Indianapolis may not be the first city that springs to mind when you think of drinking tours, but it’s actually a surprisingly lively spot for exploring local craft beers and enjoying a fun, social atmosphere. The city’s blend of historic landmarks, like the Soldiers & Sailors Monument, and a burgeoning craft beer scene, makes it ideal for unique tour experiences. Whether you’re after a lively, pedal-powered pub crawl or a flexible brewery hop, Indianapolis offers options that combine sightseeing, local drinks, and a good dose of humor. These tours give you a chance to see the city in a different way—moving on wheels or by private group, all while sampling some of Indiana’s best brews.
The first tour on our list is an energetic, all-inclusive pedal pub adventure, perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with a party vibe. The second option offers a more relaxed, customizable brewery tour, ideal for groups wanting to settle into a few favorite spots. Both provide a great way to meet people and enjoy Indianapolis’ growing craft scene, but each caters to different tastes and schedules.
1. Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour
At number one, the Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour combines city sightseeing with the fun of pedaling a mobile bar. This 100-minute tour is all about enjoying ice-cold local beverages while exploring Indianapolis on a bright, electric-assisted pedal bike. The tour starts at 355 Madison Ave and includes stops at local bars, a photo op at the Soldiers & Sailors Monument, and scenic viewpoints. The guide provides a safety briefing before you set off, and you’ll pedal through the city with music, games, and plenty of laughs.
What makes this tour special is its interactive and lively vibe—you’re not just watching the city go by; you’re part of the movement. The pedal pub allows you to sip on free drinks and socialize as you glide past key landmarks, making it a great choice for groups wanting a lively, memorable experience. With a review rating of 5/5 based on six reviews, it clearly appeals to those looking for fun and a unique perspective on Indy. The cost is $64 per person, which includes all drinks and equipment.
Bottom line: If you want a high-energy, social way to see Indianapolis while enjoying local drinks, this pedal pub tour hits the mark.
2. Top Shelf 14-Passenger Brewery Tour
For those who prefer a more relaxed and customizable experience, the Top Shelf 14-Passenger Brewery Tour offers a flexible way to explore Indianapolis’ craft beer scene. This group-based tour is available for around $599.00 per group, accommodating up to 14 people, and can last anywhere from 4 to 12 hours. The longer duration makes it suitable for serious beer lovers or groups wanting to visit multiple breweries at their own pace.
This tour stands out for its personalized approach—the guide is known for being flexible and attentive, ensuring you visit the breweries you’re most interested in. While specific breweries aren’t listed in the description, Indianapolis has a thriving craft beer community, making this tour perfect for those wanting to sample a variety of local brews without the rush. The reviews highlight great treatment and a good sense of humor, which can make this a memorable, friendly outing.
If you’re traveling with a group that wants control over the itinerary and enjoys longer, leisurely afternoons or evenings, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially well-suited for groups celebrating special occasions or those who simply want to indulge in Indiana’s beer culture without a preset schedule.
Bottom line: For a laid-back, personalized brewery experience with flexible timing, this tour is a top choice.
How to Choose Between These Drinking Tours
When deciding between the pedal pub and the brewery tour, consider your group’s energy level, schedule, and interests. The pedal pub (Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour) offers a quick, lively experience packed into 100 minutes—ideal if you want a fun, social activity without committing the whole day. It’s perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with a party.
The Top Shelf Brewery Tour (top-shelf-14-passenger-brewery-tour) caters to groups looking for a more relaxed pace, longer duration, and the ability to customize which breweries to visit. This is better suited for serious beer fans, groups celebrating a special event, or travelers who want to spend several hours exploring the local beer scene.
Practical tip: Book early for the bike tour, especially in peak seasons, as it’s popular and runs on availability. For the brewery tour, coordinate with the guide in advance to tailor your itinerary.
Final thoughts
Indianapolis offers a surprising variety of drinking tour options. The pedal pub provides a quick, energetic way to explore the city while having fun, making it a great pick for groups that want a lively outing. Alternatively, the brewery tour offers a more flexible, extended experience ideal for serious craft beer lovers or those celebrating special occasions.
If you’re visiting for a short stay, the pedal pub might be your best bet for a memorable, social experience. For longer visits, the brewery tour allows you to dig deeper into Indiana’s growing beer scene at your own pace. Whatever you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these fun Indianapolis experiences.