Why taking a beer tour in Boone, NC is a must!

Boone’s Craft Beer Adventure: A Brewery Tour Guide to the High Country

Nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina, is more than just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and Appalachian State University students—it’s a burgeoning craft beer destination that rivals even Asheville’s renowned scene. With award-winning breweries, innovative ciders, and a vibrant food culture, Boone’s craft beverage landscape is a must-explore for beer aficionados and casual sippers alike. The best way to experience this hoppy paradise? A guided brewery tour with Boone Beer Tours, where you can savor the sights, sounds, and brews of the High Country from the comfort of a custom bus complete with a dining table. In this post we’ll dive into Boone’s top breweries, their accolades, the delicious food options they offer, and why a bus tour with Boone Beer Tours or Tour Boone is the ultimate way to explore this craft beer haven for any occasion.

Boone’s Craft Beer Renaissance

Boone’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, transforming the town into a High Country hub for innovative brews, ciders, and even mead. The region’s clean mountain water, entrepreneurial spirit, and Appalachian State University’s Fermentation Sciences Program have fueled a brewery boom, with local establishments earning national and regional acclaim. From hop-forward IPAs to crisp ciders and experimental seasonals, Boone’s breweries offer something for every palate. The town’s compact size and stunning mountain backdrop make it an ideal setting for a brewery crawl, and the abundance of award-winning beverages ensures every sip is memorable.

What sets Boone apart is its community-driven approach to craft beer. Breweries here aren’t just about making great drinks—they’re about celebrating the High Country’s culture, supporting local farms, and giving back to the community. Many Boone breweries have won prestigious awards, from the Great American Beer Festival to the Carolina Championships of Beer, solidifying their place in North Carolina’s craft beer pantheon. Pair this with a vibrant food scene, where breweries serve everything from wood-fired pizzas to elevated pub fare, and you’ve got a destination that’s as delicious as it is drinkable.

The challenge of visiting Boone’s breweries lies in their spread across Boone, Blowing Rock, and nearby areas, making driving a hassle—especially after a few tastings. That’s where Boone Beer Tours comes in, offering a stress-free, fun-filled way to explore the region’s best breweries via a custom bus. With a knowledgeable guide, a built-in dining table, and the freedom to soak in the mountain views, a bus tour is the perfect way to experience Boone’s craft beer scene.

Boone’s Top Breweries and Their Award-Winning Brews

Boone and its surrounding areas boast a collection of breweries that have earned accolades for their craft beers, ciders, and meads. Below, we’ll explore the top spots to visit, highlighting their standout beverages and the awards that have put them on the map.

1. Appalachian Mountain Brewery (AMB)

Located in East Boone, Appalachian Mountain Brewery (AMB) is a cornerstone of the High Country’s craft beer scene. Founded in 2013, AMB is known for its diverse lineup of beers and ciders, all crafted with a focus on community and sustainability. Their taproom features a spacious outdoor area and a dog-friendly vibe, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.

•  Award-Winning Beers and Ciders:

•  Boone Creek Blonde: A crisp ale with orange zest and honey, this fan favorite has won acclaim for its refreshing profile.

•  Long Leaf IPA: Named after the region’s iconic pine, this IPA earned national recognition for its balanced hoppiness.

•  Black Gold Porter: A rich, roasty brew that’s a go-to for dark beer lovers.

•  Mystic Dragon Cider: A sweet yet balanced hard cider that took home awards for its innovative use of local apples.

•  Peaches for Teaches: A peach grisette that supports the Watauga Arts Council, with a portion of proceeds donated.

•  AMB’s beers and ciders have secured multiple medals at the Great American Beer Festival, including for Boone Creek Blonde and Not An IPA.

•  Food Options: AMB doesn’t have an in-house kitchen but hosts the Farm 2 Flame food truck, serving sustainably sourced wood-fired pizzas with thin, crispy crusts. Options like the Margherita and gourmet specials pair perfectly with AMB’s brews. Guests can also bring their own food, adding flexibility for picnickers.

2. Booneshine Brewing Company

Booneshine Brewing, also in East Boone, is a destination brewery with a 3,500-square-foot facility that includes a full-service restaurant, tasting room, and the High Country’s largest outdoor beer garden. Founded by Carson Coatney and Tim Herdklotz, Booneshine combines modern Americana styling with a commitment to local ingredients, often incorporating bread from Coatney’s Stick Boy Bread Company.

•  Award-Winning Beers:

•  Space Pegasus New England-Style IPA: A hoppy, light IPA that’s a crowd-pleaser and quick to sell out.

•  Tropicpale Ale: A tropical-infused pale ale that’s a staple for its vibrant flavors.

•  Molasses Porter: A rich, malty brew that’s perfect for cooler mountain evenings.

