toronto brewery tour

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Toronto Brewery Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Toronto's vibrant craft beer culture with Canadian Craft Tours' Toronto Brewery Tour. Ideal for both enthusiasts and newcomers alike, this tour offers an exclusive peek behind the scenes of the city's most exciting breweries.

What You'll Experience:

• Expert-Led Insights: Our passionate "Beer Geek" guides will lead you through a fascinating exploration of beer's rich history and brewing processes.
• Exclusive Tastings: Enjoy a curated selection of beer flights, featuring 4x5oz samples at each brewery visit, providing a taste of Toronto’s finest brews.
• Convenient Transportation: With options for both private and public tours, including round-trip transport from Keele Subway Station, we make your craft beer journey seamless.
• Customizable Private Tours: Tailor your experience with custom pickup/drop-off locations and explore breweries in Toronto's West End, Junction, or East End.

Booking Your Tour:

Ready to dive into Toronto’s craft beer world? Reserve your spot on our public tours directly through our website or contact us to arrange a personalized private tour. Whether you’re planning a special event or just looking to enjoy some quality brews with friends, our tours offer an immersive experience into the heart of Toronto’s beer scene.

Why Choose Us?

Canadian Craft Tours is committed to providing an engaging, informative, and enjoyable craft beer experience. From the moment you book until the last drop, we ensure every aspect of your tour is perfect. Join us and discover why Toronto is at the forefront of the craft beer movement.  We are also the owners of Toronto Brewery Tours and the Beer Bus . 

Let’s Raise a Glass Together!

Book now and prepare to embark on a craft beer adventure that celebrates the best of Toronto’s brewery culture. For more details, visit our FAQ page or get in touch to customize your tour.

Sample Public Tour Schedule - What to expect on your Toronto Brewery Tour

• 4:45pm : Meet at Keele Subway Station. Orientation, what to expect, housekeeping. If someone is not here yet, we call or text them to remind you we leave by 5:00pm sharp.
• 4:55 - 5:00pm : Head for our First Brewery in our Canadian Craft Tours minibus.  Introduction of guests to each other, an overview of craft beer, wine spirits in Ontario. Intro to craft beer in Ontario
• 5:00 - 6:10pm : 1st Brewery introduction, Brewery Tour & Tasting Flight, tasting flight beer tasting notes. If the group wants to eat we generally have menu's in the car and you can order as we walk in so the food is ready after our tour.
• 6:15 - 7:05pm : 2nd Brewery introduction, more beer knowledge & tasting flight with beer tasting notes.  This is where we tell you a little more about the craft beer industry and we may even play a little bit of trivia! 
• 7:10 - 8:00pm : 3rd Brewery introduction, tasting flight. By this time the group is all best friends.  Snacks available.
• 8:00 - 8:15 : Head back to our drop off location. Say our "See you again's", and hug it out.  

*If the guide does not tip the van please feel free to tip the guide.

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Dobbernation Loves

Best Toronto Brewery Tours 2024

Are you a craft beer lover looking to book the best Toronto brewery tours?

Our guide to Toronto brewery tours shares tips on how to plan an independent visit to the best craft breweries in Ontario’s capital.

We also share a comprehensive list of Toronto’s top craft beer and food tours. Join knowledgeable beer guides who take visitors brewery hopping to sip through the city’s best suds.

Save this story to Pinterest!

Toronto Brewery Tours: History

Dobbernationloves sat down with Toronto craft beer expert Jordan St. John to chat about the city’s brewing history and tours. St. John is the co-author of the Ontario Craft Beer Guide , head of the Beer Certificate at George Brown College and hosts a popular Toronto brewery tour .

The first brewery in Toronto was owned by Robert Henderson and was located at the corner Richmond and Sherbourne. It opened in 1803, at the time when the town of York would have been less than 1000 people. It operated under different names until the 1930’s.

St. John shared, “The impressive thing is that it was the first brewery to make ale under Henderson, and then in the 1850’s it was briefly run by a female brewer before being taken over by a German brewer named John Walz. It mirrored the immigration from Europe over the course of the 19th century.”

Toronto’s brewing history is impressive partly because of the size of some of the breweries. St. John added, “O’Keefe Brewing, which was located where Ryerson University is now produced 500,000 barrels of beer annually before WWI. It would have been mostly lager, but the size is impressive. People used to say that east of Yonge Street people mostly drank ale and west of Yonge Street people mostly drank lager. It’s less to do with that geography and more to do with cultural influence of groups as they show up.”

Toronto Brewery Tour Craft Beer Trends

So how has the growth of Toronto’s craft beer scene effected local tastes? St. John explained, “We used to be brand loyal and buy cases from The Beer Store, which is a chain owned by large international brewing companies. Now there’s a brewery in every neighbourhood. People are buying beer locally and supporting local businesses. There are a lot of mixed fermentation sours out there, and we have the requisite number of hazy IPAs. People are playing around with fruit purees and lactose as well. Even with all that happening, we still have some lighter recognizable styles. There’s something for everyone, which is a wonderful place to be.”

St. John suggests visiting beer lovers utilize the TTC to get around the city on an self guided Toronto brewery tour. “Don’t be afraid of the public transit. It’s safe, affordable, and most of the breweries are located comfortably along streetcar routes. You could just pick a neighbourhood within the city and experience three or four great breweries in the same day. In The Junction neighbourhood, you might choose Shacklands, Rainhard, and People’s Pint. In the East End, you might go to Left Field, Godspeed, and Avling. There are a lot of great combinations that are walkable, and the TTC will get you home safely afterwards,” said St John.

You’re probably wondering, of all the ticketed Toronto brewery tours, which is St. John’s favourite? “I think the one at Steam Whistle is great. It’s comprehensive and since Steam Whistle is best fresh from the tank, you can try samples of it in its best condition. They also have a beer garden now, which is something that really adds versatility to the experience. Get a sausage and a stein of Steam Whistle. You can’t go wrong,” exclaimed St. John.

Best Toronto Hotels

If you’re planning a brewery hopping holiday in Toronto, the city offers accommodation options for every budget.

• The Drake Hotel   3.5 STARS:  The Drake is one of Canada’s most sought-after hotels with a unique approach to art, culture, entertainment & hospitality. The funky, individually decorated rooms feature modern artwork and hardwood floors. Enjoy a craft beer or cocktail at the popular rooftop bar.  Check Reviews
• Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto  4 STARS:  In a striking building opposite Steam Whistle Brewing, this contemporary hotel in the Entertainment District. The polished rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows which offer spectacular waterfront and city skyline views.  Check Reviews
• Four Seasons Hotel  5 STARS : In the fashionable Yorkville shopping and restaurant quarter, this high-rise, luxe property features chic suites, luxurious spa, cocktail bar and restaurant by Chef Daniel Boulud.  Check Reviews

Plan A Toronto Brewery Tour

We’ve organized this story into two lists to help you find the Toronto brewery tours best suited for your needs.

The first section features a list of Toronto craft breweries that offer regular craft beer tours. They are hosted by brewery staff and include details about the history of the brewery, unique methods of production and a tasting of the brands most notable brews.

The second section of the story lists popular Toronto beer and food tours hosted by independent operators. These tours can often be booked as a public group tour or private VIP experience. The guides are local beer and food experts. They tell the story of Toronto’s brewing history by hopping around to top breweries, brewpubs, beer halls and restaurants.

Steam Whistle Brewing

255 Bremner Blvd , 416-362-2337

Steam Whistle Brewing is by far the most visited brewery in Toronto. The popular tourist attraction is conveniently located by the CN Tower , Rogers Centre, Ripley’s Aquarium, Metro Toronto Convention Centre and the scenic Harbourfront .

Toronto brewery tours at Steam Whistle take place in the historic Roundhouse, which features a retail shop, craft beer bar and outdoor patio. It regularly hosts craft beer events, with our favourite being an annual Oktoberfest celebration .

The 30 minute tour moves on catwalks high above the brewery’s bustling production floor. You’ll take in the aromatic smells and sounds of the brewhouse and learn about Steam Whistle’s founding story.

Steam Whistle’s Toronto Brewery tours takes place daily. Cost is $12.

Amsterdam Brewing

45 Esandar Dr , 416-504-1040

Amsterdam Brewing is situated within Toronto’s scenic Queens Quay, perched over Lake Ontario. The Harbourfront is best visited during the warmer months of the year as tourists and locals flock to enjoy the lakeside neighbourhood.

Amsterdam Brewing is ideally located right on the water. Its back patio fills to the brim in the busy summer months, offering beer lovers a beautiful view of the lake, dotted with sailboats and canoes.

Amsterdam Brewing offers free 30 minute tours of the brewery on weekends. Guests are led by brewmasters who explain how they make their popular craft beers. Visitors have an opportunity to sample fresh beer, poured straight from the tanks.

Amsterdam’s Toronto Brewery tours take place every Saturday and Sunday between 1-6pm. Cost is Free!

Mill Street Brewery

21 Tank House Lane , 416-681-0338

Located in the heart of the historic Distillery District , the newly renovated Mill Street Beer Hall bottle shop offers brewery tours 7 days a week. 

As beer innovators in the Ontario craft beer scene, Mill Street Brewery strives to explore exciting brewing methods. Visitors enjoy a tour of Mill Street’s in-house nano-brewery, which produces unique, small-batch brews. Your tour guide will speak about the historic elements that make up with Distillery District and offer tastings fresh from the tap. Be sure to sample Mill Street’s unique gin and Bierschnaps.

The Toronto brewery tour includes a 30 minute guided tour, 12oz house brew and 3x5oz samples of current seasonals.

FUN FACT : Mill Street owns Brickworks Ciderhouse in Leslieville , which features a rooftop patio and fun drag brunch on weekends.

Mill Street’s Toronto Brewery tours take place Monday-Friday at 4pm and Saturday and Sunday at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. Cost is 15.

Henderson Brewing

128A Sterling Rd , 416-535-1212

Henderson Brewing is a popular craft brewery located between Toronto’s Roncesvalles and Junction neighbourhoods. If you’re researching Toronto brewery tours in the city’s west end, Henderson is your best bet.

The Henderson Brewery Tour includes a history of the neighbourhood and brewing in Toronto, guided tour of the brewery, samples of the beers currently on tap and a souvenir tasting glass.  

Popular craft beers by Henderson Brewing include Henderson’s Best Amber Ale, Food Truck Lagered Blonde, Monsoon Tropical Sour and Ramble on Rose Pomegranate Saison.

Henderson’s Toronto Brewery tours take place every Tuesday at 7pm. Cost is $10.

You May Also Enjoy These Craft Beer Guides…

• Craft Breweries in Toronto to Romance Me Now
• Best Hamilton Breweries and Craft Cider
• Niagara Breweries: Best Craft Beer From Falls to Fort
• Best Craft Breweries in Kitchener Waterloo
• Muskoka Breweries: Best Craft Beer in Ontario Cottage Country
• Barrie Breweries: Craft Beer at Flying Monkeys, Barnstormer and Redline
• Best Craft Breweries in Montreal
• Vancouver Breweries: Best Craft Beer in British Columbia
• Best Victoria Breweries on Vancouver Island
• Edinburgh Breweries: Scotland’s Best Craft Beer
• Best Craft Breweries in Detroit

Black Oak Brewing

75 Horner Ave , 416-252-2739

Black Oak Brewing is located in Etobicoke , just south of the QEW near Costco, Cineplex Queensway, Ikea and Great Lakes Brewery.

The popular craft brewery in Etobicoke offers a bottle shop and tasting room that pours pale ales, brown ales, bitter brews and variety of seasonal and experimental offerings.

The brewery tour typically runs from 30-60 minutes and is led by friendly guides who are happy to answer all your beer-making questions. Guests enjoy a tasting of 3 fresh beers as well as an interactive tour of the brewing and packaging process.

Black Oak’s Toronto Brewery tours take place every Saturday between 10am-4pm. Cost is $10.

Left Field Brewery

36 Wagstaff Dr , 647-346-5001

Left Field Brewery is located in Toronto’s East End near popular brunch restaurant, Maha’s Egyptian . It offers the only Toronto brewery tour east of the Don River.

Left Field Brewery’s 45 minute tours offer an an intimate, hands-on learning experience about the brands history, brewing process and ingredients.

Tours include a full-sized welcome pour plus the ability to taste raw ingredients and in-process beer alongside the same finished beer to better understand brewing and the cellaring processes.

Left Field’s Toronto Brewery tours take place Saturday and Sunday at 1pm. Cost is $10.

Book the Best Toronto Brewery Tours

If you’re keen to learn about the beer making process or enjoy a special VIP experience, we suggest booking one of these popular Toronto brewery tours.

Booking a Toronto beer tour with friends means everyone in your group can enjoy tastings throughout the day. Leave your car at home and enjoy a craft beer hopping tour on foot.

Toronto Brewery Tours

These public and private beer tours focus specifically on visiting breweries, brewpubs and beer halls.

• Small-Group Toronto Beer Tour : this 4 hour beer tour of Old Toronto features stops at popular pubs, a brewery and the historic St Lawrence Market.
• Toronto Craft Brewery Tour : this 4 hour Toronto brewery tour is led by a friendly Brew Captain in a 10-seater van. Visit 3 breweries and learn about the beer making process with a beer flight at each stop.
• Historical Craft Beer Tour of The Junction : This 4 hour Toronto brewery tour focuses on showcasing the history and unique beers made in The Junction .
• Toronto Private Craft Brewery Tour : this private Toronto brewery tour is 4 hours and visits 3 of the city’s most popular breweries.

Toronto Food & Beer Tours

We recognize not everyone wants to spend an entire day just drinking beer. Many of Toronto’s best food tours feature stops at local breweries or opportunities to sample local craft beer.

• 1-Hour Distillery History District by Segway : Explore the Distillery District and its cobblestone streets by Segway on this 1 hour tour that features stops to sample chocolate and craft beer.
• Kensington Market Food Tour : This 2.5 hour walking tour explores the best tastes in Toronto’s quirky Kensington Market . Guests visit 6 local multicultural eateries and sample craft beer.
• Toronto Great Canadian Food Tour : This 2.5 hour walking tour explores Kensington Market with tastings of First Nations cuisine, French Canadian poutine and more!
• Toronto Food Experience: Canadian Food Discovery at the St Lawrence Market: This 3 hour tour visit’s the city’s famous food market and includes tastes of locally roast coffee, peameal bacon sandwich, butter tart, pierogies, poutine and maple candy.
• Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise : Enjoy a 2.5 hour cruise of Lake Ontario with views of the Toronto skyline while enjoying brunch!
• Toronto World Food Tour : This 5 hour tour explores 5 global cuisines from local hangouts to a nightlife experience.

Review Our Travel Checklist When Planning Your Next Adventure!  

Find the best flights on Skyscanner

Never travel without insurance! We suggest World Nomads comprehensive coverage as it includes over 250 adventure activities such as scuba diving, bungee jumping and surfing.

If you’re planning a road trip make sure to compare the best local car rental options.

Looking to book a tour or VIP experience on holiday? Book the best local tours on Viator .

Be sure to check your travel destinations electrical plug requirements in advance. If you travel often be sure to purchase a multi-region adaptor .

Whether you’re marching through a city or exploring a rugged rural landscape, it’s important to ensure you’re traveling with comfortable footwear. We suggest these comfortable walking shoes for urban adventures or these waterproof hiking boots when embarking on a hike holiday.

Capture your holiday on a quality camera. We suggest the pocket-sized Canon Powershot G7 or professional SLR we shoot with Canon EOS 6D .

Some of the links in this story use affiliate links. This means that if you book through our site, Dobbernationloves will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you . Your support helps us to produce comprehensive content. 

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Toronto Brewery Tours

Toronto tours , brewery tours across toronto, gta and beyond  .

Ride in style with our fleet of branded vehicles as we take you to three unique craft breweries on your Toronto Brewery Tour or two breweries and a small batch distillery on our Mashup Tour! We'll teach you how to taste craft beer like pro, tell you about the industry and all while you find out what goes on behind the scenes. Options to meet in Toronto or contact us for a quote to bring you and your guests from a custom pick up location to Toronto for a day of craft beer and fun! 

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Where we visit.

Amsterdam Brewery

Amsterdam Brewery first opened their doors in 1986, bringing fresh, local and original brews to the City of Toronto. The Brewhouse on Queens Quay brings handcrafted food and craft beer together on the waterfront. The production facility and taproom is open 364 days a year in the Leaside neighbourhood. Whether you’re looking for a small batch Adventure Brew, hops forward Boneshaker IPA or versatile 3 Speed Lager, Amsterdam Brewery has the Dam Good Beer you’re looking for.

Eastbound Brewing Co.

Nestled into a space once occupied by a theatre in the 1930s, Eastbound Brewing Company has set up a brewery and kitchen where everything can be seen. After all, great beer and food has nothing to hide, and its part of the thinking here. At Eastbound Brewing Company, you’re immersed in a true craft beer experience from the moment you walk through the door.

Junction Craft Brewing

Inspired by the rich history of West Toronto’s railway district, known as the Junction, Junction Craft Brewing has been brewing balanced, flavourful versions of diverse beer styles since they opened their doors in 2011.

Junction Craft Brewing is committed to brewing high-quality, hand-crafted beers and is best known for its signature Conductor’s Craft Ale. Much like how the railways of yesteryear and today joined communities together, the good folks at Junction Craft Brewing continue the tradition of bringing people together over great locally made craft beer!  Junction Craft Brewing will soon have a new home in the historic Symes Road Incinerator, a beautiful Art Deco building built by the City of Toronto in 1934.

Steam Whistle Brewing

Steam Whistle Brewing has become recognized across Canada for doing one thing, really really well. Their benchmark (and only!) brew is a wonderfully crisp Czech-style Pilsner brewed according to traditional brewing standards in the restored historic John Street Round House. Steam Whistle Brewing celebrates the glory days when the iconic steam whistle would blow, signaling the end of a hard, honest day of work–much like the work behind every bottle of Steam Whistle Pilsner.

Left Field Brewery

Inspired by the sport they love, Left Field Brewery continues to knock it out of the ballpark with great beer that is about great taste and good times. With brews like the Eephus Oatmeal Brown Ale, Maris* Pale Ale and Laser Show Vermont Style IIPA, it’s clear to see how full-flavoured beers are what make Left Field a must-try.

Muddy York Brewing Co.

Muddy York Brewing Co. gets its name from a disparaging term used to describe the early settlement then known as York, which became the thriving metropolis of Toronto. Rainy days wreaked havoc on the city, turning its unpaved streets into impassable muddy roadways. It was a time of hard work and new beginnings, where folks took pride in their craft and built things to last.

We here at Muddy York Brewing Co. feel much the same way about our beer. We take a ‘less is more’ approach to brewing. All of our beers are handcrafted, remarkably drinkable and well balanced. We take pride in the details because it’s the details that make good beers great.

We look forward to seeing you here at our brewery. We’ll save you a seat at the bar.

Rorshach Brewing Co.

As a small brewery and tasting room, at Rorschach we intend to experiment with different brewing styles, unique ingredients and innovative techniques, but we will always have a heavy focus on the specific styles of beer that we enjoy to brew and drink. We believe these to be hop-forward beers that emphasize hop aroma and flavour over hop bitterness, as well as saison and mixed-fermentation farmhouse style beers that are dry, effervescent and intriguingly complex. We hold balance and drinkability to be the goals that we strive for in the beers that we create.

Saulter Street Brewery

The second you step into this restored once-upon-a-time stables, you know you’re in a special place. Having opened its big red door in 2016, Saulter Street Brewery specializes in a crisp, wonderfully amber pilsner that is as unique as the Riverdale neighbourhood where its tucked away behind a row of houses. Their beer swung them into the hands of thousands of cirque-goers as the official beer of a recent Toronto Cirque du Soleil performance. Cheers to that!

Beaches Brewing Co.

Born in the Beaches neighbourhood of Toronto, inspired by beaches around the world, Beaches Brewing Company produces award winning craft beer and food.  To us the beach is more than an afternoon, it is a lifestyle.  Make every day a Beach day!

Toronto Private Craft Brewery Tour

• Craft beer tasting lesson
• Branded Swag
• Tour 3 Toronto Breweries - (*brewery selection is subject to change)
• Flight of beer at each brewery (4 x 5oz of beer at each stop)
• Private transportation
• Entry/Admission - Toronto
• Entry/Admission - High Park Brewery
• Food and drinks, unless specified
• Option 1 21 Keele St, Toronto, ON M6P 2J8, Canada Your pickup location is at the TTC Keele Subway Station (Northeast corner of Keele and Bloor). Please use the main exit on Keele St. The van will be parked directly on Keele street in a special pickup/drop off lane.
• Option 2 Toronto, ON, Canada Custom Pickup Location Within Toronto
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Not wheelchair accessible
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Most travelers can participate
• Minimum age is 19 years
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You’ll have 2 starting options See departure details
• 1 Junction Craft Brewery Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Henderson Brewing co Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 3 High Park Brewery Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Brittany Lynn E 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great beer! This was such a fun experience to taste all the different locally made beers in the area. My partner and I both enjoyed this tour a lot! Read more Written November 28, 2023
• sitafaj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Toronto Craft Brewery Tour I had a great time on the craft brewery tour! Driver arrived right on time and took us to some great local breweries. I felt like a learned a lot about the local brew scene and just Toronto in general. Definitely recommend this tour! Read more Written April 10, 2023
• W9492SHlouises 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very much appreciated Alex was very knowledgeable and formative but didn’t overload us. We got to see behind the scenes in one of the breweries which was very interesting. Would recommend to anyone that enjoys a good day out, and especially beer lovers. Thumbs up. :D Read more Written November 6, 2022
• 819brockn 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun Day Activity - Fantastic Experience We went for a small bachelor party get together and Alex was an amazing tour guide and host. We had an amazing time!!! He answered any and all questions we had about the beers and brewery process and had a fantastic and energetic attitude the whole trip. He made the trip very memorable with lots of laughs. Would definitely recommend for anyone interested about the brewery process but also just looking to explore some local craft brewery options in the area. Highly recommend! Read more Written June 13, 2022
• Seattlefan 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Wish it were beer I would’ve loved it but it was canceled due to me being the only one to schedule it. Traveling by yourself used to be the greatest and many tours were super but lately and a little precovid this seems to happen a lot. The tour operator tried really hard to reschedule me but we couldn’t make it work. They did provide me with a list of breweries to visit and that makes me very happy. Read more Written May 9, 2022
• Trail702854 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome ! My girlfriend and I went on a tour as a birthday gift for my 30th. We had an awesome time !! We never knew there was so much to learn about beer! It was a great way to spend the night. The team did a great job, even with restrictions from Covid they still were able to make it fun and enjoyable. Would definitely go on another in the future. Thanks ! Read more Written August 18, 2020
• F8776JKdouglasr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun and informative! Spent a snowy Sunday afternoon touring three excellent East End breweries (Muddy York, Longslice, and Black Lab) with Reese and a van load of beer drinkers. Great variety of beers, lots of laughs, and some fresh insights into the brewing process. Reese was a great guide and host. Highly knowledgeable and welcoming. Definitely recommended! Read more Written March 1, 2020
• KristyG750 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great beer tour Our guide, Reece, was fun and very informative. All 3 breweries were unique and had a great variety of beers. My husband and I had an awesome time. Read more Written February 17, 2020
• X4227SCdebrab 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great afternoon! Really interesting learning about the brewing process. Our guide was amazing! We tried several different beers, visited a few great breweries and got to meet some nice people! Read more Written January 29, 2020
• davip3060 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great Tour Guide, very informative, but cheaper ways to drink! I bought tickets for my boyfriend and I to do for his birthday. We really enjoyed ourselves! Our guide Reese was very personable and knew a lot about beer and the breweries we visited. We visited three breweries and were served a flight of about 20oz total at each brewery. Although very well done, the tickets seem to be a bit overpriced seeing that on top of the roughly 60oz of beer you get over the whole tour, the only other costs to factor in are the Guide's salary, company's cut, and the ride from Broadview Station, between breweries, and back to the station. We still tipped Reese well at the end. It was a great way to learn about beer however you likely can go between breweries in Toronto and buy more beer for a cheaper price. Read more Written January 22, 2020
• beckanator22 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Top notch Brewery Tour experience! Myself and six others had such a blast on this tour! Our Brew Captain, Reece was incredibly knowledgeable about breweries, the brewing process, and different types of craft beers. He went over and above two ensure we had fun and had the chance to taste a selection of excellent beverages from some amazing local breweries. Reece answered any questions we had along the way and kept us on track throughout the tour. We will definitely be back to try out the East Tour! Read more Written January 13, 2020
• Z3693ALshannonm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing experience! I loved this brewery tour! Our guide, Reese, was very charming and knew a lot about the craft beer making process. I would absolutely do this again! Read more Written January 6, 2020
• MartinielloAA 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lots of fun with great takeaways Reece was very well organized, fun and extremely knowledgeable when it came to the science of beer. The brewery selections were spot on and and the beer was excellent. I definitely know more about beer now than I did before the tour! Read more Written January 6, 2020
• LeeSmitty09 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Well organized and very knowledgeable guide We got Toronto Brewery Tour tickets as a Christmas gift, and it was a great idea! Our beer guide, Reece, was very knowledgeable and you could tell passionate about the brewing process. We learned how beer was made and about the different craft breweries in Toronto. Reece drove us to 3 different craft breweries around the east side of Toronto. We will absolutely be doing the Toronto Brewery Tours again and hope Reece will be our guide again! Read more Written December 29, 2019
• George T 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour with great beers Took the tour in early November, very good tour with a great selections of beers from different breweries, for those doing the west end tour, Henderson’s is very good. Very informative tour with a great guide. Would highly recommend for those looking to explore Toronto’s craft beer scene. Read more Written December 23, 2019

More to explore in Toronto

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Toronto Private Craft Brewery Tour provided by Toronto Brewery Tours

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Old Toronto Beer Tour

4 Brewery Visits with Tastings

Every Saturday - Full Day Fun

• Basic Information
• Tour Includes

At least 1 day in advance. Spots are limited.

Adults Only: $149.00 + 13% tax

Beer Lovers Tour Co

Every Saturday. Book Early. The tour does sell out.

11:00 a.m. at Steam Whistle Brewery located just south of the SkyDome

In accordance with provincial regulations participants must be 19 years of age and over.

Full Day of fun!

4 Award Winning Breweries

Visit Steam Whistle Brewery, Amsterdam Brewery, Mill Street Brewery, and Izumi Sake.

Professional Guide

Beer tours are led by a professional beer & history guides.

Charcuterie lunch, all beer tastings, transportation, Distillery District, and entrance to Fort York.

Cancellation

Cancel any time before the tour date and receive a full refund.

Beer Tour Itinerary

We begin our Old Toronto Beer Tour at 11:00 a.m. on most Saturdays at Steam Whistle Brewery located just south of the SkyDome in Toronto’s historic railway ‘Roundhouse’. (Take the Queen’s Quay streetcar from Union Station to York Street and walk a short block north).

We will be greeted by our tour guide & beer expert and the friendly folks at Steam Whistle. Following a brief introduction and a taste of Steam Whistle’s popular European-style Pilsner, we will commence with our special VIP tour and interpretation which will include the Steam Whistle story, the brewing process and the Pilsner style, as well as the home of Steam Whistle, the historic Roundhouse.

Following our VIP tour, we’ll sit down to enjoy a ‘charcuterie-style’ lunch accompanied, of course, by a refreshing Steam Whistle Pilsner and the great company of new friends found.

Our 2nd stop will be at Fort York : the birthplace of Toronto and home to the oldest buildings in the city.  Ours is the only Toronto city tour to feature Fort York as a stop!  A national heritage site, Fort York was built in 1793 and is a fascinating step back in time, right in the centre of our city!  Since Soldiers in the British Army were alotted ‘six pints a day’ as part of their daily pay, this is where the history of beer in Toronto truly begins.  Boasting the largest collection of original War of 1812 buildings, our Fort York stop will include visits to the Blockhouse Museum and the Officers’ Barracks and Mess.

Cross-City Historic Drive & Corktown

Spring water sake brewery & the mill street brewery.

Formerly the Gooderham & Worts Distillery – the largest in the British Empire! – the Distillery District is a virtual city within a city and is regarded by many as the finest example of Victorian Industrial architecture in North America. Red cobblestoned streets and alleyways lead to interesting shops, galleries, restaurants and our two next stops – the Ontario Spring Water Sake Brewery and the Mill Street Brewery Beer Hall.  Find out why Mill Street was named “Canadian Brewery of the Year” at the Canadian Brewing Awards in 2007, 2008, and 2009.  Discover the Sake Brewery and its unique, freshly pressed, unpasteurized and unfiltered sake, a style which is currently not available anywhere in Ontario or the eastern seaboard.

Amsterdam Brewing Company

We board our bus for our last stop — the new site of The Amsterdam Brewing Company . On the way we will drive by the site of the Toronto Brick Works and old Helliwell Brewery at the Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum & Arts Centre.  Toronto’s oldest original micro-brewery, the Amsterdam is praised for their eclectic range of beers that include traditional lagers, dark ales,barrel-aged and fruit-infused beer. Hosted by your guide, you will partake in our final “tutored tasting” of a broad selection of available Amsterdam brews.

After the tour, we like to go for dinner at the Granite Brewery. You are welcome to stay on the bus and join us!

Toronto Craft Brewery Tour

Stepping into Toronto’s Craft Brewery Tour is akin to unlocking a hidden treasure trove of artisanal brews and brewing secrets. Led by a Brew Captain, participants are in for a treat as they journey through the city’s top breweries, indulging in exclusive tours and sampling sessions.

But what we love about this tour? Well, be prepared for more than just beer – there’s a unique twist waiting to be discovered at each stop that promises to elevate your experience to a whole new level.

• Led by Brew Captain for an elevated experience
• Exclusive brewery tours with unique twists
• In-depth insights into brewing intricacies
• Exceptional beer sampling sessions at top Toronto breweries

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Toronto: Private Helicopter Tour for Two
• Niagara Falls:Private Half Day Tour With Boat and Helicopter
• From Toronto: Niagara Falls Tour With Illumination Tower
• From Toronto: Winter Wonder of Niagara Falls Tour

Tour Details

Set out on a thrilling craft brewery tour in Toronto, led by a knowledgeable Brew Captain, to explore the art and science of beer-making while sampling a variety of brews at local breweries.

This tour offers a unique experience of beer tasting and brewery exploration, allowing participants to learn about the intricacies of brewing while enjoying different flavors. The guided tours and tasting sessions at each brewery provide insights into the craft behind each pint.

Participants can expect a well-rounded experience that includes snacks, water , and souvenir items like a Belgian beer glass, magnetic bottle opener , and VIP lanyard. Get ready to learn about the world of craft beer on this exciting journey through Toronto’s vibrant brewery scene.

The craft brewery tour in Toronto includes visits to Rainhard Brewing Company and Henderson Brewing Co, each offering a 1-hour immersive experience with admission tickets provided. Guests will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes of the brewing process and indulge in beer sampling at these renowned breweries. Here is a glimpse of what the itinerary entails:

Get ready to explore the world of craft beer, witness the magic of brewing firsthand, and savor unique flavors along the way.

Reviews and Ratings

Guests enjoy the craft brewery tour experience through an exploration of reviews and ratings provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Rating breakdown: The tour showcases an impressive overall rating, with detailed breakdowns by star ratings for visitors to assess.

Customer experiences: Visitors can read firsthand accounts of the tour from previous attendees, offering insights into the quality of the experience and what to expect.

Host engagement: The host’s responses to reviews demonstrate a commitment to customer satisfaction and highlight their responsiveness to feedback, reassuring potential guests of a personalized and attentive experience.

Cancellation Policy

Curious about what happens if your plans change? When booking the Toronto Craft Brewery Tour, keep in mind the cancellation policy. To cancel, ensure you meet the booking requirements. The refund process varies, so it’s essential to review the specific terms.

If you need to cancel within 24 hours of the tour, understand the refund conditions. Plus, note the minimum traveler requirement for the tour to proceed. By familiarizing yourself with the cancellation policy, you can be prepared in case unforeseen circumstances arise.

Make sure to check the terms and conditions for any additional details regarding cancellations and refunds before booking your craft brewery adventure in Toronto.

Refund Conditions

Upon cancellation within 24 hours of the tour, refund conditions will be in effect based on the specific terms outlined for the Toronto Craft Brewery Tour. It’s essential for participants to be aware of the refund eligibility criteria to ensure customer satisfaction.

