Half-pints and tastings: the smart way to try local beers

Local beers are an underappreciated tourist attraction in cities with a thriving beer scene. If you're looking for something truly local, craft breweries are worth exploring. However, if you're not drinking as much beer as you used to, there's a simple solution: instead of ordering a full pint right away, try ordering smaller portions first.

A small or half-pint refers to when the bartender serves approximately half the usual amount of a regular beer, often in a smaller glass. Beers that are normally served in 473ml pint glasses might be served in 237ml glasses, though this varies. It usually costs slightly less than a pint and allows you to try different flavors without paying for too much beer that you can't finish at once, which is especially important since craft beers often have a high alcohol content.

Ordering a half pint is different from ordering a beer tasting, which consists of a selection of several different beers served in small glasses that typically hold between three and five ounces. Full tastings usually cost more than a regular pint; they often cost between $10 and $20. Bars that typically offer tastings are local and craft breweries, which attract many connoisseurs who want to try a variety of beers.

Although half-pints are more common in the UK than in the US, many breweries will be happy to serve a sample if you ask. If an IPA, pale ale, fruit sour, or other particular beer catches your eye while you're sampling the different options, you can easily order a full pint.