Wilmington is a lively city with a strong craft beer scene, making it a fantastic spot for brewery tours. Its historic downtown, scenic riverwalk, and vibrant local breweries offer a rich backdrop for exploring via different tour styles. We particularly enjoy the Wilmington History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour for its combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and craft beer sampling.
The electric bikes make it easy to cover more ground without tiring out, and the small-group format ensures a personal experience.
Plus, stopping at notable sites like Thalian Hall, Bellamy Mansion, and Oakdale Cemetery adds a cultural layer to the trip.
While Wilmington’s breweries are worth a visit on their own, these tours elevate the experience by including local history and unique transportation. Whether you prefer a guided e-bike journey or a private trip in a vintage VW bus, options abound to match different interests and budgets.
Quick Overview
Our list of top Wilmington brewery tours includes a fun, history-rich e-bike tour that combines sightseeing with brewery stops, and a private VW bus tour that’s customizable and perfect for small groups.
Both tours deliver unique ways to experience Wilmington’s craft beer scene, but they cater to different styles of travel — active adventurers versus those seeking privacy and flexibility. Now, let’s explore each option in detail.
1. THE Wilmington History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour (4 hr)
For around $75 per person, this 4-hour guided e-bike tour combines history, sightseeing, and craft beer sampling in Wilmington. The tour is ideal for those who want to explore the city without the hassle of driving, thanks to the e-bike’s assist mode.
The guide leads you through downtown Wilmington, stopping at major sites like Thalian Hall, Wilmington Oakdale Cemetery, and Bellamy Mansion, giving you a peek into the city’s past along the way. The highlight is visiting three breweries, which are carefully chosen to showcase Wilmington’s brewing talent.
What makes this tour stand out is its mix of cultural storytelling and craft beer. The small group size (just four participants) ensures an intimate experience, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers. Guests have praised the guide’s storytelling skills and the fun of riding the e-bikes.
Notably, guests have enjoyed the opportunity to explore historic sites like Oakdale Cemetery, which they say “will not be enough time,” highlighting how engaging and immersive this experience is.
The tour’s value comes from the combination of active sightseeing and quality beer tastings, making it a well-rounded way to enjoy Wilmington.
Bottom line: If you want a lively, informative, and active way to sample Wilmington’s local brews while discovering its history, this tour offers an excellent balance of fun and education.
2. Private Custom Brewery Tour in a ‘72 VW Bus – Roadies Local
This fully customizable private tour is perfect for a small group of up to seven people, costing around $350 per group. You’ll cruise Wilmington in a vintage 1972 VW bus, adding a nostalgic and fun vibe to your brewery adventures.
The tour is flexible — after booking, you’ll discuss your preferences and select the breweries you want to visit, with options including Waterline Brewing (the tour’s anchor), Fly Trap Brewing, HiWire Brewing, or Wilmington Brewing, among others.
The experience is designed for those who want a personalized day, with the driver taking you to your chosen breweries—each visit lasting around 30 to 60 minutes. The tour includes a cooler with ice and water, and you’re encouraged to bring snacks and extras along, making it relaxed and informal.
Guests have enjoyed the fun atmosphere, with one reviewer calling the van “the center of attention,” and many appreciate the flexibility to tailor the stops.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a private experience with friends, this tour delivers both style and personal attention.
Bottom line: For those seeking a private, tailored brewery experience with the charm of a vintage VW, this tour offers a memorable way to explore Wilmington’s craft beer scene in style.
How to Choose
When deciding between these Wilmington brewery tours, consider your priorities. If you love active exploration combined with a bit of history and casual beer tastings, the e-bike tour offers a lively, social experience. It’s well-suited for visitors who enjoy outdoor activity and want to see some of Wilmington’s most notable sites while sampling local brews.
On the other hand, if you prefer a private, flexible experience that’s perfect for small groups or special occasions, the VW bus tour provides a customized journey with the comfort and fun of a vintage vehicle. It’s ideal if you want to select your breweries, want a more intimate setting, or are traveling with friends or family looking for a unique adventure.
Pricing and time are considerations too; the e-bike tour is generally more affordable and slightly shorter at four hours, while the VW bus tour tends to be more expensive but offers complete customization. Booking early is advisable for both, especially during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Both tours showcase Wilmington’s vibrant craft beer scene, but they cater to different tastes. The e-bike tour excels for active travelers who enjoy learning about local history and exploring on two wheels, while the private VW bus appeals to those seeking a custom, relaxed day with friends or family.
Whichever you choose, Wilmington’s breweries are sure to impress with their welcoming atmospheres and innovative brews.
Be sure to book early, especially if you want the private tour, to secure your preferred date and enjoy a memorable craft beer experience in Wilmington.