How to Start a Brewery Crawl in Fort Worth

Fort Worth, Texas, has evolved from a historic cattle town into one of the most vibrant craft beer destinations in the Southwest. With over 50 breweries within city limits and a thriving local culture centered around community, innovation, and flavor, the city offers an unparalleled experience for beer enthusiasts. A brewery crawl — a curated tour of multiple breweries in a single day or evening — is more than just a drinking excursion. It’s a cultural immersion into Fort Worth’s artisanal brewing scene, a way to connect with local artisans, discover hidden gems, and support small businesses. Starting a brewery crawl in Fort Worth requires more than just picking a few names off a list. It demands planning, awareness of local regulations, transportation strategy, and an appreciation for the diversity of styles and stories behind each pint. This guide will walk you through every step of creating a memorable, responsible, and optimized brewery crawl experience in Fort Worth — whether you’re a local looking to explore new spots or a visitor planning your first craft beer adventure.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Crawl Goals

Before you even open a map, ask yourself: What kind of experience are you seeking? Are you looking to taste bold IPAs and experimental sours? Do you want to visit historic breweries with decades of legacy? Are you interested in breweries with food trucks, live music, or outdoor patios? Your goals will shape every decision that follows. For example:

• Style-focused crawls prioritize breweries known for specific beer types — like Fort Worth’s renowned hazy IPAs at Four Corners Brewery or barrel-aged stouts at Deep Ellum Brewing Co. (which has a Fort Worth taproom).
• Location-based crawls group breweries by neighborhood — such as the cultural hub of Fort Worth’s Cultural District or the industrial-chic scene in North Side on Lamar.
• Themed crawls might include breweries with dog-friendly patios, vegan food pairings, or women-owned operations like Heritage Brewing Co.

Clarity here prevents aimless wandering and ensures your crawl delivers value — whether it’s education, social connection, or pure enjoyment.

Step 2: Research and Curate Your Brewery List

Fort Worth’s brewery scene is expansive, but not all are created equal for a crawl. Start by compiling a list of 4–6 breweries that are geographically close and offer distinct experiences. Use trusted resources like Untappd, BeerAdvocate, and local blogs such as Fort Worth Brews to identify top-rated and highly reviewed spots. Consider these criteria:

• Distance: Aim for breweries within 3–5 miles of each other to minimize travel time and maximize tasting time.
• Hours: Confirm opening and closing times — many close by 8 or 9 PM on weekdays, while weekends often extend to 10 PM or later.
• Atmosphere: Do you prefer industrial lofts, family-friendly patios, or intimate taprooms? Fort Worth offers all.
• Food Options: Some breweries have full kitchens, others rely on food trucks. Check their websites or call ahead.

Here’s a sample curated list for a midday-to-evening crawl:

1. Four Corners Brewery – Start here for flagship IPAs and a spacious, modern taproom with local art.
2. Heritage Brewing Co. – A short drive north; known for creative sours and community events.
3. Revelry Brewing Co. – Located in the Near Southside, offers elevated pub fare and rotating taps.
4. 77 Brewing Co. – A neighborhood favorite with a strong focus on lagers and a laid-back vibe.
5. Deep Ellum Brewing Co. (Fort Worth Taproom) – End your crawl here with a flight of their award-winning stouts and a live acoustic set.

Always verify current offerings — breweries frequently rotate taps, close for private events, or change hours seasonally.

Step 3: Plan Transportation and Logistics

This is arguably the most critical step. Texas has strict DUI laws, and Fort Worth’s nightlife zones are densely populated. Driving yourself between breweries is not only dangerous — it’s irresponsible. Instead, plan one of these transportation methods:

• Designated Driver: If you’re with a group, assign one person to remain sober and drive. Rotate the role if the crawl spans multiple days.
• Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft operate extensively in Fort Worth. Budget $10–$20 per leg between breweries.
• Brewery Crawl Shuttles: Companies like Fort Worth Brew Tours offer guided, all-inclusive shuttle services with pre-selected stops. These often include tasting flights, snacks, and educational commentary.
• Biking: For the adventurous, many breweries are accessible via the Fort Worth Cultural District Trail and the Trinity River Trails. Bring a lock and a small cooler for water and snacks.

Never rely on public transit alone — bus routes rarely align with brewery locations, and schedules may not accommodate late-night returns.

Step 4: Create a Crawl Schedule

A well-timed crawl enhances the experience and prevents fatigue. Aim for 60–90 minutes per stop, allowing time to order, taste, socialize, and move on. Here’s a sample 5-stop schedule for a Saturday:

• 12:00 PM: Arrive at Four Corners Brewery. Start with a flight of 4–5 beers. Try their Fort Worth Pale Ale and Cherry Sour.
• 1:30 PM: Ride-share to Heritage Brewing Co. Sample their Blueberry Lavender Sour and grab a vegan taco from the food truck.
• 3:00 PM: Head to Revelry Brewing Co. Enjoy their Coconut Porter and a charcuterie board.
• 4:30 PM: Walk or ride to 77 Brewing Co. Relax on their patio, try their Classic Pilsner, and chat with the brewmaster.
• 6:00 PM: Finish at Deep Ellum’s Fort Worth taproom. Sip a Dark Matter Stout while listening to live jazz.
• 7:30 PM: Depart via rideshare. Hydrate and rest.

Include buffer time for lines, unexpected closures, or spontaneous stops. Avoid cramming more than six stops — quality trumps quantity.

Step 5: Prepare for Tasting Etiquette

Each brewery has its own culture. Respect the space and the staff. Here’s how to navigate tasting etiquette:

• Order flights: Most breweries offer 4–6 oz pours in flight format. This allows you to sample multiple styles without overindulging.
• Swirl, smell, sip: Take time to appreciate aroma and flavor. Ask staff for tasting notes — they’re often passionate about their creations.
• Don’t waste: If you don’t like a beer, don’t dump it. Politely explain your preference — brewers appreciate feedback.
• Buy merchandise: T-shirts, growlers, and cans support the brewery and serve as souvenirs.
• Tip your servers: Even if tasting is free, servers work hard. A $1–$2 tip per flight is standard.

Remember: You’re a guest in their space. A little courtesy goes a long way in building community.

Step 6: Document and Share Your Experience

Documenting your crawl enhances memory and helps others plan future adventures. Take photos of labels, taproom interiors, and food pairings — but avoid using flash in dim lighting. Post on social media using local hashtags like

FortWorthBrews, #TexasCraftBeer, or #BreweryCrawlFW. Tag the breweries — they often reshare content, and you may get free merchandise or invites to exclusive events.

Consider creating a simple blog or Google Doc with:

• Beer names and ABV
• Flavor notes and personal ratings (1–5)
• Food pairings tried
• Transportation notes and costs
• Any surprises or standout moments

This becomes a personal guidebook — and a valuable resource for others.

Best Practices

Prioritize Hydration and Nutrition

Alcohol is a diuretic. Without proper hydration, you risk headaches, fatigue, and impaired judgment. Bring a refillable water bottle and drink one full glass of water between each beer. Many breweries offer free water — ask for it. Eat before you start — a protein-rich meal helps slow alcohol absorption. Snack throughout the crawl: nuts, pretzels, or cheese plates are ideal. Avoid sugary mixers or carbonated soft drinks — they accelerate intoxication.

Know Your Limits

Fort Worth’s craft beers can range from 4.5% to 12% ABV. A single imperial stout might equal three light lagers. Track your consumption. Use a simple rule: one beer per hour is a safe pace. If you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or overly talkative, stop. Your safety and comfort matter more than checking off every brewery.

Respect the Community

Fort Worth’s breweries are community anchors. They host charity events, art shows, and local music nights. Be mindful of noise, litter, and behavior. Don’t bring outside alcohol — it’s illegal and disrespectful. Avoid loud or aggressive conduct. If you see someone struggling, offer help. The craft beer scene thrives on inclusivity and mutual respect.

