Old Toronto by Beer: A Craft Brew Adventure

Old Toronto by Beer: A Craft Brew Adventure

If you’re looking for a way to combine history, local flavor, and good beer, this small-group tour in Toronto offers just that. It’s a fun, laid-back way to explore the city’s past while sipping some of its best craft brews. With an enthusiastic guide leading the way, you’ll get a taste of Toronto’s vibrant beer culture, dive into its colorful history, and enjoy some delicious local treats—all in just three hours.

What makes this tour so appealing? Well, we love the personalized vibe of a small group, the storytelling that makes history come alive, and the chance to experience Toronto like a local. Plus, the inclusion of local craft beers at historic pubs and the vibrant St. Lawrence Market is a real highlight.

A potential consideration? Since the tour involves walking and outdoor stops, you’ll want to dress appropriately for the weather—whether that’s summer heat or winter chill. Also, it’s aimed at those 19 and older, so it’s not suitable for younger travelers.

This tour suits anyone interested in learning about Toronto’s history through a relaxed, social lens—perfect for beer lovers, history buffs, or those wanting a different way to discover the city’s stories.

Good To Know

Small-group experience: Max 12 guests for a more intimate vibe
Authentic local stories: Guides share quirky and significant moments from Toronto’s past
Tasting included: Two craft beers at pubs and a sample at St. Lawrence Market
Historic and scenic stops: From old pubs to the vibrant Distillery District
Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, reserve now, pay later
Eco-conscious: The tour is carbon neutral, operated by a B Corp certified company

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Toronto’s Past Through a Craft Beer Lens

This tour offers a refreshing twist on city sightseeing. Instead of just walking around and listening to facts, you get to taste and see how Toronto’s history has shaped its current character. It’s a blend of storytelling, local flavor, and social fun that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point & Introduction
Your adventure begins at the NW corner of Yonge and Front Streets, right outside the Hockey Hall of Fame. Here, your guide—usually a true beer enthusiast with a knack for storytelling—sets the tone for the next few hours. Expect an energetic introduction to Toronto’s gritty, sometimes muddy origins when it was called York, along with tales of cholera, rebellions, and the city’s growth through war and depression.

Historic Pub Visits & Craft Beer Sampling
You’ll visit two historic pubs where your guide curates local beers that showcase Toronto’s brewing scene. Past guests, like the one who praised guide Dave’s friendly approach, mention how knowledgeable guides add depth to the experience. Expect to sample a small beer at each pub, giving you a taste of the local brewing craftsmanship.

Reviews highlight how well guides balance humor and information—”Dave was extremely friendly and nice” and “the guide is very knowledgeable, friendly and humorous.” These stops aren’t just about drinking; they’re about understanding how beer helped Torontonians through tough times, such as war or economic downturns.

St. Lawrence Market & Tasting Experience
Next, the tour takes you to the iconic St. Lawrence Market, a hub for Toronto’s culinary diversity. Here, you’ll taste local treats—think mustard and other market favorites—that give you a sense of the city’s culinary palette. Guests often comment on how much they learned about local specialties during the tasting. One reviewer noted, “we visited the market and enjoyed the food and the lively atmosphere.” This stop offers a perfect break from walking, as you get to sample and soak in the market’s bustling vibe.

The Distillery District & Arts Scene
Finally, you’ll stroll through the cobbled streets of the Distillery District, a former whiskey hub turned artsy neighborhood. This spot is especially photogenic, with its preserved Victorian-era buildings and arts galleries. The district’s history as a whiskey producer ties nicely into the tour’s theme of Toronto’s beverage history. Past guests like Alex from the US rave about guides making the district come alive, mentioning how the guide “knew so much about both Toronto and beer,” making the experience both educational and visually appealing.

The Group & Atmosphere

With a maximum of 12 guests, this tour hones in on a personalized experience. You’re likely to be in a small, lively group, which encourages conversation and a relaxed atmosphere. Some reviews mention that even when traveling solo, guides and fellow guests make it easy to connect and enjoy the experience.

Duration, Price & Value

At $71 per person for three hours, this tour offers solid value—especially considering that all tastings are included. Guests have highlighted how generous the sampling is, with some mentioning that the “amount of beer we got to try” made it worth every penny. The price also includes a guided walk, local insights, and visits to historic and scenic spots.

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Practical Tips & Considerations

Dress comfortably and according to the weather, as you’ll be outdoors walking through different neighborhoods. Summers can be hot and humid, while winter visits could be cold and snowy. The tour operates in the afternoon, making it a great option for a leisurely exploration after breakfast or lunch.

Since ID is required, ensure you bring valid proof of being over 19. Guides are friendly and helpful, often sharing tips about local spots for further exploration.

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience offers more than just a pub crawl—it’s a curated journey through Toronto’s history, culture, and craft scene. The blend of storytelling, tastings, and scenic walks makes it engaging for travelers of all backgrounds. It’s especially ideal for those who want an authentic, relaxed experience that’s both fun and informative.

The guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. Many reviews mention how the guides’ personalities elevate the experience—one said, “Joann was very knowledgeable and made it extremely enjoyable,” while others appreciated Dave’s ability to share Toronto’s complex history in a lively way.

The inclusion of local treats, the small-group setting, and the fact that the tour is operated by a socially responsible, carbon-neutral company all contribute to its appeal. You get a taste of Toronto’s past and present, with plenty of opportunities to chat, learn, and enjoy.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a history enthusiast who also loves craft beer, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at Toronto. Beer lovers will appreciate the curated selection of local brews and the stories behind them. Foodies and culture vultures will also find it rewarding, thanks to the tastings and scenic neighborhoods.

Those interested in making new friends or seeking a more intimate experience will particularly enjoy the small-group vibe. It’s well-suited for travelers who prefer engaging guides and meaningful conversations over large, hurried tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers or those who don’t drink alcohol?
While the tour includes tastings, it’s primarily geared toward those over 19 who enjoy craft beer. Non-drinkers might find it less enjoyable, but they can still enjoy the history and scenery.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, usually scheduled in the afternoon, including stops at two pubs, the market, and the distillery district.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the walking tour, a local guide, two craft beers at pubs, a sampling at St. Lawrence Market, and the guided walk through historic neighborhoods.

Are additional drinks available during the tour?
Yes, additional beverages can be purchased at stops, but all included tastings are covered within the tour fee.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is at the NW corner of Yonge and Front Streets, outside the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Is the tour accessible and suitable for all fitness levels?
Since it involves walking through neighborhoods, comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but may be less ideal for those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

In the end, this tour offers a balanced mix of history, local flavor, and craft beer in a friendly, small-group setting. It suits anyone wanting an authentic taste of Toronto’s past while enjoying a few good drinks along the way. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or simply curious about the city’s stories, this experience will leave you with memorable insights and a few new favorite brews.

You can check if your dates are available here: