The Original Charlotte Brewery Tour – Craft Beer Experience

Our review takes a close look at The Original Charlotte Brewery Tour—Craft Beer Experience, a popular guided outing that promises a flavorful journey through some of the city’s best breweries. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and overall structure suggest it could be a fantastic option for beer lovers wanting to explore Charlotte’s local brewing culture.

What really shines about this experience are the knowledgeable guides—they keep the atmosphere lively and educational without turning the tour into a lecture. Another highlight is the comprehensive visit to four distinct breweries, each offering unique styles and atmospheres, giving participants a well-rounded taste of Charlotte’s craft beer scene. The inclusion of a dinner at Midwood Smokehouse adds a welcome pause for some hearty Southern barbecue, balancing out the tasting sessions.

One potential consideration is that beer flights are mostly at the breweries, not during the tour stops. Some travelers might expect a more structured tasting experience at each brewery rather than small pours from a guide. Also, the tour lasts around five hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a relaxed but longer outing.

This tour is ideal for adventurous beer enthusiasts, groups of friends, or couples looking to combine local culture with a fun, social activity. If you’re curious about different brewing styles and like the idea of learning from passionate guides, this could be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Limited group size (max 14) ensures more personalized attention from guides.
• The all-inclusive price covers four brewery visits, beer tastings, and a full dinner.
• The tour features comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging.
• The itinerary includes a mix of brewery visits and a food stop, balancing tasting with dining.
• Most travelers report high satisfaction, with a 5-star average rating.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point at The Westin Charlotte

The tour kicks off conveniently at the Westin Charlotte on South College Street, a central and easily accessible location. Starting at a reputable hotel helps set a comfortable, professional tone. We loved that the tour begins with a quick check-in and briefing, so everyone feels prepared. The initial five-minute stop is just enough to gather the group and get ready for the night ahead.

First Brewery Stop: Petty Thieves Brewing Co

After a short ride, you’re welcomed into Petty Thieves Brewing Co, where the real tasting begins. This stop lasts about an hour, giving ample time to sample their offerings and chat with staff about their brewing philosophies. Reviewers highlight the engaging atmosphere and the chance to sample different beers. One reviewer noted, “Our guide, Jan, was incredibly knowledgeable and the people we met were lots of fun,” which hints at the convivial vibe here.

Next Stop: Protagonist Brewing

The second brewery, Protagonist, continues the theme of quality and local flavor. The hour spent here provides an opportunity to explore their craft beers and learn about their approach. Guests have appreciated guides who share insights into the brewing process, making the tasting experience educational and fun. Expect a friendly environment where you can ask questions and get honest recommendations.

Midwood Smokehouse: a Relaxing Meal Break

After two breweries, everyone heads to Midwood Smokehouse for a full hour of Southern-style barbecue. This meal is included in the ticket price, and it’s a welcome chance to reset and refocus. Several reviews mention how the timing of the meal is quite late—about 2.5 hours into the tour—so be prepared for some drinks beforehand. The food gets good reviews, and the relaxed setting provides a break from the tasting frenzy.

Lower Left Brewing Co.

The final stop, Lower Left Brewing Co., offers another hour of sampling. This brewery’s atmosphere and beer selection often leave a lasting impression, with guests noting the friendliness and expertise of the staff. It’s a great way to round off the evening, especially if you’re interested in seeing more of Charlotte’s diverse brewing styles.

Wrapping Up at The Westin

The tour concludes with a short return to The Westin Charlotte, wrapping up roughly five hours after it started. This efficient ending allows participants to head out for the night, feeling fulfilled but not overwhelmed.

The Transport and Group Dynamics

Traveling between stops is done in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which enhances the overall experience—no need to worry about arranging taxis or rideshare. With group sizes capped at 14, the tour maintains an intimate, friendly atmosphere, making it easier to chat with guides and fellow participants. This small-group approach often results in a more engaging and personalized experience, which many reviews praise.

How the Schedule Works

The schedule is intentionally paced to allow for tasting, learning, and dining without rushing. The brewery visits are each about an hour long, giving plenty of time to sample beers and ask questions. The meal at Midwood Smokehouse, about an hour long, offers a much-needed break and a chance to enjoy some hearty food. Keep in mind that no beer flights are included during the stops—most tasting pours are small glasses from the guides—so if you’re expecting large flights at each brewery, this might be a surprise.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Elizabeth_H called it “a really great, educational tour,” praising the knowledgeable and fun guide, Vinnie. Emme_S described it as “the best beer tour ever,” emphasizing how much they learned from their guide. Many mention how guides like Vinny or Jan make the experience memorable with their enthusiasm and expertise.

However, not all reviews are perfect. Sheryl_B felt somewhat misled because she expected more beer flights during the stops, rather than small pours from guides. This highlights the importance of understanding that the tasting experience is more about education and sampling than large flights.

Value for the Price

At $150 per person, the tour includes four brewery visits, beer tastings, transportation, and a full meal, which adds up to good value for a curated, guided experience. For craft beer aficionados wanting to learn more about local breweries and enjoy a relaxed evening, it’s a well-priced option—especially considering small group sizes and personalized attention.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 5 hours, which is ideal for a relaxed evening out.
• Price: $150 per person, inclusive of beer, transportation, and dinner.
• Booking: Typically booked about 30 days in advance—so plan ahead.
• Meeting Point: The Westin Charlotte, easy to find and convenient.
• Accessibility: Service animals are allowed; near public transportation.
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the start, flexible for last-minute changes.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Charlotte’s craft beer scene, infused with enthusiastic guides who truly know their stuff. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning about beer in a friendly, social environment, and appreciate the comfort of small groups and reliable transportation. The combination of brewery visits, engaging conversation, and a hearty meal makes for a memorable evening—especially if you’re eager to explore local flavors without the hassle of planning.

If you’re a beer enthusiast with a curiosity for local brewing styles, or simply looking to enjoy Charlotte’s vibrant craft beer community, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It balances fun, education, and good value, making it a worthwhile choice for a relaxed, authentic experience.

FAQ

How many breweries are included in the tour?
You visit four different breweries during the tour, each offering a unique atmosphere and beer selection.

What’s included in the ticket price?
The price covers four brewery visits, beer tastings, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a full meal at Midwood Smokehouse.

Are the beer tastings large?
Most tastings are small glasses poured by the guides at each brewery, not full flights. The focus is on sampling and learning rather than drinking large quantities.

How long does the entire tour last?
The entire experience takes about five hours, starting at The Westin Charlotte and ending back there.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation between breweries is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

How many people are in each group?
Group sizes are limited to 14 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about a month ahead, as it’s popular and often booked 30 days in advance.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or those less interested in beer?
While primarily focused on craft beer, the tour also offers a chance to learn about brewing and enjoy the social aspect. However, keep in mind the tasting component.

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

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

Overall, The Original Charlotte Brewery Tour combines education, fun, and great local beer—delivered with a friendly touch and in a way that doesn’t break the bank. It’s a fine way to spend an evening, especially if discovering Charlotte’s craft breweries is your kind of adventure.