The cancellation process is straightforward; however, understanding the tour experiences can help mitigate last-minute changes. Here are key points to consider:

• Refund eligibility is subject to the time of cancellation and adherence to the outlined terms.
• Customer satisfaction is a priority, and refunds are handled with care to maintain positive tour experiences .
• Clear communication and understanding of the cancellation policy can enhance overall tour enjoyment.

Additional Information

As participants explore the Toronto Craft Brewery Tour, they can access additional information to enhance their experience and make the most of their brewery visits. Travelers can indulge in beer pairing suggestions to elevate their tasting sessions at local breweries, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

The tour provides insights into the vibrant craft beer scene in Toronto, with visits to renowned local breweries where guests can witness the artistry behind brewing unique flavors. Plus, participants can view traveler photos to get a glimpse of the tour experience before embarking on their own journey.

For any inquiries or assistance, the Viator Help Center is readily available to provide support and ensure a seamless brewery tour adventure.

Tour Pricing and Copyright

The tour pricing for the Craft Brewery Tour in Toronto starts from $93.69 and includes copyright details © 1997-2024 Viator When booking this tour, potential participants can be assured of the protection of Viator’s copyright for the content provided.

Here are some key points to consider regarding the tour pricing and copyright protection :

Transparent Pricing : The starting price of $93.69 covers the essential aspects of the tour, ensuring a clear understanding of what’s included.

Copyright Protection : The copyright details © 1997-2024 Viator guarantee that the tour’s unique content and itinerary are protected from unauthorized use.

Value for Money : By adhering to copyright regulations, participants can enjoy the full experience of the Craft Brewery Tour without any concerns about intellectual property rights.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Toronto: Shuttle Transfer Between Downtown and Niagara Falls
• Toronto: Small-Group Niagara Falls Day Trip
• From Toronto: Gray Line Niagara Falls Evening Tour
• Toronto: Luxury Small Group City Tour
• From Toronto: Niagara Falls Day Tour With Boat Cruise
• Toronto: Niagara Falls Evening Tour With Cruise and Dinner

Common questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants on the Craft Beer Tour in Toronto?

Age restrictions apply on the craft beer tour in Toronto to ensure safety and compliance with legal drinking age. Participants must meet identification requirements and be of legal drinking age to enjoy the brewery experience.

Can Guests Bring Their Own Food or Drinks on the Van During the Tour?

Guests cannot bring their own food or drinks on the van during the tour. The experience includes guided tours and tasting sessions at breweries with snacks and water provided. Enjoy the brews and learn about beer-making!

Is Transportation to and From the Meeting Point Included in the Tour Package?

Transportation arrangements for the tour package include a round trip to and from the meeting point. Tour logistics ensure guests are conveniently transported throughout the brewery tour. Inclusions cover all necessary transportation during the experience.

Are There Any Special Discounts or Promotions Available for Group Bookings?

Group discounts and promotional offers are available for large bookings. Special rates can be arranged for groups, adding to the value of the tour package. Contact the tour operator for more information on these exclusive deals.

Can Guests Purchase Additional Beer or Merchandise at the Breweries Visited During the Tour?

Guests can purchase additional beer or merchandise at the breweries visited during the tour. A wide selection of souvenirs is available, including unique craft beer offerings and branded merchandise. Enhance your experience with memorable purchases.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• From Toronto: Niagara Falls Day Trip
• Toronto: Ontario Science Centre Entry Ticket
• Toronto: Falls Day Tour With Boat Cruise & Niagara-The-Lake
• Toronto: Distillery District Historic Walking Tour
• Toronto: Casa Loma’s Stately Houses Mobile Audio Guide
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• Romantic Jewel – Private Helicopter Tour for 2
• Round-Trip: Transfer Between Pearson Intl (YYZ) Airport and Niagara Falls, ON

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Toronto’s craft beer scene with our guided brewery tour.

With exclusive access to top local breweries, engaging insights into beer-making, and delicious tastings at each stop, this experience is a must for beer enthusiasts.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to savor the flavors, learn the craft , and create lasting memories on this one-of-a-kind adventure.

Book your Toronto Craft Brewery Tour today and cheers to a fantastic time!

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Toronto Is A Beer Enthusiasts Dream

Toronto is a city that offers a diverse range of attractions, from its stunning skyline to its world-renowned restaurants. However, for beer enthusiasts, the city is a dream destination, boasting a rich brewing history and a thriving craft beer scene. On top of that, T oronto brewery tours are outstanding.

With an abundance of local breweries, each with its unique character and style, Toronto offers beer lovers a chance to explore and indulge in a variety of flavours and brews. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of Toronto’s best breweries and why they’re worth a visit for any beer enthusiast.

The 3 Best Local Toronto Brewery Touring Companies

1) old toronto beer tour.

The Old Toronto Beer Tour is a premium, all-day experience that explores Toronto’s rich brewing heritage, past, and present. Operating most Saturdays throughout the year since 1998, it’s an award-winning tour. It takes visitors on a journey through the city’s iconic craft breweries, including Steam Whistle, Amsterdam, Mill Street, and Izumi Sake Brewery.

The tour also includes site-seeing in Fort York, Corktown, and the Historic Distillery District, led by a professional beer and history guide. The all-inclusive tour features transportation, over 15 different styles of beer tastings, and an optional 4-course Beer Dinner add-on. Private tours are also available for small groups of 4-6 guests. Additionally, larger bus tours of 12-30 guests are also available, starting at $150 per person.

• RELATED: The Best Music Festivals In Canada (2023 Guide)

2) Canadian Craft Tours

Looking for a private brewery tour in Toronto? These guys have got you covered!

Choose from multiple brewery tour routes in Toronto’s West End, the Junction, or the East End. Their expert beer guides will educate you on all things beer while sampling a variety of brews at each of the 3 breweries we visit. Private tours are available for groups of 8+ and can include a custom pickup/drop-off.

Everything you need is included in your tour. From the tour guide to premium seating, pre-booked venues, beer flights, and behind-the-scenes tours of Toronto’s craft breweries, the experience is all inclusive.

Contact them for meal options and pricing (private tours only). Greater Toronto Area pickups are also available.

3) Toronto Rail & Ale Beer Tour

Looking for a fun way to explore Toronto’s craft beer scene ? Join this half day tour for only $99! You’ll get to enjoy:

• Tutored beer tastings at three different stops, including Steam Whistle Brewery, Mill Street Lounge at Union Station, and Henderson’s Brewery
• 2 brewery tours
• A private tour of the Toronto Railway Museum
• A ride on the new UP Express
• A beer and cheese tasting
• An “experiential beer tour” in Toronto’s Junction “Beer District”

And that’s not all! You’ll also get to try some pretzels and cheese and get entrance to the train museum. Plus, your return train fare to the new UP Express Bloor Station is included too!

So gather your friends and invite them to join the tour on Sundays from 1:00 to 5:00 pm. Check out the complete itinerary below and get ready for a unique and delicious adventure!

Local Toronto Breweries That Offer Tours

1) Amsterdam Brewery

Amsterdam Brewery offers tours of its brewery located in Toronto. During the tour, visitors will learn about the brewing process and the history of the company, as well as get a chance to taste some of their delicious craft beers.

The tour typically includes a visit to the brewery’s tap room, where guests can enjoy more beer and snacks. The brewery also offers private tours and tastings for groups of 10 or more people.

If you’re interested in experiencing the Amsterdam Brewery tour, you can check their website for more information on tour times and availability. It’s a great way to learn about the brewing process and try some delicious local beers in Toronto!

• RELATED: Exploring The 5 Best Beer Bars in Toronto [2024 Guide]

2) Black Oak Brewing

Black Oak Brewing offers an immersive tour experience for beer enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. The brewery hosts tours every Saturday from 10am to 4pm, providing an opportunity to explore the facility and learn about the brewing process from experienced professionals.

To participate in the tour, visitors must be over the age of 19, as there will be plenty of beer to enjoy during the experience. The tour costs $15 per person and lasts anywhere from 30-90 minutes. During the tour, visitors will learn about the award-winning brews produced by Black Oak and get an up-close look at the brewery’s equipment and facilities.

The brewery’s staff is friendly and knowledgeable, providing an engaging and informative tour experience. And, of course, visitors can sip on Black Oak beer as they explore the brewery. It’s a great way to spend a Saturday and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of brewing.

So if you’re looking for a fun and educational activity in Toronto, be sure to check out Black Oak Brewing’s tour schedule and book your spot today.

3) Henderson Brewing

The tasting room and bottle shop at Henderson Brewing are open seven days a week. Because of this, visitors can enjoy draught beer, bottles, cans, and growlers to go. It’s a great place to stop by and taste some of the local flavours of Toronto.

Interested in learning more about the brewery? They offer a weekly tour every Tuesday at 7PM for $5 per person, which includes samples. To sign up for the tour, simply select a date from the event calendar. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain insight into the brewing process and discover the unique beers that the brewery has to offer.

4) Mill Street Brewery

Explore the historical Mill Street Brewery located in Toronto’s distillery district. Established in 2002, Mill Street is one of the city’s first craft breweries, producing award-winning beers and spirits.

Join a small group of beer enthusiasts for an exclusive guided tour, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewery’s small-batch brewing system, distillery, and new foeder system. Mill Street’s resident experts are on hand to answer any questions you have about the brewing process or the history of the brewery.

Tour offerings include a non-alcoholic brewery tour for $7 per person, a brewery tour for $15 per person (which includes 16oz of their Original Organic Lager), and a brewery tour and flight for $25 per person (which includes 16oz of their Original Organic Lager and a guided tasting of four 5oz samples in the taproom).

Discover the secrets of one of Toronto’s most beloved craft breweries and indulge in some of their award-winning brews. Book your Toronto brewery tour today!

Related: Ever wanted to visit the oldest bar in Toronto? Here it is.

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Massive rib and beer festival coming to Toronto this spring

Latest Videos

The Toronto Beaches Rib and Beer Fest is back this spring for a weekend of beer and barbeque in the Beaches — and you can get in for free.

The countdown is on for one of the most highly anticipated food events of the spring in Toronto; Toronto Beaches Rib & Beer Fest, featuring some of the hottest offerings in the barbeque and beer businesses.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NORTHERN HEAT RIB SERIES (@northernheatribseries)

The event is taking place at Woodbine Park from June 14 to the 16, and will feature food and drink stalls from some of the best and brightest in the BBQ and beer world, alongside live music from local bands.

The festival isn't only about the ribs, though. You can also get your hands on barbeque grilled chicken, corn on the cob, blooming onions and plenty more festival faves over the course of the weekend.

You'll be able to sample sauces and rubs from local vendors and pick up a rack (or two) of finger-licking goodness to bring home with you or share with your fellow ribaholics. I won't blame you if you keep them all to yourself, though.

Run by the Northern Heat Rib Series , the Beaches festival is just one stop on a summer-long tour that will have stops all over the province, including an additional Toronto festival at Yonge-Dundas Square from July 12 to the 14.

Jesse Milns

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How Neal Shipley claimed Masters low amateur honors: ‘A little bit of grit’

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Neal Shipley wasn’t raised in a golf family. But he did grow up with a family that loved golf.

The Sunday afternoon of the 2004 PGA Championship was all it took for the Ohio State graduate student — the only amateur to make the cut at this week’s Masters — to fish his dad’s neglected golf clubs out of a closet and give this humbling game a lifelong shot.

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“Me and my dad were on our couch,” Shipley said Friday after finishing 36 holes at Augusta National at 3 over and making the cut by three shots. “And Vijay Singh won. The next day I took my dad’s golf clubs, which were dusty and probably never used, and started swinging around. I decided to get my own little set, and it took off from there.”

Shipley wasn’t just hooked; he was adamant. As an elementary schooler, he told anyone in his hometown of Mt. Lebanon, Pa., that he intended to become a professional golfer. In the second grade, he took his bag to school for “show and tell.” Shipley’s class ventured outdoors at recess to watch him launch drives into the schoolyard. He was a regular at his local junior league. Shipley’s family eventually decided to join St. Clair Country Club so he could properly hone his craft.

“We joined a country club so that he’d have a place to play,” says his father, also named Neal Shipley, “but we’re not country club people.”

Twenty years later, Shipley will play the weekend at the 88th Masters at a firm and fast Augusta National after being invited as the 2023 U.S. Amateur runner-up. He’s tied for 30th, hanging right in there with legends of the game, including 61-year-old Singh, who sits at 4 over, one stroke behind the 23-year-old on the leaderboard through 36 holes.

With his signature long locks spilling down his neck, Shipley will walk up the 18th fairway Sunday evening with low amateur honors locked up. He is the only survivor of the five amateurs in the field. But that wasn’t always guaranteed.

Shipley’s name snuck into the top 10 early Friday morning with back-to-back birdies on his second and third holes to reach 3 under. Hours later, he endured an Augusta National ritual: an Amen Corner implosion.

A drive in the pine straw and a sloppy three-putt on 11, followed by a misplaced tee shot on the par-3 12th cost Shipley three shots in two holes, bringing the projected cut line dangerously into play with winds picking up by the minute.

