Tampa’s reputation as a craft beer hub is well-earned. The city’s mix of historic neighborhoods, like Ybor City, and trendy districts such as Tampa Heights makes it a prime spot for exploring local breweries. What sets Tampa apart is its lively, authentic brewing scene, combined with creative tour options that make tasting beers both fun and convenient. Instead of walking from brewery to brewery, several tours feature custom golf cart transportation, offering a relaxed way to soak in Tampa’s sights while sampling its best brews. Whether you’re after a personalized experience or a lively group adventure, Tampa’s brewery tours deliver a taste of the city’s local flavor with ease and style.
If you’re trying to decide between options, it’s helpful to know what each tour covers. Below, we compare two top-rated private brewery tours—one in Ybor City and one in Tampa Heights—highlighting what makes each unique and how they match different interests. For detailed planning, check out Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart and Tampa Heights Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart.
1. Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart
This tour is a stellar way to explore Tampa’s historic Ybor City, a neighborhood famous for its cigar culture and lively nightlife. Priced at $235 per group (up to 5 people), it includes pickup, drop-off, and transportation between five pre-selected breweries, with the option to customize the stops. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a perfect way to taste a variety of beers without feeling rushed. The real highlight is the fun transportation in a custom golf cart, which adds a relaxed, social vibe to the experience.
The itinerary features visits to Bastet Brewing, where you can sample beers inspired by international fermentation traditions, and Coppertail Brewing Co., known for its rotating tap list and a historic Ybor building. These breweries are praised for their high-quality, local craft beers and innovative styles. The tours are frequently rated 5 out of 5, with reviews praising the driver’s knowledge and the well-planned route that balances sightseeing and beer tasting. One reviewer called it a “perfect night,” with a fun atmosphere and friendly guides.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a personalized, fun way to see Ybor and sample Tampa’s craft beer scene with a small group. It’s especially suited for beer lovers who appreciate history and local ambiance.
2. Tampa Heights Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart
At number two, this tour takes you through Tampa Heights, another vibrant neighborhood filled with innovative breweries and a community feel. For $235 per group, up to five people, it offers the same custom golf cart transportation and flexibility in choosing your stops from a list of five breweries. The tour duration is also around 2.5 hours, making it a manageable but engaging outing.
Highlights include Magnanimous Brewing, known for its local roots and friendly atmosphere, and Angry Chair Brewing, which specializes in bold stouts and experimental beers. This brewery is renowned for its forward-thinking brews and has earned praise for its medal-winning pilsner. Guests particularly enjoy the intimate setting and the opportunity to taste a wide variety of styles, from sours to IPAs. Reviews emphasize the informative guides and relaxed pace, with one reviewer sharing, “We had the best time, and the driver made it so fun and easy.”
This tour appeals to those who want a more local, neighborhood-focused experience. It’s perfect for beer enthusiasts eager to explore Tampa Heights’ emerging brewery scene without the hassle of driving.
Bottom Line: A great pick if you’re interested in crafting your own itinerary and discovering Tampa’s up-and-coming breweries away from the touristy spots.
How to Choose between Tampa’s Brewery Tours
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and how much exploration you want to do. The Ybor City Private Brewery Tour is perfect for history buffs and those craving a more cultural experience in Tampa’s historic neighborhood. Meanwhile, the Tampa Heights Tour suits travelers eager to dive into Tampa’s innovative craft beer scene in a more laid-back setting.
Both tours are priced similarly and include transportation, making them a cost-effective way to enjoy multiple breweries without the worry of driving. If you prefer a more personalized experience, booking early is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons.
In summary, Tampa offers two excellent private brewery tours that balance fun, comfort, and local flavor. The Ybor City tour is best for those interested in Tampa’s historic side and a lively, culturally rich setting. The Tampa Heights tour appeals to visitors who want a more local, emerging brewery experience in a relaxed neighborhood. Both options provide a great value for the price, with knowledgeable guides and memorable tastings. Whatever your preference, booking ahead ensures you secure a spot on these popular tours—so pick your adventure and start planning your Tampa beer escape today.