Birmingham Original Brew Tour

If you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking to add a fun, authentic experience to your Birmingham trip, the Birmingham Original Brew Tour might just be your next highlight. This guided adventure takes you through four local breweries, offering up to 16 different samples along the way, plus some excellent behind-the-scenes glimpses into brewing that you won’t get just wandering around on your own.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude make all the difference. Second, the variety of breweries and styles means there’s something for all—whether you prefer a light lager or a bold stout. However, it’s worth noting that the tour runs around three to four hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a relaxed pace and a bit of walking or bus riding in between stops.

This experience is perfect for seasoned craft beer fans, curious newcomers, or groups of friends looking for a memorable, laid-back outing. It offers a good balance of education, sampling, and local culture—delivered in a compact, well-organized package.

Key Points

• Guided tour with transportation between four local breweries
• Up to 16 different beer samples included
• Behind-the-scenes brewery tour and beer-inspired meal
• Approximately 3-4 hours, suitable for most travelers
• Highly rated for knowledgeable guides and delicious food
• Small group size enhances the experience

A Comprehensive Look at the Birmingham Original Brew Tour

What to Expect From the Tour Itinerary

The tour begins from the centrally located Springhill Suites Birmingham Downtown at UAB—a convenient starting point for visitors. From there, a friendly guide will pick you up in a comfortable vehicle, setting the tone for a relaxed day of discovering Birmingham’s brewing scene.

Stop 1: Good People Brewing Company
This microbrewery’s taproom is right in the middle of the action—literally. You’ll get a lively, up-close look at the brewing process, with a guided tour included. The fact that they brew on-site means you can see the equipment in full swing, which adds a tangible sense of craftsmanship. Expect to sample 3-4 varieties here, setting the tone for the day. As one reviewer put it, “Dustin is a great guide! Very knowledgeable and friendly,” highlighting how the personable guide enhances the experience right from the start.

Stop 2: Cahaba Brewing Company
Moving to Cahaba, you’ll visit a sprawling 51,000-square-foot space in Birmingham’s historic Continental Gin Complex. This brewery has grown rapidly since its start, and the tour includes a peek behind the curtain at their large-scale operations. Cahaba offers a wide range of taps—over 26—so expect to try staples like Blonde, Oka Uba, Pale Ale, and Lager, as well as special Pilot Batch brews. A visitor described it as “one of Birmingham’s favorite spots,” and the room’s spacious atmosphere makes for a relaxed tasting environment.

Stop 3: TrimTab Brewing Company
Founded by locals with a background from Asheville, TrimTab emphasizes innovation and community. Starting in 2012 and opening officially in 2014, they’ve built a reputation for creative brews and quality ingredients. The guide will likely share stories about their roots and philosophy, making this stop both educational and flavorful. Expect to sample 3-4 beer styles, with some reviews calling the experience “highly entertaining and informative,” thanks to the guide’s friendly approach.

Stop 4: Monday Night Social Club
This brewery’s story is particularly charming: it originated from a Monday night Bible study that turned into a brewing venture. Now with five locations, they’re known for their award-winning Pale Ale “Han Brolo” and an array of small-batch IPAs, Sours, and Stouts. This stop offers a chance to loosen up, enjoy some excellent beers, and learn about their unique origins. Reviewers praised the guide’s friendliness and the “delicious” tacos served here, adding a satisfying culinary dimension to the tour.

Optional Additional Stops: Birmingham District Brewing Company
If time permits, some tours include a visit to Birmingham District Brewing, a recent addition that pays homage to Birmingham’s history. Their beers like “Birmingham Pilsner” and “Black Flower” imperial stout give a taste of local pride and craftsmanship.

What’s Included and How It Adds to the Experience

For $105 per person, this tour offers incredible value. It includes all beer samples, a behind-the-scenes brewery tour at some stops, and a beer-inspired meal. The small group size—max 14 travelers—means you’ll get personalized attention and an intimate setting to ask questions and learn from your guide. The mobile ticket system makes check-in simple and stress-free.

How the Tour Works: Timing and Transportation

The tour lasts around three to four hours, making it manageable without feeling rushed. The guide drives between stops, allowing you to relax and focus on the tasting. Each stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to savor the beers and chat with fellow travelers. Confirmed reviews highlight Dustin’s friendliness and knowledge, which helps make the experience lively and engaging.

The Experience Through the Eyes of Travelers

Multiple reviews mention how fun and educational the tour is. Amy praised Dustin as “a great guide,” while Theresa called him “amazing” and “passionate.” One reviewer noted, “It was very cool to see behind the scenes and learn how beer is brewed,” emphasizing the behind-the-scenes aspect that sets this tour apart.

Beyond the beer, travelers also enjoy the social aspect—meeting new friends, sharing laughs, and experiencing Birmingham’s local flavors together. The food at one brewery, especially the tacos, gets mention as a delicious bonus, making this more than just a drinking tour.

The Practical Side: Cost, Safety, and Suitability

While $105 might seem steep for some, the value is clear when you consider the number of samples, the guided experience, and the food included. It’s a well-rounded package that combines education, entertainment, and local flavor. The tour is suitable for most travelers—most can participate, and the small group setting ensures a friendly atmosphere.

Being a walking and driving tour, it’s suitable for those with moderate mobility, but you’ll want to be comfortable with the pace and the amount of tasting involved. The tour operates with a flexible cancellation policy—free if canceled at least 24 hours in advance—making it easier to plan with confidence.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for beer lovers looking for an authentic, behind-the-scenes experience in Birmingham. It works well for groups of friends or couples wanting to enjoy a relaxed, social day. It’s also great for curious travelers eager to learn about local craft breweries and Birmingham’s burgeoning beer scene.

If you value knowledgeable guides, good variety, and a taste of local culture, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile addition to your Birmingham itinerary. It’s equally suited for first-timers and seasoned craft beer fans—just bring your curiosity and a good attitude.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving enough time to visit four breweries, sample beers, and enjoy the food.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers all beer samples, a behind-the-scenes brewery tour at some stops, and a beer-inspired meal, making it a solid value for the experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a guide drives you between the breweries, so you can relax and focus on the tastings rather than navigation.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the tour is designed around beer tasting, if you have special dietary restrictions, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand. However, most of the experience revolves around sampling and enjoying the atmosphere.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refundable.

Is this tour suitable for families or kids?
The tour is mainly geared toward adults, given the beer tasting component. Travelers under 21 are generally not appropriate unless explicitly permitted by the provider.

Final Thoughts

The Birmingham Original Brew Tour offers a well-rounded and authentic look into Birmingham’s thriving craft beer scene. It combines expert guides, a variety of breweries, and plenty of sampling—all within a carefully organized, small-group setting. This tour is perfect for those seeking a fun, educational outing that highlights local flavor and brewing craftsmanship.

Whether you’re a serious beer geek or someone simply looking for a unique way to experience Birmingham, this tour’s combination of behind-the-scenes access, delicious beer, and lively company is hard to beat. The value is clear when you consider the number of stops, the quality of the breweries, and the inclusive nature of the experience.

For anyone with an appreciation for good beer and a desire to explore Birmingham’s local culture, this tour is an excellent choice. You’ll leave with new knowledge, new favorites, and some great stories to tell.