Nashville: Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Food Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Nashville and want to get a real taste of its iconic food and drink scene, this Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Food Tour might just be your best bet. Curated by Mint Julep Experiences, this four-hour adventure offers a blend of guided tastings, behind-the-scenes visits, and plenty of good eats—all in a comfortable setting. It’s perfect for those who like their experiences to be both flavorful and educational, without the fuss of planning it all themselves.

What immediately appeals is how this tour combines local craftsmanship—from a distillery tour to a brewery flight—along with the heart of Tennessee’s culinary heritage, the Southern BBQ. Plus, with a small group, you’ll have a chance to really ask questions and get to know the stories behind each stop. One potential consideration? It’s a food-centric tour with no vegetarian options, so it’s best suited for meat-eaters or those willing to skip the veggies for the day. Overall, it’s a superb choice for foodies, drink enthusiasts, or anyone eager to experience Nashville’s authentic flavors in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Guided visits to a distillery, brewery, and local BBQ joint
• Tastings include spirits, craft beers, and a traditional BBQ lunch
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned bus with amenities
• Educational insights from knowledgeable guides who share Nashville’s culinary stories
• BYOB on the bus (21+) for responsible drinking during the ride
• Non-vegetarian only menu options, so plan accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Nashville Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Tour

This tour delivers a well-rounded snapshot of Nashville’s celebrated food and drink culture, all wrapped into a manageable four-hour format. You’ll meet your group near the Omni Hotel downtown at 11:15 am, ready to start your adventure promptly at 11:30 am. The timing means you’ll spend the afternoon exploring some of Nashville’s top hotspots, learning their stories, and then tasting their offerings.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Transportation:
The tour departs from a convenient central location—near Bongo Java on 5th Ave.—making it easy for most visitors to access. The group travels comfortably in an air-conditioned bus, which features a cooler, ice, and water. This thoughtful detail ensures that even on a hot day, you’ll stay refreshed. The group tends to be small and intimate, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Distillery Tour & Tasting:
Your first stop is a local Nashville distillery, where you’ll go behind the scenes to see how Tennessee whiskey is made. The guide offers insights into the distillation process and Nashville’s unique whiskey traditions. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a tasting session—a chance to sample some of the craft spirits that define this city’s drink scene. As one reviewer noted, “John our driver gave us a wealth of knowledge and history,” which highlights the educational aspect of the visit.

Brewery Visit & Beer Flight:
Next, you’ll visit a Nashville brewery, where you can relax in a taproom while sampling a flight of local craft beers. This part of the tour lets you savor Nashville’s growing reputation as a craft beer destination, with a variety of styles to try. Many travelers rave about the “delicious beer” on offer, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect mid-point break.

BBQ Lunch at a Nashville Smokehouse:
The tour’s highlight for many is the BBQ lunch at Fat Bottom Brewery—a true Southern smokehouse experience. You’ll enjoy a smoked meat platter that showcases Nashville’s signature barbecue flavors. The reviews frequently mention the “delicious” food and how it complements the other stops perfectly. It’s an authentic, hearty meal that captures the essence of Tennessee’s culinary traditions. However, it’s important to note that vegetarian options are not available, so plan accordingly.

The Value of Guided Tastings and Stories

What truly sets this tour apart are the stories shared by guides like Emily and Ray—reviews consistently praise their knowledge and enthusiasm. They don’t just show you around; they tell you about Nashville’s history, local traditions, and what makes each place special. This adds layers of context that elevate a simple tasting to an educational experience.

Practical Considerations

The cost of $189 per person includes all tastings, the BBQ lunch, and transportation. When you compare this to the cost of doing all these visits independently—plus the time and effort involved—the value becomes clear. Plus, the tour is designed for convenience, covering multiple experiences in just four hours.

Make sure to bring valid ID for the tastings, closed-toe shoes for the distillery tour, and some cash or a card for gratuities—15-20% is customary if you feel the guides and staff deserve it. Also, note that the tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately.

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Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is especially suited for travelers who want a quick, comprehensive snapshot of Nashville’s culinary soul. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to cover the city’s highlights without planning each stop or for food and drink lovers who want a bit of education along the way. If your group includes those who prefer vegetarian options, you might want to look into custom tours, as this one does not currently cater to dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts on the Nashville Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Tour

This tour offers a robust mix of flavor, education, and comfort. The blend of a distillery visit, a craft beer flight, and a satisfying BBQ lunch gives an authentic taste of Nashville’s iconic food scene. The guides’ knowledge adds a human touch, making each stop more than just a tasting but a story to remember.

For those who appreciate authentic local experiences, it’s a great way to spend part of your Nashville trip without the hassle of organizing multiple separate excursions. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the logistics—comfortable transport, scheduled stops—make it accessible and straightforward.

While it’s not suited to vegetarians or under-21 travelers, for meat-eaters, beer lovers, and curious travelers, this tour hits the sweet spot between fun, flavor, and education. It’s a memorable way to dive into Nashville’s food and drink culture—one sip and bite at a time.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
No, this tour does not offer vegetarian options for the BBQ lunch or at other stops. If dietary restrictions are important, inquire about custom tours.

What is included in the tour price?
The $189 fee covers a BBQ lunch, a distillery tour and tasting, a craft beer flight, transportation in an air-conditioned bus, and the services of a professional guide.

Can I bring my own alcohol on the bus?
Yes, you’re allowed to BYOB onboard if you are 21 or older, and you’re encouraged to drink responsibly.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from near Bongo Java at 250 5th Ave. S, close to the Omni Hotel in downtown Nashville.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, starting around 11:30 am and ending in the early afternoon.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
It runs in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly, especially if rain is forecast.

This Nashville Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Food Tour provides a practical, authentic, and enjoyable way to taste Nashville’s best without the stress of planning. Whether you’re a foodie, a craft beverage enthusiast, or just looking to experience a slice of Southern culture, this tour offers a flavorful, educational, and fun adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby