Washington DC’s drinking tours offer practical ways to combine sightseeing with local libations. The city’s best options include intimate history-themed pub walks and scenic Potomac River cruises with unlimited beverages. Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the comprehensive brewery tours, which connect visitors with up to 12 local beer makers.
I especially love the Ghosts, Boos and Booze crawl – it’s a clever mix of haunted history and historic taverns that works perfectly in DC’s old neighborhoods. The weekend brunch cruise stands out for combining excellent city views with a relaxed atmosphere.
Let’s look at our favorite drinking tours in the nation’s capital.
Key Points
- Small-group history pub crawls with engaging storytelling, happy hour packages, and positive reviews on the experience.
- Sightseeing and themed cruises along the Potomac River, offering brunch, unlimited drinks, and panoramic views of D.C. landmarks.
- Craft beer tours that visit up to 12 local breweries, with knowledgeable guides and snacks provided, catering to a maximum group size of 14.
- Haunted pub crawls exploring the city’s spooky history and visiting 8 historic sites, including 4 pubs, for those aged 21 and above.
- Unique themed experiences, such as pirate ship cruises with open bars and presidential yacht tours with unlimited drinks and snacks.
Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C.
The Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C. is a highly-rated, 145-review experience that combines the city’s rich history with craft beer tastings.
This small-group tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers and departs from the General Andrew Jackson Statue in Lafayette Square. Guests can opt for the Happy Hour Package, which includes 4 beers per ticket, or the Dry Run Reservation, where they buy drinks directly from the bars.
Tour highlights include entertaining storytelling, unique bar histories, and the opportunity to socialize with fellow travelers.
Positive reviews praise the engaging guides, particularly Dalton and Michael, and the tour’s educational yet fun atmosphere.
Read our full review: Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C. Review
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Washington Dc: Sightseeing Brunch Cruise With Open Bar
An enthralling sightseeing brunch cruise along the Potomac River awaits visitors to Washington DC, providing a unique opportunity to take in the city’s iconic landmarks while indulging in a delectable buffet-style brunch and an open bar.
Priced from $79.50 per person, the 2-hour cruise offers panoramic views of the capital’s skyline and historic buildings. Guests can enjoy unlimited drinks, including cocktails, beer, and wine, as they listen to onboard music.
With easy cancellation and a pay-later option, this cruise is a perfect way to experience the best of DC’s sights and flavors. Reviews praise the friendly crew and memorable experiences.
Read our full review: Washington Dc: Sightseeing Brunch Cruise With Open Bar Review
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DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour
For those seeking to explore Washington DC’s thriving craft beer scene, the DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour offers an immersive experience.
This tour, boasting a 96% recommendation rate, takes participants to up to 12 local breweries, providing ample opportunities to sample a variety of craft beers.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable beer guide, and snacks to complement the beverages.
With a maximum group size of 14, the experience fosters a social atmosphere.
However, pre-gaming is strictly prohibited, and visibly intoxicated individuals will be denied entry without a refund.
Read our full review: DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour Review
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Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
Washington DC’s Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a captivating exploration of the city’s haunted history and lively drinking culture.
This 2-hour tour takes participants to 8 historic, haunted sites, including 4 pubs, where they can share brandy with the ghost of Ulysses S. Grant and hear tales of prohibition-era bootleggers and political scandals.
Guests can enjoy cocktails or mocktails and engage in drinking games. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who wears a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and carries a lantern.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those under 21 or with mobility issues, it provides good value for money, with a 4/5 rating based on 52 reviews.
Read our full review: Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl Review
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DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures
The DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures offers a captivating journey through Washington DC’s storied past, blending the city’s haunted history with its vibrant drinking culture.
During this 2-hour tour, you will visit over five historic pubs and bars, including the Round Robin Bar inside the Willard Hotel, where President Grant’s ghost is said to roam. Guests can enjoy a Gin Rickey at its birthplace while listening to researched stories of paranormal sightings.
The tour caters to a range of accessibility needs and allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Though reviews are mixed, many appreciate the historical context provided by the knowledgeable guides.
Read our full review: DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures Review
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Washington Dc: Pirate Ship Cruise With Open Bar
Offering a unique twist on traditional sightseeing, the Washington DC: Pirate Ship Cruise with Open Bar provides an immersive, two-hour journey along the Potomac River.
Priced from £54.83 per person, the experience includes an open bar with cocktails, liquor, beer, wine, and more. Passengers can dance and socialize on the ship’s two open-air decks, enjoying a pirate-themed party atmosphere.
While guests aren’t required to dress up, the cruise is only suitable for adults aged 21 and over.
Feedback has been generally positive, with reviewers praising the friendly staff and engaging music, though some noted concerns about drink strength and customer service responsiveness.
Read our full review: Washington Dc: Pirate Ship Cruise With Open Bar Review
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Washington, Dc: Potomac River Yacht Cruise With Open Bar
Situated along the scenic Potomac River, the Washington, DC: Potomac River Yacht Cruise with Open Bar offers an unforgettable two-hour journey for adults 21 and older.
Priced from £59.04 per person, this party yacht cruise provides an open bar with unlimited drinks and complimentary snacks.
Guests can admire D.C.’s iconic skyline, historical attractions, and nighttime illuminations while immersed in a lively atmosphere with music.
Reservations can be made online with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants must present a valid ID for boarding, and outside food or alcohol is prohibited.
Read our full review: Washington, Dc: Potomac River Yacht Cruise With Open Bar Review
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DCs Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Set out on a self-guided audio tour that unveils the presidential, pub-crawling, and party-filled history of Washington, DC.
“DCs Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour” allows visitors to explore the nation’s capital through the lens of its iconic leaders, legendary libations, and lively social scenes.
The tour guides you through key landmarks, from the White House to Georgetown’s vibrant nightlife.
Learn about how presidents have shaped the city’s watering holes and social traditions, all while enjoying the rich tapestry of DC’s storied past.
This unique experience offers an engaging and insightful way to discover the city’s captivating blend of politics, culture, and entertainment.
Read our full review: DCs Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
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Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl
The Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl invites visitors to uncover the capital’s captivating past through the lens of its iconic watering holes.
Priced from Kč 1,421 per person, the 2-hour English-language tour departs from Lafayette Square, where guests can choose between a Happy Hour option with 4 draft beers or a Dry Run allowing them to purchase drinks as they go.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the experience highlights how drinking influenced DC’s history, including George Washington’s distillery.
With an overall 5/5 rating from 38 reviews, the tour is praised for its engaging format and excellent value, making it a must-do for history buffs and beer enthusiasts alike.
Read our full review: Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl Review
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Dc: Guided Craft Brewery Tours With a Snack
DC Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack offer visitors an immersive experience exploring the capital’s flourishing craft beer scene.
For $2,528 per person, this 3.5-hour tour provides access to up to 12 craft beers, round-trip transportation, and a local expert guide. Participants will enjoy VIP access to brewery production areas and pair their samples with a delicious snack.
The tour departs from the National Portrait Gallery and may visit 3 Stars Brewing, District Chop House and Brewing, and Red Bear Brewery, though the itinerary can vary.
With a minimum age of 21 and a strict no-intoxication policy, this tour ensures a safe and enjoyable beer tasting experience in Washington, D.C.
Read our full review: Dc: Guided Craft Brewery Tours With a Snack Review
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Sum Up
Washington, D.C. offers a variety of engaging drinking tours that cater to different interests. Whether you’re looking for a historical pub crawl, a haunted ghost tour, or a relaxing river cruise with an open bar, there’s something to suit every taste. These tours provide an immersive and memorable way to explore the city’s vibrant drinking scene and rich history.