St. Augustine, Florida, isn’t just the oldest city in the U.S.—it’s also a lively spot for drinking tours that blend local flavor, history, and a hint of adventure. With its historic streets, charming pubs, and innovative breweries, St. Augustine offers unique ways to sample the local scene. Whether you want to taste craft beers while exploring the city’s past or dive into a dark side of local history with a true crime pub crawl, there’s an experience waiting for you. These tours give you more than just drinks; they offer authentic stories about the city’s character and quirks.
Unlike generic bar-hopping, these guided options provide insight into St. Augustine’s tradition of brewing, as well as its sometimes grittier stories. They’re perfect for curious travelers who want a fun, engaging way to see the city while enjoying drinks. Plus, they’re led by knowledgeable guides that make the history or craft beer journey memorable without fuss.
Quick Overview
Below, we highlight two of the best drinking tours in St. Augustine. First, a Craft Beer & History Walking Tour that mixes local brews with stories from the past. Second, a True Crime Guided Pub Crawl that explores the city’s darker, more gruesome side. Each offers a distinctive experience suited to different interests and budgets.
1. St. Augustine: Craft Beer & History Walking Tour
For around $119 per person, this 3-hour tour provides a deep dive into St. Augustine’s growing craft beer scene alongside fascinating historical tales. It’s designed for small groups of 8 or fewer, which means more personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The tour includes up to 12 beer tastings scattered across historic spots, giving you a genuine taste of local brewing craftsmanship.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of beer sampling and storytelling. Your guide shares insights about St. Augustine’s history while you sip from carefully selected local breweries. The tour also features a food pairing at the second stop, adding a delicious dimension to the experience. Reviewers like Alex, who was described as “exceptional,” highlight how the combination of beer, history, and friendly conversation makes this a memorable outing. One guest commented, “I highly recommend this tour and would definitely book it again!”
This tour is ideal if you enjoy craft beer, historical context, and a small-group vibe. It’s a good value considering the number of tastings and the food pairing, especially if you want a relaxed, in-depth look at St. Augustine’s brewing culture. The only potential downside is the price, but many find it well worth the experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded mix of local beer, history, and good company, perfect for beer lovers who want a personal touch.
2. St. Augustine: True Crime Guided Pub Crawl
For just $35 per person, this 2-hour pub crawl offers a different kind of thrill—exploring St. Augustine’s darker past. It’s designed for those interested in the city’s eerie stories, from unsolved murders to serial killers. The tour visits several local pubs and bars, where your guide shares chilling tales linked to the city’s long and bloody history.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on true crime stories within a lively pub environment. You’ll sip on a locally brewed beer or another beverage as you listen to tales of kidnapped priests, gruesome murders, and mysterious disappearances. The tour walks through the historic art district, making it easy to combine with an evening stroll afterward.
With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5, reviews mention the engaging storytelling and atmospheric pubs. While it’s less extensive than the craft beer tour, it offers a unique blend of history, mystery, and social atmosphere at a budget-friendly price. It’s best suited for those interested in true crime, storytelling, and a more casual drinking experience.
Bottom Line: If you like spooky stories and a walk through historic pubs, this tour offers a memorable, darker side of St. Augustine’s history.
How to Choose Between These Drinking Tours
When deciding between these two options, consider your interests and what kind of experience you’re after. The Craft Beer & History Walking Tour is perfect if you’re into craft brewing, want a more in-depth historical context, and prefer a relaxed, guided experience with food pairings. It’s a bit pricier but offers numerous tastings and a personalized group size.
On the other hand, the True Crime Guided Pub Crawl suits those who love stories with a darker twist and want a quick, fun outing. It’s affordable, social, and focused on storytelling within lively pub settings.
Consider your budget, time availability, and your interests: a longer, more substantial experience or a quick, themed walk. Booking early is advised, especially for the craft beer tour, as limited group sizes fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Both tours offer a different way to experience St. Augustine’s vibrant drinking scene infused with local history and stories. For beer enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, tasting-focused experience, the Craft Beer & History Walking Tour should be your choice. If you’re intrigued by the city’s darker tales and prefer a shorter, atmospheric pub crawl, then the True Crime Guided Pub Crawl will satisfy your curiosity.
No matter which you pick, both tours promise authentic moments and a chance to see St. Augustine from a different perspective. Remember to book ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular excursions.