Tour a Brewery

Embrace Vancouver's craft beer culture

Word to the wise: If you're keen to sample more BC beers, look out for craft brews by Bowen Island Brewing Co., Vancouver Island Brewery, Central City Brewing Company and Red Truck Beer Company.
Noteworthy for: Most Canadian beers are pilsners, which are lighter on the palette than some of the heavier Australian and European beers.

From their honey largers to citrusy pale ales, Canadians are serious about beer. There's over a dozen breweries in the Vancouver area alone, but only a handful offer tours. Here's three worth checking out:
An iconic building at the southern end of Burrard Bridge, the Molson Coors Canada Brewery has been in operation since the 1950s, but only opened to the public for the first time in 2012. Visit with Vancouver Food Tour, who offer a tour and tasting for CAD 20.

For convenience and value, the Granville Island Brewing tour is a steal at CAD 9.75 including three 4oz tastings. It'd be a crime not to get a six-pack of micro-brews to go. 1441 Cartwright St, Granville Island.

For those who prefer to do more drinking than touring, Steamworks Brewery is a good bet. The only steam-generated brewery in Canada boats a happening, on-site brewpub serving all on-site brews, other drinks and food. Try a few 16oz sleeves (from CAD 5.50) of the latest brews. 375 Water Street, Gastown.