The 3 Best Drinking Tours in Minneapolis Saint Paul
Minneapolis and Saint Paul are cities where craft beer, historic taverns, and lively neighborhoods are woven into the fabric of daily life. Unlike many places that offer generic pub crawls, these tours combine local flavor, historical insights, and unique venues to give you a genuine taste of the Twin Cities’ drinking culture. Whether you’re a history lover, a beer enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to explore, this region offers options that stand out. You’ll stroll past landmarks like Target Field and the Mississippi River, visit classic spots like Nye’s Bar, and learn stories from local guides who know their city inside out. These experiences aren’t just about drinks—they’re about connecting with the city’s character.
If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive experience, or if you’re keen to learn about the local scene while sampling carefully selected drinks, this list will help you choose. From walking tours that reveal hidden bars and local lore, to tastings in neighborhood favorites, each tour offers something special. Read on for the top drinking tours in Minneapolis Saint Paul, along with insider details to help you decide.
Quick Overview
Our list includes three of the best drinking tours in Minneapolis Saint Paul, each with a distinct focus. The Twin Cities Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Minneapolis Bars offers a 3-hour walk through the Warehouse District and North Loop, blending history and bar-hopping. The Minneapolis Local Bar Tour with Tastings is a 2.5-hour exploration of landmarks and neighborhood favorites, emphasizing local character. The Uncover St. Paul’s Iconic Bars provides a 3-hour stroll through St. Paul’s historic taverns, perfect for those interested in the city’s long-standing drinking traditions. Now, let’s dive into what makes each one unique.
1. Twin Cities Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Minneapolis Bars
This walking tour is ideal if you want a blend of history and local watering holes. It lasts about 3 hours, taking you through the Warehouse District, North Loop, and other vibrant neighborhoods. The tour emphasizes Minnesotan culture and architecture, with stops near Target Field and Target Center, so you can combine sports or sightseeing with your drinks. The tour’s highlight is exploring some of the city’s best dives like Nye’s Bar, along with brewpubs and cocktail bars that have transformed from old warehouses into stylish venues.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance of storytelling and tasting. Your guide shares the history of the buildings and neighborhoods, often with behind-the-scenes tours depending on the date. You’ll visit four bars, spending around 30 minutes at each, with a chance to meet local owners and bartenders. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides like Dan and Colin, who make the experience engaging and informative. The tour is priced at $79, offering good value considering the depth of local insight and the variety of venues visited.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in a walking experience that combines historic Minneapolis with a taste of its lively bar scene, this tour is a top choice. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want to learn about the city while sampling some of its best bars.
2. Minneapolis Local Bar Tour with Tastings
For those who want a more intimate and locally focused experience, this 2.5-hour tour is excellent. It’s designed to showcase Minneapolis’s neighborhoods and their unique drinks, with stops at St. Anthony Falls, Nicollet Island, and a neighborhood bar on North Washington Avenue. The tour emphasizes local character and community, with guides sharing stories about how the city’s drinking spots weathered tough winters and sports heartbreaks.
The tour features handpicked drinks that reflect the city’s personality, and you’ll have the opportunity to chat with bartenders and staff who embody Minneapolis’s resilience. It’s priced at $109.99, slightly higher than the first option, but the smaller group size and focus on authentic local bars make it worthwhile. Guests have enjoyed trying new drinks and exploring the city’s historic districts, with many noting the friendly, knowledgeable guides.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who want a more relaxed pace, a chance to speak with locals, and a deeper dive into Minneapolis’s neighborhood bars with a focus on local flavor and community stories.
3. Uncover St. Paul’s Iconic Bars
If you’re interested in St. Paul’s historic drinking scene, this 3-hour walking tour offers a deep dive into the city’s iconic taverns. Starting at Cossettas, known for its Italian roots, the tour then moves to Patrick McGovern’s Pub, a family-run spot that has maintained its independence for decades, and Parlour, one of the original craft cocktail bars in the Twin Cities. The guide will select four of their favorite bars, each with its own story and charm.
The tour is perfect for those keen on local history and classic bars, with reviews highlighting the fun and engaging guides like John. The focus is on long-standing establishments that have shaped St. Paul’s culture. At $79, it offers a balanced experience of history, local pride, and good drinks, making it a strong choice for travelers interested in the city’s legacy of taverns and social hubs.
Bottom line: If exploring St. Paul’s historic pubs and learning about its drinkers over the years appeals to you, this tour provides a memorable window into the city’s cultural fabric.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, schedule, and what you hope to get out of the experience. If you want a comprehensive walk through Minneapolis’s neighborhoods with a focus on hidden bars and local lore, the Twin Cities Walking Tour is your best bet. For a more intimate, neighborhood-centered experience with a focus on local character and drinks, the Minneapolis Local Bar Tour fits the bill. If St. Paul’s historic taverns intrigue you, then the Uncover St. Paul’s Iconic Bars offers a vivid story of the city’s drinking traditions.
Consider your budget—the tours range from $79 to $109.99—and your interests—history, local vibe, or specific neighborhoods. All tours are best booked early, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Minneapolis Saint Paul offers a variety of drinking experiences that go beyond just pouring a beer. Whether you prefer the historic charm of St. Paul’s taverns, the lively neighborhoods of Minneapolis, or a walking tour that combines city sights with bar-hopping, these three options provide excellent ways to explore the Twin Cities’ drinking culture.
For travelers interested in history and local stories, the Uncover St. Paul’s Iconic Bars is a great pick. If your goal is to sample a variety of Minneapolis’s best venues with a good mix of storytelling and exploration, the Twin Cities Walking Tour will serve you well. And for a more intimate, neighborhood-focused experience, the Minneapolis Local Bar Tour offers a relaxed pace and local charm.
Whatever your choice, remember to book early and be ready to enjoy some of the best drinks and stories the Twin Cities have to offer. Cheers to a memorable Minneapolis Saint Paul pub crawl!