Which Calgary Brewery Tour is the Best?
- Aug 12, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: May 3
While Calgary has several brewery tour 'brands,' most are actually corporate-owned subsidiaries operating under different names. Only one company is truly locally owned and operated right here in Calgary: YYCTOURS. Because we are local, our tours are typically $40 cheaper per person than the corporate competition ($89 vs. $130+) for the exact same craft beer experience. This 2026 guide breaks down the pricing and tour details of every major provider to help you see who actually offers the best value in YYC.
Founded in Calgary
Price: Tours start at $89 per person plus GST /gratuities optional.
Group Sizes: Private tours for 4 to unlimited where the group gets picked up at home, or Jump On Tours once a month from the Calgary Tower for groups smaller than 4.
Tour Details: Founded and operated right here in Calgary, YYCTOURS offers a 3.5-hour deep dive into the city's award-winning craft beer scene for an unbeatable $89 per person. Unlike corporate competitors, our tours are led by certified beer judges and professional writers who provide a masterclass in brewing history that guests have remarked is more educational than the Guinness or Heineken tours in Europe. We specialize in private groups from 4 to unlimited, traveling across three distinct Calgary neighborhoods to visit the best local breweries. Because we are 100% locally owned, we offer a level of convenience the 'big' companies can’t, including complimentary door-to-door pick-up and drop-off at your home or hotel, or our central 'Jump On' departures from the Calgary Tower.
Toonie Tours
Founded in Vancouver.
Price: $94 USD ($127 CAD) plus GST /gratuities optional, but prices can vary depending on the specific package.
Private Tour Group Sizes: 12 people maximum
Tour Details: This 3 hour walking tour has around a 2 block radius and includes a combination of exploring Calgary's vibrant street art scene and tasting craft beers at two local breweries. The experience is designed for small groups of 2 to 12 people.
Canadian Craft Tours:
Operated from Vancouver.
Price: $110 plus GST plus 20% gratuity= $138.60 per person
Private Tour Group Sizes: 10 people minimum
Tour Details: This tour includes visits to three Calgary breweries, beer flights (4 x 4 oz at each brewery), a behind-the-scenes look, and round-trip transportation. The total duration is about 3 hours.
Craft Beer Tours (owned by Canadian Craft Tours):
Price:$110 plus GST plus 20% gratuity= $138.60 per person.
Private Tour Group Sizes: 10 people minimum
Tour Details: This tour is also around 3.5 hours long and includes transportation, beer flights, and visits to three different breweries from popular areas like the Barley Belt and Inglewood.
Calgary Craft Connection (owned by Canadian Craft Tours):
Price: $110 plus GST plus 20% gratuity= $138.60 per person.
Private Tour Group Sizes: 10 people minimum
Tour Details: This tour includes visits to three different breweries, with guided flights/tastings and a facility tour.
YYCTOURS stands out as the best option for a Calgary brewery tour for several reasons:
Affordable Pricing: YYCTOURS offers a competitive price of $89 CAD per person, which is the more affordable options compared to other tours in Calgary. Despite the lower cost, they provide a comprehensive experience without compromising on quality
Personalized Experience: YYCTOURS offers flexibility in their tours with options for small group "Jump On" tours, which are available monthly. This allows for a more intimate experience where participants can enjoy a personalized and engaging tour, perfect for smaller groups
Local Expertise: The tour guides at YYCTOURS are knowledgeable about beer and the local craft beer scene and offer insightful commentary throughout the tour. This enhances the overall experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.
Comprehensive Package: The tour includes visits to three breweries, beer samples at each location, and a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. This provides a well-rounded experience that covers various aspects of craft beer production
Customization for Groups: YYCTOURS is also known for its flexibility in accommodating private groups and special requests, making it an ideal choice for events like corporate outings or bachelor/bachelorette parties (Incline Magazine).
YYCTOURS also offers the only wine tour in Calgary as well as distillery tours.
These factors make YYCTOURS a top choice for those looking to explore Calgary's vibrant craft beer scene in an engaging and cost-effective way.




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