Hop Into Tempe: A Guide's Take on the Tempe Craft Brew Experience
The Afternoon Rolls Out
There's a special kind of anticipation that comes with a noon meetup where the destination is measured in pints rather than miles. You'll board a luxury Mercedes limo-styled Sprinter Van at your Tempe pick-up point, meet your expert driver and beer guide, and get the lay of the land for the afternoon: four venues, four and a half hours, and not a single mile of driving on you.
The Tempe Craft Brew Experience is one of the most social afternoons on our calendar — running Thursday through Sunday, year-round, from 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM, with the route handled entirely by us.
Four Stops, Four Stories
The lineup is a rotating selection of Tempe's top-rated breweries and cideries, handpicked for quality and character. At each stop you'll enjoy curated pints or flights — 60 to 96 ounces total per guest across the afternoon — while your guide shares the story behind each venue: how it started, what it's won, and what makes its pours stand out in one of Arizona's liveliest beer scenes.
It's the kind of afternoon where the conversation at the table is as good as what's in the glass.
How Beer Is Made
One stop goes a step beyond the taproom: a guided “how beer is made” walk-through of the production facilities. You'll see the equipment up close and hear the grain-to-glass process explained — the ingredients, the brewing techniques, and the craft that defines Arizona's regional beer profiles. Even if you've toured a brewery before, seeing it with a guide who knows the local scene adds a whole new layer.
More Than the Pour
Food and hydration are built into the day: a shared appetizer (one per two guests) at a selected venue, and bottled water available throughout the tour to keep everyone pacing comfortably. And if you're a designated driver or simply prefer not to drink, non-alcoholic options are available at some venues — just let your guide know at the start and they'll help coordinate.
Who This Tour Is For
Anyone over 21 with a valid government-issued ID — Arizona liquor law, enforced at each venue. The pace is easy and social, with moderate walking between stops, and no beer expertise required; the guide brings the knowledge, you bring the curiosity. It's a favorite for visitors wanting a taste of local culture, locals exploring their own backyard, and small groups celebrating something worth toasting.
Know Before You Go
A few things that make the afternoon go smoothly:
- Reservations are required. A minimum of two guests is needed for the tour to operate, and dates can sell out — book ahead.
- Pickup is from five Tempe locations. Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown, Moxy Phoenix Tempe, Marriott Tempe at the Buttes, Graduate by Hilton Tempe, and Catalyst Crafted Ales. Your confirmation email includes your pick-up window and meeting instructions.
- Dress comfortably. Closed-toe, non-slip shoes are recommended — brewery floors can get wet.
- Private tours are available. Alternate days and times can be arranged by request.
- The cancellation window is 72 hours. Please read your confirmation email for details.
Everything else — what to bring, how weather is handled, the physical details — is answered on the Tempe Craft Brew Tour FAQ.
Ready to Raise a Glass?
One afternoon, four venues, and the best of Tempe's craft beer scene with the driving handled for you. Check availability on the Tempe Craft Brew Experience page, and brush up on the details in the Tempe Craft Brew Tour FAQ before you go. Cheers — we'll see you at the first pour.