Kelowna Brewery Tour

If you’re visiting Kelowna and looking to experience its local craft beer scene, the Kelowna Brewery Tour by Canadian Craft Tours offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to sample some of the area’s best brews. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply curious about the local flavors, this three-and-a-half-hour journey combines tasting, education, and a bit of Kelowna’s brewing culture—all in a friendly, relaxed setting.

What makes this tour stand out? We particularly like the knowledgeable guides who share insider insights, the chance to visit working breweries, and the flexibility of having tastings at three distinct breweries. Plus, the transportation included makes it easy to relax and focus on the fun. One aspect to consider is the need for closed-toe shoes since you’ll be touring active breweries—so comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must.

This tour will suit anyone craving a deeper look into Kelowna’s craft beer scene, from casual drinkers to dedicated beer geeks. If you’re eager to learn about the brewing process while enjoying some tasty flights, this experience will likely hit the spot.

Good To Know

• Diverse brewery visits: Three local breweries with unique atmospheres and brewing styles.
• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides lead behind-the-scenes tours and tastings.
• All-inclusive tastings: Flights at each stop, including craft beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options.
• Convenient transportation: Air-conditioned van service allows you to relax and focus on enjoying the tour.
• Flexibility with private pickup: Can be arranged for an additional fee, adding convenience.
• Age restrictions: Minimum drinking age is 19, perfect for adult visitors.

Introduction: What to Expect from the Kelowna Brewery Tour

If you’re curious about Kelowna beyond its famous wines, this brewery tour provides a fun way to discover the local craft beer scene. What’s appealing here is the mix of casual tasting and behind-the-scenes insights offered by guides who know their stuff. We love how the tour isn’t just about drinking—it’s about understanding what makes these breweries unique and how they craft their beers.

You’ll visit three breweries—Kettle River Brewing, Red Bird Brewing, and Barn Owl Brewing—each with its own vibe and specialty. The tour runs in the late afternoon, starting at 4 pm, which makes it a perfect post-wine or sightseeing activity. At just over three and a half hours, it’s a manageable length for an evening outing, especially with the included transport that takes away the hassle of driving.

While the price of around $89 per person might seem on the higher side, the value is clear when you factor in guided tours, tastings at all three breweries, and transportation. For those wanting a relaxed, guided experience that emphasizes authenticity and local flavor, this tour ticks many boxes.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Kettle River Brewing Co

Our journey begins at Kettle River Brewing, a spot well-loved for its variety and welcoming atmosphere. The taproom boasts ten rotating beer taps, so the selection is always fresh and interesting. The lineup usually features a combination of core beers, seasonal specials, and sometimes unique collaborations, making each visit potentially different.

Here, you’ll enjoy a 55-minute behind-the-scenes tour. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, sharing insights about the brewing process and what makes their beers special. Reviewers mention how much they appreciated the fabulous, fun, and insightful guidance. You’ll also find wine, cider, and non-alcoholic options, providing choices for all tastes.

Stop 2: Red Bird Brewing

Next up is Red Bird Brewing, a community-centered space with a long-standing connection to Kelowna’s local events like the Kelowna Regatta. The brewery’s history is woven into its identity, giving visitors a sense of being part of the community fabric. During the 55-minute visit, you’ll explore their brewing setup and sample some of their distinctive beers.

Guides here are praised for their fabulous knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the experience more than just a tasting. Their beers often reflect the local vibe—fresh, lively, and made with care. Reviewers have noted that the tour offers a relaxed environment where they learned a lot and left with new favorites.

Stop 3: Barn Owl Brewing

The final stop is Barn Owl Brewing, a newer addition to Kelowna’s craft scene but one that’s already making a name for itself. Located in the historic Surtees Barn, this brewery combines rustic charm with innovative brewing. Their tour also lasts about 55 minutes, during which you’ll get a peek into their brewing process and taste some of their standout beers.

Reviewers highlight the charm of the historic setting and the passionate team behind it. The founders, a group of friends, started Barn Owl in 2018 with a love for bringing people together through good beer. The experience here is relaxed and friendly, making you feel like part of the local brewing family.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The genuine value of this experience lies in the combination of expert guidance, engaging brewery visits, and the opportunity to taste a range of local brews. Being able to sample at each brewery helps you compare styles and find your personal favorites, whether you’re into hoppy IPAs, smooth porters, or cider.

The transportation provided ensures you can focus on tasting without worrying about driving, and the air-conditioned van is a nice touch, especially during warmer months. The tour’s small group size—up to 13 travelers—means a more intimate experience, allowing guides to give personalized insights and answer questions comfortably.

Practical Considerations

One thing to keep in mind is the dress code: since you’ll be visiting working breweries, closed-toe shoes are required for safety reasons. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately—layers in cooler months or sun protection in summer—is smart.

If you’d like extra convenience, private pickup can be arranged for an extra fee, which is ideal if you’re staying away from the central meeting point. The tour departs at 4 pm from Ellis Street, giving you plenty of time in the evening to continue exploring or dining locally.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

The positive feedback from past travelers emphasizes the guides’ expertise and friendly demeanor. One reviewer called the operator “fabulous, fun and knowledgeable,” which really highlights the quality of the guiding. The tours seem to strike a good balance between education and casual tasting, making it suitable for both beer connoisseurs and casual drinkers.

Another reviewer appreciated the opportunity to discover Kelowna’s beer scene in a relaxed setting, noting that the tour helped showcase the area’s vibrant craft brewing culture. The variety of options at each brewery—from core beers to seasonal and collaborative brews—keeps the experience fresh and engaging.

Final Thoughts

The Kelowna Brewery Tour offers a rewarding way to explore the city’s craft beer landscape, especially if you prefer guided experiences that combine tastings with local stories. The well-selected breweries, knowledgeable guides, and convenient transport make it a solid choice for those looking to indulge in Kelowna’s growing craft scene without the hassle of planning.

This tour particularly benefits visitors who want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at local breweries, enjoy tasting different styles, and appreciate friendly, informative guides. With a modest price point for the value received, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Kelowna itinerary.

Whether you’re into beer, cider, or just want to learn more about Kelowna’s brewing culture, this tour provides a lively, educational experience that suits many tastes and interests.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport by air-conditioned van, so you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about driving.

Can I book a private pickup?
Yes, private pickup can be arranged for an additional fee, which can add extra convenience to your day.

What is the minimum age to participate?
The minimum drinking age is 19, making this tour ideal for adult travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with about 55 minutes at each brewery.

What should I wear on the tour?
Since you’ll be visiting active breweries, closed-toe shoes are required for safety.

Is the tour suitable in all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour operates regardless of weather, so dress accordingly for the forecast.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 13 travelers, promoting a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, for a full refund.

What is the cost of the tour?
It costs approximately $89.07 per person, offering good value considering the guided tastings and transport included.

To sum it up, the Kelowna Brewery Tour is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon discovering local craft beers in a relaxed, guided setting. Perfect for beer lovers, curious travelers, or groups seeking a fun, authentic Kelowna experience, it delivers both educational value and memorable tastings. If you’re after a taste of Kelowna’s vibrant brewing culture, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip.