Let me just start with: Beer Drinkers Are Awesome. I’d wager a bet you could join the Beer Lovers Guide to Melbourne walking tour by Melbourne By Foot any week of the year and find an eclectic mix of visitors and locals all game to share a conversation and a laugh. Over a frothy pint, of course.
The evening combines history and beer drinking with a walking tour around the CBD. The title of the tour is ‘Beer Lovers Guide’, but you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy the evening. Melbourne by Foot aims to create ‘a relaxed and friendly tour experience.’ I say they hit the bullseye. I was quickly welcomed by a group of Kiwis and our guide Jordan kept the conversation flowing. She rocked a combo of beer love, beer knowledge, and a strong chat game. We visited landmark sights I’d walked by dozens of times before without a second glance. Somehow she even managed to make licensing laws interesting.
We visited a variety of venues – from one of the oldest pubs in the city, to a funky laneway establishment, to a Melbourne institution. The beers were equally as diverse. I was happy to see a focus on Victorian breweries with options from Bridge Road, Two Birds, and 3 Ravens. Matilda Bay managed to sneak onto the menu as well. (While technically brewed in Victoria, it’s owned by the massive Carlton United Corporation.)
A couple of tips to make your beer journey more comfy: Wear comfortable shoes. The tour covers a fair amount of ground and converse are more fun than heels. A pre-tour snack is also recommended. There is some serious burger action included with the tour, but you won’t be chowing down until you reach the final venue.
The price tag includes visit to four different venues with a beer at each, a burger meal (vegetarian option available), and conversation about Melbourne’s beer-y history.
– Jenny
Jenny S. loves the magic of fermentation and supports local craft beer alchemy.
Melbourne by Foot provides walking tours for beer lovers and culture lovers.
