Chicago: Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus

The Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus promises to immerse visitors in Chicago’s vibrant craft beer scene. Over four hours, guests embark on a journey through three distinct breweries aboard a unique barrel-shaped bus, savoring 45-55 ounces of craft beer and enjoying a behind-the-scenes tour at a nano-brewery. With knowledgeable guides and interactive party games, the tour offers an engaging and memorable experience. But what we love about this tour, and why should one consider adding it to their Chicago itinerary?

This experience made our article of Chicago’s 5 Best Brewery Tours (With Prices & Reviews).

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Key Points

A 4-hour barrel-shaped bus tour exploring Chicago’s craft beer scene, visiting three breweries and providing approximately 45-55 ounces of beer samples.
Includes a VIP behind-the-scenes tour at a top nano-brewery and interactive party games to foster a lively atmosphere.
Offers flexible start times and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, priced at $99.60 per person.
Provides professional guides offering live commentary and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
Participants must be at least 21 years old, with closed-toe shoes recommended and valid ID required for brewery tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Chicago Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus is a 4-hour activity that allows participants to explore the city’s vibrant craft beer scene.

The Chicago Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus is a 4-hour activity that allows participants to explore the city’s vibrant craft beer scene.

Priced at $99.60 per person, the tour operates on a flexible schedule, with availability for various start times.

The experience includes transportation by a unique barrel-shaped bus, behind-the-scenes tours at three local breweries, and the opportunity to sample approximately 45-55 ounces of craft beer.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient and flexible option for beer enthusiasts visiting Chicago.

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Highlights of the Experience

Exploring Chicago’s craft beer scene on a barrel-shaped bus, participants can enjoy the city’s vibrant brewing culture.

The tour visits three distinct breweries, allowing guests to taste approximately 45-55 ounces of craft beer. A VIP behind-the-scenes tour at a top nano-brewery provides a unique, insider’s perspective.

Interactive party games engage fellow participants, fostering a lively and social atmosphere throughout the experience.

With knowledgeable guides providing live commentary, the tour offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Chicago’s thriving craft beer landscape.

What’s Included

Though the duration of the Chicago Craft Brewery Tour is 4 hours, it packs in a wealth of inclusions for participants.

The tour features:

Professional, knowledgeable guides who provide live commentary throughout the experience
Transportation by a unique, barrel-shaped bus for an immersive journey
Hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the tour
Approximately 45-55 ounces of craft beer samples across three distinct breweries

The tour excludes food and tips, allowing guests to explore Chicago’s vibrant craft beer scene at their own pace and budget.

Participant Requirements

To participate in the Chicago Craft Brewery Tour, guests must be at least 21 years of age, as it’s an adult-only experience.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the barrel-shaped bus may pose accessibility challenges.

Participants should wear closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort during the brewery tours.

While food isn’t included, guests can bring their own snacks or purchase food at the venues.

A valid ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, is required to be presented at the breweries for the tasting experience.

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Customer Testimonials

According to customer reviews, the Chicago Craft Brewery Tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback.

Participants consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the unique experience on the barrel bus, and the great selection of beers at the various venues:

"Fantastic selection of beers tasted at great venues." – Verity, UK
"Great variety of places, amazing barrel bus!" – Emily, US

The tour boasts an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 43 reviews, with highlights including the VIP behind-the-scenes tour at a top nano-brewery and the interactive party games that engage fellow participants.

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Visiting the Breweries

The Chicago Craft Brewery Tour takes participants to three distinct breweries, where they can taste approximately 45-55 ounces of craft beer. During the VIP behind-the-scenes tour at a top nano-brewery, guests will learn about the brewing process and enjoy an exclusive tasting. At the other venues, they’ll engage in interactive party games while sampling a variety of local brews. The tour offers a unique and immersive way to explore Chicago’s vibrant craft beer scene from the comfort of a barrel-shaped bus.

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Interactive Party Games

Beyond simply tasting craft beers, the Chicago Craft Brewery Tour incorporates interactive party games to engage participants and enhance the overall experience.

The tour incorporates:

Competitive trivia challenges that test beer knowledge
Brewery-themed scavenger hunts to explore the venues
Classic games like beer pong and cornhole for friendly competition
Group photo opportunities to capture memorable moments

These interactive elements foster camaraderie among the group, encouraging participants to mingle, collaborate, and have fun throughout the tour.

The party games inject an element of excitement and excitement into the experience, creating a lively and memorable craft brewery adventure.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

How does one book the Chicago Craft Brewery Tour, and what’s the cancellation policy?

The tour can be booked online on the tour provider’s website, with available start times provided for selection. The price is $99.60 per person.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows guests to book with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their plans change.

The tour is popular, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot. Once booked, guests can look forward to an immersive craft beer experience on the unique barrel-shaped bus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own snacks. However, the tour includes transportation and a behind-the-scenes brewery tour, so guests can enjoy the provided beverages and food options during the experience.

Is the Bus Equipped With Restrooms?

The bus is not equipped with restrooms. However, the tour includes stops at the participating breweries, which have restroom facilities available for use by tour participants during the tour.

Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance?

Yes, it’s recommended to book the tour in advance. The tour has limited availability and advance booking ensures your spot. You can check the tour’s website or contact the provider to book your preferred date and time.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing. Casual attire is appropriate, as you will be on their feet exploring different breweries.

Can I Take Pictures Inside the Breweries?

Yes, participants are generally allowed to take pictures inside the breweries during the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour guide or brewery staff first, as some may have restrictions on photography.

The Sum Up

The Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus offers a unique and engaging way to experience Chicago’s vibrant craft beer scene. Visitors can sample a variety of craft beers, get behind-the-scenes access at a nano-brewery, and enjoy interactive party games, all while being transported in a barrel-shaped bus. With knowledgeable guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a fun atmosphere, this tour provides a memorable experience for beer enthusiasts.