Are there COVID-19 Safety Precautions?
We have taken enhanced health and safety measures—for you. An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. You voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable. You should follow recommendations and personal safety precautions while on our tours. The tote bag you receive on your tour will come with both hand sanitizer and mask for your use. During your tour, we will maintain our distance and each stop will also be practicing safety precautions. Let’s keep each other healthy and safe, while enjoying GREAT FOOD, GREAT FUN AND GREAT EXPERIENCES!
If the tour is sold out, can I get on a waiting list?
If a date is sold out, there is always a chance that we may have a last minute opening, so call us directly at 386-801-3711 and we will let you know if space is available up to 24 hours in advance of the tour start time.
Is the tour wheelchair and baby stroller friendly?
Yes, strollers and wheelchairs have easy access to all of our stops, however, our regular tours are designed for adults over 21. We do have specialty tours that are family and pet friendly that are scheduled quarterly, so contact us if those are of interest to you. Our food tasting and cultural walking tours have been developed for food and history lovers. In our touring experience we have found that those under the age of 21 may not fully appreciate our tours as they are geared toward adults. Along the way, we will also be sampling alcoholic beverages. If you have further questions, please contact us directly.
How far do we walk?
The tours range from 6 – 8 blocks or approximately 1 mile total with up to 8 stops. Please wear comfortable shoes and weather appropriate clothing.
Is there a special price for children?
Our Family Fun Day Tours have special family pricing (4 for $100; $30 each additional member) and a shortened time line in order to accommodate childrens’ shorter attention spans (and legs!)
Are beverages included in the tour?
All our guests are provided a bottle of water to carry throughout the tour. A beer tasting or wine pairing is the highlight of each themed tour. Non-alcoholic options can be made available with advance notice. Most stops involve tastes of wine, beer, and various libations for those who so desire. For those seeking additional libations, purchases are of course available.
Are bathrooms available throughout the tour?
Our host businesses have rest room facilities available to our guests
Are cameras allowed on the tour?
Certainly! We encourage you to document your Great Tasting Tour and share / post with all your family and friends! We have a very special photo opportunity incorporated into each tour.
Are the tours offered only in English?
At this time, we only provide English speaking guides, but hopefully we will be able to offer additional options in the near future. If you would like to make arrangements for your own interpreter to join the tour, please contact us directly when purchasing your ticket.
Where does our tour start?
The start point for a tour depends upon the tour you select. You will be notified prior to your tour of the location to meet. Just look for our burgendy ball caps and shirt with the Great Tasting Tours logo!
Is there parking nearby?
The City of DeLand provides ample free street parking. Please check the Tour Stops portion of our website for map of parking locations close to the meeting place for your tour.
Does your tour start and end in the same location?
No, we end each tour at a local microbrewery, winery, or historic restaurant BUT you will never be more than a couple of blocks from our starting point.
What if it rains?
We tour rain or shine – we provide umbrellas for both types of weather! We are indoors in air conditioning for most of the tour and walking under covered walkways for the majority of the rest. You should still dress appropriately for the day’s weather conditions. Please note that it is impossible to cancel a tour at the last minute due to many circumstances beyond our control. Before purchasing tickets, please be aware of the possible weather conditions for that time of year. Summer heat is not a problem:)
How much food is provided?
Depending upon the type of tour you chose, your food sampling will vary. For example, the Sip & Shop Tours provide samplings of beverages at up to for locations and two restaurant samplings; and Sweet & Savory Tours include samplings of food and beverage at up to four locations. When you select your tour, keep in mind what your tour entails and plan any lunch you have accordingly.
What should I expect if I book a Great Tasting Tour?
Our walking and tasting tours are led by local long time area residents. The tours take place every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday afternoon beginning at 2:00 pm. We combine a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences, depending on the particular establishment and on weather conditions.
What is the price of the tour?
The cost will depend upon your choice of Tour: Sip & Shop Tours are $69.00 per person; and Sweet & Savory Tours are $89.00 per person. This pricing covers the full tour with tastings, a complimentary tote bag, and includes gratuities. We have special pricing for specialty tours, such as our family Fun Day, so please check with us.
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Tickets should be purchased in advance as our tours often sell out quickly. To maximize your chances of getting the day and theme you prefer, please book as far in advance as possible. Tickets can be purchased with a Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, or Pay Pal on the website. Walk ups are welcome IF there is still availability. We do not accept checks.
What is the refund policy?
Unfortunately, we are unable to give refunds. If for some reason, extenuating circumstances arise and you are unable to make your scheduled tour, a rain check date MAY be able to be arranged. Please email your tour guides at owners@greattastingtours.com or call (386) 717-0675. Leave a message letting us know your contact information and what date you are interested in rescheduling.
How should I dress during a tour?
Casual attire appropriate for the weather conditions. Comfortable shoes are a must. What NOT to wear on a walking tour? High heels or a suit!!
Are tour guide gratuities included in the price?
Gratuities for your guides are not included in the cost of our tours. It is left to your discretion as to whether or not a gratuity is given to your tour guides.
Are gratuities expected at restaurants?
Everything is included in your ticket price but some guests like to show their appreciation for the excellent food and service they’ve enjoyed by tipping their servers accordingly. Our shops also always appreciate our guests taking advantage of the special items they have for sale during the tours.
How many people can attend a tour?
We keep the tours to a maximum of 12 guests in order to retain the intimate experience. Please note that we do provide customized tours for larger groups upon request. We specialize in private tours as well, so just let us know what your special occasion is and we will create a tour just for you. (A minimum of 10 guests is required to block a date for your group.)
What restaurants will we visit on the tour?
We visit various downtown restaurants and sample a great variety of food and drinks throughout each tour, both at our shops and our restaurants. Tour stops are subject to change and differ, depending on the tour you have chosen and the time of year. Hours of operation can also sometimes determine when and what restaurants are featured in a given tour. Try the tour again and you may be visiting different stops than before. If you – buy 2 tour types you get the third one 50% off!
What if I have dietary restrictions or food allergies?
If you notify us when purchasing your tour ticket, we will do our best to make alternative options available to you. There is also a field on our booking page where you can note particular dietary preferences you may have. Due to the nature of the tours however, each establishment highlights the best of what they offer. Since we value all of our guests’ palates and want to safeguard their health as well, we appreciate your understanding on this issue.
What if I have beverage preference?
If you notify us of a preference between beer or wine when purchasing your tour ticket, we will do our best to make your preference available to you. There is also a field on our booking page where you can note your beverage preferences. Due to the nature of the tours however, each establishment highlights the best of what they offer. We appreciate your understanding on this issue.
May I bring my pet on the tour?
Pets are not allowed on the regular tours. Due to state regulations, only service animals are allowed into food establishments. Many of DeLand’s businesses are pet friendly though and because of this, we have developed a “Yappy Happy Hour” that both you and your pet can enjoy! Check the calendar for dates and times.
Does this tour have anything to offer locals residents?
ABSOLUTELY! Our locals often book a tour to learn more about DeLand’s history and hidden secrets, especially those who are newer to the area. Tours are also a GREAT way to entertain visiting guests for an afternoon as well as enjoy Great Food, Great Fun and Great Experiences with new friends!
Are gift certificates available?
Yes, gift certificates are available for Great Tasting Tours and make a perfect gift for holidays, birthdays or any other special occasion! You can purchase Gift Certificates by contacting us at owners@greattastingtours.com or by calling our offices at 386-717-0675.
Are you on TripAdvisor?
Yes, Great Tasting Tours can be found on TripAdvisor so check us out and leave others a review on your tour of DeLand, Americas Best Maintstreet.