Two outstanding beer tours showcase Ottawa’s vibrant brewing scene. The City Beers: Bus Tour (4-5 hours) efficiently connects visitors with local breweries, offering generous tastings and light snacks along the way. I especially love this tour’s well-organized stops and knowledgeable guides who share brewing insights. The Floating Tiki Bar Cruise (1.5 hours) combines Ottawa River views with a festive atmosphere – it’s a refreshing twist on traditional beer tours, complete with karaoke and an unforgettable floating bar experience. Let’s explore these excellent drinking tours in detail.
Good To Know
- City Beers: Bus Tour offers a 4-5 hour guided exploration of Ottawa’s craft beer scene, including brewery tours, beer tastings, and snacks for up to 25 participants.
- The Craft Beer Experience provides an immersive and educational journey through Ottawa’s craft beer landscape, with information on ingredients, the beer-making process, and tasting note cards.
- Floating Tiki Bar Cruise offers a 1.5-hour scenic cruise on the Ottawa River, featuring a floating tiki bar with drinks available and activities like karaoke.
- The drinking tours in Ottawa cater to like-minded beer enthusiasts and ensure a fun atmosphere, with knowledgeable local guides and adherence to safety regulations.
- Participants must be of legal drinking age, and accessibility options may be limited, with wheelchair accessibility not available and service animals allowed on the tours.
City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries
For those looking to explore Ottawa’s vibrant craft beer scene, the City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries offers an immersive and engaging experience.
Lasting 4-5 hours, the tour takes groups of up to 25 like-minded beer enthusiasts to 3 or more local Ottawa craft breweries. Participants can expect guided brewery tours, beer tastings, and snacks as they learn about the ingredients and beer-making process.
The knowledgeable local guides create a fun atmosphere, providing tasting note cards to help guests track the samples. Alcoholic beverages are included in the tour, which departs and returns to a central meeting point downtown.
With a 4.9-star rating from 54 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, the City Beers tour is a must for anyone seeking an informative and enjoyable introduction to Ottawa’s thriving craft beer scene.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and the minimum drinking age is 19 years.
Read our full review: City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries Review
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Ottawa: Floating Tiki Bar Cruise on the Ottawa River
Stepping away from Ottawa’s thriving craft beer scene, the Floating Tiki Bar Cruise on the Ottawa River offers a unique and tranquil experience. The 1.5-hour cruise allows guests to relax and unwind on a Hawaiian-style palapa hut boat, while enjoying drinks from the floating tiki bar.
With panoramic views of the Ottawa River, the cruise is suitable for families, friends, or romantic outings. The experience highlights include karaoke, a certified captain, life jackets, and a Bluetooth-capable stereo for music.
Participants under 12 must wear a life jacket, and smoking, intoxication, vaping, and swimming aren’t allowed. Recommended items include sunglasses, sun hats, food, sunscreen, jackets, and insect repellent. Arrival 15 minutes before departure is required.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on 128 reviews, the cruise is praised for its friendly hosts and great atmosphere.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Floating Tiki Bar Cruise on the Ottawa River Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Tour Departure and Return Times?
The tour departure and return times can vary depending on the specific tour. Most tours generally depart in the afternoon and return in the evening, providing ample time for participants to enjoy the experiences offered.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most drinking tours have age restrictions, typically 19 or 21 years old, depending on the local laws. Participants must provide valid identification to join the tour. Children are generally not permitted on adult-oriented drinking tours.
Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks on the Tours?
Most tour operators don’t allow participants to bring their own food or drinks on the tours. However, some may provide water or light snacks. It’s best to check with the specific tour company about their policies before booking.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Many drinking tours accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies with advance notice. Guests should inform the tour operator of any special needs so appropriate arrangements can be made to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
What Should I Bring With Me on the Tours?
When going on a drinking tour, it’s best to bring a water bottle, snacks, and any necessary medications. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as the tours often involve walking between locations. Don’t forget to bring cash for tips or additional purchases.
The Sum Up
Ottawa offers a variety of drinking tours that let you explore the city’s thriving craft beer scene and unique river cruises. Whether you opt for a bus tour of local breweries or a floating tiki bar experience, these experiences provide a fun and convenient way to discover Ottawa’s vibrant drinking culture. With so many options, there’s something to suit every taste and interest.