Support Local and Sustainable Practices

Many Fort Worth breweries use locally sourced grains, hops, and even spent grain for animal feed. Choose breweries that emphasize sustainability — like Revelry, which uses solar power, or 77 Brewing, which partners with local farms. Buy growlers to reduce single-use packaging. Bring your own reusable glass if the brewery allows it.

Engage with Staff

Brewmasters and taproom staff are often the heart of the experience. Ask questions: “What inspired this recipe?” “How do you source your yeast?” “What’s your favorite beer you’ve ever brewed?” These conversations turn a crawl into a cultural journey. You might even get a behind-the-scenes tour or a free sample of an unreleased beer.

Plan for Weather and Season

Fort Worth summers are hot and humid — over 100°F is common. Choose breweries with shaded patios or air-conditioned taprooms. Winter is mild but can be unpredictable; bring a light jacket for evening stops. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions. Many breweries host seasonal releases — try a pumpkin ale in October or a crisp lager in May.

Tools and Resources

Mobile Apps

Several apps streamline your brewery crawl planning:

• Untappd: Check real-time ratings, see what’s on tap, and log your beers. Join the “Fort Worth Craft Beer” group for local tips.
• Google Maps: Use the “Save” feature to create a custom map of your crawl. Enable “Offline Maps” for areas with spotty reception.
• BeerAdvocate: Detailed reviews and style breakdowns. Useful for identifying breweries known for specific beer categories.
• Yelp: Read recent reviews on food quality, cleanliness, and crowd levels. Avoid places with multiple complaints about long waits.

Online Guides and Blogs

Local experts offer curated lists and insider knowledge:

• Fort Worth Brews (fortworthbrews.com) – Weekly updates on new releases, events, and closures.
• Texas Craft Beer Guide (texascraftbeer.com) – Statewide directory with Fort Worth filters.
• Visit Fort Worth (visitfw.com) – Official tourism site with brewery maps and themed itineraries.
• The Texas Beer Trail – A state-wide initiative that includes Fort Worth stops with printable maps.

Printable Resources

Download or print these for offline use:

• Fort Worth Brewery Map (from Visit Fort Worth)
• Beer Style Cheat Sheet (from Brewers Association)
• Crawl Planner Template (Google Docs or Notion)

Keep a physical copy in your wallet or phone case. Technology can fail — a printed list won’t.

Community Groups and Events

Join local beer communities for real-time updates:

• Fort Worth Beer Meetup Group – Hosts monthly crawls and brewery tours.
• Fort Worth Homebrewers Association – Offers educational events and taproom nights.
• Beer Festivals: Attend the Fort Worth Craft Beer Festival (April) or Big Texas Beer Fest (October) to sample dozens of local brews in one day.

These groups often share exclusive discounts, early access to limited releases, and insider tips you won’t find online.

Real Examples

Example 1: The IPA Enthusiast’s Crawl

Mark, a 32-year-old from Austin, visited Fort Worth for a weekend and wanted to taste the best IPAs in the region. He planned a 4-stop crawl:

• Four Corners Brewery – West Coast IPA (7.2% ABV): Bold citrus and pine, crisp finish.
• Revelry Brewing Co. – Hazy IPA (6.8% ABV): Juicy mango and passionfruit, smooth mouthfeel.
• Heritage Brewing Co. – Double IPA with Citra and Mosaic (8.5% ABV): Intense hop aroma, lingering bitterness.
• 77 Brewing Co. – Session IPA (4.7% ABV): Light, refreshing, perfect for ending the crawl.

Mark used Uber between stops, documented each beer on Untappd, and posted a photo carousel on Instagram. He received over 200 likes and a DM from Four Corners inviting him to their next taproom takeover. He returned the following month with friends.

Example 2: The First-Time Visitor’s Introductory Crawl

Sarah and her sister, visiting from New York, wanted a taste of Texas craft beer without feeling overwhelmed. They chose a relaxed, food-focused crawl:

• Deep Ellum (Fort Worth Taproom) – Arrived at 4 PM. Tried Dark Matter Stout with a smoked brisket sandwich.
• Revelry Brewing Co. – Walked over. Sampled Coconut Porter with a charcuterie board.
• 77 Brewing Co. – Sat on the patio, ordered a Pilsner and vegan nachos.

