or as part of a private celebration, this tour adapts well. Bachelorette parties or special gatherings can enjoy the lively atmosphere, while solo travelers will appreciate the guided storytelling that makes the experience engaging. The smaller group size fosters camaraderie and allows guides to provide more personalized insights.

The Sum Up

The Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl by Junket offers a friendly, informative, and tasty way to explore Richmond’s craft scene. It balances authentic visits to top-rated breweries, cideries, and meaderies with engaging guides who share more than just the tasting notes—they tell stories that connect you to the city’s brewing history and innovation. With a mix of traditional and experimental drinks, this tour is perfect for beer lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to enjoy Richmond’s vibrant beverage culture in a relaxed, social setting.

While it’s a quick snapshot of the local craft scene, it’s packed with enough flavor, history, and fun to leave you feeling like you’ve gained a genuine taste of Richmond. If you value knowledgeable guides, stunning venues, and a well-organized group experience, this tour will serve you well—especially if you enjoy a lively, convivial atmosphere.

For those seeking a deeper dive into Richmond’s history or a more comprehensive tour, this experience is best enjoyed as a flavorful, approachable introduction rather than an exhaustive exploration. It’s an excellent choice for visitors who want to combine culture, community, and craft in a compact, enjoyable outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation is not included. The tour starts and ends at the same location, and you will need to meet at the designated meeting point. Public transportation nearby makes it easy to access.

What is the start time of the tour?
The tour begins at 3:00 pm, making it a perfect afternoon activity to wind down your day.

Can I participate if I am not a beer or cider drinker?
Yes, the tour includes tastings at each stop, but you’re not required to drink alcohol. You can enjoy the atmosphere, learn about the production, and participate in the conversation.

How long does each stop last?
Each stop lasts approximately 36 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy a beverage and hear some stories without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for groups?
Absolutely. It’s designed for private groups and is a popular choice for celebrations like bachelor/bachelorette parties or special gatherings.

Are children or travelers under 21 allowed?
No, the tour is limited to participants over the age of 21, as it involves alcohol tastings.

What about gratuities for the guide?
While gratuity is not included in the ticket price, tips are appreciated if you enjoyed the experience. The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm enhance the tour significantly.

In all, the Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl by Junket is a lively, authentic experience that offers a taste of the city’s craft beverage innovation. It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon if you’re interested in local flavors, engaging stories, and a fun social outing—just be ready for a spirited, flavor-filled adventure.