Reno might be famous for its casinos, but its craft beer scene is quietly thriving and worth exploring. Unlike many cities that focus only on big-name breweries, Reno offers authentic, small-batch experiences filled with personality and flavor. One standout is Reno’s Original Brewery Tour, which gets rave reviews for its deep dive into local microbreweries and expert-guided insights.
You get to sample up to a dozen unique beers while learning about the brewing process and Reno’s growing beer culture. It’s a perfect way to go beyond the usual tourist sights and enjoy the city’s craft flavor.
For those looking for a more behind-the-scenes look at Reno’s brewing scene, the Reno: Original Brewery Tour offers a hands-on experience with up to 16 beers and a pairing snack. Both tours focus on local breweries, but they differ slightly in pacing, content, and format. Below, you’ll find a detailed comparison to help you pick the perfect Reno beer tour.
1. Reno’s Original Brewery Tour
This tour offers VIP access to three local breweries, where you’ll taste up to a dozen craft beers. The tour lasts about 3 hours 45 minutes and includes comfortable bus transportation, so you can relax and focus on the beers without worry. The breweries visited are carefully selected to showcase Reno’s diversity, from award-winning IPAs and pale ales to experimental sours and barrel-aged brews.
For example, Imbib Custom Brews is known for its award-winning hop-forward beers, including dry-hopped sours and bourbon barrel-aged creations.
Meanwhile, The Brewer’s Cabinet offers a cozy atmosphere paired with delicious food, making it a favorite among locals. The tour features an expert guide who will share insights into each brewery’s history and brewing techniques.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach—you won’t just see the breweries; you’ll get to understand what makes Reno’s craft beer scene unique. The reviews are glowing, with an average rating of 5 stars from 8 reviews.
Tour-goers praise the knowledgeable guide John and the well-paced itinerary that balances education with tasting. The price of $89 per person is reasonable given the extensive tastings and VIP access.
The only potential downside is that it runs for nearly four hours, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate interest in craft beer and good walking stamina.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for beer lovers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with quality tastings and local storytelling.
2. Reno: Original Brewery Tour
At around $94 per person, the Reno: Original Brewery Tour offers a slightly shorter but equally immersive behind-the-scenes look at Reno’s craft brewing scene. Lasting about 3.5 hours, this tour emphasizes learning how beer is made, with a focus on modern brewing techniques.
You’ll sample up to 16 beers while enjoying a specially paired snack, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a food pairing alongside their drinks.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a more technical perspective on brewing but still enjoy tasting a wide variety of local beers. Its highlight is the behind-the-scenes access at various breweries, where you can see the equipment and process firsthand.
Guests rave about the “fantastic variety of beers” and the engaging guide who explains the nuances of craft brewing. The price is slightly higher, but the inclusion of a snack and the extensive tastings make it a fair value.
Bottom Line: This tour caters well to those who want an in-depth look at brewing and enjoy sampling many beers with delicious food.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two options, consider your interests and time constraints. If you prefer a relaxed, educational tour with a focus on local breweries and a variety of styles, the Reno’s Original Brewery Tour (link) offers great value and expert guidance.
If you’re more curious about how beer is brewed and want a comprehensive tasting experience with a snack, the Reno: Original Brewery Tour (link) might be more your style.
Think about your budget—both tours are roughly similar in price but differ slightly in duration and focus. Also, check the weather if you plan an outdoor or walking component, and consider booking early, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Reno’s craft beer scene is a hidden treasure for travelers interested in authentic, locally brewed beers. Whether you choose the comprehensive VIP experience or the behind-the-scenes alternative, both tours deliver a taste of Reno’s vibrant brewing culture. For those who enjoy exploring new flavors and learning about brewing in a relaxed setting, these tours offer a perfect blend of education and fun.
If you’re a casual beer drinker or a dedicated craft beer enthusiast, booking early is wise. These tours fill up quickly, especially in summer and fall. Whether you’re a local wanting to deepen your knowledge or a visitor eager to sample Reno’s best brews, these tours promise a memorable, flavorful experience. Cheers to discovering Reno’s craft beer scene one glass at a time!