The Trolley Pub Public Tour in Madison offers a unique and social sightseeing experience. Guests board a trolley-style vehicle to explore the city while pedaling together. Though the tour may not suit those with mobility issues, it provides an opportunity to enjoy local beverages and views. With a high rating and guided by a driver, this 2-hour tour promises a lively outing for up to 14 participants. What details might pique your interest in this tour?
Good To Know

- The Trolley Pub Public Tour in Madison, USA, is a 2-hour experience on a unique trolley-style vehicle for city exploration.
- The tour has a maximum group size of 14 and is not wheelchair accessible, with a focus on socializing and local exploration.
- Guests must bring their own wine and beer, and the tour includes a driver/guide for vehicle management and commentary.
- The tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or serious medical conditions, as a moderate physical fitness level is required.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 125 reviews, with some criticisms noted regarding the lack of motorization and discomfort with pedal seats.
Tour Overview
The Trolley Pub Public Tour in Madison, USA, is a popular 2-hour experience that allows visitors to explore the city from a unique perspective.
Travelers can enjoy the convenience of a driver and guide while pedaling a trolley-style vehicle around the city. The tour includes a cooler for drinks, though guests must bring their own wine and beer.
The maximum group size is 14, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
While the overall rating is 4.8 out of 125 reviews, some customers have criticized the lack of motorization and uneven pedaling experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Madison.
Inclusions

The Trolley Pub Public Tour includes a driver/guide who manages the vehicle and provides commentary throughout the experience.
A cooler is provided for storing any alcoholic beverages participants wish to bring. Participants are responsible for bringing their own wine and beer to enjoy during the tour.
Gratuities for the driver/guide aren’t included in the tour price.
The inclusions aim to provide a convenient and enjoyable experience for participants, allowing them to focus on socializing and exploring the local Madison area.
Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for the Trolley Pub Public Tour is located at 555 W Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53703, USA.
The tour returns to the same location, with the end point being the initial pickup spot. Limited street parking is available, so the tour operator recommends using Uber or Lyft for transportation.
Pickup and drop-off are only allowed at the lot adjacent to Echo Tap.
The tour has the following considerations:
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions
- Moderate physical fitness level required.
Health and Accessibility Considerations
Since the Trolley Pub Public Tour is not wheelchair accessible, those with mobility limitations may find the experience challenging. However, service animals are allowed. The tour may not be recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required. The table below outlines the health and accessibility considerations for the tour:
| Consideration | Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelchair Access | ❌ | Not Wheelchair Accessible |
| Service Animals | ✅ | – |
| Travelers with Back Problems | ❌ | Not Recommended |
| Pregnant Travelers | ❌ | Not Recommended |
| Serious Medical Conditions | ❌ | Not Recommended |
Reviews and Feedback

How has the Trolley Pub Public Tour been received by travelers? Based on 125 reviews, the tour enjoys a 4.8 overall rating, with 96% of travelers recommending it.
However, some common criticisms include:
- Lack of motorization, leading to an uneven pedaling experience.
- Discomfort with the pedal seats.
- Overall disappointment, with one review stating the tour was a "waisted our money" experience.
- Non-refundable policy, as cancellations don’t receive a refund.
Despite these drawbacks, the Trolley Pub Public Tour remains a popular choice for those seeking a unique sightseeing experience in Madison, USA.
The Pedaling Experience
Although the Trolley Pub Public Tour offers a unique sightseeing experience, the pedaling aspect has drawn mixed reactions from travelers.
While some find the manual peddling enjoyable, others struggle with the physical exertion and uneven distribution of effort among passengers. Reviewers have noted discomfort from the pedal seats and difficulties maintaining a consistent pace, which can detract from the overall tour experience.
The lack of motorization means guests must actively contribute to the movement of the vehicle, which may not appeal to all. Ultimately, the pedaling component is a key part of this tour, and prospective travelers should consider their physical capabilities before booking.
Navigating the streets of Madison during the Trolley Pub Public Tour requires careful coordination from the driver and attentiveness from the passengers.
The trolley must navigate busy intersections, tight turns, and uneven roads while the passengers maintain their balance and enjoy the views.
Key considerations include:
- Traffic conditions and road closures that may impact the route.
- Coordination with the local police to ensure a safe and smooth journey.
- Awareness of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles sharing the roads.
- Maintaining a steady pace to keep the pedaling experience enjoyable for all.
Preparing for the Tour

Preparing for the Trolley Pub Public Tour requires a bit of planning to ensure an enjoyable experience. Visitors should arrive at the designated meeting point on time, as the tour has a fixed schedule.
Parking can be limited, so it’s best to consider ride-sharing options like Uber or Lyft. Participants should also keep in mind the tour’s physical demands and ensure they’ve the necessary mobility.
While alcoholic beverages are allowed, guests must bring their own. Overall, a little preparation goes a long way in making the most of this unique tour through the streets of Madison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Consume My Own Food on the Tour?
The tour allows guests to bring their own alcoholic beverages, but does not mention if outside food is permitted. It’s best to check with the tour operator for their specific policies on consuming personal food and snacks during the experience.
How Many People Typically Participate in a Tour?
The tour typically accommodates up to 14 travelers. According to the tour details, the "Maximum travelers" for the Trolley Pub Public Tour is 14 people.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is not suitable for children, as it has a maximum of 14 travelers and requires a moderate level of physical fitness. The tour also does not recommend participation for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Are the Seats on the Trolley Comfortable?
The seats on the trolley are not particularly comfortable, based on some traveler feedback. Several reviews mention issues with the pedal seats, describing them as uncomfortable and leading to an uneven pedaling experience during the tour.
What Happens if It Rains During the Tour?
If it rains during the tour, you will get wet as the trolley doesn’t have a roof. The tour will continue rain or shine, though customers may experience discomfort from the inclement weather. Bringing rain gear is recommended.
The Sum Up
The Trolley Pub Public Tour in Madison offers a unique and lively sightseeing experience. Guests can enjoy a 2-hour ride aboard a pedal-powered trolley, exploring the city while bringing their own beverages. Though the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, it’s highly rated by participants for its fun and social atmosphere. Overall, it provides an engaging way to discover Madison’s sights.
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