8 Best Brewery Tours in Ottawa, Canada (Local’s Guide)

Are you traveling to Ottawa for the first time? These brewery tours in Ottawa are a great way to acclimatize to the Canadian capital!

Over the past few years, the craft beer scene in Ottawa has quietly become one of the best in Canada. 

It’s worth visiting the area some of the Ottawa breweries to sample some unique local beers! 

You can visit these breweries independently (creating a self-guided brewery tour) or book an organized brewery bus tour through the city. 

My roommate and I spent the summer trying a bunch of local breweries – often having to trade off designated drivers – before we realized we could do a tour and save ourselves the hassle.

In this post, I will share everything you need to know about the best brewery tour in Ottawa, how to book a private brewery tour with Donkey Brew, and give you a list of the best Ottawa Breweries to visit on your own! 

1. City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries

There is only one multi-stop brewery tour in Ottawa. It’s a  4-5 hour Ottawa brewery bus tour called “City Beer,” operated by Brew Donkey Tours. 

During the tour, you will visit three breweries  (or possibly more, depending on time) for a tour and tasting. They even throw in a Distillery if there’s time, which helps you cleanse your palette after all the beer.

Some of the places you might stop are:  North of 7 Distillery, Bicycle Craft Brewery and Spark Beer.

The nice part about booking a tour is that it includes all transportation. You just need to get to the starting point and hop on the bus with your tour guide and fellow craft beer lovers.

🍻 Check Prices and Availability

2. Outaouais Craft Beer Tour – From Ottawa & Gatineau

If you’re looking for brewery tours beyond Ottawa City, you could also book this Craft Brewery Tour in Gatineau. During this tour, you will cross the border into Gatineau, Quebec, to taste local beer at 4 different microbreweries.

Don’t worry if you don’t speak French, Brandon the guide is bilingual.

The tour takes you to Brasserie Artisanale Gallicus, Bristo L’Autre Oeil, 5e Baron Microbrasserie, and A La Derive Brasserie Artisanale.

You’ll get to try 13 different beers, and a Quebecois delicacy: poutine! It’s the perfect bar food and soaks up the beer so you can be sure you’re not passing out on the bus ride back.

Pick-up and drop-off are available in both Gatineau and Ottawa areas. 

🍻 Check Prices and Availability

Private Brewery Tours in Ottawa

Another Ottawa, Canada brewery tour option is a private brewery tour through Brew Donkey. 

Brew Donkey offers a few different private tours for each area of Ottawa. There are: 

3. Sip, Axe and Relax Tour

You and 14 of your closest friends can enjoy a two-brewery tour complete with axe throwing. It’s a beer tour unlike any other!

I did an axe throwing + brewery experience for a friend’s birthday, and let’s just say I never managed to hit the wall because I spent too much time enjoying the beer.

As a bonus, you get a delicious lunch sandwich (or salad for the GF among us) from Sconewitch – an Ottawa institution. You’ll end the day full of food, beer, and laughter – especially if you’re as bad as I am at hitting the target.

4. Y-East End Private Tour

Head east from downtown Ottawa to Overbrook and Orleans to find the best IPAs in Ottawa.

Expect 4 hours of all the hoppiest beers the city has to offer from Broadhead, Stray Dog, and Orleans Brewing Company.

This area is hard to get to without a car, so it’s also a great chance to see more than just Parliament Hill during your time in Ottawa.

5. Brewers East Private Tour

Southeast of Ottawa, just outside of the town of Navan, you’ll get to meet the rural brewers of Southern Ontario. This area has old routes in the Canadian beer scene, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t new players for you to enjoy, too!

This 6 hour tour will take you out to Tuque De Broue, Beaus All Natural Brewing Company and Cassel Brewery.

The scenery on the drive is incredibly beautiful, especially in the spring and summer.

6. Rideau Rally Tour

Hit up 5 of the newest breweries on this private Ottawa tour. You’ll typically cover locations from downtown Ottawa south to the Glebe and west Orleans.

This rally will have you hitting up the most breweries for an epic day out.

Note: pricing changes depending on the breweries, so get in touch with them for accurate pricing.

7. West Ferments Express Private Tour

Head away from the hustle of downtown Ottawa to my neck of the woods, the West End! Out here you’ll find the most delicious lagers and amber ales in the city.

West Ferments takes you to some of my favourite breweries, like Big Rig Brewery, for tastings. You’ll even get to try sours – although I’ve always found them gross.

8. Southern Beir Express

Up to 15 of you can enjoy this bus tour to the southern breweries of Ottawa.

The tour covers a wide range from south of Vanier to Barhaven, stopping at Vimy, Nita Beer, and Broadhead. It’s a great opportunity to see local areas instead of the tourist hot spots.

