Explore Seattle’s Viking Beer Crawl in Ballard
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in reasonable health to walk moderate distances at a relaxed pace over several hours.
Overview
Join the Viking Beer Crawl in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood for a 3.5-hour private tour featuring craft beers, tasty bites, and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Explore historic bridges, salmon runs, and local hotspots on foot.
Details
Discover the unique charm of Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood on the Viking Beer Crawl, a 3.5-hour guided walking tour hosted by Sum Good Tours. This food-focused adventure offers a perfect blend of local flavors and cultural experiences, taking you to two distinct breweries, two cafes, and a restaurant inside the National Nordic Museum. Along the way, you’ll witness salmon swimming upriver and historic bridges lifting to welcome passing boats, highlighting the area's strong ties to nature and history. The tour captures the essence of Seattle’s Scandinavian heritage while encouraging participants to savor craft beers, paired with delicious bites from top local spots. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or a curious traveler, this private tour is designed to be both relaxing and educational, making it an excellent way to explore Ballard’s vibrant food scene while getting a glimpse of the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be walking for 3.5 hours, so sturdy and comfortable footwear is important to enjoy the tour fully.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated between tastings by carrying water with you to refresh during the walk.
Arrive Hungry
Food tastings are part of the adventure; coming with an appetite will help you make the most of the experience.
Check Bridge Lift Schedules
Timing your visit to see historic bridges raise can enhance the sightseeing aspect of the tour.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Freemont Canal Park for unexpected waterside views
- Ballard Locks Fish Ladder for close-up salmon viewing
Wildlife
- Salmon
- Bald Eagles
History
Ballard has strong Scandinavian roots and was once a separate city before joining Seattle, with historic bridges and maritime culture.
Conservation
Efforts around the Ballard Locks help protect salmon runs and maintain clean waterways in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Bridge overlooking the salmon ladder
- Outside the National Nordic Museum
- Sidewalks of Ballard Avenue with historic architecture
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supports your feet during the 3.5-hour walking portion of the tour.
Light Waterproof Jacket
Protects you from Seattle’s frequent rain and drizzle in fall and other wet seasons.
fall specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Helps you stay hydrated between beer tastings along the route.
Daypack or Tote Bag
Useful for carrying extra layers, water, and any tour souvenirs.