Full day Long Island Brewery Tour

Introduction

Taking a day to explore Long Island’s vibrant craft beer scene through a guided brewery tour offers a fantastic way to see a different side of New York State. While we haven’t personally hopped along on this exact excursion, the detailed itinerary and reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that combines great beer, scenic views, and engaging conversations with passionate brewers.

What we love about this tour? First, it visits small, lesser-known breweries that you might not find in any guidebook, giving you a more authentic taste of Long Island’s brewing culture. Second, the comfortable, Wi-Fi-enabled transportation makes the day smooth and relaxed, without the hassle of navigating or parking. Third, the inclusion of complimentary appetizers at each stop elevates the tasting experience, pairing perfectly with the diverse beers you’ll sample.

A potential point to consider is the overall price point of $150 per person, which, while reasonable for a full-day, guided tour, might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget. But if you’re a craft beer enthusiast eager to learn and taste at multiple breweries, this tour offers solid value.

This experience is ideal for beer lovers, curious travelers, and those interested in exploring Long Island’s local culture beyond the usual sights. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy comfortable group travel with a focus on authentic, behind-the-scenes access.

Good To Know

• Exclusive Visits: Experience breweries in Long Island that aren’t listed in typical guidebooks.
• Comfort & Convenience: Travel in a Wi-Fi-equipped, air-conditioned vehicle with restroom facilities onboard.
• Tasting & Food: Sample a wide range of locally-produced beers paired with complimentary appetizers.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Gain insights into the beer-making process with passionate brewers.
• Scenic Locations: Enjoy views of the Peconic River and other picturesque landscapes.
• Booking & Planning: Book about three months in advance for better availability, with free cancellation options.

Overview of the Tour Experience

This full-day brewery tour is designed to seamlessly blend education, relaxation, and fun. Starting from Manhattan, you’ll be whisked away in a comfortable bus, equipped with Wi-Fi and restrooms, making the journey as enjoyable as the stops themselves. The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, giving plenty of time to explore, taste, and soak in the local vibe without feeling rushed.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour departs from a central location at 168 E 44th Street in Manhattan and transports guests in a spacious, air-conditioned vehicle. The group size is capped at 100 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere where you can easily connect with fellow beer enthusiasts.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Riverhead and Peconic River Brewery
Your first stop is at one of Long Island’s newest breweries, overlooking the Peconic River. Known for its scenic views, this brewery offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxing with a beer flight and a cheese board. The review from a previous guest mentions, “The brewery overlooks the river, and the cheese board was a nice touch—perfect for pairing with the flight.”

Stop 2: Long Ireland Beer Company
Next, you’ll visit Long Island’s original craft brewery, a staple in the local beer scene. Here, you get to experience the roots of Long Island brewing, with passionate staff eager to share their process. Some reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, who make the experience engaging and educational, noting, “The guide was incredibly informed and enthusiastic about every beer we tasted.”

Additional Stops & Experiences
While the itinerary specifically mentions three breweries, the overall flexibility suggests there could be more visits depending on timing and group preferences. Each brewery offers its own unique ambiance, beer styles, and cheese pairings, making the day a diverse taste adventure.

Beer & Food Pairings

The tour emphasizes sampling locally-produced beers, which vary from IPAs and stouts to lighter ales and experimental brews. The included cheese boards complement these drinks well, allowing you to appreciate the flavors and aromas fully. Guests have raved about the quality of the food and drinks, with one reviewer saying, “The cheese boards were simple but excellent, paired perfectly with the beers we tried.”

The Value of the Experience

At $150 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Long Island’s craft beer scene, guided by knowledgeable staff and paired with thoughtful snacks. The inclusion of transportation, Wi-Fi, and restroom facilities adds value, especially given the 9-hour duration. Compared to self-guided visits, this guided experience ensures you won’t miss out on hidden gems or spend time figuring out logistics.

The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour provides reassurance for travelers hesitant about weather or schedule changes. Plus, booking in advance—on average about 3 months ahead—helps secure a spot during peak season.

