Great Basin Brewing Co. Tour — Sparks / Reno, Nevada

Discover the Great Basin Brewing Co. Tour in Nevada

Located in Sparks and Reno, Nevada, the Great Basin Brewing Co. Tour offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at Nevada’s oldest operating brewpub. This guided Brewery Tour explores how Great Basin brews its flagship and seasonal beers using traditional methods combined with modern brewing systems. Guests learn about the brewing process, fermentation, and quality control before enjoying fresh beer in the historic brewpub setting.
Why it’s special: Founded in 1993, Great Basin Brewing Co. holds the title of Nevada’s oldest brewpub, making this tour a cornerstone experience in the state’s craft beer history.

History & Story of Great Basin Brewing Co.

Great Basin Brewing Co. opened its doors in 1993 in Sparks, helping launch Nevada’s modern craft beer movement. At a time when brewpubs were rare in the region, Great Basin focused on quality, consistency, and approachable styles. Over the years, it expanded to additional locations while maintaining its original brewing philosophy and local roots, becoming a beloved institution in the Reno–Sparks area.

What You’ll See & Do on the Great Basin Brewing Co. Tour

• Learn how flagship beers are brewed and fermented

• See brewhouse equipment and fermentation tanks

• Understand yeast management and recipe development

• Learn how beer quality is maintained from brew to tap

• Enjoy freshly brewed beer in the brewpub

Hands-On Elements: Guided beer tasting when offered, with brewer explanations.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in public areas; restricted in brewing zones.
Souvenirs & Extras: Brewpub merchandise including glassware, apparel, growlers, and branded items.

Pricing of the Great Basin Brewing Co. Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)
Tours are complimentary; beer purchases and tastings are priced separately. Participants must be 21+.

Visiting information

Duration: 30–45 minutes
Age limits: 21+ only for tours and tastings
Accessibility: Brewpub locations accessible; limited access in brewing areas
Working hours:
Sparks location: Monday–Thursday 11:00 AM–9:00 PM, Friday–Saturday 11:00 AM–10:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
Reno location: Monday–Thursday 11:00 AM–9:00 PM, Friday–Saturday 11:00 AM–10:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
Brewery tours offered Saturday at 1:00 PM (location varies).

Nearby

• Victorian Square (Sparks)

• Downtown Reno Riverwalk

• Nevada Museum of Art

FAQs About Visiting the Great Basin Brewing Co. Tour

Which location hosts the brewery tour?
Tours are typically hosted at the Sparks brewpub, where the original brewery is located.

Do I need to reserve a tour in advance?
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, as space is limited.

Can I visit the brewpub without taking a tour?
Yes. Both Sparks and Reno locations are open daily for food and drinks.

Are all beers brewed on site?
Many flagship beers are brewed at the Sparks location, with some production shared across facilities.

Is this a good stop for craft beer newcomers?
Yes. The tour focuses on approachable styles and education, making it welcoming for first-time craft beer drinkers.