The 3 Best Brewery Tours in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh isn’t just known for steel, bridges, and a killer skyline—it’s also a rising star in the craft beer scene. With a skyline view from the river trails, historic neighborhoods full of character, and a booming local brewing industry, it’s no wonder beer lovers flock here. Whether you prefer strolling through neighborhoods, pedaling along the river, or settling in for a comprehensive pub crawl, Pittsburgh offers options that highlight its rich brewing culture with a local twist.
These tours give you a chance to sample locally crafted brews, learn about the city’s brewing past and present, and soak in the city’s unique neighborhoods—all while enjoying a good time. Read on to see which experience fits your style best.
Quick Overview
For those short on time but eager to explore, the list features a variety of ways to enjoy Pittsburgh’s craft beer scene: a walking brewery tour in Lawrenceville (Beers in the Burgh), a bicycle brewery tour through historic districts (Bikes & Brews), and a bike and brewery combo tour (Pittsburgh Bike and Brewery). Each offers a distinct experience, catering to different interests and activity levels.
1. Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk
This 2.5-hour walking tour is perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, local neighborhoods, and a chance to mingle with fellow beer lovers. Starting in the lively Lawrenceville neighborhood, the tour combines a bit of history with tastings of some of Pittsburgh’s most popular craft beers. You’ll visit four spots: Lolev Beer, Coven Brewing, Bierport Tap Room, and Eleventh Hour Brewing.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the story of Pittsburgh brewing and its neighborhood vibe. You’ll learn about the city’s craft beer evolution while walking past shops, cafes, and landmarks along Butler Street. The guide’s knowledge adds depth, especially with personal anecdotes about each brewery’s origin and signature brews. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and the mix of history with beer sampling, with reviews highlighting the tour’s fun atmosphere and affordability.
The tour is well-suited for casual beer enthusiasts and those interested in exploring Pittsburgh’s cultural landscape on foot. It’s a good value at $69 per person, especially given the typically friendly group size and the chance to meet other travelers. Keep in mind, the walking route covers some distance, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Bottom Line: A friendly, informative walk that combines neighborhood sights with excellent local beers, perfect for a social afternoon.
2. Bikes & Brews Tour: Pittsburgh Brewery Tour
This 3.5-hour bicycle tour is ideal if you like combining exercise with craft beer. You’ll cruise around some of Pittsburgh’s historic districts—Lawrenceville, the Strip District, Millvale, and Deutschtown—visiting four breweries and tasting ten different beers. The tour is flexible; you can bring your own bike or rent one on-site, complete with helmet and accessories.
What sets this tour apart is the active exploration of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods. You’ll pass by landmarks like the old Heinz factory, enjoy riverfront views, and take a small picnic with local snacks along the river trail. The ride offers a unique way to see the city’s architecture and vibe, all while sampling some of the best local craft beers. The breweries visited — including Allegheny City Brewing and Grist House Craft Brewery — each bring their own character and signature brews, from flagship favorites to innovative new releases.
The tour is perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with beer tasting, and the price ($89) includes a generous sampling of beers. The one potential drawback is the physical activity level—riders should be comfortable biking for 15-30 minutes at a stretch. Reviews commend the knowledgeable guides and fun route, with Dan and Diane receiving particular praise.
Bottom Line: A great mix of city sights and beer tasting, ideal for active travelers who want to see Pittsburgh from a different perspective.
3. Pittsburgh: Bike and Brewery Tour
This 3.5-hour bike tour offers a comprehensive look at Pittsburgh’s historic districts and craft beer scene. Starting with a guided ride, you’ll explore four well-known neighborhoods, learn about Pittsburgh’s brewing history, and visit four local breweries to sample their craft beers. The tour emphasizes learning about the brewing process and the city’s architectural highlights, making it a well-rounded cultural and culinary experience.
What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on the past and future of beer in Pittsburgh. The route covers prominent districts with historic significance, giving you context about how the city’s brewing scene has evolved. The small group size and knowledgeable guide help create an intimate experience, with plenty of time for questions and tastings. The tour ends with a chance to discuss Pittsburgh’s brewing future, making it appealing for those interested in the city’s beer innovation.
Guests appreciate the combination of exercise, education, and tasting, with the tour priced at $89. The main consideration is the tour’s duration—3.5 hours of cycling and tasting—which requires a moderate fitness level. The reviews highlight the engaging guides and the quality of the breweries visited.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice if you want a deep dive into Pittsburgh’s historic neighborhoods and its brewing evolution on a bike.
How to Choose Your Perfect Pittsburgh Brewery Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your preferences and fitness level. If you prefer a relaxed walk and want to explore Lawrenceville’s local shops, the Beers in the Burgh is a fantastic choice. If you’re an active traveler eager to combine cycling with beer, then the Bikes & Brews Tour offers a lively, scenic way to experience multiple neighborhoods. For those wanting a comprehensive, educational ride that combines history, architecture, and craft beer, the Pittsburgh Bike and Brewery will fit perfectly.
Budget, desired activity level, and interest in history or neighborhood culture should guide your pick. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, as all three tours receive high ratings and tend to fill up quickly.
The Sum Up
Pittsburgh’s beer scene is richer and more diverse than many travelers expect. Whether you prefer strolling through lively neighborhoods, pedaling past iconic sites, or a mix of both, these tours give you a taste of local brewing culture paired with the city’s architectural charm. For a relaxed, social experience, the Beers in the Burgh offers a friendly introduction. If you’re active and want to see multiple districts in a short time, the Bikes & Brews hits the mark. And for a well-rounded, engaging journey into Pittsburgh’s brewing history, the Bike and Brewery is a top choice.
No matter which you pick, these tours are a great way to add some local flavor to your Pittsburgh visit. Just remember to book early, especially if you want to secure spots on the most popular tours. Cheers to discovering Pittsburgh’s craft beer culture in a fun, authentic way.