In-Depth Itinerary Review

Morning Departure & First Brewery: Riverhead

The tour begins early at 9:00 am from Midtown Manhattan, with the bus departing from a central location. This early start is advantageous for maximizing your day and avoiding late-afternoon crowds. The trip to Riverhead, the first brewery, takes about an hour, during which you can settle into the comfortable bus with Wi-Fi to plan your day or chat with fellow travelers.

Riverhead’s newest brewery, located along the Peconic River, offers scenic views that are a highlight for many guests. The 90-minute stay allows for a generous tasting of beer flights and an artisanal cheese board, making it a perfect introduction to Long Island’s craft scene. Reviewers have appreciated the relaxed vibe and the chance to sample various styles without feeling rushed.

Midday at Long Ireland Beer Company

After a short drive, the group arrives at Long Ireland Beer Company around 12:30 pm. This spot is renowned as the original craft brewery in the region, and many guests find it to be a nostalgic and authentic experience. The brewery’s history and passionate staff make for an engaging visit, with the chance to learn about brewing methods directly from the brewers.

Guests have mentioned the “informative guides” who make the tasting educational and fun. The beer flights here often include a mix of classic and innovative brews, giving a broad taste of what Long Island breweries are capable of.

Optional Additional Stops & Scenic Breaks

While the core itinerary includes three stops, some groups might add more depending on timing and preferences. The tour’s flexible nature allows for spontaneous visits, but the main focus remains on quality over quantity—ensuring each stop is appreciated fully.

Afternoon & Return

The last part of the day typically involves some free time for last-minute tastings or souvenir shopping at the breweries. The return trip to Manhattan is scheduled to arrive around 6:00-6:30 pm, wrapping up a full day of craft beer experiences. The comfortable bus and Wi-Fi allow for reflection and sharing stories en route home.

Authentic Experiences & Real Guest Insights

While official reviews are limited, some past comments emphasize the “knowledgeable guides” who add a lot of value. Guests also mention the scenic views and the quality of the food, particularly the cheese boards, which elevate the tasting experience beyond just drinking.

One reviewer noted, “The breweries are off the beaten path, so you get a real sense of the local beer culture—something you definitely can’t get from a guidebook.” Others appreciated the seamless logistics, saying, “The bus was comfortable, and the organization was smooth, meaning I could just relax and enjoy.”

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is particularly suited for craft beer aficionados wanting to explore Long Island’s lesser-known breweries, groups looking for a fun, social outing, or foodies interested in pairing local brews with cheese. It’s also ideal if you prefer the convenience of guided transport and behind-the-scenes access.

Those on a tight budget might need to weigh the cost against the included features, but for a full-day, all-in-one experience, it’s a good deal. Travelers interested in scenic views, local culture, and quality drinks will find this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Full Day Long Island Brewery Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic look at the region’s craft beer scene. With visits to unique breweries, engaging guides, and food pairings, it stands out as a memorable way to spend a day outside Manhattan. The comfortable transportation and flexible schedule make it accessible and enjoyable for most travelers.

If you’re someone who loves discovering local flavors, meeting passionate brewers, and relaxing in scenic surroundings, this tour could be a perfect addition to your Long Island itinerary. It’s a great way to turn a day into a flavorful adventure, especially for those eager to taste beyond the mainstream and learn about the craft behind each brew.

FAQ

How far in advance should I book this tour?
It’s recommended to book about 3 months ahead, as most travelers do, to secure your spot during peak seasons.

What’s included in the price?
The $150 fee covers transportation in a Wi-Fi-equipped vehicle, all beer tastings, cheese boards, bottled water, and restroom access on the bus.

Are food options available at the breweries?
Yes, each brewery provides complimentary cheese boards, which pair well with the beers sampled. Additional food isn’t included but can often be purchased separately.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Primarily intended for adults 21 and over due to alcohol consumption, but non-drinking companions can enjoy the scenic views and the brewery atmosphere.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

What is the group size?
Up to 100 travelers can join, making it lively but manageable, with plenty of opportunities for interaction.

Are pets or service animals allowed?
Service animals are permitted; other pets are not specified but typically not allowed on such organized tours.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing and footwear are best, especially since some breweries may have uneven floors or outdoor areas.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Full Day Long Island Brewery Tour—a considerate blend of scenic views, tasty beers, and behind-the-scenes insights that most craft beer fans will find worth the investment.