•  Long Winter Mocha Stout: Brewed with Hatchett Coffee, this stout has earned praise for its complex, roasty profile.

•  Booneshine’s beers have garnered regional recognition, with their innovative seasonals often highlighted in craft beer circles.

•  Food Options: Booneshine offers two dining experiences. The indoor tasting room serves elevated American fare, including beer cheese pretzels, burgers with candied bacon, and vegetarian options like a warm grain bowl with quinoa and pickled veggies. The outdoor beer garden features a food truck with barbecue and lighter bites, ideal for casual dining. The dog-friendly policy makes it a great spot for families and pet owners.

3. Lost Province Brewing Company

Situated in the heart of downtown Boone, Lost Province Brewing is a microbrewery and gastropub that’s been a local favorite since 2014. Founded by Lynne and Andy Mason, it pays homage to the “Lost Province” nickname for Ashe, Alleghany, and Watauga counties. Its prime location near the Doc Watson statue and Appalachian State University makes it a bustling hub for craft beer and food.

•  Award-Winning Beers:

•  Kiss My Grits Lager: A crisp, fun-named lager that’s a crowd-pleaser.

•  Hipster Juice IPA: A dank, hoppy brew with a nod to stoner humor.

•  Keep Calm and Cherry On Cherry Wheat Ale: A fruity, refreshing ale that’s as fun to order as it is to drink.

•  Boomer Juice Pale Ale: A balanced pale ale that pairs well with the brewery’s food.

•  Lost Province’s beers have won awards for their creativity and quality, with distribution reaching as far as Charlotte and Greensboro.

•  Food Options: Lost Province is renowned for its wood-fired pizzas, made with locally sourced ingredients. Standouts include the Pesto and Squash Pizza and classic Margherita. The menu also features appetizers like Jalapeno Hush Puppies and Wood-Fired Wings, making it a go-to for gastropub fare. The pet-friendly atmosphere adds to its appeal.

4. Blowing Rock Brewing Company

A 15-minute drive from Boone in historic Blowing Rock, Blowing Rock Brewing is a must-visit for its artisan beers and full-service experience. Founded in 2013 by Jeff Walker and Todd Rice, it operates out of a former Maple Lodge, housing a brewery, restaurant, and inn. Its commitment to capturing the High Country’s essence through clean mountain water and unique ingredients has earned it a loyal following.

•  Award-Winning Beers:

•  Midnight Raspberry Wheat Ale: A fruity, award-winning brew from the Carolina Championships of Beer.

•  Grandfather Breakfast Stout: A robust stout that’s a fan favorite for its rich flavors.

•  Red Rider Amber Ale: Another Carolina Championships winner, known for its balanced maltiness.

•  Blowing Rock’s beers are celebrated for their quality, with awards highlighting their innovation and consistency.

•  Food Options: The Ale House restaurant offers cuisine that incorporates craft brews into locally sourced dishes. Expect upgraded bar food like dry rub wings, pretzels, and hearty entrees that complement the beer menu. The spacious dining area and outdoor seating make it a welcoming spot for groups.

5. SouthEnd Brewing Co.

Boone’s newest brewery, SouthEnd Brewing Co., opened in 2023 and has quickly made waves with its diverse tap list and full restaurant. Located less than a mile from downtown, it’s a versatile stop for beer, cider, and liquor lovers, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

•  Award-Winning Beverages:

•  While still new, SouthEnd’s beers, like their hop-forward IPAs and German-style lagers, are gaining traction for their quality.

•  Their hard ciders and curated wine selection cater to non-beer drinkers, adding variety.

•  As a newcomer, SouthEnd is poised to compete in future awards, with early buzz suggesting a bright future.

•  Food Options: SouthEnd’s restaurant shines with elevated pub fare, including Fish and Chips with “boss-level” fries, a Caesar with Trout, and shareable bites like Poke Nachos and BBQ Flatbread. The two-story deck, back patio, and dog-friendly outdoor spaces make it a standout for dining and drinking.

The Boone Beer Tours Experience: Why a Bus Tour is the Way to Go

Exploring Boone’s breweries is a delight, but driving between them—especially after sampling flights of IPAs and stouts—can be a logistical challenge. That’s where Boone Beer Tours, offered through Boone Brewery Tour and Tour Boone, comes in. This guided bus tour takes you to the High Country’s best breweries in style, offering a fun, safe, and immersive experience. Here’s why a Boone Beer Tour is the ultimate way to enjoy Boone’s craft beer scene.

The Fun of Boone Beer Tours

Boone Beer Tours operates a custom tour bus that’s designed for comfort and enjoyment. The tour, which typically lasts 3 to 3.5 hours, visits three breweries in Boone and Blowing Rock, such as AMB, Booneshine, and Blowing Rock Brewing. Your guide, a self-proclaimed local historian and cicerone, provides a lively mix of High Country humor, history, and beer knowledge, making the journey as entertaining as the destinations.

