St Kilda Pub Crawl: 5 Free Drinks & The Best Bars of Melbourne

If you’re looking to experience the lively nightlife of Melbourne’s iconic St Kilda area, the St Kilda Pub Crawl promises an energetic evening filled with drinks, games, and new faces. While I haven’t personally joined this tour, detailed reviews and the itinerary give us a clear picture of what to expect. It’s designed for travelers who want a fun, affordable way to explore some of the most popular bars in St Kilda, all while enjoying free drinks and lively company.

What really stands out about this pub crawl are the five free shots, the friendly local guides, and the chance to discover some of Melbourne’s best venues in a social setting. The tour’s affordability—less than $20 per person—makes it an excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of free drinks and the lively atmosphere. One caveat is that since it takes place on a Saturday evening, it’s best to book early, as tickets tend to sell out quickly.

This experience is perfect for solo travelers, groups of friends looking for a shared adventure, or anyone wanting to meet both locals and other travelers in a relaxed, party-friendly environment. If you enjoy drinks, games, and discovering venues with local insight, this pub crawl could be your new favorite way to spend an evening in Melbourne.

Key Points

• Affordable fun: For under $20, enjoy five free drinks across five vibrant venues.
• Lively social scene: Meet locals and travelers alike, with games and prizes adding to the fun.
• Guided experience: Led by knowledgeable local guides who add personality and insider tips.
• Flexible ending: Finish at the iconic Jekyll & Hyde, with options to keep partying or explore further.
• Limited tickets: Book early to secure your spot, as this is a popular Saturday night event.
• Authentic venues: Visit a mix of well-loved bars, including the famous Storyville, offering a true taste of St Kilda’s nightlife.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at The Back Room in St Kilda

Your evening begins at The Back Room, a well-known spot in the heart of St Kilda. The guide kicks things off with a warm welcome, including your first free shot—a nice touch that sets the tone for the relaxed, fun night ahead. This bar is known for its cozy vibe, making it an ideal spot to meet your fellow crawlers and get comfortable. Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the atmosphere and perhaps playing some of the games introduced by your guide. Since admission is included in the price, you can just focus on enjoying your first drink and getting in the mood for the night.

Second Stop: A Local Venue in St Kilda

Next, you’re led through the lively streets of St Kilda to a second bar, where your guide, often a local with insider knowledge, makes introductions and provides some fun commentary. Another welcome shot awaits here, along with the chance to mingle over drinks and games. The review mentions that the guides are known for being personable and engaging, which enhances the experience. You’ll spend about an hour at this venue, which might be a local favorite or one with a unique vibe that captures the essence of St Kilda’s nightlife scene.

Third Venue: Bars with a Fun Twist

At the third stop, the party continues with more free shots, games, and chances to win prizes. The guide’s storytelling and local insights make the venue more than just a place to drink—it’s an opportunity to understand the local scene and maybe pick up some tips on Melbourne’s nightlife. The hour you spend here is filled with lively interactions and a relaxed, friendly crowd.

Fourth Venue: Iconic St Kilda Bar

The fourth stop is described as one of St. Kilda’s most iconic bars, and it’s easy to see why. The atmosphere is lively, with many guests noting that this place really hits its stride with the energy and good vibes. The guide often shares interesting facts about the venue’s history or signature drinks, adding a layer of authentic local flavor. Expect another free shot and the chance to indulge in special drink deals, making this part of the crawl particularly memorable.

Final Stop: Jekyll & Hyde (Storyville)

The night culminates at Jekyll & Hyde, a renowned Melbourne venue with multiple levels that offer different vibes. Here, your guide hands out the final welcome shot of the evening, and you’re free to explore all three floors, each offering a different experience. This venue has a reputation for being lively and entertaining, with the review mentioning that it’s one of the most famous venues in Melbourne. The crawl ends here, but many guests choose to stay and continue partying, or they might receive recommendations for other local hotspots.

Practical Details You Need to Know

Location & Meeting Point

The crawl kicks off at 24 Grey St, St Kilda, a central spot close to public transport, making it easy to access from most parts of Melbourne. The tour begins at 6:30 pm, providing plenty of time to settle in after a day of sightseeing or exploring.

Duration & Group Size

Spanning approximately 4 to 5 hours, this is a well-paced experience that balances socializing with enough time at each venue to really enjoy the atmosphere. The tour is capped at 100 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Price & What’s Included

At just $17.93 per person, this pub crawl offers remarkable value—especially considering the five free drinks and the guided tour through some of the area’s best bars. The ticket includes all admission fees for each venue, plus the free shots, which means no hidden costs during the night.

Additional Tips

• Because tickets are booked on average 8 days in advance, it’s wise to secure your spot early, especially on weekends.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with social drinking and walking between venues.
• The mobile ticket makes checking in quick and hassle-free.

Authentic Guide Experience

While reviews haven’t provided specific guide names, travellers consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides as a major highlight. These guides are often praised for their friendliness, insider tips, and ability to keep the energy high. They don’t just lead you from bar to bar; they make the experience more engaging with fun games and interesting tidbits about each venue.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys social drinking, discovering local venues, and meeting new people, this pub crawl is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for solo travelers wanting to connect, groups of friends looking for a fun night out, or anyone curious about Melbourne’s vibrant nightlife scene. The affordable price and inclusion of free drinks make it a smart way to maximize your evening without breaking the bank.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, quieter evening or aren’t keen on walking between venues and participating in games, this might not be the right fit. The focus is on energy, social fun, and lively venues, so it’s best suited for those who thrive in a party environment.

The Sum Up: Why You Should Consider This Pub Crawl

This tour offers a lively, social way to explore the best of St Kilda’s bar scene. With knowledgeable guides, a good mix of iconic venues and local favorites, plus five free drinks, it provides excellent value for anyone wanting an authentic Melbourne nightlife experience. The short duration and flexible final stop mean you can keep the night going or head off to explore further.

It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want a hassle-free, fun-filled night with a mix of entertainment and socialization. Whether you’re visiting Melbourne for the first time or a local wanting to enjoy a casual evening out, this pub crawl offers a chance to see the city’s nightlife from a fresh perspective.

FAQ

How many venues will I visit during the crawl?
You’ll visit five venues, starting at The Back Room and ending at Jekyll & Hyde, with a mix of iconic and popular local spots.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes admission to five venues, five free shots, and the guided tour. No hidden fees are mentioned.

When does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:30 pm at 24 Grey St, St Kilda.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving ample time at each venue for drinks, games, and socializing.

Is this suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s designed to be social and welcoming, making it a good choice for solo travelers looking to meet people.

Can I continue partying after the tour?
Absolutely—most guests end at Jekyll & Hyde, where they can stay and enjoy more drinks or head out into Melbourne’s nightlife.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers can participate, it’s aimed at those of legal drinking age and comfortable with nightlife activities.

Do I need to book early?
Yes, tickets tend to sell out, especially on Saturdays, so booking about a week in advance is recommended.

Is transportation included?
No, but the meeting point is conveniently located near public transit, making it easy to get there from most parts of Melbourne.

This pub crawl packs humor, local insight, and great value into one lively evening. Perfect for those wanting to experience the true spirit of St Kilda’s nightlife, it’s a fun, social way to start or end your Melbourne adventure.