Cincinnati’s beer scene comes alive through its excellent drinking tours that explore both historic and modern breweries. The must-see Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour stands out for its fascinating underground tunnels and well-planned beer tastings. History buffs will appreciate the Built on Beer Tour, which explores pre-Prohibition cellars in the historic Brewery District.
For modern craft beer lovers, two tours shine: The efficient Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop offers an intimate experience with just three carefully chosen breweries, while the Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Tour covers more ground with four top-rated stops.
These are our favorite Cincinnati beer tours, ranked from top to bottom:
Good To Know
- The Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour offers a unique exploration of Cincinnati’s rich brewing heritage with a tasting at Northern Row Brewery & Distillery.
- The Built on Beer Tour focuses on the city’s Brewery District, providing access to historic pre-Prohibition lagering cellars and the Christian Moerlein sites.
- The Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop offers a personalized small-group experience with nine beer samples across three local breweries.
- The Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour visits four top-rated breweries, including beer tastings and transportation between stops.
- All tours emphasize Cincinnati’s brewing legacy, providing engaging and immersive experiences led by knowledgeable guides with positive customer reviews.
Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati With Beer Tasting
As visitors embark on the Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati, they’re invited to explore the city’s rich brewing heritage.
With over 1,000 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this unique underground exploration has earned a Badge of Excellence for its immersive experience.
The tour begins at the Northern Row Brewery & Distillery, where guests aged 21 and over can enjoy a beer tasting.
They then venture into the historic Linck Brewery Tunnels, constructed in 1850, and explore the last standing structures of the original Christian Moerlein Brewery complex.
Along the way, they’ll visit a filming location of a Johnny Cash movie and learn about Rhinegeist Brewery’s role in Cincinnati’s 19th-century beer scene.
The tour culminates with access to the tunnels beneath the closed Jackson Brewery, providing a glimpse into the city’s hidden brewing past.
With a maximum of 24 travelers per tour and a duration of approximately 2 hours, this adventure offers an engaging and informative experience for both locals and travelers.
Read our full review: Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati With Beer Tasting Review
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Built on Beer Tour
The Built on Beer Tour takes visitors on a journey through Cincinnati’s historic Brewery District, where they’ll explore the city’s rich brewing heritage. Highly recommended by 93% of travelers, this 45-review tour offers an engaging exploration of the area’s architecture and brewing history.
Guests will visit historic pre-Prohibition brewery lagering cellars, several Christian Moerlein sites, and conclude at a local taproom for a refreshing pint of locally-brewed beer or soft drink.
The tour departs from Findlay Market, near the Brewing Heritage Trail Hop On Sign, and accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers. While not suitable for those with certain medical conditions, the tour is stroller-accessible and near public transportation.
Priced from $45 per person, the Built on Beer Tour provides a badge of excellence and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to learn about Cincinnati’s German-influenced beer culture, though some note a focus on architecture over beer specifics.
Read our full review: Built on Beer Tour Review
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Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop
Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop takes visitors on a journey through some of Cincinnati’s best craft breweries. This small-group tour, limited to a maximum of 10 people, offers a personalized experience as participants sample nine different beers across three local breweries.
The tour is recommended by 97% of travelers and has earned a Badge of Excellence, reflecting its high-quality service.
During the tour, you will learn about Cincinnati’s rich brewing heritage while enjoying alcoholic beverages, bottled water, snacks, and a souvenir glass. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride between the breweries, and the tour concludes back at the meeting point at the Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati.
With a price starting at $63.59 per person and a free cancellation policy, the Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop is a convenient and enjoyable way to explore Cincinnati’s thriving craft beer scene.
Positive reviews highlight the unique brewery vibes and the knowledgeable hosts, making this tour a must-try for beer enthusiasts visiting the city.
Read our full review: Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop Review
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Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour
This renowned Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s thriving craft beer scene. Boasting an impressive 94% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this half-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Cincinnati’s brewing heritage.
Led by a beer expert guide, guests visit four top-rated breweries, sampling three six-ounce beers at each location. The experience begins with a large baked pretzel, providing the perfect accompaniment to the craft beer tasting. Participants also receive a souvenir tasting glass to take home as a memento.
Convenient transportation between stops is included, and the tour returns to the starting point at the Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati. With a maximum of 10 travelers per group, this tour promises an intimate and personalized experience.
Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the flexibility shown during unexpected situations, making this an excellent way to explore Cincinnati’s vibrant craft beer scene.
Read our full review: Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Accessible Are the Tours for Guests With Disabilities?
The accessibility of the tours for guests with disabilities varies among the different tour operators. Some offer accommodations like wheelchair-accessible transportation, while others may have more limited accessibility options. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility details when booking a tour.
Do the Tours Allow Designated Drivers or Non-Drinking Participants?
Many drinking tours accommodate designated drivers and non-drinking participants, allowing them to join the group and experience the attractions without consuming alcohol. Policies vary, so it’s best to inquire about specific tour options and accessibility needs.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Brewery Tours?
The minimum age requirement for brewery tours is typically 21 years old, as participants must be of legal drinking age to sample any alcoholic beverages. Many tours also allow non-drinking participants, often at a discounted rate.
Can the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Food Allergies?
Many brewery tours can accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies. Guests should inform the tour operator of any special needs when booking to ensure the tour can meet their requirements.
Are Photography and Souvenirs Allowed During the Brewery Visits?
Photography and souvenirs are typically allowed during brewery visits, though it’s best to check with the specific tour operator. Most tours welcome guests to capture their experience and bring home mementos from the breweries.
The Sum Up
Cincinnati is home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s hidden brewery caverns, sample craft brews, and discover the history of the local beer industry. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply looking to experience the city’s rich brewing heritage, these immersive tours offer a unique and engaging way to discover the best of Cincinnati’s thriving drinking culture.