Memphis is better known for barbecue and blues than for beer, which makes a guided brewery tour a smart way to see another side of the city. This tour takes a small group, capped at 14, in a private air-conditioned van to three local breweries: Grind City Brewing Co., Wiseacre Brewing Co. and Crosstown Brewing. At each stop you get admission and a flight of four beers, so you taste a spread of styles without having to choose, and the guide explains what you are drinking and how the Memphis craft scene grew. The structure suits first-timers. You are not hunting for taprooms, queueing at a bar or worrying about who drives. The van, which the operator calls the Flagon Wagon, carries you between stops, with roughly three-quarters of an hour at the first brewery and a little under an hour at each of the other two. Snacks, bottled water, the guide and gratuities are included, which softens the effect of a lot of tasting. The experience has a high rating from hundreds of travelers, and the tone is relaxed and social rather than technical. The tour is for adults aged 21 and over, and it is not wheelchair accessible. It is not recommended for pregnant travelers. If you do not drink beer, the live-music and food side of Memphis offers better ways to spend an afternoon.
How to visit
The tour meets at the entrance of The Peabody Memphis, 149 Union Avenue, by the corner of Union and Second, and returns you to the same place after about three and a half hours. Start times are chosen when you book, so look at the calendar for your dates. Free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience.
What to expect
Three breweries, three flights and a lot of conversation. Brewery taprooms vary from industrial spaces to patios, so dress casually and wear comfortable shoes. You will be sharing the van with other small parties, which is part of the fun. Eat a proper lunch beforehand even though snacks are provided, and pace yourself through the flights.
Making the most of it
It works well as an afternoon activity between a morning museum and an evening on Beale Street. Because the van leaves from a downtown hotel, it is easy to fit in without a car, and you can walk or ride to dinner afterward. Pair it with the downtown food tour on another day if you want a full eating and drinking weekend.
What to expect
The experience
A guided private-van tour of three Memphis breweries with a flight of four beers at each stop.
Best time
An afternoon, between a morning sight and dinner or live music.
How long
About three and a half hours.
Tips
Eat a proper lunch first, pace the tastings and remember the tour is for guests aged 21 and over.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Adults who enjoy craft beer and want a hassle-free taste of the local scene.
- Families
- Not suitable, as guests must be 21 or over.
- Couples
- A relaxed, social afternoon with no driving to worry about.
- Pair with
- A downtown dinner or an evening on Beale Street afterwards.
- Time needed
- About three and a half hours.
Good questions
Which breweries does the tour visit?+
It visits Grind City Brewing Co., Wiseacre Brewing Co. and Crosstown Brewing, with admission included at each.
Where does the brewery tour start?+
It meets at the entrance of The Peabody Memphis, 149 Union Avenue, by the corner of Union and Second, and ends back there.
How much beer do I get?+
Each brewery serves a flight of four beers, and the tour also includes snacks and bottled water.
Is there an age limit?+
Yes, the tour is for guests aged 21 and over. It is not recommended for pregnant travelers.
Is the tour accessible?+
The van is not wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. Contact the operator about specific needs before booking.