9. Who Likes Sports Sports? Tour

What goes better than beer and a sports game? A guided tour combining the two!

This unique private tour takes you to two breweries, then to a local game at the TD Place Stadium.

The only way you’ll ever see me at a sports game is with a drink in my hand to endure it – but I’m told others actually enjoy the combo.

10. City Beers Express Walking Tour

This walking brewery tour of Ottawa covers the most popular places downtown. You’ll walk past Parliament on your way to Mill Street Brewery (where I often hung out with my dog when he was a puppy), Spark Beer, and Beyond the Pale.

With views along the Ottawa River, this is a great scenic was to see more of the city core and to build up an appetite between stops.

11. Western Libations Private Tour

Head out to the Ottawa Valley, a place you’ll always find me in the fall.

The area is known for its vineyards, apple orchards, and breweries, so of course this tour hits up the best spots!

Get driven along Highway 7, so you can fully enjoy each stop.

12. La Belle Brew-Mance Private Tour

Have a brew-mance across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, where you’ll fall in low with some fruity IPAs.

The stop at 5E Baron Microbrasserie is a must for the stunning views over the river in the summer.

13. All Things Brewed Private Tour

Want the best of all worlds? Take this epic tour to try local wine, liquor and beer all on one private tour.

Start at Kin Vineyards before heading to the Dairy Distillery for what might be the world’s most unique vodka, then head to Hummingbird Chocolate Maker for my favourite sweets, and end at Braumeister Breweing for a hoppy ending (see what I did there?).

🍻 Check Prices and Availability

14. Create a Self-Guided Brewery Tour in Ottawa

If you prefer working at your own pace – and have a designated driver to spare – try crafting your own self-guided tour.

It will take a little more effort, but planning your own taproom visits or a custom brewery crawl is always an option. 

And, if you’re not planning on eating during your brewery tours in Ottawa, have a great meal at one of the best brunch spots in Ottawa before you begin your tour. 

These are the best Ottawa microbreweries for you to indulge in local craft beer:

Bicycle Craft Brewery

Established in 2014, Bicycle Craft Brewery is a long-standing staple in Ontario craft beer, and your craft brewery tour wouldn’t be complete without a visit here. 

Bicycle Craft Brewery has a variety of beers to try, including IPAs, DIPAs, APAs, Gose, barrel-aged beer, and stouts. They also offer kombucha for those who live an alcohol-free lifestyle.

While they do not offer a full-service restaurant, light snack options are available. You can also bring in your own food and snacks or order your favorite delivery service to the taproom. 

• Location: 850 Industrial Ave #12, Ottawa
• Days open & Hours: Unlike many craft breweries, this Ottawa, Canada brewery is open 7 days a week. They open every day at 11AM, but closing hours vary.
  • Thursday-Friday 11AM – 9PM
  • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 11 AM – 7PM
  • Sunday 11AM- 6PM
• Dog Friendly: The taproom is both family and dog friendly!

Beyond the Pale Brewing Company

Established in 2012, Beyond the Pale Brewing Company has a taproom offering 16 Ontario craft beers on tap, including new releases each week. 

They offer 16 beers on tap in the spacious taproom and patio space. With several mainstay beers and rotating seasonals, the variety of flavors is everchanging. Some of their off-the-wall styles include white stouts and imperial pastry stouts.

This brewery also offers cider, wine, and soda. If you get hungry, you can order food from the nearby BTP Smoque House, which has various BBQ plates, sides, sandwiches, and appetizers. 

• Location: Unit 108, 2550 City Centre Ave, Ottawa
• Days open & Hours: 7 days a week
  • Monday through Thursday, 11AM – 11PM
  • Friday and Saturday 11AM – 12AM
  • Sunday 11AM – 10PM. 
• Dog Friendly: Dogs are allowed outside on the lower patio.

Tooth and Nail Brewing Company

The Tooth and Nail Brewing Company welcomes everyone to experience their beer in a non-pretentious environment. 

Specializing in lagers and ales, you’ll find the most common styles offered at Tooth and Nail. Fun and funky sours and Belgian-style beers are commonly available. 

They also have a great “Happy Hour” from 4-6 PM, Monday through Friday, where you can enjoy $2 off all Tooth and Nail brews.

This brewery doesn’t have a full kitchen, so if you are hungry, consider ordering one of their light bar snacks or hot dogs. (The hot dogs are both beef and plant-based.) 

• Location: 3 Irving Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Days open & Hours: Open 7 days a week with limited hours.
  • Monday – Thursday: 4PM – 11PM
  • Friday: 4PM – 12AM
  • Saturday: 1PM – 12AM
  • Sunday: 1PM – 6PM
• Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed here.

Flora Hall Brewing

Flora Hall Brewing opened in 2017 and focuses on quality beer and food in an intimate setting with space for no more than 120 people. There is seating available on the main floor and additional seats in the mezzanine. 

Flora Hall Brewing has ten rotating taps of different beers, and when the weather is nice, the full-size garage door will open, creating a light and airy environment. 

Food is also available here. It’s a popular place for dinner, with a seasonal menu of tasty appetizers, main dishes, and desserts.

• Location: 37 Flora Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Days open & Hours: 7 Days a week
  • Monday – Friday: 4-11PM
  • Saturday and Sunday: 11AM to 11PM (or later on Saturday)
• Dog Friendly: Since they serve food, dogs aren’t allowed inside. But dogs are permitted on the patio and tables near the door when the weather is nice. 

Lowertown Brewery

Lowertown Brewery opened in 2014, offering food, craft cocktails, and craft beer! You can enjoy the indoor taproom, or if the weather cooperates, a patio is available. 

The tap list is more limited than other breweries in Ottawa, Canada. Basic offerings include an IPA, brown ale, a lager, wheat ale, and a stout. At times, there are also seasonal craft beers available. 

There are several cocktails, including fish bowl-sized drinks to share and a sizeable wine list.

Lowertown Brewery also offers a wide range of appetizers, smoked barbecue platters, sandwiches, and desserts.

• Location: 73 York Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. 
• Days open & Hours: 7 Days a week
  • Sunday – Wednesday: 11AM to 1AM
  • Thursday – Saturday: 11AM to 2AM
• Dog Friendly: Dogs are allowed on the outdoor patio.

Vimy Brewing Company

Vimy Brewing Company is proudly independently owned and has been a community staple since 2017. 

In the taproom, they offer three flagship beers, Vimy Cream Ale, Red Ale, and Pale Ale, as well as specialties, seasonal beers, and sometimes special releases (promoted on social media). 

The space is more of a traditional taproom. There isn’t any food offered onsite, but you can order food (or bring your own from home) into the taproom. 

Vimy Brewing Company also offers delivery in Ottawa and nearby regions, with a 24-can minimum purchase, or you can find their flagship beers at The Beer Store and LCBO. 

• Location: 830 Industrial Ave #11, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. 
• Days open & Hours: Open 7 days a week
  • Monday-Saturday 11AM – 7PM 
  • Sunday, 11AM- 5PM.
• Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed in the taproom.

Overflow Brewing Company

Overflow Brewing Company is an excellent brewery in Ottawa. 

Most of their beers are hoppier, ranging from IPAs to Pale Ales. There are a few lighter options, such as a pilsner and Vienna lager. Although more limited, they do offer a porter. 

The brewery also has an extensive food menu, from snacks to shareable appetizers and main course dishes. 

Note: Overflow is known for hosting private events and concerts, so check their event calendar and confirm that the taproom is open to the public before you go. 

• Location: 2477 Kaladar Ave Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Days open & Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 3 – 11 PM (Kitchen is open from 3 – 9PM)
• Dog Friendly: Yes.

Evergreen Craft Ales

Evergreen Craft Ales started as a garage brewing operation in 2015 but officially opened their tap room opened in 2019.

They offer between 8-12 beers at a time, many of them seasonal, and you can often find really unique brews available. 

Wine, soft drinks, and kombucha are also available. 

A small selection of snacks is on the menu, but you can also order outside food delivery to the taproom. 

• Location: 767 Silver Seven Rd #21, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
• Days open & Hours: 7 Days a week
  • Sunday – Wednesday 11AM to 7PM
  • Thursday – Saturday 11AM to 10PM
• Dog Friendly: Their patio is dog friendly, but the taproom is not.

Big Rig Brewery

Big Rig Brewery is the largest craft beer brewery in Ottawa, and it has multiple locations (one taproom and two full restaurants.

Big Rig Brewery offers various beer styles, including IPAs, radlers, spiced porters, and pilsners. Throughout the year, seasonal offerings are available as well. 

The brewery has a taproom, but two additional locations in Ottawa are full restaurants open for lunch and dinner. 

• Location: 103 Schneider Rd / Restaurant = 2750 Iris St & 1980 Ogilvie Rd.
• Days open & Hours: Tuesday – Friday (12PM – 7PM).
• Dog Friendly: Dogs are allowed on the patio. 

Spark Beer

Spark Beer is a newer brewery in Ottawa that officially opened in 2020.

Funky and fruity is the style here, with many hoppy beers, sours, and Belgian-inspired beers. You can view the current tap list on their website.

