Port City Brewing Company Tour — Alexandria, Virginia

Discover the Port City Brewing Company Tour in Virginia

Visit Port City Brewing Company in Alexandria, where award-winning craft beer is brewed using precision, tradition, and a commitment to quality ingredients. This guided tour takes you through the brewhouse, fermentation cellar, and packaging area while explaining the science and craft behind each batch. Guests finish the experience with a tasting flight in the lively taproom.

Why it’s special:
Port City is one of Virginia’s most celebrated craft breweries, repeatedly earning national recognition. Their tour offers an intimate, informative, and flavor-rich experience that showcases both brewing craftsmanship and community-driven beer culture.

History / Story of Port City Brewing Company

Founded in 2011, Port City Brewing Company became the first production brewery to open in Alexandria since Prohibition. Designed to revive the city’s historic brewing tradition, Port City quickly gained acclaim for its consistent, high-quality beers, including its flagship Optimal Wit and its award-winning porter and lager series. Over the years, the brewery has become a cornerstone of Northern Virginia’s craft beer scene, hosting events, tastings, and educational tours for enthusiasts from across the region.

What You’ll See & Do at the Port City Brewing Tour

• Tour the brewhouse, fermentation tanks, and packaging line

• Learn about the ingredients, brewing steps, and quality control processes

• Watch brewers at work on active production days

• Experience Port City’s sustainability practices and brewing philosophy

• Enjoy a guided tasting with several craft beer samples (ages 21+ with valid ID)

• Relax in the taproom or outdoor space before or after your tour

Hands-On Elements: Guided beer tasting, ingredient displays, aroma samples.
Photo/Video Policy: Photos allowed in most areas; no flash near machinery.
Souvenirs & Extras: Beer to-go, limited releases, branded glassware, apparel, and merchandise.

Pricing of the Port City Brewing Company Tour

Price: $12 per person, including a guided tour and tasting flight.

Practical Info for Visiting Port City Brewing Company

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided brewery tour with tasting
Working Hours: Taproom open daily; tours offered on scheduled days (typically weekends)
Audience: Craft beer fans, adults 21+, small groups, visitors to Alexandria and DC
Accessibility: Brewery is accessible; some areas require standing on concrete floors
Safety & Restrictions: Closed-toe shoes recommended; tastings for ages 21+ only
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group tours available; school groups not accepted due to alcohol production
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes, valid ID
Facilities: Taproom, merchandise shop, restrooms, onsite parking
Closures: Closed major holidays; tour availability varies by season and event schedule

Nearby

• Old Town Alexandria – Historic waterfront, dining, shops, and cobblestone charm

• George Washington Masonic National Memorial – Landmark tower with panoramic city views

• Huntley Meadows Park – Scenic wetlands and boardwalk trails for nature lovers

FAQs About Visiting Port City Brewing Company

Do I need to reserve a tour in advance?
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, as tours can fill quickly.

Can minors join the tour?
Yes, minors may join the tour but cannot participate in tastings.

Do they offer food?
Port City does not have a full kitchen but frequently hosts food trucks outside the taproom.

Are dogs allowed?
Leashed dogs are typically welcome in designated taproom or outdoor areas; policies may vary by event.

Can I buy limited-release or seasonal beers?
Yes — the taproom often features special or small-batch releases not widely distributed.