•  Itinerary Highlights:

•  Visit three award-winning breweries, with tastings and behind-the-scenes insights into the brewing process.

•  Learn about the history of beer and the High Country’s role in North Carolina’s craft beer movement.

•  Take in stunning Appalachian Mountain vistas as you travel between stops.

•  Enjoy a fun, social atmosphere with fellow beer enthusiasts, perfect for groups, couples, or solo travelers.

•  The Bus Experience: The custom bus is a standout feature, equipped with comfortable seating and a built-in dining table that transforms it into a mobile dining room. This unique setup allows you to enjoy charcuterie boards (available for an additional $16 per person) featuring cheese, cured meats, pickles, olives, bread, and fruit. The table makes it easy to dine while cruising through Boone and Blowing Rock, taking in the clean mountain air and historic sights like downtown Boone’s Doc Watson statue or Blowing Rock’s charming Main Street. The bus’s design ensures you can relax, socialize, and savor the experience without worrying about navigation or parking.

Benefits of a Bus Tour vs. Driving

Choosing a Boone Beer Tour over driving offers several advantages, making it the smarter, safer, and more enjoyable option:

1.  Safety First: Sampling craft beers and ciders is part of the fun, but driving afterward is risky and illegal. A bus tour eliminates the need for a designated driver, letting everyone in your group enjoy the tastings worry-free.

2.  Stress-Free Navigation: Boone’s breweries are spread across town and nearby Blowing Rock, with some, like AMB and Booneshine, in East Boone and others, like Blowing Rock Brewing, a short drive away. The bus handles all transportation, so you don’t have to deal with directions, parking, or mountain roads.

3.  Expert Guidance: Your guide’s expertise as a historian and cicerone adds depth to the experience. They’ll share stories about Boone’s history, explain brewing techniques, and recommend the best beers and food pairings at each stop.

4.  Social and Fun: The bus fosters a communal vibe, perfect for meeting new people or celebrating with friends. The dining table encourages group dining and conversation, making the tour feel like a rolling party.

5.  Scenic Enjoyment: Driving requires focus, but on the bus, you can fully appreciate the High Country’s beauty—rolling hills, misty valleys, and vibrant fall foliage (especially in autumn). The tour’s leisurely pace lets you soak in the sights and sounds of Boone and Blowing Rock.

6.  Customizable Options: Boone Beer Tours offers two-stop or three-stop tours, accommodating small or large groups. Private tours are available for special occasions like birthdays, bachelor parties, or corporate outings, with flexible rates to suit your needs.

Dining on the Bus

The built-in dining table is a game-changer, turning the bus into a mobile dining experience. The optional charcuterie boards, served after the first brewery (or upon request), are a highlight, offering a curated selection of local and artisanal ingredients. The boards complement the beers and ciders you’ll sample, with flavors like tangy pickles and creamy cheeses enhancing the tasting experience. The table’s setup makes it easy to share food, sip drinks, and enjoy the ride, all while taking in Boone’s scenic beauty. This unique feature sets Boone Beer Tours apart, making it the perfect way to dine and drive (safely!) through the High Country.

Food Options at Boone’s Breweries

Boone’s breweries aren’t just about great drinks—they’re culinary destinations in their own right, offering food that rivals the quality of their beers and ciders. Here’s a closer look at the dining options that make these breweries a foodie’s paradise:

•  Appalachian Mountain Brewery: The Farm 2 Flame food truck serves wood-fired pizzas made with local ingredients. Options range from classic Margherita to gourmet pies with seasonal toppings, all with thin, crispy crusts that pair beautifully with AMB’s ciders and beers. Guests can also bring their own food, making it a flexible dining spot.

•  Booneshine Brewing: The full-service restaurant offers elevated American fare, from shareable snacks like beer cheese pretzels to hearty burgers with candied bacon. Vegetarian options, like the warm grain bowl, cater to diverse diets. The outdoor food truck serves barbecue and lighter bites, perfect for casual beer garden dining.

•  Lost Province Brewing: Known for its wood-fired pizzas, Lost Province uses local ingredients to create dishes like the Pesto and Squash Pizza and classic Margherita. Appetizers like Jalapeno Hush Puppies and Wood-Fired Wings add variety, making it a gastropub favorite.

•  Blowing Rock Brewing: The Ale House restaurant elevates bar food with craft beer-infused dishes. Expect dry rub wings, soft pretzels, and hearty entrees that highlight local ingredients. The spacious dining area and outdoor seating make it ideal for groups.