Spark is also a pizzeria, so you can order delicious 10-inch pizzas to pair with your beer!

• Location: 702 Somerset Street W, Ottawa
• Days open & Hours: Wednesday – Sunday
  • Wednesday: PM – 10PM
  • Thursday: 4PM – 11PM
  • Friday: 4PM- 12AM
  • Saturday: 1PM – 12AM
  • Sunday: 1PM – 8PM
• Dog Friendly: Dogs are welcome on the patio. They even offer Spark cups and treats for pets!

Dominion City Brewing Co.

The Dominion City Brewing Co. taproom and beer garden have a ton of different variations on tap. 

Most beers at this Ottawa brewery are IPAs, but you will also find a variety of lagers, pilsners, and seltzers.

Dominion City Brewing partners with City Seltzers and other local companies to offer snacks and beers from other breweries at their “Corner Store.” 

• Location: 5510 Canotek Rd #15, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Days open & Hours: Wednesday – Sunday
  • Wednesday – Friday (3PM – 9PM)
  • Saturday (11AM – 7PM)
  • Sunday (12PM – 6PM)

• Dog Friendly: Dogs are welcome in the beer garden

Covered Bridge Brewing

Covered Bridge Brewing is in the Stittsville area of Ottawa, and they have over 20 beers available (8 light beers, 8 dark beers, and 5 IPAs)

Some of these beers you can even purchase in packs of 12, which is rare for craft beer, and they offer free delivery on orders over $40 if you’d like to purchase online! 

A food truck called Jerk on Wheels also serves Caribbean jerk chick and burgers onsite. 

• Location: 119 Iber Rd, Unit 6, Stittsville, Ontario (a little outside of Ottawa)
• Days open & Hours: Wednesday – Saturday
  • Wednesday – Thursday (11AM – 5PM)
  • Friday – Saturday (11AM – 7PM)
• Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed

Whiprsnapr Brewing

Whiprsnapr Brewing has a wide range of beer styles, from IPAs and unique cream ales to saisons and stouts. There is something for every kind of beer enthusiast here, and they even have non-alcoholic craft soda and hoppy water. 

It’s a smaller indoor taproom with a heated patio for busy nights of the week. 

They also partner with ​​Ishina, a nearby restaurant, to offer a special brewery menu and other snacks like charcuterie platters and popcorn. 

Note: Whiprsnapr Brewing offers tours on Saturdays. Email them to reserve a spot in advance at whiprsnaprbrewingco@gmail.com.

• Location: 14 Bexley Place, Unit 106, Bells Corners-Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Days open & Hours: Wednesday – Sunday
  • Wednesday (12PM – 7PM)
  • Thursday – Friday (12PM – 9PM)
  • Saturday (12PM – 7PM)
  • Sunday (12PM – 5PM)
• Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome

Ottawa Beer Festivals

A beer fest is a great way to sample some local craft beers without going on a brewery tour in Ottawa Canada.

Ottawa Beer Fest

Ottawa Beer Fest is typically held in July. It has been canceled for several years but is set to resume in 2023. The event is usually multi-day and has a run as well as a beer sampling festival. 

• Location: Aberdeen Pavillion, Landsdowne Park Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Date: Typically in July

Gatineau Winter Beer Fest

Gatineau Beer Fest is a chance to sample over 350 different craft beers from Quebec and Ontario brewers. The festival spans multiple days and includes other vendors like food trucks during the festival. 

• Location: Place Des Festivals, 60 Rue Jos-Montferrand, Gatineau
• Date: Typically in March

Orleans Craft Beer Festival

Orleans Craft Beer Festival features 25 craft beer breweries, food, wine, and entertainment.

• Location: Centrum Plaza, 255 Centrum Blvd, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Date: Typically in June

Oktoberfest Ottawa

Beau’s Oktoberfest is a two-day affair. Opening Friday evening and an all-day event on the following Saturday. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance because it is known for selling out.

• Location: Vankleek Hill Fairgrounds 92 Main Street West, Vankleek Hill, Ontario, Canada
• Date: Typically at the end of September

Brewery Tours in Ottawa FAQs

Final Thoughts: Brewery Tours in Ottawa Canada

Whether you choose to go on an organized brewery tour in Ottawa, Canada, or plan your own independent visits to the taprooms, Ottawa has many great places to taste some of the best local beer in Canada. 

Brew Donkey’s city tour hits some of my top spots without breaking the bank – so you can buy some beer to take home for later.

So make sure to add visiting an Ottawa brewery to your Ottawa bucket list, and don’t forget to check out the best restaurants to make the most of your stay in the city!

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• 8 Best Brewery Tours in Ottawa, Canada (Local’s Guide)

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