Reno: Original Brewery Tour

If you’re thinking about exploring Reno beyond its casinos and mountain views, a craft beer tour might be just what you need. This particular experience promises a 3.5-hour journey into Reno’s thriving brewery scene, complete with behind-the-scenes access, tastings of up to 16 beers, and a snack perfectly paired to enhance your tasting adventure. It’s a lively, informative way to discover the city’s best brews without the hassle of planning or driving.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the VIP access to three local breweries gives you a rare glimpse of how the beer is made—from the milling to the fermentation. Second, the educational aspect—your guides share insights into both ancient beer traditions and modern brewing techniques—adding depth to your tasting experience. On the flip side, perhaps the main consideration is that this tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated spot. It’s best suited for those who love craft beer, want authentic local experiences, and don’t mind a bit of a group setting.

If you’re a curious traveler eager to learn about what makes Reno’s breweries special, or simply looking for a fun afternoon with good drinks and good company, this tour will likely tick many boxes. Now, let’s explore what you can expect and why this experience might be a good fit for your Reno visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Access: Behind-the-scenes tours of 3 Reno breweries.
• Variety & Value: Up to 16 craft beer samples, offering excellent variety.
• Educational Content: Guides explain beer history and modern brewing techniques.
• Convenient Transport: Comfortable transportation between breweries.
• Food & Drink: Includes a paired snack to complement tastings.
• No Hotel Pickup: Participants meet at a designated spot; plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with a meet-up in front of a hotel where the city’s City Brew Tours van awaits. If you’re staying nearby, it’s easy to join; if not, a short walk or local transport might be needed. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, usually in the afternoon, which makes it a perfect way to spend a leisurely part of your day without feeling rushed.

Transportation is a key feature here. Instead of navigating on your own, you’ll be driven comfortably from one brewery to the next. This not only keeps the group moving smoothly but also allows you to relax and chat with fellow beer lovers without concern for driving. The small group size, although not explicitly stated, is likely to be intimate enough for personalized insights, given the nature of guided tours.

The Brewery Stops

You’ll visit three different breweries—each with its own character and brewing style. While the specific breweries are not named, the experience promises VIP access, meaning you’re likely to witness aspects of the brewing process not typically available to the public. This behind-the-scenes look is invaluable for understanding how your favorite beers are crafted.

At each stop, you can expect to sample a variety of craft beers—up to 16 different samples across the tour. This is quite generous, especially considering the duration, and it allows you to taste many styles, from hoppy IPAs and rich stouts to lighter ales and possibly some experimental brews. Since the guide provides education on brewing techniques and beer history, you’ll gain insights into what makes each brew unique.

Food Pairing and Tasting Experience

A highlight is the snack that pairs with your tastings. While details are limited, this pairing enhances the experience, helping you appreciate the flavors and aromas of the beers more fully. Expect a snack that complements the beer styles, possibly cheese, nuts, or charcuterie—common pairing choices that elevate the tasting.

Guides and Educational Value

The guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing stories about beer’s ancient origins as well as modern innovations. For those new to craft beer or eager to learn, this is a perfect chance to expand your understanding while sampling. According to one review, the tour guide was described as “perfect,” hinting that the guides are engaging and well-informed.

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Cost and Value

At $94 per person, this tour offers significant value when you consider the number of tastings, the behind-the-scenes access, the snack, and transportation. While it’s not a cheap activity, it’s comparable to other specialty tours in similar cities. The high sample count and educational component make it a worthwhile investment for beer aficionados and curious travelers alike.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

This experience is designed to showcase Reno’s craft beer scene, emphasizing local breweries rather than big commercial brands. You’ll likely come away with a better sense of what makes each brewery special—whether it’s their brewing philosophy, ingredients, or community focus. The tour also supports local businesses, making it a responsible choice for travelers looking to contribute positively to the city.

Review Highlights and Perspectives

While the tour has only one official review, it’s a glowing 5-star rating with Sonja from Germany calling it a “perfect guide, perfect tour.” Such feedback suggests a positive experience, especially for those who appreciate good organization and engaging storytelling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits adults over 21 who enjoy craft beer, are interested in learning about brewing, or want a relaxed, social activity. It’s especially appealing to those who prefer not to drive and enjoy guided insights. If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo but open to meeting like-minded beer lovers, this is a great way to familiarize yourself with Reno’s local flavors.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Arrive on time at the meeting point; no hotel pickup is included.
• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking and standing during brewery visits.
• Bring your passport or ID to verify your age, as this is a beer-focused experience.
• Remember that gratuities are appreciated but not included in the price.
• Plan for some post-tour relaxation; you might want to grab dinner or explore more of Reno after.

This Reno: Original Brewery Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the city’s craft beer culture. It’s an excellent pick for those who want more than just a tasting, getting a behind-the-scenes look and education about the brewing process. The up to 16 samples and the paired snack mean you’re getting a good amount of value for the price, especially with comfortable transportation included.

For travelers who enjoy learning about local food and drink, appreciate small-group experiences, and want to support local businesses, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a relaxed pace and an engaging guide to help interpret what they’re tasting.

However, if you’re not a fan of beer or prefer activities that include meals or hotel transfers, you might want to explore other options in Reno. But for craft beer enthusiasts or curious newcomers, this tour offers a genuine, fun, and educational introduction to Reno’s burgeoning brewery scene.

Who Will Love This Tour?

• Beer lovers eager to try many styles in one afternoon
• Curious travelers interested in brewing techniques and history
• Small groups looking for a relaxed, social activity
• Visitors wanting to support local Reno businesses
• Those who enjoy guided experiences with educational value

This tour combines the best of local flavor, expert insights, and relaxed touring, making it a worthwhile addition to your Reno itinerary.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, participants meet in front of a hotel by the City Brew Tour van. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How many beers will I taste?
You can sample up to 16 different craft beers during the tour, providing a wide variety of styles to enjoy.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
This tour is designed for those over 21 who wish to taste craft beers. Non-drinkers might find the experience less engaging, as the focus is on sampling.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there will be walking and standing at breweries. Dress casually, depending on the weather.

Does the tour include food?
Yes, a paired snack is included to complement your beer tastings. It’s designed to enhance your experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

If you’re in Reno and looking for an authentic, fun way to explore the local brewing scene, this tour offers a blend of education, variety, and local flavor that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a serious beer enthusiast or simply curious about Reno’s craft beer culture, it’s a well-curated experience well worth considering.

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