The 2 Best Drinking Tours in Bend
Bend, Oregon, is renowned for its thriving craft beer scene. With over 35 breweries in town, it’s no exaggeration to say that beer is a part of the local lifestyle. Whether you’re a dedicated hop-head or just looking to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with good company and even better beer, Bend’s drinking tours offer something for all. The city’s lively brewery scene, combined with unique food trucks and behind-the-scenes tours, makes for memorable outings. Plus, local guides often share insights that you can’t find on your own, adding an authentic flavor to your experience.
We’ve rounded up the two top-rated drinking tours in Bend, each offering a different way to sample the city’s best brews. Whether you want to visit three distinct breweries with a behind-the-scenes look or enjoy tasting flights coupled with tasty bites from food trucks, these tours promise fun, flavor, and a good dose of local culture.
1. Craft Brewery Tours with Complimentary Tasting Flights
This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive brewery experience. Bend’s reputation as a craft beer hub is well-deserved, and this tour takes you to three of the best breweries in town, each with its own vibe and style. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes tour at one of the breweries, where the guide shares insights into the brewing process—a rare peek for beer lovers. The tour includes several flight tastings, giving you a wide variety of flavors to compare and savor.
What sets this tour apart is its personalized approach—visiting well-chosen breweries that showcase Bend’s diverse beer scene. You’ll learn about the different styles and techniques behind each brew, making the tasting more meaningful. The tour lasts around 2 hours 30 minutes, making it a relaxed yet informative outing. Reviews highlight the friendly guide and the variety of beer, with one guest noting, “Good beer, great convo,” and emphasizing how it’s a laid-back way to enjoy Bend’s beer culture.
Bottom Line: If you want an engaging introduction to Bend’s craft breweries combined with behind-the-scenes access and plenty of tastings, this tour is a solid choice. Its focus on quality and local flavor offers excellent value for the price.
2. Food Truck and Brewery Tour with Complimentary Tastings
For a different experience, the Food Truck and Brewery Tour combines Bend’s famous craft breweries with its lively food truck scene. This tour explores two top breweries and the most popular food truck pod in town, pairing beer tastings with tasty snacks. The tour offers complimentary flight tastings from each brewery, which lets you sample a variety of styles without committing to full pours. Plus, you get to enjoy Bend’s renowned Tots from scratch, making it a fun, casual afternoon.
What makes this tour unique is the chance to combine craft beer with street food, giving you a broader taste of Bend’s local scene. The guide shares tips on the best local spots, and guests often mention the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to make new friends. At about 2 hours 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, social experience with a good mix of drinking and eating. One reviewer praised the tour for Scott’s personable approach and for sharing excellent local recommendations.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to pair beer tasting with fun street eats, this tour offers a lively, tasty experience and a chance to enjoy Bend’s vibrant food truck culture along with its breweries.
How to Choose Between the Tours
When deciding between these two options, consider what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re keen on learning about the brewing process and appreciate a more structured brewery visit, the Craft Brewery Tours is the way to go. This tour is especially suited to those who want to spend time behind the scenes and taste a variety of beers in a relaxed setting.
On the other hand, if you prefer pairing beer with good food and enjoy a more social, street-food vibe, the Food Truck and Brewery Tour offers a lively mix of bites and brews. It’s perfect for travelers who want to mingle and enjoy Bend’s casual food truck scene along with local beers.
Consider your budget, too. Both tours are priced at $99 per person and last about 2.5 hours, making them excellent value for a memorable afternoon. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Bend’s craft beer culture provides plentiful options for visitors eager to explore local flavors. Whether you want a deep dive into brewing or a combination of beer and street food, these tours deliver authentic, enjoyable experiences. The Craft Brewery Tours stand out for their behind-the-scenes access and variety, while the Food Truck and Brewery Tour offers a fun, laid-back way to enjoy Bend’s lively food scene.
For different types of travelers—whether you’re a beer connoisseur, a social butterfly, or someone eager to learn about local brewing—these tours are a great addition to your Bend itinerary. Be sure to book early, as these popular experiences fill up quickly. Cheers to discovering the best of Bend’s craft beer scene!