•  SouthEnd Brewing Co.: The full restaurant offers standout dishes like Fish and Chips, a Caesar with Trout, and shareable Poke Nachos and BBQ Flatbread. The focus on fresh, local ingredients ensures every bite is as memorable as the brews.

These food options, combined with the charcuterie boards on the Boone Beer Tours bus, ensure you’ll never go hungry while exploring Boone’s craft beer scene. The variety—ranging from casual food truck fare to upscale pub dishes—caters to all tastes and enhances the brewery experience.

Why Boone is Perfect for a Brewery Tour

Boone’s unique blend of craft beer excellence, culinary creativity, and mountain charm makes it an ideal destination for a brewery tour. Here’s why:

1.  Award-Winning Breweries: With accolades from the Great American Beer Festival and Carolina Championships of Beer, Boone’s breweries are nationally recognized for their quality and innovation.

2.  Diverse Beverage Options: From IPAs and stouts to ciders and meads, Boone’s taprooms offer something for everyone, including non-beer drinkers.

3.  Culinary Delights: The food at Boone’s breweries, from wood-fired pizzas to elevated pub fare, rivals the drinks, making each stop a full sensory experience.

4.  Scenic Beauty: The Blue Ridge Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, with fall foliage, misty valleys, and historic downtowns adding to the tour’s appeal.

5.  Community Vibe: Boone’s breweries are community hubs, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for socializing and celebrating.

A Boone Beer Tour ties all these elements together, offering a curated journey through the High Country’s best breweries while letting you relax and enjoy the ride.

Booking Your Boone Beer Tour

Ready to embark on a craft beer adventure? Booking a tour with Boone Beer Tours is simple and can be done through Boone Brewery Tour or Tour Boone. Here’s how to get started:

•  Visit the Website: Check out www.boonebrewerytour.com or www.tourboone.com for tour details, including two-stop and three-stop options.

•  Choose Your Tour: Select a public tour or book a private tour for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, or corporate events. Tours accommodate both small and large groups.

•  Reserve Your Spot: Book online, by phone, or via email. Tours run weekly, with increased availability during peak seasons like fall and summer. Early booking is recommended, especially for weekends.

•  Pricing: Tour prices vary based on the number of stops and group size, with private tour rates available. Charcuterie boards are an optional add-on for $16 per person.

•  What to Bring: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring a wind- or waterproof jacket, as Boone’s mountain weather can be unpredictable. The minimum age is 13, with parental accompaniment required.

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, exploring Boone for the first time, or just craving a fun day out, a Boone Beer Tour is perfect for any occasion. The websites provide all the information you need, including FAQs, meeting points, and tips for a great experience.

Tips for an Unforgettable Brewery Tour

To make the most of your Boone Beer Tour, keep these tips in mind:

•  Dress in Layers: Boone’s weather can shift from warm to chilly, especially in the mountains. A jacket and comfortable shoes are a must.

•  Try a Flight: Sample a variety of beers and ciders at each stop to fully appreciate the breweries’ creativity.

•  Engage with Your Guide: Ask questions about brewing techniques, local history, or food pairings—your guide’s expertise will enhance the experience.

•  Bring a Camera: Capture the stunning mountain views and vibrant taprooms for lasting memories.

•  Plan for After: Extend your day with a visit to downtown Boone’s cafes, shops, or the Mast General Store to keep the High Country vibe going.

Conclusion: Sip, Savor, and Tour Boone’s Breweries

Boone, North Carolina, is a craft beer lover’s dream, with award-winning breweries like Appalachian Mountain Brewery, Booneshine Brewing, Lost Province Brewing, Blowing Rock Brewing, and SouthEnd Brewing Co. offering a diverse array of beers, ciders, and meads. From the Great American Beer Festival to the Carolina Championships of Beer, these breweries have earned their stripes with innovative brews like Boone Creek Blonde, Space Pegasus IPA, and Midnight Raspberry Wheat Ale. Pair these drinks with wood-fired pizzas, elevated pub fare, and charcuterie boards, and you’ve got a culinary and beverage experience that’s hard to beat.

A Boone Beer Tour with Boone Brewery Tour or Tour Boone takes this experience to the next level, offering a safe, fun, and scenic way to explore the High Country’s craft beer scene. The custom bus, complete with a dining table for enjoying charcuterie boards, lets you dine, drink, and take in Boone’s beauty without the hassle of driving. Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or planning a special occasion, a brewery tour is the perfect way to celebrate Boone’s vibrant culture and award-winning brews.

So, grab your friends, book your tour, and get ready to sip your way through Boone’s craft beer haven. Visit www.boonebrewerytour.com or www.tourboone.com to reserve your spot today. Boone’s breweries are pouring, the bus is waiting, and the High Country is ready to welcome you with open taps and mountain charm

Hewitt Emerson

Tour Boone Concierge

www.tourboone.com