Minneapolis offers a surprisingly rich scene for those who enjoy a good drink, whether you’re interested in learning about the city’s past or sampling its best brews. The city’s local bar scene combines historic taverns with modern craft breweries, giving visitors a chance to explore its unique character while enjoying some drinks. These tours are perfect for travelers looking to combine cultural insights with a lively night out.
What makes Minneapolis stand out is its blend of past and present — from tales of alcohol smuggling in the early days to today’s thriving craft beer movement. The city’s history of temperance groups and vibrant beer culture make these tours both educational and fun, offering a taste of local life you won’t find in guidebooks. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a craft beer aficionado, you’ll find something engaging here.
Quick Overview of the Best Drinking Tours in Minneapolis
Below you’ll find two top-rated options: a history and bar crawl tour that combines storytelling with visits to four beloved bars, and a craft brewery tour that focuses on sampling locally brewed beers. Each offers a different way to experience Minneapolis’ drinking culture—one leaning toward history, the other toward craft beer.
1. Minneapolis: History and 4-Bar Crawl Guided Walking Tour
This tour is an excellent choice for those interested in the city’s drinking history. For $79 per person, you’ll spend around three hours exploring Minneapolis’ favorite watering holes with a knowledgeable guide. The tour strikes a good balance between storytelling and socializing, as you visit 4 beloved bars in the downtown area. The guide shares stories about the city’s smuggling days, the temperance movement, and how local drinking culture has evolved.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on Minneapolis’ historic bar scene. You’ll learn how prohibition-era bootlegging shaped the city, then see how modern bars honor that legacy. Each stop includes a top-shelf drink (with the optional premium ticket) and conversations with bartenders, adding a friendly, authentic touch. The reviews are excellent, with a 4.9/5 rating based on nine reviews. One reviewer called the guide “prompt, friendly, fun and knowledgeable,” highlighting the engaging storytelling.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxed, informative experience that combines history with social drinking, this tour offers great value and a chance to connect with Minneapolis’ local bar scene.
2. Highest Rated 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour in Minneapolis
For craft beer lovers, this tour is a must-do. Priced at $100 per person, it lasts around three hours and takes you through some of Minneapolis’ top craft breweries. The tour includes visits to multiple breweries with tasting stops at each, providing an “all-you-can-drink” experience. The itinerary is well-paced, with transportation between stops, ensuring you get a good sampling without feeling rushed.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on locally produced craft beers and the history behind Minneapolis’ beer renaissance. The tour visits three breweries—each offering a different style and atmosphere—and includes 50-minute sessions at each stop. The guide’s insights into the brewing process and the city’s brewing evolution add depth to the experience. This tour is highly rated at 5/5, indicating strong satisfaction among participants.
Reviews mention the variety of beers sampled, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to discover new local brews. It’s excellent for those who want a fun, immersive beer tasting while learning about the city’s brewing scene. The only caveat is that it involves a fair amount of alcohol consumption, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with drinking.
Bottom Line: If you’re into craft beer and want a comprehensive tasting experience with some background on Minneapolis’ brewing history, this tour is a fantastic choice.
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in Minneapolis
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and how you like to experience local culture. The history and bar crawl tour is ideal if you want to learn about Minneapolis’ past while enjoying a relaxed night out. It’s perfect for history buffs or those new to the city. On the other hand, the craft brewery tour appeals to serious beer fans who prefer a more active tasting experience with a focus on local brews.
Budget-wise, the walking tour offers good value at $79, especially considering the drinks included. The brewery tour, at $100, provides a more extensive sampling but might be better suited for those who prioritize beer education and variety. When booking, check the available start times and consider whether you want a more social or a more educational experience. Planning ahead is advised, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Minneapolis hosts a range of drinking experiences that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you choose the historical bar crawl or the craft brewery tour, you’ll get a taste of what makes Minneapolis’ drinking scene unique. For a relaxed night with stories from the city’s past, go for the history and 4-bar crawl. If beer is your passion, the craft brewery tour will satisfy your thirst.
Booking early is wise, especially during busy weekends or festivals. Either way, these tours promise an authentic and enjoyable way to experience Minneapolis beyond its famous lakes and theaters.