Burlington Signature Guided Brewery Tour

Exploring Vermont’s Craft Beer Scene: A Burlington Brew Tour Review

If you’re a beer lover heading to Burlington, Vermont, a guided brewery tour might just be your perfect way to sample the local flavors while soaking in the city’s vibrant brewing culture. This experience, offered by Burlington Brew Tours, consistently earns top marks, with a perfect 5.0 rating from over a hundred reviewers.

It’s designed to combine education, social fun, and delicious tasting—all without the hassle of driving or navigating unfamiliar streets.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the small-group setting, which allows for a more personalized experience and genuine conversations with the owners and brewers behind some of Burlington’s most beloved breweries. Plus, the inclusion of transportation means you can focus solely on enjoying the beers—and, of course, the company.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickups, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting points.

Ideal for those who want a relaxed yet insightful look into Vermont’s craft brewing scene, this tour is perfect for visitors eager to learn about beer making and taste some of the best local brews. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a casual sipper, the mix of guided tastings, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and lively group atmosphere makes this experience both educational and fun.

Key Points

• Three local breweries visited, each with its unique style and character
• Up to 12 beers sampled, covering a range of IPAs, lagers, and stouts
• Transportation included for a worry-free day
• Small group size creates a more engaging, personal experience
• Guided by knowledgeable beer experts who share insights and stories
• Snacks provided at one of the brewery stops to complement the tastings

This experience made our article of Burlington’s 9 Best Tours & Things To Do.

An In-Depth Look at the Burlington Brew Tour

This tour is about more than just drinking beer; it’s an enjoyable way to understand Vermont’s craft beer movement while visiting some of Burlington’s most acclaimed breweries. The typical duration is about 3 hours and 30 minutes, which is just enough time to taste, learn, and socialize without feeling rushed. For the price of $105 per person, you’re paying for a curated experience that emphasizes quality, education, and fun.

What to Expect: The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off on either Cherry Street or Williston Road, where you’ll meet your guide and hop aboard the “Brew Bus”—a comfortable vehicle designed for small groups. The guide serves as your storyteller, sharing colorful anecdotes about Vermont’s brewing history and the characters behind the taps, adding depth to your tasting experience.

First Stop: 1st Republic Brewing Co

Founded by veterans Shawn Trout and Mike Drake, 1st Republic Brewing is celebrated for its Veteran-crafted beers, and was named the 2018 VT Veteran Owned Small Business of the Year. You’ll appreciate how these founders’ backgrounds influence their brewing philosophy—combining discipline with creativity. Expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, where you can try a variety of beers and chat with the owners about their operation. As one reviewer noted, “Friends, family, and beer lovers can gather round the taproom for fun, games, locally delivered food, and raising a glass to good beer and good times.”

Second Stop: Queen City Brewery

Launched in 2014 by a group of long-time friends and brewers, Queen City Brewery specializes in traditional ales, lagers, and complex specialty beers. Their focus on unique flavors means you’ll taste beers with unexpected notes, such as their Steinbeer—a style that’s hard to find elsewhere. The tour here gives you a chance to see why they’ve gained a loyal following, with many reviews mentioning the brewery’s “changing your life” flavor profiles. Expect to sip through a selection that highlights their innovative approach to brewing.

Third Stop: Zero Gravity Craft Brewery

Born in 2004 within the American Flatbread Burlington Hearth, Zero Gravity has grown from a brewpub to a full-scale production brewery in Burlington’s South End Arts District. This transition showcases their commitment to quality and expansion, making it a fascinating stop. You’ll get to see their state-of-the-art brewing equipment and learn how they produce a variety of beers, from IPAs to stouts. One reviewer remarked, “Being able to see how beers are made and talking to the owners made this stop stand out.”

The Tasting Experience

At each brewery, guided tastings are provided, allowing you to enjoy up to 12 different beers. These include some of Vermont’s most iconic brews, carefully selected for the tour. The guide not only helps you distinguish the flavor profiles but also shares stories about each beer’s creation—transforming a simple tasting into a mini-lesson in brewing artistry.

Adding to the enjoyment, snacks are provided at one of the stops—an appreciated touch that balances the often-robust flavors of Vermont craft beers. As one guest shared, “Being able to see how beers are made, talking to owners about their products, and enjoying snacks made the experience well-rounded.”

The Group and Transportation

With a maximum of 14 travelers, the tour fosters camaraderie and lively conversation. Many reviews highlight the engaging guides—“Nick was extremely knowledgeable and personable,” or “Matt was very friendly and knew a lot about the breweries.” The small group size makes it easier to ask questions and get a more personal experience.

Transportation is included, removing the worry of driving between breweries. It’s a key feature that ensures guests can focus on tasting without concern about navigating or getting home safely. Just make sure to arrive 10 minutes early at the designated meeting point.

The Value of the Tour

While $105 may seem a bit of an investment, the value lies in the curated experience—guidance, transportation, tastings, and snacks—all bundled into one relaxing outing. Unlike simply sampling beers on your own, this tour offers behind-the-scenes insights, stories from brewery owners, and a chance to taste some of Vermont’s best offerings in a friendly setting. The reviews back this up, with one guest praising it as “extremely professional and exceeding expectations.”

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for beer enthusiasts eager to expand their knowledge and taste a variety of local brews. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples looking for a relaxed social activity. If you’re traveling with friends who enjoy good conversation and craft beer, this is a fun and informative way to spend an afternoon or evening.

However, it’s best suited for those aged 21 and over due to the alcohol tastings and closed-toe shoes are mandatory for safety reasons. Also, since there’s no hotel pickup, travelers should be comfortable arranging their own transportation to the meeting point.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone curious about Vermont’s craft brewing scene or looking for a fun, educational outing, this Burlington Signature Guided Brewery Tour delivers genuine value. It combines expert guidance, local flavor, and social atmosphere in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable. You’ll leave with a better understanding of what goes into your favorite beers, plus some memorable stories to share.

The small-group format and inclusive transportation make it a stress-free experience, perfect for travelers who want to indulge without complication. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or a casual sipper, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, fun, and flavor—an authentic taste of Burlington’s thriving craft beer culture.

FAQ

How many breweries are visited on this tour?
You visit three local breweries in Burlington, Vermont.

What kind of beers will I taste?
You will taste up to 12 beers, including IPAs, lagers, stouts, and specialty brews, showcasing Vermont’s diverse craft beer offerings.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation is included, ensuring a worry-free experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Are snacks provided?
Yes, snacks are included, typically at one of the brewery stops.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be 21 or older, no exceptions.

Do I need to bring identification?
Yes, US citizens need a valid non-expired state ID; non-US travelers should bring their passport.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required for safety; dress appropriately for the weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

This Burlington brew tour offers a well-balanced, authentic experience that’s perfect for those eager to explore Vermont’s craft beer scene in a relaxed, guided setting. Cheers to a memorable day of tasting and storytelling!