Industry City Cocktail Tour

Our review of the Industry City Cocktail Tour offers a detailed look at this lively, three-hour exploration of Brooklyn’s emerging craft beverage scene. Designed for those who appreciate good drinks and authentic local craftsmanship, this tour promises to introduce you to Brooklyn’s innovative distillers, brewers, and sake makers, all while enjoying some tasty bites.

Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just curious about the city’s latest artisanal movements, this experience could be a highlight of your visit.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on high-quality, locally crafted drinks—from bourbon to sake—paired with a few light snacks. The inclusion of wireless headsets means you won’t miss a single word from your guide, even in a lively industrial setting. Another plus is the small group size — a maximum of 14 travelers — which tends to foster a more relaxed, engaging atmosphere.

A potential consideration is the price point — $119 a person — which might seem steep for some, especially if you’re not a dedicated spirits enthusiast. However, considering the all-inclusive tastings and the diverse range of drinks, many find the value fair, especially for a unique Brooklyn experience.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy exploring local food and drink scenes in a more intimate setting, especially those with an interest in small-batch spirits, artisanal brewing, or cultural tasting experiences. It’s perfect for couples, friends gathering, or anyone wanting a relaxed, yet informative evening in Brooklyn.

This experience made our article of The 11 Most Popular City Tours In Brooklyn.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Tastings: Every drink, from bourbons to sake, is included, making it easy to relax and enjoy without extra costs.
• Authentic Brooklyn Experience: The tour highlights Brooklyn’s artisanal spirit makers, showcasing local craftsmanship.
• Informative Guides: Expect engaging commentary, enhanced by wireless headsets for clear listening.
• Light Food Pairings: Snacks accompany the tastings, adding a savory touch to the experience.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 14 participants, fostering a more personalized atmosphere.
• Ideal for Enthusiasts: Perfect for cocktail lovers, foodies, or those wanting a taste of Brooklyn’s creative side.

An In-Depth Look at the Industry City Cocktail Tour

This tour is a guided walk through Brooklyn’s Industry City, a hub of creative and artisanal manufacturing. It’s a 3-hour journey that combines tasting, learning, and a bit of wandering through Brooklyn’s industrial landscape. The journey begins at the main meeting point, 220 36th St, where you’re handed a mobile ticket and a set of wireless headsets — small details that make a big difference in creating an engaging experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Industry City

Your adventure kicks off right in the heart of Brooklyn’s industrial complex. Here, you’ll get a quick introduction and jump straight into tasting some of the local spirit producers. The focus is on drinks and snacks, giving you a taste of what Brooklyn’s artisanal community is all about. The short 3-minute walk sets the stage for what’s to come, with a glance at the vibrant environment that fuel these creative endeavors.

Stop 2: Fort Hamilton Distillery

This is a highlight for lovers of bourbons and gins. The 25-minute tasting session allows you to sample some fabulous spirits that reflect Brooklyn’s spirit of innovation. Reviewers have noted the fabulous bourbons, which are crafted with care and showcase Brooklyn’s growing reputation as a spirits hub. You’ll learn about the distillation process and the unique qualities that set these local brands apart.

Stop 3: Barrow’s Intense NY Tasting Room

Known for its ginger liqueur, this stop offers a 15-minute tasting of what’s described as “the most intense and kind ginger liqueur ever.” This quirky flavor profile is a hit with those looking for something different—and a little spicy. Guests have commented on its deliciously bold flavor, which highlights Brooklyn’s willingness to experiment with traditional ingredients.

Stop 4: Brooklyn Kura

Here, you’ll sample handcrafted sake, a rare offering in New York City. The 20-minute tasting session gives you insight into Brooklyn’s burgeoning sake scene, a surprising but welcome addition to the city’s beverage landscape. Reviewers appreciated the smooth, well-crafted sake, noting how it reflects the dedication and craftsmanship of Brooklyn’s beverage artisans.

Stop 5: Big aLICe Barrel Room

Your final tasting involves unique brews from Big aLICe, a Brooklyn-based brewery. The 15-minute sampling offers a range of delicious, creative beers—perfect for ending the evening on a high note. Many travelers enjoyed the diversity of flavors, making this a memorable capstone.

The Experience: Practical Details

The tour’s timing begins at 5:30 pm, aligning well with early evening plans. The group size, capped at 14, makes for a relaxed vibe, and the light food tastings complement the beverages without overwhelming your palate. Walking from stop to stop is manageable, and the proximity of the venues within Industry City minimizes transit time, giving you more tasting time.

The inclusion of wireless headsets is a real bonus, especially in a lively industrial setting where background noise can drown out conversation. It ensures you catch every detail about the drinks, the makers, and Brooklyn’s beverage scene.

Pricing and Value

At $119 per person, this tour is on the premium side. It’s important to consider what’s included: all drinks and light snacks, guided commentary, and a small-group environment. If you’re a cocktail or spirits enthusiast, the chance to sample a range of locally crafted drinks in one evening offers a compelling value. It’s also a unique way to experience Brooklyn’s artisan spirit culture beyond the usual bars and restaurants.

Authenticity and Quality

What sets this experience apart is its focus on small-batch makers and local craftsmanship. Unlike generic tours, this one provides access to actual producers who are passionate about their craft. Many reviews highlight the delicious food and tapas-style snacks, which add to the overall enjoyment and make it more than just a tasting of drinks.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from different parts of Brooklyn or Manhattan. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate. Remember that cancellations are free if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind if your plans change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous drink lovers, especially those interested in artisan spirits and local Brooklyn culture. It’s ideal for couples looking for a fun, intimate night out or groups of friends eager for a relaxed yet educational outing. If you enjoy tastings, light bites, and learning about behind-the-scenes of craft beverage production, this tour offers a rewarding taste of Brooklyn’s creative spirit.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking an up-close look at Brooklyn’s artisanal beverage scene, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience. The variety of drinks, from bourbon to sake to ginger liqueur, provides plenty of flavors to explore, appealing to a broad range of palates. The inclusion of light snacks and the small-group atmosphere make it feel personalized and special.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the all-inclusive tastings and access to local makers justify it for enthusiasts who want a curated, authentic experience. It’s a fantastic way to spend an evening in Brooklyn if you love discovering new drinks and want to deepen your understanding of Brooklyn’s evolving culinary scene.

This tour is less suited for budget travelers or those not particularly interested in spirits, but it’s a great choice for anyone seeking a fun, flavorful, and cultural evening that’s both informative and tasty.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Since it involves alcohol tastings, it’s primarily for guests 21 and older, but the focus on artisanal spirits makes it appealing for adults interested in local crafts.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, all drinks, including bourbons, gins, sake, and beers, are included along with light snacks, making it a full experience without extra costs.

How long does each stop last?
Stops range from 3 minutes to 25 minutes, with most lasting around 15–20 minutes, providing enough time to taste and learn without feeling rushed.

Is the tour walkable within Industry City?
Yes, the stops are within walking distance, and the tour is designed to be manageable, with walking keeping the experience relaxed.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time, receiving a full refund.

Is this suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on spirits, those interested in Brooklyn’s artisanal manufacturing might still enjoy the environment and light snacks, but the main content involves tastings.

In essence, the Industry City Cocktail Tour offers a thoughtfully curated peek into Brooklyn’s DIY spirits scene, blending education, flavor, and local culture into a memorable evening. For anyone eager to explore Brooklyn’s creative side while sipping on some of the city’s best small-batch drinks, this tour is definitely worth considering.