Visitors from all around the world flock to Germany each fall for Oktoberfest, not only to raise a stein of beer but also to commune with friends and experience world-famous Bavarian hospitality. Helping offer that experience stateside is Susan Von Bargen, event and sales manager for Hofbräuhaus Columbus, a brewery and restaurant that brings a bit of authentic Bavaria to the capital of Ohio. Group Tour spoke with Von Bargen about what groups can expect from a visit to this unique destination.
Q. Tell us a little about yourself and your role at Hofbräuhaus Columbus.
A. I have been in this role since we opened this location in Grandview Yard in 2014. I love meeting the new people that I encounter every day and assisting them with creating an event that meets their vision and expectations. I have an excellent staff behind me that does an exceptional job at delivering the perfect event!
Q. How would you describe Hofbräuhaus Columbus to someone who has never visited before?
A. Hofbräuhaus Columbus is a German-themed brewery and restaurant. We brew our own beers on site. We are upholding a tradition of superior brewing and world-class enjoyment that started over 400 years ago in Munich, Germany. We celebrate many of the old-world traditions and also create some of our own. Our menu offers selections of authentically made German cuisine as well as some favorite American dishes.
Q. What makes Hofbräuhaus Columbus a great place for group tours?
A. We have a very spacious venue that can accommodate large groups easily. We have a German theme in decor, ambiance, and menu. This often sparks memories or experiences of guests who have visited the original Hofbräuhaus in Munich or have some German heritage. It invites sharing of stories and recollections among the group. We also have bus parking and offer complimentary meals for the driver and escort.
Q. How does Hofbräuhaus Columbus help tour operators plan their group tours?
A. We offer group tour menus that are all-inclusive of tax and gratuity to assist the tour operator plan every detail. We also accommodate a variety of needs to assist in fitting the visit in with the itinerary of the tour as a whole.
Q. Are there any days or times of year that would be ideal for group tours to visit?
A. We do offer live entertainment Friday through Sunday evenings free of charge. Outside of those evenings, we have the option of adding entertainment exclusively for your group at an additional cost based on the musicians’ availability. Also, we have a very spacious Biergarten during the warmer months that is a guest favorite for its openness and ambience. It is a large outdoor space with traditional picnic table-style seating, which is perfect for group gatherings.
Q. What’s your long-term outlook for group tours at Hofbräuhaus Columbus?
A. Our restaurant is in close proximity to hotels as well as other area attractions. We hope to continue to work with other area attractions to become part of the group tour must-see itinerary for Columbus! We do have several tour companies that frequent us every year, but we hope to grow that segment and show guests how wunderbar our brewery, restaurant, and staff truly are!
Q. Is there anything new or upcoming at Hofbräuhaus Columbus that group tour planners should know about?
A. We have a monthly keg tapping the first Tuesday of every month. This event celebrates the tapping of our freshly brewed, monthly beer special. This celebration features live entertainment and festivities as well as a little explanation from our brewer about the beer being tapped. We also just celebrated our 10th anniversary in the Grandview Yard!
Q. Is there anything else our audience of tour operators should know about your Hofbräuhaus Columbus?
A. We do have a unique history and ambience that many people have some memories or experiences with that make us a great location to bring people together.
Learn More
Hofbräuhaus Columbus
hofbrauhauscolumbus.com
Lead image:
Photo courtesy of Hofbräuhaus Columbus
