Seattle’s reputation as a coffee town is well-known, but its craft beer scene and spirited history make it a fantastic place for drinking tours. The city offers a mix of authentic local breweries, legendary haunted pubs, and even trips into Washington’s famous hop-growing regions. Whether you’re after a gourmet beer experience, a day exploring the hop fields of Yakima, or a spooky pub crawl with a paranormal twist, Seattle’s got you covered.
What makes these tours stand out is their focus on authentic local flavors, expert guides, and unique experiences—like learning about traditional beermaking, tasting rare brews, or wandering haunted streets. Many tours are small, personal, and rich in stories, making them perfect for both serious enthusiasts and casual drinkers wanting a memorable experience.
1. Viking Beer Crawl
At number one, the Viking Beer Crawl offers a small-group walk through Seattle’s historic Ballard neighborhood, known for its Scandinavian roots and thriving craft scene. This tour is a well-rounded introduction to Seattle’s top local beers and gourmet food. Over about 3.5 hours, you’ll visit two breweries, two restaurants, and a Scandinavian beer hall, sampling a variety of drinks and dishes that most visitors miss.
What makes this tour truly appealing is its focus on authentic, lesser-known eateries and breweries. The guide shares insights into the neighborhood’s culture and history, adding depth to your tasting experience. The tour’s small size—max 12 people—ensures a personal experience, with plenty of time to ask questions and savor each stop. Recent reviews highlight the tour guide Will, who is praised for his knowledge and friendly approach. Guests love the combination of beer and food, with some calling it a “fantastic tour” and a “great way to see Seattle outside the typical tourist spots.”
Bottom line: If you’re into craft beer, want to learn about local brewing, and enjoy gourmet food, this tour delivers a rich, intimate taste of Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood.
2. Where the Hops Grow! Yakima Brewery Tour
Number two on our list is the Yakima Brewery Tour, a full-day adventure into Washington’s hop capital. For around five hours, you’ll visit 3-4 breweries in Yakima Valley—producing 75% of the nation’s hops—that are vital to American craft brewing. The tour includes breathtaking landscapes dotted with apple, cherry, and peach orchards, giving you a glimpse of the area’s agricultural richness.
This tour is ideal for beer lovers eager to understand hop cultivation and taste a variety of brews from small-batch to well-known brands. The tour’s focus on the region’s hop-growing heritage offers a deeper appreciation of what makes Seattle’s beer scene so vibrant. With a relaxed pace and scenic drives, it’s suited for those who want a mix of education and leisure. The reviews are glowing, with many praising the variety of breweries visited and the informative guides.
Bottom line: For travelers interested in the raw ingredients behind craft beer, the Yakima hop trip combines scenic views with tastings that are hard to beat.
3. Seattle Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl
Finally, the Seattle Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers a mix of spirits and paranormal stories. This 2-hour tour takes you through some of Seattle’s most historic and haunted pubs, including Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub and the Blarney Stone Pub. Along the way, you’ll hear tales of ghostly encounters, famous murders, and the city’s darker side, all while enjoying local drinks (note: alcohol is not included).
This tour is perfect if you’re interested in Seattle’s spooky side, blending history, haunted locations, and craft drinks. Visitors have appreciated guides like Michael, who share stories with a mix of humor and local lore. The tour is more casual and shorter, making it a good evening activity for those wanting a spirited ghost story with their spirits. Keep in mind, the tour visits bars that are historic and paranormal, not necessarily all “haunted” in the traditional sense but rich in stories.
Bottom line: If you’re after a fun, spooky experience with drinks, this haunted pub crawl combines Seattle’s ghost stories with its lively pub scene—a quirky, memorable way to spend an evening.
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in Seattle
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you want an authentic local beer experience combined with gourmet food, the Viking Beer Crawl is ideal, especially for those interested in small-group, personalized tours. For a full-day immersion into Washington’s hop industry, the Yakima Brewery Tour offers a scenic, educational experience perfect for hop enthusiasts. Meanwhile, if your interest lies in history and ghost stories, the Haunted Pub Crawl offers a shorter, playful dive into Seattle’s spooky side.
Consider your time availability—whether a 3.5-hour walk or a full day—and your budget, with prices ranging from $27 to $129. Book early, especially for popular tours like the Viking Beer Crawl, to ensure a spot.
Final Thoughts
Seattle’s drinking scene is varied and vibrant, with options suited for beer lovers, hop aficionados, and even those interested in paranormal tales. For a relaxed and educational local experience, the Viking Beer Crawl stands out, while the Yakima hop tour offers a scenic journey into the region’s agricultural roots. If you’re in the mood for something spooky and fun, the haunted pub crawl adds a quirky twist to your visit.
No matter which tour you pick, these experiences promise a memorable way to explore Seattle’s craft beer, spirits, and local lore. Be sure to check availability and book ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons. Cheers to discovering Seattle’s lively drinking culture—one sip at a time.