Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour

Our review of the Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour offers a close look at what promises to be a memorable experience for anyone who appreciates good beer and wants to learn more about Philadelphia’s vibrant craft scene. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious about local brewing, this tour has a lot to offer.

What we love most about this experience is the carefully curated visits to three standout breweries — each with its own distinct character — and the expert guidance that makes the whole process engaging and educational. Plus, the fact that you’re free from the wheel means you can fully relax and savor each sip.

A potential consideration is the price point of $105 per person, which includes a hefty amount of tastings, but for some travelers, the overall value depends on how much you enjoy tasting and learning about craft beers. Also, since the tour lasts around 3.5 hours, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and are prepared to stand and walk.

This tour suits beer enthusiasts eager to explore local breweries with an insider’s perspective, groups of friends looking for a fun outing, or visitors who want an authentic taste of Philadelphia’s brewing culture.

Key Points

• The tour visits three breweries in one afternoon, showcasing the diversity of Philly’s craft beer scene.
• An expert guide provides insightful, friendly commentary throughout.
• Generous samples and behind-the-scenes tours make it more than just a tasting — it’s an educational experience.
• The included snacks and transportation offer convenience and extra value.
• Small-group size (up to 14 travelers) ensures a more personalized, engaging atmosphere.
• The price reflects not just the tastings but also the access to local brewing stories and expert knowledge.

An In-Depth Look at the Philly Signature Brew Tour

Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins at 1227 Filbert St in Center City Philadelphia, a convenient spot near public transportation and within walking distance of many hotels. From here, your guide welcomes you and briefs you on what’s to come. The transportation is in a comfortable beer-themed van, making it easy to relax on the short drives between breweries. Having round-trip transportation included means you can focus on the experience without worrying about navigating or parking.

Duration and Group Size
Spanning about 3 hours and 30 minutes, the tour strikes a nice balance — enough time to visit three breweries without feeling rushed. With a maximum of 14 travelers, it maintains an intimate vibe where you can ask questions, chat with your guide, and really enjoy the experience.

First Stop: Flying Fish Brewing Company

The first visit is to Flying Fish Brewing Company, known as the largest producer in South Jersey and a pioneer in online beer marketing since 1995. This brewery’s reputation for balance and sustainability makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at their operation — the new canning and bottling line, the brewing process, and their innovative approach. The tastings are generous, and you’ll learn about their commitment to full-flavored yet highly drinkable beers. One reviewer notes: “The tour was informative. Dave, the guide, gave us good information. He took care of our needs during the tour.”

Value: Visiting Flying Fish adds a layer of local history and pioneering spirit to your day, plus a chance to sample some award-winning beers.

Second Stop: Double Nickel Brewing Co

Next, your journey takes you to Double Nickel Brewing Co, a brewery born from Drew Perry’s lifelong passion for brewing. This is a smaller, more craft-focused operation converted from a defunct fitness center into a 22,000 sq ft beer-producing powerhouse.

What’s special here is the story behind the brewery: Drew Perry’s personal journey from the packaging line to head brewer, and his dedication to creating creative, carefully cultivated flavors. Expect to see a different style of operation compared to Flying Fish, with a more artisan feel.

From one reviewer: “Allie was amazing! Friendly, funny, and knowledgeable! Learned so much on this trip and would encourage others to give it a try!” The tastings here tend to highlight Drew’s passion for flavor, making this part of the tour both educational and enjoyable.

Value: This stop emphasizes craftsmanship and the personal touch behind each beer, appealing to visitors who love hearing the stories behind their drinks.

Final Stop: Yards Brewing Company

The last visit is to Yards Brewing Company, a Philly fixture since 1995, now overlooking the Delaware River at Penn’s Landing. Known for their English-inspired ales, Yards balances colonial traditions with modern brewing techniques.

This location offers a chance to learn how Philly’s colonial roots influence beer styles today. The brewery’s large, scenic setting provides a perfect backdrop for tasting their popular and widely-distributed beers. A reviewer mentions: “It was a fun, delicious trip through three outstanding breweries!”

Here, you’ll sample presidential flights and gain insight into how Yards has grown while staying true to its roots.

Value: The scenic views and historic inspiration make this stop memorable, especially for history buffs interested in colonial brewing traditions.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $105, the tour offers up to 12 craft beers to taste, round-trip transportation, snacks, and a local expert guide. This package provides good value, especially considering the guided behind-the-scenes access and the convenience of transportation.

Not included is hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. The meeting spot is easy to find, and arriving 10 minutes early is recommended to start on time.

Important Practical Details

• Minimum age is 21, with no exceptions.
• Closed-toe shoes are required, reflecting brewery safety standards.
• The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately.
• Pre-gaming is prohibited, ensuring everyone arrives ready to enjoy responsibly.
• Confirmation is received within 48 hours, but booking well in advance is wise, as the tour is often booked about 42 days ahead.

Authentic Experiences and Real Reviews

The tour’s small-group setting makes it easier to connect with your guide and fellow travelers. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with one saying: “Allie was amazing! Friendly, funny, and knowledgeable.”

Participants appreciate the generous tastings and the opportunity to see the brewery operations up close — offering more than just a tasting but an educational peek into what makes Philadelphia’s breweries special.

Another reviewer summed it up: “It was a fun, delicious trip through three outstanding breweries. Great time.” Such feedback underscores the tour’s appeal to those who want a relaxed, informative, and flavorful experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This brewery tour offers a balanced mix of education, tastings, and scenic views, making it perfect for beer lovers wanting to deepen their appreciation for craft brewing. It’s also a wonderful choice for groups of friends, couples, or history buffs interested in colonial beer traditions.

The small-group size ensures a personal experience, while the expert guides can answer questions and share stories that bring each brewery’s character alive. If you value convenience, quality, and authenticity, this tour delivers on all fronts.

While the price might seem high for some, the combination of tastings, behind-the-scenes access, and expert storytelling makes it a worthwhile splurge for those eager to enjoy Philly’s craft beer culture.

In essence, this tour is an ideal introduction for newcomers who want to learn about local breweries without the hassle of planning, and a delight for enthusiasts eager to taste and see what makes Philadelphia’s beer scene unique.

FAQs

How many breweries will I visit?
You’ll visit three breweries during the tour, each offering a different perspective on Philly’s craft beer scene.

What’s included in the price?
For $105, you get up to 12 craft beers, round-trip transportation, snacks, and a knowledgeable guide.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since the minimum age is 21 and tastings are part of the experience, it’s best suited for those who can legally consume alcohol. However, you can still enjoy the tour if you prefer not to drink, as the behind-the-scenes visits and scenery are still enjoyable.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 42 days in advance; booking early is recommended to secure your spot.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves some walking and standing. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory, and dress appropriately for weather conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refunds available.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 14 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Whether you’re in Philly for a weekend or a longer stay, this brewery tour offers a fun, educational, and flavorful slice of the city’s local culture. It’s a great way to see the city, learn about its brewing traditions, and enjoy some of the best craft beers around.