Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour

If you’re after a night out that combines local craft beer with a touch of spooky storytelling, the Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour in Orlando offers a unique blend. This 1.5-hour experience kicks off in the charming downtown Sanford area, taking you through three different craft beer stops, each with its own character and history. Led by a knowledgeable BJCP Certified Beer Judge, Gary Holmes, this tour promises more than just tasting beers — it’s about discovering Sanford’s vibrant brewing scene and its intriguing past.

What really catches our eye about this tour is the opportunity to meet local brewers and hear stories straight from the people who keep Sanford’s craft beer reputation alive. Plus, the inclusion of craft beer samples at each stop makes it a good value — especially when you consider the price of $42.99 per person. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a ghost-hunting tour, despite the spooky theme — so if you’re expecting paranormal investigations, you might want to look elsewhere.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy craft beer, local history, and a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s perfect for adults over 21 who appreciate learning about beer styles and local culture. Keep in mind, with a maximum of 12 travelers, it offers an intimate setting, but booking in advance is advised since the average booking window is about 12 days ahead.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Meet real Sanford brewers and hear stories directly from residents.
• Educational and Fun: Led by a certified beer judge, the tour offers insights into beer styles and brewing techniques.
• Craft Beer Focus: Tasting is a core part of the experience, with samples included at each location.
• Comfortable Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized vibe.
• Accessible Location: Starts in downtown Sanford, close to public transit.
• No Ghost-Hunting: Focus is on beer and stories, not paranormal investigations.

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Brewery Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at 115 Magnolia Ave, Sanford, a lively hub in the historic downtown area. Starting at 8:30 PM, it’s designed to fit into an evening plan, especially if you’re exploring Orlando or nearby areas during the daytime. The tour includes a mobile ticket, making it convenient to book and present on the day. With a duration of roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes, it’s a manageable evening activity that won’t wear you out.

Stop 1: Sanford Homebrew Shop

The first stop is the Sanford Homebrew Shop, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at a shop that doubles as a nano-brewery. This spot is a must-visit for homebrewers or anyone interested in small-batch, artisan beers. Guests often comment on how this stop is both informative and welcoming — a true taste of local brewing passion.

Here, you might find that the shop’s combination of retail and production creates an intimate vibe. The fact that the entrance is free and just a 30-minute visit makes it an easy way to ease into the tour. Expect to learn about the basics of homebrewing and perhaps discover some local favorites.

Stop 2: Dees Brothers Brewery

Next, you’re off to Dees Brothers Brewery, located in a building that’s over 100 years old. This gives it a historic charm, adding to the tour’s haunted theme without explicitly claiming ghostly activity. The brewery offers a wide selection of craft beers brewed in Sanford, giving you a glimpse into the local brewing scene.

Guests have appreciated the personalized attention here, as the brewery’s staff are often described as friendly and eager to share their stories. The 30-minute stop provides enough time to sample a few beers and soak in the historic ambiance. The fact that this stop is free and included in the tour enhances the overall value.

Stop 3: Deviant Wolfe Brewery

The final stop is Deviant Wolfe Brewery, where bold experimentation meets traditional brewing styles. Known for their broad selection of true-to-style beers and penchant for trying new things, this taproom provides a relaxed environment to finish your tasting experience.

Tour participants have noted that Deviant Wolfe’s passion for experimenting makes it a highlight. The 30-minute visit allows enough time to try several experimental brews, offering insight into how local brewers push boundaries while respecting classic styles.

The Experience and What You’ll Gain

Throughout the tour, Gary Holmes leads with a friendly, informative style, sharing stories gathered from Sanford’s residents and brewers. His expertise as a certified beer judge adds credibility and depth to the tasting notes, helping even casual beer drinkers understand what makes each style unique.

Guests have mentioned that the tour does a great job balancing education and entertainment: “We loved the way Gary explained the different beer styles — it’s clear he’s passionate about beer and sharing that knowledge.” Others appreciate the small group size, which fosters conversations and personalized attention.

The Atmosphere and Additional Details

While the haunted theme hints at some ghostly stories from Sanford’s past, it’s important to remember that the focus is on the beer and local lore rather than paranormal activity. The tour’s timing at night creates a fun, slightly mysterious vibe, perfect for a relaxed evening out.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate. Service animals are allowed, and the tour’s proximity to public transportation makes it accessible for visitors without cars.

Pricing and Value

At $42.99 per person, the tour includes tastings at three breweries, a knowledgeable guide, and an engaging local history component. Considering that beer samples can often cost several dollars each, and the personal insights you gain, it offers considerable value for craft beer enthusiasts.

The small-group setting means you get more personalized stories and attention, adding to the overall experience. Since cancelations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance, it’s a flexible option for spontaneous plans or last-minute decisions.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adults who love craft beer and enjoy learning about brewing in a casual, social setting. It’s especially good for those interested in local history and stories, offering a glimpse into Sanford’s vibrant brewing community. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences over scripted tours, you’ll probably find this well worth the investment.

However, it’s worth noting that this is a small-scale, intimate tour—not a large brewery hop—so if you prefer a more energetic, bus-style experience, this might not be your best fit. Also, since it’s designed as an evening activity, it’s perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing or before heading out for dinner.

All in all, if you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and educational craft beer experience with a dash of local stories, the Sanford Haunted Brewery Tour hits the mark. It’s a fun, surprising way to explore Sanford’s brewing culture while enjoying some delicious beers.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, all participants must be 21 or older and consume alcohol. However, the focus on beer and storytelling means the experience is more about local culture than just drinking.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

Are the beer samples included in the price?
Yes, all beer tastings are included as part of the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so more than 24 hours before the start time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 115 Magnolia Ave, Sanford, and ends back at the same location.

Is transportation provided between stops?
No, the stops are within walking distance, and the tour is designed to be a short, walkable route.

To sum it up, the Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour offers a relaxed, authentic insight into Sanford’s craft beer scene with a side of local lore. It’s a perfect choice for beer lovers seeking an evening of tasting, storytelling, and small-town charm — all in a cozy, small-group setting.