The 5 Best Brewery Tours in Asheville
Asheville stands out as a craft beer mecca, with more than 30 breweries within a 15-minute drive. Its reputation is built on innovative brews, welcoming atmospheres, and a community passionate about their beer. If you’re visiting the mountains of Western North Carolina, a brewery tour is a must—whether you want a quick introduction or an in-depth dive into Asheville’s brewing scene. The city’s diverse options cater to all interests: from guided walks to private tastings and mobile adventures that take you behind the scenes at some of the best local establishments.
Here, you’ll get the chance to taste everything from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts, while learning about the brewing process from passionate local experts. Many tours include opportunities to sample up to a dozen beers and explore the city’s lively neighborhoods. Ready to find the perfect brewery experience? Below are five top-rated tours, each with its own style and flavor.
1. Asheville Signature Guided Brewery Tour
At number 1, the Asheville Signature Guided Brewery Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Asheville’s craft scene. This 3.5-hour adventure takes you behind the scenes at three of the city’s top breweries, where you’ll sample up to 12 different beers. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local authenticity and insider access. You’ll visit Green Man Brewery, DSSOLVR, and One World Brewing, with each stop offering a chance to see how beer is made up close and personal.
The tour includes a tasty snack to help soak up the beers, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed yet informative experience. Visitors consistently praise the enthusiasm of guides like Abby, who shares her extensive knowledge with energy and humor. The reviews highlight how enjoyable and educational the experience is, with guests noting that the tour balances the technical aspects of brewing with fun tasting moments. For a full exploration of Asheville’s beer culture, this tour delivers excellent value for the $105 price.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a rundown of Asheville’s best breweries with a friendly guide.
2. Premier Mobile Guided Brewery Tour Around Asheville
At number 2, the Premier Mobile Guided Brewery Tour offers a mobile experience that’s perfect for those who prefer to stay comfortable rather than walk or cycle. For around $99, this 3-hour tour takes you in a safe, air-conditioned vehicle to three different breweries. The breweries visited change daily, providing a fresh experience each time, and include tastings of three beers at each stop—covering a variety of styles, flavors, and colors.
What sets this tour apart is its flexibility and insider access. You’re not just visiting breweries; you’re experiencing Asheville’s beer scene curated by a local beer expert. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide Jason, who shares deep insights into Asheville’s brewing history and culture. The tour also includes time at local food trucks, adding to the relaxed vibe. This option is ideal for travelers who want a taste of multiple breweries without the walk, making it suitable for those with limited mobility or simply a preference for comfort.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting to sample diverse beers in a fun, hassle-free way.
3. Premier Walking Guided Brewery Tour Through Downtown Asheville
Number 3 on our list is the Premier Walking Guided Brewery Tour. For about $69, this 3-hour tour offers a more immersive experience—exploring Asheville’s streets on foot. It’s perfect if you love discovering a city by walking and want to get a deeper connection with the local brewing scene.
On this tour, your guide will lead you through a curated selection of breweries in downtown Asheville, where you’ll taste a variety of local craft beers. The guide’s knowledge about Asheville’s brewing culture and the atmosphere of each brewery adds a personal touch. Guests have noted guides like Kevin and Jason as engaging and informative, making the journey lively and memorable. This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of socializing, sightseeing, and tasting without worrying about transportation logistics.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a lively, walkable experience that combines city exploration with beer tasting.
4. Asheville: Expert-Led Brewery Walking Tour with Beer Samples
At number 4, the Expert-Led Brewery Walking Tour offers a more professionally curated experience. Led by certified craft beer experts, this 3-hour walking tour takes you through Asheville’s top breweries with engaging stories about each one. You’ll learn about the raw materials used in beer making and how different styles are crafted.
This tour stands out for its educational approach, making it a good fit for those who want to go beyond just tasting. It’s also a great choice if you prefer a smaller, more intimate group—since only two reviews are listed, indicating a boutique experience. The highlights include exploring downtown breweries and gaining VIP insights into the brewing process.
Guests appreciate the fun atmosphere and the chance to ask questions about their favorite beers. The tour’s price point of $65 makes it competitive, especially for those who want a guided walk but prefer a smaller group or expert commentary.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious beer lovers seeking a detailed understanding of brewing techniques alongside tastings.
5. Asheville: Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack
Number 5 is the Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack. For $99, this 4-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience, including VIP access to three breweries or cider houses. You’ll sample up to 12 beers and enjoy a tasty pretzel snack to balance the flavors.
This tour stands out for its transportation logistics—round-trip in a comfortable vehicle—making it more relaxed than walking tours. It’s perfect for travelers who want a behind-the-scenes look at Asheville’s craft scene without the hassle of navigating on their own. Guests often comment on the personable guides who share local history and brewing secrets, making it a fun and informative outing.
While it costs a bit more, the extended duration and included snack add extra value. It’s especially good if you prefer a structured, all-in-one experience that mixes education, tasting, and comfort.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a relaxed, all-inclusive brewery adventure with VIP access.
How to Choose Your Asheville Brewery Tour
Picking the right brewery tour depends on your priorities. If you’re new to Asheville and want a balanced overview, the Signature Guided Tour provides a friendly, comprehensive experience. For those who prefer transportation and a variety of breweries, the Mobile Guided Tour offers convenience and flexibility.
If enjoying Asheville’s city streets sounds appealing, the Walking Tour combines sightseeing with beer tasting. For a more educational and intimate experience, the Expert-Led Tour is ideal for craft beer aficionados. Lastly, if you want a structured, VIP experience with snacks, the Guided Tour with a Snack offers convenience and comfort.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and whether you prefer walking or riding. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, as these tours often fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Asheville’s brew scene is both vibrant and diverse, offering options that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re interested in a comprehensive behind-the-scenes tour or a relaxed mobile experience, there’s something to match your style. The Signature Guided Tour and the Mobile Guided Tour are standout choices for their mix of education, variety, and flexibility. Meanwhile, the walking and expert-led options provide a more personal, in-depth look at Asheville’s brewing craft.
To make the most of your trip, consider your preferred pace, level of interest in brewing details, and whether you want to focus on downtown Asheville or venture to different neighborhoods. Whichever you choose, booking early is wise—Asheville’s brewery tours are popular and tend to fill up fast. Cheers to discovering some of the best craft beers in the country in this lively mountain town.