Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour

Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour: A Unique Blend of Craft Beer and Local Lore

Our review of the Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour offers a peek into an experience that’s more than just a pub crawl. This guided journey through Sanford’s historic craft beer scene pairs fascinating stories with tastings, making it a captivating outing for those interested in local culture and good brews.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s led by a BJCP Certified Beer Judge, Gary Holmes, who adds credibility and a touch of expertise—perfect for beer enthusiasts eager to learn. Second, the stops include a nano-brewery, a century-old building, and a taproom experimenting with styles—each offering a different flavor of Sanford’s brewing spirit. Third, the stories shared are gathered directly from locals, giving a sense of authentic history intertwined with ghostly tales.

However, one consideration might be the timing—starting at 8:30 PM means you’ll be navigating the historic streets after sunset, which adds to the spooky ambiance but might not suit everyone’s schedule or preferences. Lastly, this tour is best suited for those over 21 who appreciate a blend of storytelling and craft beer, making it ideal for adults looking for a relaxed but intriguing evening.

If you’re into local history, craft beer, and a dash of ghostly intrigue, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy small-group experiences and want to connect with Sanford’s community vibe.

Good To Know

• Authentic Local Stories: Gathered directly from Sanford residents, adding depth to the experience
• Expert Guide: Led by a certified beer judge, offering insights into brewing styles and techniques
• Variety of Stops: From a homebrew shop to established breweries, showcasing Sanford’s craft scene
• Tastings Included: Beer samples are part of the experience, providing good value
• Evening Atmosphere: Starts at 8:30 PM, perfect for a nighttime adventure with a spooky twist
• Limited Group Size: Max of 12 travelers, ensuring a personal and engaging tour

An In-Depth Look at the Sanford Haunted Brewery Tour

Introduction to the Experience

The Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour invites curious adults to explore Sanford’s historic downtown through a lens of brewing artistry and ghostly tales. This isn’t a haunted house or ghost hunt but a storytelling journey paired with premium craft beer. For those who love uncovering local lore while sipping on well-crafted brews, this tour offers a charming mix of education, entertainment, and community spirit.

The tour’s modest price of $42.99 per person is quite reasonable given the included beer tastings and personalized group setting. We like that it’s a 1 hour 30 minute experience, making it manageable even for those with a busy schedule.

Why We Think This Tour Is Worth It

First, the expert guide—Gary Holmes, a BJCP Certified Beer Judge—brings a level of credibility that elevates the experience beyond a typical pub crawl. His knowledge of brewing styles and the history of Sanford helps create an informative atmosphere, whether you’re a seasoned beer fan or a casual sipper.

Second, the small group size of just 12 travelers means you’ll have plenty of opportunities for questions, personalized stories, and a relaxed pace. This intimacy fosters a genuine connection to the local scene and makes for a more memorable experience.

Third, the variety of stops ensures you’ll see different facets of Sanford’s beer culture—from a homebrew shop and nano-brewery to a historic building turned brewery. Each location offers a unique insight into the brewing process and local flavor.

Finally, the evening timing adds a layer of mystique, especially given the ghostly stories that come with Sanford’s historic streets. You’ll get to enjoy the city’s ambiance after dark, making the experience feel more atmospheric.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Sanford Homebrew Shop
This first stop is a true treat for beer lovers. Not only does it serve as a homebrewing supply store, but it’s also a nano-brewery, making small, artisan batches. The 30-minute visit allows you to chat with staff and get a behind-the-scenes look at small-scale brewing. The review mentions that this stop is free, though it’s a must-do for those interested in the craft.

Stop 2: Dees Brothers Brewery
Housed in a 100-year-old building, Dees Brothers offers a warm sense of history blended with modern brewing. Here, you’ll sample a selection of beers brewed right in Sanford, giving you a taste of local flavor. The brewing in such a historic space adds a palpable sense of tradition—many reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere and variety of their offerings.

Stop 3: Deviant Wolfe Brewery
This taproom is known for experimenting with styles while staying true to classic brewing standards. It’s an exciting place for those who want the familiar but also crave innovation. Expect to taste a broad selection, with some reviews mentioning that the passion for experimentation shines through. The 30-minute stop allows for a relaxed sampling and conversation.

What’s Included and Practical Details

Beer samples are included at each stop, making it a good value for the price. The digital waiver process simplifies the check-in, and all participants must be 21+, which is standard for alcohol tours. The start point is centrally located at 115 Magnolia Ave, near public transportation, making it accessible.

The tour duration of around 1.5 hours is enough to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. The max group size of 12 ensures an intimate experience, but you should book in advance as most bookings are made about 12 days ahead.

Authentic Stories and Local Insights

A significant part of the tour’s appeal is the storytelling aspect. Guides collect stories directly from locals, which adds authenticity and richness. While the tour is not ghost-hunting, the tales of Sanford’s history and haunted legends are woven into the narrative, providing a spooky vibe perfect for a nighttime outing.

The Experience’s Value

While $42.99 isn’t the lowest price, it includes multiple tastings, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to explore Sanford’s historic and brewing scene in one outing. For craft beer fans, the opportunity to learn from a certified judge adds educational value. For history buffs, the stories and historic venues deepen the experience.

Considerations and Tips

Since it starts at 8:30 PM, be prepared for a walk around the historic streets at night. Dress comfortably and wear layers, as evenings can be cooler. Make sure to bring your ID to verify your age and fill out the digital waiver beforehand to streamline check-in.

If you’re traveling with someone who isn’t a beer drinker, note that all participants must be 21+, so this experience is strictly for adults. Also, since weather can affect the tour, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast—poor weather might lead to cancellation or rescheduling, but full refunds are available if that happens.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for beer enthusiasts eager to expand their knowledge, history lovers interested in local stories, or adventurous spirits looking for a fun evening in Sanford. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy relaxed, guided outings with a mix of education and entertainment.

The small group setting, coupled with expert insights, ensures a personal touch that bigger tours often lack. If you’re looking for a local, authentic experience that combines storytelling, history, and craft beer, this tour ticks all boxes.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for minors?
No, all participants must be 21 or older due to alcohol consumption.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering three stops.

Are beer samples included?
Yes, beer tastings are part of the tour at each location.

What is the start point?
The tour begins at 115 Magnolia Ave, Sanford, FL 32771.

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

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, it is near public transit options.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and layers for cooler evening weather.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, all participants need to be 21+ and participating in alcohol tasting.

Will I get a chance to speak with the brewers?
Yes, the stops are designed for interaction, especially at the nano-brewery and taproom.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered if canceled due to poor weather.

In the end, the Sanfords Haunted Brewery Tour offers a well-rounded evening combining local history, craft beer, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to experience Sanford’s vibrant brewing scene with an added twist of storytelling—making it a memorable night out for anyone who appreciates good beer and good stories.