How to Book a Brewery Tour in Columbus

Columbus, Ohio, has emerged as one of the most vibrant craft beer destinations in the Midwest, boasting over 70 independent breweries within the city limits and its surrounding neighborhoods. From historic industrial spaces repurposed into modern taprooms to family-owned operations rooted in generations of brewing tradition, Columbus offers an unparalleled experience for beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Booking a brewery tour in Columbus isn’t just about sampling local ales and lagers—it’s an immersive journey into the culture, craftsmanship, and community that define the city’s brewing scene.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor planning a weekend getaway, a local looking to explore hidden gems, or a group organizing a corporate or social event, knowing how to book a brewery tour efficiently enhances your experience. A well-planned tour allows you to maximize your time, gain insider knowledge from brewers, avoid long wait times, and often secure exclusive tastings or merchandise. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to navigating the process—from researching options to securing your reservation—with practical advice, real-world examples, and essential tools to ensure your tour is seamless, memorable, and uniquely Columbus.

Step-by-Step Guide

Research Your Options

The first step in booking a brewery tour in Columbus is identifying which breweries align with your interests. Not all breweries offer guided tours, and those that do vary significantly in format, duration, and focus. Some emphasize the science of brewing, others highlight the art of flavor profiles, and a few offer behind-the-scenes access to barrel-aging rooms or packaging lines.

Begin by compiling a list of top-rated and highly recommended breweries using trusted local sources. The Columbus Brew Trail, a collaborative initiative by the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce and local brewers, provides an interactive map and detailed profiles of participating breweries. Other reliable platforms include Untappd, BeerAdvocate, and local blogs like Columbus Underground or The Columbus Dispatch’s food and drink section. Look for breweries with consistent ratings (4.0+ on average) and recent visitor reviews mentioning guided tours.

Consider what type of experience you want. Do you prefer a large, well-established brewery like Great Lakes Brewing Company or Short’s Brewing Co. (with Columbus locations), or a smaller, experimental spot like Odd Side Ales or Goodale Beer Co.? Some breweries specialize in sour ales, others in IPAs or lagers—choose based on your palate. Also note whether the brewery offers family-friendly spaces, outdoor seating, or food pairings, as these factors can influence your decision.

Check Tour Availability and Types

Once you’ve narrowed your list, visit each brewery’s official website. Look for a dedicated “Tours” or “Visit Us” section. Most Columbus breweries offer one or more of the following tour formats:

• Standard Brewery Tours: Typically 45–60 minutes, including a walkthrough of the brewhouse, fermentation area, and packaging line, followed by a tasting of 4–6 beers. These are often offered on weekends and require advance booking.
• Private Group Tours: Designed for parties of 8–20 people, these tours can be customized for special occasions like birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or team-building events. They may include exclusive access, custom beer flights, or branded merchandise.
• Behind-the-Scenes Brewmaster Tours: Limited to small groups (usually 6–10 people), these in-depth experiences last 90+ minutes and include interaction with the head brewer, sampling of experimental batches, and sometimes even a hands-on component like blending a beer.
• Themed or Seasonal Tours: Some breweries offer holiday-themed tours (e.g., “Winter Warmer Walkthrough” or “Halloween Horror Brews”) or seasonal events tied to new beer releases.

Pay close attention to tour times, group size limits, and age restrictions. Most tours are restricted to guests 21 and older due to alcohol service laws, though some breweries allow minors during daylight hours if accompanied by an adult and not participating in tastings.

Review Pricing and Inclusions

Pricing for brewery tours in Columbus typically ranges from $10 to $35 per person, depending on the length, exclusivity, and number of samples included. Some breweries include a commemorative glass or pint in the price, while others charge separately for additional drinks or food.

Be sure to read the fine print. Does the price cover tax and service fees? Are gratuities expected? Some breweries add a mandatory service charge for groups over 10. Also check if the tour includes entry to the taproom afterward—many do, and this can be a significant value-add.

For example, St. Bernardus Brewing Co. (a Columbus outpost of the Belgian original) offers a $25 tour that includes five beer samples, a branded tulip glass, and a 30-minute Q&A with the brewer. Meanwhile, Land-Grant Brewing Company includes a complimentary 16-ounce pint with their $15 standard tour. Comparing these inclusions helps you determine which tour offers the best value for your group.

Book Your Tour Online

Almost every brewery in Columbus now uses an online booking system. Avoid calling unless absolutely necessary—online systems are faster, more accurate, and often allow you to view real-time availability.

