Moosehead is Saint John's famous brewery, and a tour is one of the few paid, indoor sights in the city that does not depend on the weather. Tourism Saint John describes the Moosehead Brewery Tour as a way to learn about the brewery's history and how beer is made, and notes that Moosehead is Canada's oldest independent brewery. Visitors can sample the brews at the Moosehead Taproom. The brewery has been part of the Saint John story since the nineteenth century, and the brand is one of the best-known beers in the country, so a tour fits neatly into an uptown day of the City Market and the heritage streets. Tours show the process, from ingredients to bottling, and are led by guides who tell the story of the company and the city. Sampling is for adults only, and tour days, times and prices are set by the brewery, so check before you plan. It is a good rainy-day plan and an easy add-on for couples and groups of friends.
What to do
Book or confirm a tour, arrive a little early and expect to learn about the brewing process, the brewery's history and the family that built the business. The tour typically ends in the taproom, where you can sample the beers and talk with staff about the styles. If you are driving, plan a designated driver or a taxi, because samples add up. Non-drinkers can ask the brewery about what is on offer for them. Comfortable, closed shoes are usually required in a production area, so wear sensible footwear.
Seasons and planning
Tour days and times vary, and some days may not have tours at all, so confirm the schedule with the brewery before you set out, especially in winter and around holidays. Tickets, group bookings and any age limits are arranged directly with Moosehead. The taproom's hours may differ from the tour hours. If you are visiting with a group, ask about arrangements early, because tours can fill in the busy months. Because the brewery is an operating production site, visits may be affected by work schedules.
Getting there
The brewery is in Saint John, a short drive or taxi ride from uptown. If you are staying at the Delta Hotels by Marriott on King Street, you can combine the tour with an uptown walk and a late lunch at the City Market. There is parking at the brewery, but confirm the details when you book. If you are travelling without a car, a taxi or rideshare is the simplest way to get there and back, especially after sampling.
Fitting it in
The brewery tour is an easy afternoon plan. Start with the City Market and Harbour Passage in the morning, have lunch uptown, then head to the brewery for a mid-afternoon tour and tasting, and finish with dinner in the city. It is especially welcome on a wet or foggy day, when the coastal sights are less appealing, and in the off-season when many outdoor attractions are closed.
Allow around two hours including the tasting, and check the brewery's current arrangements for tours, tastings and shop hours. For visitors who want a taste of a Canadian institution, it is a straightforward, local choice.
What to expect
The experience
A guided tour of a working brewery covering its history and how beer is made, ending with samples in the taproom.
Best time
Any season, especially on a wet or foggy day or in the off-season when coastal sights are closed.
How long
Allow about two hours including the tasting.
Tips
Confirm tour days and times, wear closed shoes, arrange a driver or taxi and book groups early.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beer fans and travellers who want an indoor sight with local history.
- Families
- Sampling is for adults only, so this is best as an adults' outing.
- Couples
- Pair the tour with an uptown dinner.
- Pair with
- The City Market, Harbour Passage and the Uptown Saint John Heritage Walk.
- Time needed
- About two hours.
Good questions
What is special about Moosehead?+
Tourism Saint John says Moosehead is Canada's oldest independent brewery, and the tour covers its history and how beer is made.
Can I taste the beer?+
Yes, visitors can sample the brews at the Moosehead Taproom. Sampling is for adults only.
Do I need to book?+
Check the brewery's schedule and book ahead where possible, especially for groups and in busy months.
Is it open in winter?+
Tours are a good off-season choice, but days and times vary, so confirm the schedule before you travel.
How do I get there?+
The brewery is a short drive or taxi ride from uptown Saint John. A taxi is the simplest option if you plan to sample.
