Asheville Brews Cruise: Unique Beer Tours in Asheville
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for most adults willing to walk short distances and step in/out of the bus.
Overview
Explore Asheville's renowned craft beer scene with Asheville Brews Cruise—a private brewery tour offering expert-led tastings and local insights aboard a fun converted bus.
Details
Asheville, North Carolina, is a city widely known for its vibrant craft beer scene and scenic Blue Ridge Mountain backdrop. This unique outdoor adventure experience, Asheville Brews Cruise, offers a private guided brewery tour that combines local culture, history, and, of course, plenty of exceptional beers. Operated by Asheville Brews Cruise, this tour lets visitors explore Asheville’s best breweries in a fun and educational way while riding a converted school bus, giving the experience an inviting and lively atmosphere.
The tour is led by JC, a knowledgeable guide praised for his exceptional expertise about beer, brewing, and Asheville’s beer culture. Guests have the opportunity to taste a variety of craft beers from multiple stops, each featuring distinct flavors and brewing styles unique to this region. The guide ensures the group stays hydrated by providing water at every stop, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to health and enjoyment.
Asheville’s craft beer industry is notable not only for its quality but also for its deep roots in Appalachian culture and local ingredients. Visitors learn about the rich brewing history and the influence of different beer traditions around the world, including from the Czech Republic, which shaped the modern beer landscape. Beyond beer, the experience includes story-telling about Asheville’s lively community, thriving arts, and natural beauty surrounding the city.
Taking place in Asheville, a city famous for both its outdoor adventures and welcoming local vibe, the Asheville Brews Cruise stands out because it blends cultural education, social connection, and outdoor transit into one package. The converted bus tour offers a chance to meet people from varied backgrounds while enjoying the fresh mountain air and picturesque streets.
This outdoor experience is perfect for beer lovers looking to dive deep into the local craft scene while staying outdoors in a social, comfortable environment. Whether you're a first-timer or a beer aficionado, Asheville Brews Cruise provides a fun, memorable way to explore Asheville’s vibrant beer landscape while soaking in the local atmosphere and natural surroundings.
Trail Tips
Stay Hydrated
Make sure to drink water at each stop to balance beer tastings and stay refreshed.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
You'll be stepping on and off the bus multiple times, so shoes that support easy walking are best.
Plan Transportation
As the tour involves alcohol tastings, use the provided transport or arrange a safe ride back to your lodging.
Bring ID
A valid ID is required to partake in beer tastings; don’t forget to bring yours.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- French Broad River Greenway for scenic riverfront walks
- Small batch breweries off the main trail such as Hi-Wire Brewing in West Asheville
Wildlife
- Black bears occasionally spotted in surrounding forested areas
- Various bird species including wild turkeys and hawks around Asheville
History
Asheville's beer legacy is tied to its Appalachian roots and early 20th-century brewing traditions, which have evolved into a national craft beer hub.
Conservation
Several Asheville breweries emphasize sustainable practices including water conservation and locally sourced ingredients to reduce environmental impact.
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville
- Downtown Asheville’s vibrant street murals
- Outside each brewery for candid group shots
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
For walking between brewery stops and boarding the bus comfortably.
Valid photo ID
Required for age verification to participate in beer tastings.
Reusable water bottle
Helpful to stay hydrated alongside the provided water stops.
all specific
Light jacket
For cooler temperatures during early mornings, evenings, or in colder months.
fall|spring|winter specific