Philadelphia is renowned for more than just its historic sites and cheesesteaks—it’s also a thriving hub for craft beer enthusiasts. The city’s craft brewing scene has exploded in recent years, making it a perfect destination for those eager to explore local breweries. Whether you’re interested in behind-the-scenes tours, biking through historic neighborhoods, or sampling a wide variety of styles, Philadelphia offers options that cater to different tastes and schedules. These guided tours provide not only tastings but also insights into the brewing process, the city’s beer history, and the chance to meet passionate local brewers.
Each of these tours stands out for their unique approach and focus. Some emphasize comfort and convenience with small-group guided experiences, while others combine activity—like biking—with beer tasting. Whatever your preference, you’ll find a tour that gives you a taste of Philadelphia’s vibrant beer culture, all while enjoying the city’s historic neighborhoods and lively brewing scene. For an in-depth look at some of the best options, keep reading.
1. Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour
At number one, the Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Philadelphia’s craft beer scene. For $105, you’ll spend about 3.5 hours with a small group exploring three of the city’s most acclaimed breweries. The tour departs from Center City, and transportation is provided via a comfortable beer-themed van, so you can focus on tasting and learning rather than driving.
What makes this tour exceptional is the behind-the-scenes access at each brewery. You’ll visit Flying Fish Brewing, the largest producer in South Jersey and a pioneer in virtual brewing since 1995. Flying Fish is noted for balanced, full-flavored beers that are highly drinkable. Afterwards, the tour moves to Double Nickel Brewing Co, where you’ll learn about the meticulous process behind their acclaimed beers, and finally to a third local brewery with plenty of tasting opportunities. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner, with reviews highlighting their ability to make the experience both fun and educational.
The highlight is the generous samples and a snack to complement your beers. This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate experience with a focus on quality breweries and storytelling.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a small-group, all-inclusive experience with behind-the-scenes tours and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers great value and a full taste of Philly’s craft brewing scene.
2. Half-Day Philadelphia’s Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings
For those who enjoy cycling and want to combine sightseeing with beer tasting, the Half-Day Philadelphia’s Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings is an excellent choice. Priced at $119, it lasts about 3.5 hours and offers a dynamic way to explore Philadelphia’s historic neighborhoods, including the Brewerytown area, which earned its reputation as the “Lager capital of America” in the 19th century.
This tour stands out for its active approach. Bicycles and helmets are provided, and you’ll travel at a comfortable pace past landmarks like Fairmount Park and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Along the route, you’ll visit several local breweries, including the restored City Park Brewery, which is considered one of the finest examples of 19th-century brewery restoration in the country. The tour stops at Crime and Punishment Brewing, the only brewery in Brewerytown, where you’ll sample their distinctive beers and learn about their innovative brewing methods.
Guests love the personal vibe, citing the friendly guides and the opportunity to learn about Philadelphia’s brewing history in a relaxed setting. The multiple tastings at different breweries make this tour a perfect fit for active beer lovers who want a bit of exercise with their craft beer exploration.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing, history, and beer tastings in a small-group setting, with a focus on neighborhood stories and local breweries.
3. Philadelphia: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack
At number three, the Philadelphia: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack provides a slightly longer, more immersive experience—lasting about 3.5 hours. This tour is suited for those wanting a deep dive into Philadelphia’s craft beer culture with the convenience of roundtrip transportation from New Jersey.
The tour includes visits to three notable breweries, where you can sample up to 12 different beer styles. The focus is on behind-the-scenes access, giving you a glimpse of how the beers are made and the stories behind each brewery. The experience is interactive, with lessons on beer history and culture, making it educational as well as enjoyable.
A highlight is the included snack, which pairs nicely with the beers and enhances the tasting experience. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized itinerary, making it a solid choice for those looking to learn more about Philly’s evolving craft scene without the hassle of planning individual visits.
Bottom Line: Best suited for beer enthusiasts who appreciate a comprehensive, guided experience with tastings, educational content, and a relaxed pace.
How to Choose Your Philadelphia Brewery Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. The Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour is perfect for those seeking a comprehensive and intimate experience with a focus on the breweries’ stories and flavors. If you prefer active exploration and want to see different neighborhoods while enjoying multiple tastings, the Half-Day Philadelphia’s Brewery Bike Tour offers a fun, physical way to learn about Philly’s beer culture. For travelers who want a more educational and relaxed experience with a focus on understanding beer styles and history, the Philadelphia: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack is an excellent choice.
Budget-wise, all these tours are within the $105-$120 range, but the value you’ll get depends on whether you prefer a guided van tour, a biking adventure, or a more in-depth classroom experience. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot in these popular experiences.
In summary, Philadelphia offers a variety of brewery tours that cater to different interests—from behind-the-scenes access and small-group tastings to active biking explorations. If you’re a craft beer lover, planning ahead and choosing the right tour can turn your visit into a memorable journey through Philly’s brewing history and its current vibrant scene. Whichever you pick, these tours promise plenty of flavor, stories, and fun.