The 3 Best Brewery Tours in Charleston
Charleston isn’t just about historic streets and stunning waterfronts; it’s also a hot spot for craft beer and local wineries. Thanks to its thriving brewing scene and scenic surroundings, the city offers several ways to enjoy a delicious sip while taking in some of the area’s most iconic sights. Whether you prefer a luxury private experience or a lively group outing, Charleston’s brewery tours deliver authentic flavors with a side of Southern charm. This guide highlights the best options, helping you pick the perfect tour for your taste, budget, and schedule.
Quick Overview
Our list includes three standout tours: a luxury chauffeured experience that combines sightseeing with tastings, a public brewery crawl ideal for social drinkers, and a multi-stop private tour for those who want tailored experiences. Each offers something different: from full-day scenic adventures to focused brewery visits. For more details, visit the detailed tour descriptions below, including Charleston Winery, Brewery & Sightseeing Tour, Charleston Brewery District Cruise, and Private Luxury Chauffeured Transportation.
1. Charleston Winery, Brewery & Sightseeing Tour
This 6-hour tour combines wine, beer, and sightseeing with a cozy limo-party bus. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed yet comprehensive day exploring Charleston’s highlights while sampling local beverages. The tour starts with a visit to the Angel Oak Tree, believed to be over 500 years old, an eye-popping sight just a short drive from downtown that’s included in the price. Next, you’ll head to Deepwater Vineyard, the only vineyard in Charleston, where you’ll enjoy a wine tasting included in your fare.
The tour’s standout feature is the visit to Revelry Brewing, where your first beer is on the house. The guide tailors the brewery stop to fit your group’s preferences, making it a flexible and personable experience. Afterward, you’ll make a quick stop at the Charleston City Market for some local shopping, followed by a cruise through the Battery and White Point Gardens and a drive past Rainbow Row for memorable photos. The small-group setting and personalized guide make this tour feel intimate, and reviews praise Angela and Mitchell for their kindness and knowledge.
Value for money is high considering the combination of sightseeing, tastings, and transportation. This tour suits those who want a full day with a mix of history, scenery, and adult beverages, all in a fun, guided environment. The only potential drawback could be the price, but the inclusions justify it for many.
Bottom line: If you’re after a well-rounded, scenic experience with wine and beer tasting, this tour offers a thoughtful balance and memorable highlights.
2. Charleston Brewery District Cruise (Public Tour)
For those who prefer a more social, energetic outing, the Charleston Brewery District Cruise is hard to beat. At around $95 per person, it provides a 4-hour lively exploration of Charleston’s booming brewery scene. Meet at the Charleston Visitors Center Bus Shed and hop aboard a limo party bus that’s stocked with two domestic beers per person, snacks, and swag.
This tour hits four of Charleston’s most renowned breweries — Holy City Brewing, Revelry Brewing, Palmetto Brewing, and Munkle Brewing — with 30-minute stops at each. The schedule is flexible, depending on weather, group size, and venue availability, which allows for a spontaneous, tailor-made experience. The focus is on sampling beers at each stop, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops at iconic sights like Rainbow Row and the Battery.
Reviews indicate this tour is best for groups of friends or couples looking to enjoy craft beers in a fun, social setting, with the added convenience of door-to-door transport. It’s less about sightseeing and more about focused beer tasting and socializing, making it ideal for those short on time but eager to explore Charleston’s brewery scene.
Bottom line: If you want a cost-effective, lively brewery crawl with plenty of beer and a social vibe, this tour delivers excellent value.
3. Private Luxury Chauffeured Transportation to & from Distilleries, Breweries
For travelers seeking ultimate comfort and customization, the Private Luxury Chauffeured Transportation offers a tailored experience. For around $875 per person, you get a personal chauffeur guiding you through up to six stops, which could include Angel Oak, Deep Water Vineyards, FireFly Distillery, and Holy City Brewery — the itinerary is flexible.
This luxury option is perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting an intimate, stress-free day of tasting local spirits and brews. The service takes care of the driving, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience without worry. The reviews are limited but enthusiastic, emphasizing the personalized service and convenience.
Your chauffeur can suggest stops based on your interests, whether you prefer beer, wine, or spirits. This tour is best suited for small groups or individuals who value privacy and comfort over a set schedule. Keep in mind, the higher price point reflects the level of service and exclusivity.
Bottom line: If you prioritize luxury and flexibility and are planning a special outing, this private tour makes it easy to customize your day.
How to Choose the Best Charleston Brewery Tour
Choosing between these options depends largely on your budget, group size, and interests. If you want a well-rounded day with sightseeing, wine, and beer, the Charleston Winery, Brewery & Sightseeing Tour offers great value. For a more casual, social brewery crawl, the Charleston Brewery District Cruise is perfect. If your priority is luxury and customization, then the private chauffeur service ensures a tailored, comfortable experience.
Consider the amount of time you want to spend on the tour — four hours for the brewery crawl, six for the scenic and tasting tour, or a full day for the private experience. Think about your interest in sightseeing versus tasting — the first combines both, while the second focuses on beer, and the third offers flexibility to include spirits and wine.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive scenic experience with wine and beer, a lively brewery crawl with friends, or a luxury private day tailored to your tastes, Charleston’s brewery scene has plenty to offer. The Charleston Winery, Brewery & Sightseeing Tour is ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of history, scenery, and adult beverages, while the Charleston Brewery District Cruise suits social drinkers eager to sample a variety of local beers. For a special occasion or customized experience, the private luxury option provides unmatched comfort and flexibility.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early ensures you’ll secure your spot in Charleston’s lively craft beverage scene. Cheers to discovering the flavors and sights that make this city a true Southern gem!