Detroit isn’t just a city of cars and music; it’s also a place where the local drinking culture runs deep. The city’s historic bars, lively pubs, and innovative beer scenes make it a prime destination for anyone interested in exploring Detroit’s spirited side. Whether you’re into uncovering stories behind century-old watering holes or savoring Detroit’s unique pizza and beer combos, there’s a tour that fits your taste. These experiences offer more than just drinks—they’re a chance to connect with the city’s character and history.
You’ll find options that focus on historic bars, lively neighborhood pubs, or even a guided pairing of pizza with local brews. These tours are perfect for those who enjoy stories and local flavor, and they all provide a different way to see Detroit’s vibrant drinking scene.
1. Detroit Drunks of Antiquity Historic Bar Tour
For a deep dive into Detroit’s bar scene, the Detroit Drunks of Antiquity Historic Bar Tour is a standout choice. Priced at $64.99 per person and lasting approximately 3 hours, this tour takes you to some of the city’s oldest, most storied taverns. It’s been rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 by six reviews, making it the most popular historic bar crawl in Detroit’s recent history.
The tour starts at the Two Way Inn, reportedly Detroit’s oldest operating bar. Here, you’ll meet owners with colorful stories and maybe even ring the bell for a round. Next, you’ll visit Abick’s Bar, a family-run spot that has served southwest Detroit for generations and was once a police hangout, with a fantastic backyard to enjoy. The final stop is the Nancy Whiskey Pub, known for lively live music, dancing, and a backyard that often hosts impromptu fun—like the time the owner rode in on a horse. The tour is rich with stories and local lore, making it perfect for those interested in Detroit’s drinking culture and history.
This tour is praised for its personable guides and the chance to learn about Detroit’s past over a few pints. It’s best suited for history buffs, social drinkers, and anyone curious about Detroit’s old-school taverns. The value is excellent given the variety of historic spots visited and the friendly atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A lively, story-filled journey into Detroit’s oldest bars, perfect for those wanting to experience the city’s authentic drinking history.
2. Guided Pizza and Beer Pairing Experience
For a different kind of drinking tour, consider the Guided Pizza and Beer Pairing Experience. Priced at $995 for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, this experience is designed for foodies and beer lovers who want to combine Detroit’s famous pizza with its local brews. While it doesn’t have reviews yet, the focus on pairing Elephant & Co. pizza with Detroit beer makes it stand out.
The tour is led by fermentation experts who guide you through the art of pairing. Detroit pizza is famous for its rectangular shape, caramelized cheese crust, and layered toppings, making it a delicious and visually distinctive choice. The experience is intimate, with a small group size that allows for personalized tasting and explanations about the beer brewing process and what makes Detroit’s beer scene unique.
This tour is ideal for those looking for a culinary experience that combines two local favorites—pizza and beer—in a guided setting. It’s less about the history and more about flavor, making it perfect for a relaxed, engaging activity that combines Detroit’s culinary creativity with its brewing prowess. Given the high price point, it offers a premium experience and is best suited for couples or small groups wanting a memorable tasting.
Bottom Line: A gourmet pairing adventure that’s ideal for pizza and beer lovers eager to explore Detroit’s unique culinary scene.
How to Choose Between These Drinking Tours
When selecting a drinking experience in Detroit, consider your interests and what kind of experience you want. If you’re fascinated by historic bars and stories, the Detroit Drunks of Antiquity Historic Bar Tour is hard to beat for its depth of local lore and authentic atmosphere. On the other hand, if your focus is on food and drink pairing, perhaps for a special date or a culinary adventure, the Guided Pizza and Beer Pairing Experience offers a fun, interactive way to enjoy Detroit’s signature flavors.
Budget is another factor—this historic bar tour is quite affordable and offers great value, especially if you’re interested in learning about Detroit’s past. The pizza pairing is a premium experience, suitable for those willing to spend more for a curated, intimate tasting session.
Timing can also influence your choice. The historic bar tour is flexible and can fit into an afternoon or evening, while the pizza and beer pairing, being more curated, may require booking in advance and is best enjoyed when you’re ready for a relaxed, focused experience.
Final Thoughts
Detroit offers a surprising variety of drinking experiences that go beyond just having a few drinks. From exploring centuries-old bars packed with stories to enjoying a curated pizza and beer pairing, there’s something to match different tastes and interests. If you’re a history enthusiast, the historic bar tour provides a lively journey through Detroit’s past. For food lovers, the pizza and beer pairing is a fun way to indulge in local flavors.
Be sure to book early, especially for the specialty pairing experience, as spots are limited. Whether you want a storytelling walk through Detroit’s oldest pubs or a gourmet tasting session, these tours offer a memorable way to see the city’s spirited side.