The remainder of Shipley’s back nine wasn’t perfect, but he hammered away, holing a 39-footer and a 20-footer for birdies at Nos. 13 and 15, respectively.

“He’s a Western Pennsylvania kid,” Shipley’s dad says. “We all have a little bit of grit.”

Following a birdie on No. 13, Neal Shipley is the lowest amateur on the course. #themasters pic.twitter.com/3MAjI3yltE — The Masters (@TheMasters) April 11, 2024

To follow his stunning opening-round 71, Shipley carded a 4-over 76 Friday. It could have been a lot worse, but it wasn’t. A bogey at the 18th put Shipley just inside the cut line for the moment, which ballooned as the afternoon wore on. Now the graduate student is tied with Akshay Bhatia, last week’s PGA Tour winner, and nine shots off of Max Homa, Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau’s shared lead.

“After going bogey, double, bogey on that stretch there, it’s easy to lose some momentum,” Shipley said. “We did a good job of staying in it and just trying to hit some good golf shots the entire time.”

Shipley uses “we” like a seasoned pro when describing the shots he executed alongside his caddie Friday afternoon. But when Shipley uses the plural pronoun, he means it.

Shipley has his childhood best friend, Carter Pitcairn, a sophomore on the Wisconsin golf team, on the bag for him this week. The pair also teamed up at the U.S. Amateur at Cherry Hills last summer, the championship that got him into the Masters field and brought him momentary viral stardom for his everyman vibe and candid personality. When he officially punched his ticket to the Masters, Shipley slammed his burly physique into Pitcairn and yelled ‘Gimme some!’ on the Golf Channel broadcast.

Pitcairn and Shipley attended the same high school, grew up playing the same golf course and shared transportation to and from team practice every day for a year.

“A lot of McDonald’s trips and miles together in the car,” Shipley said. “A bunch of country music. We both like to go fly-fishing too and do stuff like that.”

Shipley might be the one touching the club, but his family might as well be holding on with him. And that doesn’t just include his father and his mother, Susie, who tracked every shot Thursday and Friday. It’s his 26-year-old sister, Fabi, and 21-year-old brother, Max. It’s his roommate, Jacob, who is eager to share stories about the dart board in their apartment back in Columbus, and Jacob’s father, who brags about how fast Shipley can down a beer. It’s Pitcairn’s parents and Shipley’s Ohio State college coach.

The Shipley crew runs deep — approximately 15 people are watching him this week in Augusta — and their collective Masters memories will run even deeper no matter what happens next.

Shipley’s success this week didn’t shock his circle of friends, family members and teammates supporting him here in Augusta. Before completing a graduate degree at Ohio State, Shipley earned his degree in quantitative finance from James Madison University with minors in mathematics and economics.

Shipley is an analytical thinker, and he took every measure to prepare for his week at the Masters. He used all five practice trips allotted for amateurs to acclimate to Augusta National, playing 140 holes on the Alister MacKenzie design before the tournament began. Shipley also had lunch with six-time Masters champion and Ohio State alum Jack Nicklaus, who shared pivotal course strategy insights, and received additional advice from Larry Mize.

The intensity with which Shipley prepared for the Masters was partly because it could be his only Masters. Shipley’s game got hot right before his run at U.S. Am. Coming out of high school, he barely cracked the top 400 in his class ranking. After three years at James Madison, he stood at No. 1,497 in the world amateur golf ranking. Shipley’s recent form has been strong, but you never know what can happen in this tumultuous game.

“Maybe things don’t turn out the way you want to,” Shipley says. “I certainly don’t think it’s going to be my last Masters, but I think you have to treat every Masters as if it’s your last, probably until you win. I think that kept me loose and not as nervous, just trying to enjoy the moment.”

Shipley might not know it yet, but no matter what transpires over the weekend and in his professional career, he won’t remember the 2024 Masters for his birdies and bogeys.

The elder Neal Shipley pauses mid-sentence as he stands underneath the big oak tree that shades the Augusta National clubhouse, tears welling in his eyes.

He’s recounting a devotional he shared with his son before the Masters. Now the father isn’t sure of what he’ll get to say to Neal in advance of Saturday’s round. The 23-year-old is staying in a separate house for maximum focus.

“Accomplishments big or small, when you see your kids achieve their goals, it’s the most wonderful feeling possible,” his dad says.

Shipley’s father might not know when he’ll speak to Neal next or what words he’ll choose when he does. But he does know what he’ll be doing early Sunday evening: watching his son on TV, as he sits next to Jim Nantz and the new Masters champion in Butler Cabin.

Not bad for a family that didn’t play golf until that one day two decades ago.

(Top photo: Warren Little / Getty Images)

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Gabby Herzig is a Staff Writer for The Athletic covering golf. Before joining The Athletic, she worked as a breaking news writer for Sports Illustrated’s golf vertical and a contributing editor at Golf Digest. She is a graduate of Pomona College, where she captained the varsity women’s golf team.

Henderson Brewing co

Henderson Brewing Co. is named after Robert Henderson. A man who lived in the town of York (later to be known as Toronto) in the 1800's. Mr Henderson opened up the first brewery in Toronto in 1800 AD and the Toronto beer scene hasn't looked back since! Henderson is a great place to visit as it has a casual, friendly atmosphere that is very inclusive. They launch seasonal beers constantly including their Ides series as well as their collaboration beers with the Rock and Roll legends the Canadian band Rush! They are proud to be based in Toronto and you can see their passion  for the city with some of their beer names such as their Pearson Express IPA. In addition to great beer offerings, Henderson has food trucks and food pop ups almost every weekend so that you can eat some delicious, local food while enjoying your beer(s). 

Here are some of our favourite  beers that you will find at Henderson Brewing Co. 

Henderson's Best is the breweries flagship beer. It is a modern take on a classic English style ale. Notes of toffee and caramel are well balanced with a overstepped tea bitterness.  ​

Pearson Express IPA - 6.5% 

Named after the train runs right beside the brewery this mouth watering IPA is a mix of both East and West Coast IPA styles. Up front there is a piney bitterness which is then followed with tropical fruit notes. 

Rush Golden Ale - 5.5% 

Rush teamed up with Henderson to bring you this Golden Ale. Piney and grapefruit aromas on the nose with smooth rye sweetness on the palate  this ale can make time stand still

GETTING THERE

Henderson Brewing Co.  is located at: 128A Sterling Road Toronto ON M6R 2B7 - 416-535-1212

​Best Way to Get There?

We recommend using the TTC, biking or taking a ride share to Henderson. This brewery is centrally located on the West end of Toronto and is convenient  to get to!