Look for a “Book a Tour” button on the brewery’s website, usually located in the header, footer, or under “Visit” or “Events.” Clicking this will redirect you to a third-party platform such as Eventbrite, TicketTailor, or Resy. These platforms allow you to:

• Select your preferred date and time
• Choose the tour type
• Enter the number of guests
• Provide contact information
• Complete payment

After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a QR code or ticket number. Save this to your phone or print it out. Some breweries require you to present this at the door—others simply check your name against their guest list.

Pro tip: Book early. Popular breweries like Thornapple Brewing Co. or 3 Floyds Brewing Co. (Columbus Taproom) often sell out tours weeks in advance, especially on weekends and during seasonal beer releases. For holidays or special events, book at least 4–6 weeks ahead.

Confirm Your Reservation

Two to three days before your scheduled tour, check your email for a reminder from the brewery. Many send automated confirmations with parking instructions, what to wear, and whether food is allowed on the tour.

If you don’t receive a confirmation, visit the brewery’s website and look for a “Contact” page. Send a brief, polite message via their online form or email address (not phone). For example:

“Hi, I booked a Standard Tour for Saturday, June 15 at 2 PM for four people under the name [Your Full Name]. Could you please confirm my reservation? I’d also appreciate any parking or entry instructions.”

Most breweries respond within 24 hours. Avoid showing up without confirmation—many locations have limited capacity and may not accommodate walk-ins, even if space appears available.

Prepare for Your Visit

On the day of your tour, arrive 10–15 minutes early. This gives you time to use the restroom, park, and check in without rushing. Most breweries have dedicated parking lots, but some are located in urban areas with limited street parking. Use apps like ParkMobile or SpotHero to reserve spots ahead of time.

Dress comfortably. While there’s no strict dress code, you’ll be walking through industrial spaces with concrete floors, so closed-toe shoes are recommended. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes—they can interfere with the sensory experience of tasting beer.

Bring a valid government-issued ID. This is mandatory for all guests over 21. No exceptions. Also consider bringing cash or a credit card if you plan to purchase merchandise, additional drinks, or food from the taproom after the tour.

Finally, bring curiosity. The best tours are those where guests ask questions. Don’t be afraid to inquire about ingredients, fermentation techniques, or the brewery’s history. Brewers love sharing their passion.

Best Practices

Plan Around Peak Hours

Timing matters. Most Columbus breweries experience peak traffic between 3 PM and 7 PM on weekends. If you want a quieter, more intimate tour experience, book an early morning slot—many breweries offer 11 AM or 12 PM tours on Saturdays that are significantly less crowded. Weekday tours (Tuesday–Thursday) are often the most relaxed and provide the best opportunity to interact with staff.

Additionally, avoid booking tours on the day of a major beer release. Breweries like Odd Side Ales or Barrelhouse Brewing Co. often host release parties with live music, food trucks, and long lines. While fun, these events can make tours chaotic or even canceled due to capacity limits.

Group Booking Tips

If you’re booking for a group of 6 or more, contact the brewery directly before using the online system. Many offer group discounts or customizable packages. For example, Land-Grant offers a 10% discount for groups of 10+, and Goodale Beer Co. will design a custom flight based on your group’s preferences.

Assign one person to handle the booking and communication. This prevents confusion over who’s attending, ensures payment is processed correctly, and makes check-in smoother. Share the confirmation details with all attendees and remind them to bring ID and arrive early.

Respect Brewery Policies

Every brewery has rules designed to protect their equipment, staff, and guests. Common policies include:

• No outside food or beverages (except for water)
• No photography in the brewhouse without permission
• No running or loud behavior near fermentation tanks
• Children under 21 may not be given beer samples, even as a taste

Violating these rules can result in being asked to leave without a refund. Always read the policies posted on the website or in your confirmation email. If you’re unsure, ask before doing something—better to be safe than sorry.

Engage with the Staff

Brewery staff are often passionate, knowledgeable, and eager to connect with guests. Ask questions like:

• “What’s the story behind this beer’s recipe?”
• “How did you decide on this hop profile?”
• “What’s your most challenging beer to brew and why?”

These conversations can lead to exclusive tastings, recommendations for other local breweries, or even invitations to future events. Many brewers keep guest lists for special tastings or barrel-aging previews—being personable and curious can open doors.

Support the Local Scene

After your tour, consider purchasing a growler, crowler, or six-pack to take home. Many breweries offer discounts on merchandise for tour guests. Buying directly supports the brewery’s operations and helps them continue offering tours.

Leave an honest review on Google, Yelp, or Untappd. Mention your tour experience—what you learned, what you enjoyed, and any standout moments. Positive reviews help smaller breweries attract new visitors and sustain their programs.

Combine with Other Local Experiences

Columbus is rich with complementary attractions. Consider pairing your brewery tour with:

• A walk through the Franklin Park Conservatory or North Market for local food pairings
• A visit to the Ohio History Center or Wexner Center for the Arts for cultural context
• A meal at a nearby farm-to-table restaurant like Wolfe’s or Barrio that features local brews on tap

Many tour operators offer “Brewery & Bites” packages that bundle a tour with a curated food pairing. These can be booked through the brewery or third-party platforms like Expedia Local Experience or Viator.

Tools and Resources

Official Brew Trail Maps

The Columbus Brew Trail (columbusbrewtrail.com) is the most comprehensive resource. It features:

• An interactive map with filter options (e.g., “Offers Tours,” “Dog-Friendly,” “Gluten-Free Options”)
• Real-time updates on tour availability
• Seasonal events calendar
• Downloadable PDF guides

Use this as your primary planning tool. Print a copy or save it to your phone for offline access.

Mobile Apps for Brewery Discovery

Several apps enhance your brewery tour experience:

• Untappd: Track the beers you try, read reviews from other users, and discover nearby breweries with active check-ins.
• BeerAdvocate: Offers in-depth beer ratings and brewery profiles, useful for comparing styles and reputations.
• Google Maps: Search “brewery tours Columbus” and sort by “Highest Rated” or “Near Me.” Look for photos posted by recent visitors to gauge crowd levels and ambiance.
• ParkMobile or SpotHero: Reserve parking in advance at popular brewery districts like the Short North, German Village, or Easton.

Newsletter and Social Media Subscriptions

Subscribe to the newsletters of your top 3–5 preferred breweries. Most send weekly updates about:

• New beer releases
• Upcoming tour dates
• Special events (e.g., “Brewer’s Dinner Nights” or “Pilsner Pals”)
• Early access to ticket sales

Follow them on Instagram and Facebook as well. Many breweries announce last-minute tour openings or cancellations via social media. For example, Odd Side Ales often posts surprise “Pop-Up Tour” events on Instagram Stories that fill up within minutes.

Third-Party Tour Platforms

If you prefer a curated experience, consider platforms like:

• Columbus Craft Beer Tours: Offers guided van tours visiting 3–4 breweries in one day, with transportation, tasting flights, and a knowledgeable guide. Ideal for groups or visitors without a designated driver.
• Bar Hop Columbus: Combines brewery visits with stops at local cocktail bars and food trucks for a full-day experience.
• GetYourGuide: Features multi-city beer experiences, including Columbus as part of a Midwest craft beer circuit.

These services are ideal if you want a hands-off approach. They handle logistics, transportation, and group coordination—though they tend to cost more than booking directly.

Local Tourism Websites

Visit VisitColumbus.com for official city-sponsored recommendations. They offer:

• Seasonal itineraries (e.g., “Fall Brews & Firepits”)
• Discount passes for multiple brewery visits
• Guides for accessible brewery tours (wheelchair-friendly spaces, sensory-friendly options)

These resources are updated regularly and vetted by local tourism officials, making them highly reliable.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Solo Visitor’s First Tour

Emma, a recent transplant from Chicago, wanted to explore Columbus’s beer scene. She started by browsing the Columbus Brew Trail and selected Land-Grant Brewing Company for its reputation and central location. She booked a Saturday 12 PM tour online two weeks in advance for $15. She arrived early, found free street parking near the brewery, and checked in with her ID. The tour lasted 50 minutes, covering the 15-barrel brewhouse, fermentation cellar, and packaging line. She learned how Land-Grant uses local oats and honey in their flagship IPA. The tasting included four beers, and she received a free pint afterward. She bought a 64-ounce growler of their seasonal pumpkin ale to take home and left a glowing review on Google. Emma returned two weeks later for a private sour beer tasting with the head brewer.

Example 2: A Corporate Team Event

Five employees from a downtown tech firm wanted to host a team-building outing. They chose Thornapple Brewing Co. for its spacious taproom and private event space. They contacted the brewery directly via email to request a private 90-minute tour for eight people. The brewery offered a customized package: $25 per person, including a guided tour, a flight of five experimental beers, and a charcuterie board. They booked a Thursday afternoon slot to avoid weekend crowds. The tour included a Q&A with the brewmaster about sustainability practices in brewing. The team left with branded pint glasses and a group photo taken in front of the fermentation tanks. They later used the experience as a case study in their company newsletter about “innovation and community.”

Example 3: A Family-Friendly Day Out

The Rivera family from Dublin visited Columbus for a weekend. Their 16-year-old daughter was a beer enthusiast but too young to taste. They selected Goodale Beer Co., which offers non-alcoholic root beer flights for minors and a kid-friendly patio with games. They booked a 2 PM Saturday tour and arrived early to enjoy the outdoor space. The tour focused on the science of fermentation, with interactive demonstrations that engaged the whole family. The daughter loved learning how yeast works, and the parents appreciated the educational angle. After the tour, they enjoyed pizza and non-alcoholic ginger beer on the patio. The family returned the next day to buy a growler of their favorite lager to take home.

Example 4: A Special Occasion Tour

For their 10th anniversary, Mark and Lisa booked a “Brewmaster’s Reserve” tour at St. Bernardus Brewing Co.—a limited offering available only on select weekends. The $35 per person tour included a 90-minute deep dive into Belgian-style ales, a tasting of three rare, barrel-aged beers not available to the public, and a personalized bottle of their favorite ale with a custom label. The brewer even signed the bottle. They shared the experience on Instagram, tagging the brewery, which later featured them in a “Guest Stories” post. The tour became the centerpiece of their anniversary photo album.

FAQs

Do I need to make a reservation for a brewery tour in Columbus?

Yes, in almost all cases. While some breweries allow walk-ins to their taprooms, guided tours require advance booking due to limited space, staffing, and safety protocols. Even if a brewery says “walk-ins welcome,” it’s safer to book ahead to guarantee your spot.

Can I bring my children on a brewery tour?

Children under 21 are allowed in most taprooms during daylight hours, but they cannot participate in beer tastings. Some breweries, like Goodale Beer Co. and Land-Grant, are especially family-friendly and offer non-alcoholic options. Always check the brewery’s policy before bringing minors.

Are brewery tours wheelchair accessible?

Many Columbus breweries are ADA-compliant, but accessibility varies. Larger facilities like Land-Grant and Great Lakes Brewing Co. have elevators and ramps. Smaller, historic spaces may have stairs or narrow hallways. Contact the brewery directly to confirm accessibility features before booking.

How long do brewery tours typically last?

Most standard tours last between 45 and 75 minutes. Behind-the-scenes or private tours can extend to 90–120 minutes. Always check the duration listed on the booking page.

Can I buy beer to take home after the tour?

Yes. Nearly all breweries sell growlers, crowlers, and six-packs. Many offer discounts to tour guests. Some also ship beer nationally—check their website for shipping policies.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my tour?

Most breweries have a 48-hour cancellation policy. If you cancel within 48 hours, you may lose your payment. Some allow rescheduling for a fee. Always review the cancellation policy before booking.

Is tipping expected on brewery tours?

Tipping is not required but appreciated, especially for private or extended tours. A tip of $5–$10 per person is common if your guide was particularly knowledgeable or went above and beyond.

Can I book a tour for a large group (15+ people)?

Yes, but you must contact the brewery directly. Online booking systems often cap group sizes at 10. For larger groups, breweries may offer private events, custom menus, or multiple tour slots.

Do Columbus breweries offer virtual tours?

A few, like Great Lakes Brewing Co. and Land-Grant, offer pre-recorded virtual tours on YouTube or their websites. These are great for educational purposes but don’t replace the in-person experience.

Are there brewery tours on holidays?

Some breweries offer special holiday tours (e.g., Christmas, Halloween), but many close or reduce hours on major holidays. Always check the brewery’s website or social media for holiday schedules.

Conclusion

Booking a brewery tour in Columbus is more than a simple reservation—it’s an invitation to connect with the heart of the city’s culture. From the science of fermentation to the art of flavor, each tour offers a unique window into the passion, innovation, and community spirit that define Columbus’s craft beer movement. By following the steps outlined in this guide—from researching options and understanding tour types to engaging with staff and supporting local businesses—you transform a simple outing into a meaningful, memorable experience.

The key to success lies in preparation, respect, and curiosity. Book early, arrive with an open mind, ask questions, and savor every sip. Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or a newcomer to the scene, Columbus’s breweries welcome you with open taps and warm stories.

So grab your ID, pack your enthusiasm, and start planning your next tour. The next great beer—and the next unforgettable memory—is just a reservation away.