The 3 Best Drinking Tours in Cincinnati
Cincinnati stands out among American cities for its deep-rooted brewing history, vibrant neighborhoods, and sports traditions. Its bustling Brewery District, the storied origins of professional baseball, and underground beer caverns make it a fantastic place to explore through guided drinking tours. These experiences aren’t just about tasting beers—they’re about uncovering stories that shaped Cincinnati’s character, all while enjoying some excellent local brews. Whether you’re a history buff, a baseball fan, or just someone who appreciates a good pint, Cincinnati offers a variety of tours that will quench your thirst for knowledge and suds.
Here’s a quick look at the top three drinking tours in Cincinnati. From walking explorations of historic breweries to underground cave adventures and a bus tour tracing Cincinnati’s baseball roots, each offers something unique. Check out the Built on Beer Tour, the Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting, and the Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour. Now, let’s dive into what makes each one special.
1. Built on Beer Tour
At number one, the Built on Beer Tour brings Cincinnati’s rich brewing past to life with a two-hour walking experience in the historic Brewery District. This tour explores the architecture, legends, and legacy of Cincinnati’s beer empire, including visits to the Jackson Brewery cellars and Christian Moerlein sites. It’s a walk that combines history and beer in a way that’s engaging and educational.
The tour’s highlights include walking along the Brewing Heritage Trail, where you’ll see pre-Prohibition breweries’ underground lagering cellars and hear stories about Cincinnati’s role in America’s beer scene. The guide shares entertaining anecdotes about local beer magnates and the city’s connection to brewing innovations. Participants receive a pint of local beer at the end, making this not just a walk through history but a chance to enjoy Cincinnati’s modern brewing scene.
This tour is ideal for history buffs and beer lovers who want an authentic experience without getting into a brewery’s production lines. The reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the tour’s depth—“Lisa was a wonderful guide,” remarked one participant. Some mention the walking involves standing on concrete, so good shoes are recommended. Priced at $45, it offers excellent value for those interested in Cincinnati’s brewing past.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a comprehensive, walkable experience that combines history, architecture, and a local pint, this tour hits the spot.
2. Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting
Number two on our list, the Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting, takes you underground into Cincinnati’s mysterious tunnels that once stored beer during Prohibition and later served as cold storage for breweries. This two-hour adventure explores two sets of tunnels—Linck Brewery and Jackson Brewery—that are not normally accessible to the public.
What makes this tour stand out is its underground focus. You’ll visit the site where Johnny Cash shot a movie and see the last standing relics of the Christian Moerlein complex. The guide shares captivating stories about the tunnels’ history, Cincinnati’s brewing industry, and the city’s development. After the underground exploration, you’ll enjoy a beer tasting at Northern Row Taproom, adding a relaxing finish to this fascinating journey.
This tour is perfect if you’re a history enthusiast who loves exploring offbeat locations. It’s also highly rated, with over 1,200 reviews giving it a perfect 5-star rating, reflecting consistent enjoyment. The tour involves some walking and stairs—so comfortable shoes are a must. At $49, it offers a unique experience that’s well worth the price for those eager to see Cincinnati from a different perspective.
Bottom line: For those interested in Cincinnati’s underground secrets paired with local craft beer, this tour offers an unforgettable look beneath the city streets.
3. Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour
The Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour combines Cincinnati’s love of baseball and beer in a roughly two-and-a-half-hour coach trip. This tour traces the roots of professional baseball in Cincinnati, taking you from the site of the earliest games at Union Grounds to the modern Great American Ball Park and historic ballparks like Crosley Field.
The tour makes several stops, including the Moerlein Lager House, the former Riverfront Stadium site, and Over-the-Rhine, where many historic breweries and baseball venues are located. At each stop, the guide shares stories connecting Cincinnati’s brewing scene to its baseball history. You’ll visit key sites where the Reds played and see the landmarks that shaped Cincinnati’s sports and brewing cultures.
Priced at $69, this tour offers a more leisurely experience with multiple stops and a focus on Cincinnati’s sports and beer legacy. It’s particularly suitable for sports fans and history buffs who enjoy city tours with a fun, narrative twist. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge and engaging storytelling as highlights, though some note it’s a slightly longer outing. The tour concludes at the Moerlein Lager House, where drinks are included.
Bottom line: For those who love baseball, craft beer, and local lore, this bus tour provides a lively and informative journey through Cincinnati’s sports and brewing history.
How to Choose Your Perfect Cincinnati Drinking Tour
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend. If you’re keen on historic architecture and underground tunnels, the Hidden Brewery Caverns offers a one-of-a-kind perspective on Cincinnati’s hidden side. Want a deeper dive into brewery history and city tales? The Built on Beer Tour provides a walking experience with plenty of storytelling and a local pint. For a family-friendly, sports-oriented outing, the Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour combines the city’s baseball roots with its beer culture in a relaxed coach ride.
Consider your budget, physical comfort, and whether you prefer walking, underground exploration, or a vehicle-based tour. Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular underground caverns tour, and spring through fall generally provides the best weather for outdoor walking.
Final Thoughts
Cincinnati offers a variety of drinking tours that highlight its brewing heritage, underground secrets, and sports history. For a detailed walk through the Brewery District with a local pint, the Built on Beer Tour is a top choice. Those eager to explore Cincinnati’s underground caverns and see relics of the past will find the Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour absolutely fascinating. If you want a lively, historical bus tour linking baseball and beer, the Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour delivers.
Each of these experiences offers a distinct way to enjoy Cincinnati’s rich beer culture and history, making it worth planning ahead. Whether you’re in Cincinnati briefly or on a dedicated beer trip, these tours will deepen your appreciation for the city’s unique character—and likely give you a few stories to tell back home.