The 2 Best Drinking Tours in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania isn’t just about its historic sites and iconic cheesesteaks — it’s also a well-kept secret for craft beer lovers. The state has a booming craft beer scene, with independent breweries popping up across both urban and rural areas. Whether you’re interested in behind-the-scenes brewery access or want to explore local York City breweries on foot, Pennsylvania offers engaging ways to sample its best brews. These tours provide insight into the brewing process, unique local flavors, and chances to meet the people behind your favorite drinks.
The following guide highlights two standout options: a guided brewery tour on a comfy Brew Bus in York County, and an urban walking tour in York City that focuses on its vibrant craft beer landscape. Both provide excellent opportunities to enjoy Pennsylvania’s craft beer culture, each with its own distinct vibe and itinerary.
Quick Overview
In this article, you’ll find two top-rated drinking tours in Pennsylvania. First, a Guided Brewery Tour of York County on the Brew Bus offers a fun, relaxed ride visiting three local breweries, perfect for those who prefer a mobile experience. Second, a Guided Brewery Walking Tour in York City lets you explore York’s urban craft beer scene on foot, with stops at three independent breweries within a one-square-mile area. Read on to see which tour suits your style best.
1. Guided Brewery Tour of York County on the Brew Bus
At number one, the Guided Brewery Tour of York County on the Brew Bus is a great choice for those who want a relaxed, social experience with a focus on scenic views and local history. For $99 per person, you’ll spend about four hours on a comfortable bus exploring three independent breweries, with the chance for behind-the-scenes access and guided tastings. The tour is led by knowledgeable Beer Guides who share stories about York County’s brewing scene, making the experience both informative and fun.
The itinerary typically includes a visit to Wyndridge Farm, which boasts a 100-year-old, 77-acre farm setting. It’s home to Winding Path Brewery, a 30-barrel brewery, plus a cidery. The farm’s scenic views and farm-to-glass vibe are highlights. The second stop is Scrubby’s Brewery, set in a local bowling alley, offering a playful twist on craft beer. It’s known as a local favorite, especially for its delicious beers and quirky atmosphere. The tour allows you to learn about the brewing process and enjoy tastings in a relaxed setting.
This tour is ideal for craft beer enthusiasts, newcomers, or those interested in local history. The private brewery visits are subject to change, but the experience guarantees access to some of York County’s best independent breweries. At $99, it’s a good value for a guided, all-inclusive experience that combines scenery, history, and excellent beer.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a fun, guided bus trip with behind-the-scenes access and scenic views of York County’s brewing culture.
2. Guided Brewery Walking Tour in York City
At number two, the Guided Brewery Walking Tour in York City offers a more intimate experience in the heart of downtown York. For $79, you’ll spend about four hours walking through the city’s historic Royal Square District, visiting three of York’s six independent breweries within a one-mile radius. Guided by knowledgeable Beer Guides, you’ll get behind-the-scenes access and learn about York’s growing craft beer scene.
The tour starts at Collusion Tap Works, a small 7-barrel brewery known for award-winning beers that have earned medals at both the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup. The brew pub’s unique setup includes a 1-barrel pilot system, offering a glimpse into small-batch brewing. During the tour, you’ll also visit Liquid Hero Brewery, one of York’s oldest breweries housed in a historic railroad house. Here, you can sample some of their well-loved brews while hearing stories about their history and brewing techniques.
This tour appeals most to urban explorers and craft beer fans interested in York’s local culture and history. It provides a more personal, walking experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more leisurely pace. Since the breweries are close together, it’s easy to hop between stops, and the tour’s focus on local flavor and brewing craftsmanship makes it a rewarding way to spend an afternoon.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want to explore York’s urban craft beer scene on foot with an emphasis on history and local brewing talent.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two tours, consider your budget, preferred experience format, and interest in local scenery or city charm. If you enjoy a comfortable ride, scenic views, and a broader rural experience, the Brew Bus is the way to go. It’s especially good for those who want to avoid walking and prefer a more relaxed day with some sightseeing.
On the other hand, if you’re more drawn to urban exploration and want to see York’s historic neighborhoods while sampling beers, the walking tour offers a more intimate look at the city’s brewing scene. Both tours are roughly the same duration and offer a range of local breweries, but your choice depends on whether you like being on a bus or strolling through the city.
Booking early is recommended, especially during weekends or peak seasons, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Pennsylvania offers diverse options for craft beer lovers, from riding comfortably through scenic countryside to walking through historic city streets. The guided brewery tour on the Brew Bus is a great choice if you want a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of behind-the-scenes access. Meanwhile, the walking tour in York City provides a more personal, city-centric experience in a compact area.
If you’re planning your trip, consider your preferred pace and whether you want to focus on rural scenery or urban charm. Both tours do a solid job of showcasing Pennsylvania’s craft beer craftsmanship, making them excellent options for any beer enthusiast. Remember to book early, especially during busy times, and enjoy discovering the local flavors that make Pennsylvania’s brewing scene stand out.