Five Breweries in Three Hours Bus Tour

Five Breweries in Three Hours Bus Tour Review: A Pint-Sized Adventure in Fort Collins

If you’re a fan of craft beer and want to experience some of Fort Collins’ finest breweries without the hassle of driving, this five breweries in three hours bus tour might just be your ideal afternoon. From the moment you step onto the small, 14-passenger shuttle, you’ll notice this isn’t your typical bar crawl. It’s a well-organized, relaxed way to taste a variety of beers, learn about local brewing culture, and maybe discover a new favorite brew.

What really caught our attention is how this tour balances fun with education. Each stop offers generous pours — between 5 to 7 ounces — and the chance to sample both house favorites and seasonal selections. Plus, the small-group vibe means you’re less likely to feel rushed or lost in a crowd. But, a word of caution: the beers are potent, and the tour doesn’t recommend pre-drinking. So, pace yourself and enjoy each pour without feeling compelled to finish every single one.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love craft beer, enjoy meeting new people, and prefer a relaxed, intimate setting over large, noisy brewery tours. If you’re interested in discovering Fort Collins’ beer scene with a knowledgeable guide, this could be your perfect afternoon adventure. However, keep in mind the price — $120 per person — which offers a solid value considering the number of breweries visited and the curated experience.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Only 14 travelers maximum, ensuring an intimate and personalized vibe.
• Variety of Breweries: Visiting five different breweries, each with its unique style and atmosphere.
• Generous Beer Pours: Each tasting includes 5-7 oz pours, enough to truly sample the beers without overindulging.
• Educational & Fun: A chance to learn about the breweries and their offerings while enjoying a relaxed pace.
• Accessible & Convenient: Central meeting point in Downtown Fort Collins, with all logistics handled.
• Cost-Effective: At $120, the price covers five brewery visits, tastings, snacks, and transportation, making it a good value for craft beer lovers.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Downtown Fort Collins

The tour kicks off at 1:30 pm at 215 Remington Street, in the heart of Fort Collins. This location is convenient and easily accessible, ideal for those staying nearby or arriving by local transport. The small shuttle bus is comfortable and designed for a friendly, social experience.

First Stop: Odell Brewing Company

Right from the start, Odell Brewing sets a friendly, welcoming tone. The brewery offers a house favorite or seasonal beer waiting for the group, which helps everyone get a taste of what Odell is renowned for. The second pour is up to your preference, giving you some control over your experience. Expect about 45 minutes here, plenty of time to soak in the brewery’s laid-back vibe and enjoy the fresh, flavorful pours.

Second Stop: Breckenridge Brewery Fort Collins

Next, you’ll visit Breckenridge Brewery, well-known for its seasonal beers that change frequently — a real treat for repeat visitors. The brewery loves sharing their latest creations, so you’ll get to sample the newest brews alongside your choice of a second pour. This stop is scheduled for around 30 minutes, but depending on your group’s interest and pace, you might linger a bit longer.

Third Stop: Funkwerks

The smallest brewery on the tour, Funkwerks is a highlight for those who appreciate unique styles and barrel-aged beers. You could find yourself sitting in a cozy back room filled with barrels of aging beer, which adds to the sense of discovery. A small snack accompanies two pours here, making it a perfect spot to relax and chat about the beers.

Fourth Stop: Horse & Dragon Brewing Company

Known for its popularity among tour-goers, Horse & Dragon has been voted the best beer on the tour so far, according to some reviews. Most guests tend to re-order the house specialty, probably because it hits the spot. Expect two flight pours over about 30 minutes, giving you a substantial taste of their craft.

Final Stop: Hello Brew Company

The tour wraps up at Hello Brew Company, in a charming old house built in the 1800s. Here, you’ll enjoy two more pours, and by this point, you may find you’ve caught a serious buzz — or at least a good appreciation for the brewery’s unique setting and flavors. The 30-minute visit is perfect for a relaxed finish to your afternoon.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Transportation & Timing: The shuttle bus makes logistics simple, and the three-hour window keeps it manageable without feeling rushed. Traveling with a small group means the guide can personalize the experience, answer questions, and keep the pace comfortable.

Beer Quality & Variety: Each brewery offers a different flavor profile, from the robust, seasonal beers at Odell to the barrel-aged specialties at Funkwerks. The generous pours let you savor each selection, and most reviewers note the high quality of the beers.

Additional Perks: The tour includes small snacks at Funkwerks, which helps balance the tasting experience. The friendly guide, whose name isn’t specified but seems knowledgeable, enhances the experience with insights into the breweries’ histories and brewing processes.

Cost & Value: At $120, this tour offers a lot — five brewery visits, tastings, snacks, and transportation. Compared to doing your own brewery hopping, it’s an economical way to sample a wide range of beers while enjoying the company of fellow travelers.

Practical Tips for Enjoying the Tour

• Pace Yourself: With beers ranging from 5 to 7 ounces, it’s easy to overdo it. Remember, the goal isn’t to finish every pour but to savor and enjoy each.
• Bring ID: All breweries will check IDs. Have your valid ID ready to avoid delays.
• Dress Comfortably: Casual attire is best, especially since brewery environments can be cool or warm depending on the season.
• Arrive Early: Being punctual ensures you won’t miss the start and allows you to settle in comfortably.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water between tastings to keep your palate fresh and reduce the risk of feeling overly intoxicated.
• Pre-Book: Most travelers book about 50 days in advance, which indicates strong demand. Secure your spot early.
• Consider Your Limits: If you’re sensitive to alcohol or prefer a lighter experience, this tour might be best enjoyed as a tasting sampler rather than a full-on drinking session.

The Sum Up

This Five Breweries in Three Hours Bus Tour stands out as a well-organized, enjoyable way to explore Fort Collins’ vibrant craft beer scene without the stress of planning or driving. The small-group setting, coupled with the variety of breweries and generous pours, makes for a relaxed yet engaging experience. It’s perfect for beer enthusiasts eager to taste local favorites, learn about brewing, and discover new breweries in a short period.

While the price might seem steep for some, the included tastings, snacks, and transportation add up to good value — especially if you’re traveling with friends or a small group. The tour’s focus on authentic, quality beers and friendly guides creates a memorable afternoon, whether you’re a local or just passing through.

If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful way to spend an afternoon in Fort Collins, this tour offers a great mix of education, camaraderie, and, of course, excellent beer.

FAQ

How many breweries are visited during the tour?
Five breweries are included, each offering a unique taste and atmosphere.

How long is each brewery stop?
Stops range from 30 to 45 minutes, giving plenty of time to taste and relax.

Are the beer pours generous?
Yes, each pour is between 5 and 7 ounces, enough to truly sample each beer.

Is there any food included?
A small snack is provided at Funkwerks, which pairs nicely with your tastings.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 14 travelers, ensuring a cozy, intimate experience.

Do I need to pre-book?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 50 days in advance due to high demand.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for brewery environments is best.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a shuttle bus transports you between breweries, with pickup and drop-off at the meeting point.

Are children or non-drinkers allowed?
This tour is strictly for those aged 21 and over due to alcohol consumption regulations.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of tasting, education, and fun in a small-group setting — a fantastic way to appreciate Fort Collins’ craft beer scene without the stress of navigating on your own.