They took a shuttle from a local tour company ($45/person) that included a guide who explained brewing history and answered questions. They ended the night with a walk along the Trinity River. Sarah wrote a blog post titled “How I Fell in Love with Texas Craft Beer in One Day” — it was later featured on the Visit Fort Worth website.

Example 3: The Themed Crawl – Women-Owned Breweries

A group of five friends organized a crawl to support women-owned breweries in Fort Worth:

• Heritage Brewing Co. – Co-founded by two women; known for experimental sours.
• El Paso Brewing Co. (Fort Worth Taproom) – Though based in El Paso, their Fort Worth location is managed by a female head brewer.
• Whiskey Sisters Brewing Co. – A newer entrant, specializing in barrel-aged ales and cider blends.

They donated $50 to a local women’s beer scholarship fund and created a limited-edition t-shirt with the slogan “Stronger Together, Brewed in Texas.” The event raised awareness and inspired a city-wide initiative to spotlight female brewers.

FAQs

How many breweries should I include in a crawl?

Four to six is ideal. More than that leads to fatigue and diminished tasting ability. Fewer than three may feel rushed. Balance quality with quantity.

Can I bring my kids on a brewery crawl?

Many Fort Worth breweries are family-friendly during daytime hours. Check each brewery’s policy — some have play areas or kid-friendly menus. Avoid evening crawls with children. Always supervise minors closely.

Are brewery crawls expensive?

Costs vary. A flight typically runs $8–$15. Food adds $10–$20 per person. Transportation can be $20–$50 total. A full crawl might cost $75–$150 per person — less than a dinner at a high-end restaurant, and far more memorable.

Do I need to make reservations?

Generally no for walk-ins, but large groups (6+) should call ahead. Some breweries reserve tables or host private events on weekends. Reserve if you want a group tasting experience.

What if a brewery is closed or out of beer?

Always check their social media or website before leaving home. Have a backup brewery on your list. Flexibility is key — sometimes the unexpected stop becomes your favorite.

Is it okay to take photos inside the taproom?

Yes — but be respectful. Avoid flash, don’t block walkways, and ask before photographing staff or other guests. Many breweries encourage photos — they’re free marketing.

Can I buy beer to-go?

Yes. Texas law allows breweries to sell packaged beer (cans, bottles, growlers) for off-site consumption. Many offer crowlers (32 oz aluminum cans) for freshness. Bring a cooler for the ride home.

How do I find breweries that are open late?

Weekend hours are typically longer. Look for breweries in areas like Near Southside, Cultural District, or North Side on Lamar. Call ahead or check Google Maps for real-time hours.

Are there brewery crawls I can join instead of planning my own?

Yes. Companies like Fort Worth Brew Tours, Texas Craft Beer Tours, and local meetup groups host organized crawls. These include transportation, guides, and curated stops. Great for first-timers.

What’s the best time of year to do a brewery crawl in Fort Worth?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most comfortable weather and the most variety in seasonal releases. Summer is hot but lively; winter is quiet but cozy.

Conclusion

Starting a brewery crawl in Fort Worth isn’t just about drinking beer — it’s about discovering a city’s soul through its hops, barley, and community spirit. Each brewery tells a story: of innovation, resilience, family, and local pride. Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or a curious newcomer, a well-planned crawl transforms a simple outing into a meaningful journey. By following the steps outlined here — from goal-setting and transportation planning to respectful engagement and documentation — you’ll not only enjoy exceptional beer but become part of Fort Worth’s growing craft culture.

The best crawls aren’t the ones with the most stops — they’re the ones that leave you with new friends, unforgettable flavors, and a deeper appreciation for the art behind every pint. So grab your water bottle, choose your route, and raise a glass to exploration. Fort Worth is waiting — one taproom at a time.