Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl: Hidden Bars & Stories

Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl: Hidden Bars & Stories offers a lively, authentic glimpse into the city’s lively nightlife intertwined with its colorful past. For $79 per person, you’re invited on a 3-hour journey through some of Minneapolis’s best-kept secrets — hand-selected cocktail bars and craft breweries that even many locals don’t know about. Led by expert guides, this tour blends craft drinks with fascinating stories of how Minneapolis grew from frontier outpost to craft beer paradise.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are two standout features. First, the guaranteed entry into signature venues like Berlin Bar, Spoon and Stable, and Public Domain means you avoid long lines and get to enjoy top-tier drinks in a relaxed setting. Second, the local storytelling component is a real treat — you’ll learn stories that range from hilarious to heartbreaking, giving you a deeper understanding of the city’s culture and history.

A potential consideration is the walking involved — the tour lasts three hours and covers several neighborhoods, which might be a stretch if mobility is a concern. It’s best suited for those who want more than just a bar hop, seeking authentic local spots and engaging stories rather than just drinking. If you enjoy blending history, social connection, and quality drinks, this tour will resonate well.

Key Points

• Authentic Minneapolis Experience: Combines craft drinks with local stories, revealing the city’s colorful past.
• Guaranteed Venue Access: Skip lines at popular spots like Berlin Bar and Spoon and Stable.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides bring deep knowledge, making each stop memorable.
• Meet Passionate Bartenders: Learn about Minneapolis’ brewing and cocktail traditions directly from the creators.
• Flexible & Educational: You’ll gain insights into Minneapolis’ brewing evolution from lumberjacks to modern distilleries.
• Good Value: For $79, you get a comprehensive, fun, and well-organized experience including your first drink free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl

The Tour Itinerary and Venues

Starting at the Kickernick Building at 430 N 1st Ave, the tour kicks off with your first drink included — a nice way to relax and meet your fellow travelers. From there, your guide takes you on a walk through Minneapolis’ neighborhoods, each chosen for their character and local vibe.

The venues are carefully selected landmarks, such as the Berlin Bar, a favorite for its distinctive cocktails, and Spoon and Stable, renowned for its culinary excellence and vibrant bar scene. During the tour, you’ll enjoy guaranteed entry — a key advantage in busy city locations where lines can be long and frustrating. This means more time savoring drinks and chatting rather than waiting outside.

Each stop offers a chance to meet passionate bartenders, who share stories behind their drinks and the venues’ histories. Expect behind-the-scenes access at some venues, where you can see the craft at work and learn about Minneapolis’ brewing traditions, from lumberjack roots to today’s craft breweries like Fulton, Modist, and Bricksworth Beer.

What Makes the Bars Special?

The bars themselves are more than just places to drink. Many have distinctive cocktails that showcase local ingredients and creative flair. As one reviewer noted, “We had a great time learning about some great spots in this area of Minneapolis,” emphasizing the educational component of the experience. The venues are often places locals love, providing an authentic feel that’s hard to find on typical touristy nights out.

The Stories & Local Culture

What truly sets this tour apart is the focus on “liquid history”. Our guide shares fascinating tales—some hilarious, some poignant—about Minneapolis’ past. You might hear about rebellious lumberjacks, the city’s evolution into a craft beer hub, or stories behind iconic buildings. The storytelling is interactive, personable, and adds layers of meaning to each drink.

Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who make the history come alive. Harald from Germany mentioned, “A very personal, interesting tour. We wouldn’t have found the bars otherwise,” highlighting the value of local insight.

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The Walking and Group Dynamics

The tour is designed to be walkable, covering several neighborhoods, which is part of its charm. However, Kristine pointed out that “my husband has knee issues and would have worn a brace if he knew how long we’d be walking.” This is worth considering for those with mobility concerns. The group size is manageable, fostering conversations and making it easier to interact with the guides and bartenders.

Price & Value

At $79, the tour offers good value. It includes your first drink, guarantee entry to top bars, behind-the-scenes access, and expert storytelling. Considering the cost of cocktails in Minneapolis ranges from $15-$25, this experience provides a lot for the price — especially since you’re not paying extra for each stop’s drinks beyond your first.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits history buffs and culture seekers who enjoy a lively social scene. It’s also perfect for food and drink enthusiasts eager to learn about Minneapolis’ brewing evolution and local cocktail scene. The mix of storytelling, exclusive venue access, and friendly guides makes it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting an authentic night out.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone interested in exploring Minneapolis beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour offers a rich blend of local history, vibrant neighborhoods, and craft beverages. It’s a chance to see the city through its bars and stories, gaining insights that only locals and passionate bartenders can provide.

The well-rated guides, the stunning venues, and the value for money make this experience stand out. If you appreciate a good story with your drink and want to uncover some of Minneapolis’s hidden gems, this tour is sure to satisfy.

While it involves walking and a bit of socializing, the authentic atmosphere and behind-the-scenes access will appeal to travelers who value meaningful experiences over just ticking off sights. If you’re visiting Minneapolis and want a fun, educational, and social way to spend an evening, this bar crawl promises to be memorable.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts for 3 hours, covering several neighborhoods with enough time at each venue to enjoy your drinks and stories.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Kickernick Building at 430 N 1st Ave, Minneapolis.

Are drinks included?
Your first drink is included in the price, but drinks beyond that are not included and will range from $5-25 depending on your choice and venue.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
While the tour is walkable and uses accessible venues, some reviews suggest it involves a reasonable amount of walking, so consider your comfort level.

What kinds of beverages will I try?
You’ll sample distinctive local cocktails and craft beers, with insights into Minneapolis’ brewing tradition from lumberjack days to modern breweries.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for minors?
No, the experience is not suitable for those under 21.

How many people typically participate?
Group sizes are manageable, fostering easy conversations and personalized attention from the guides.

What is the guide like?
Reviews praise guides like Collin for being prompt, friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, making the experience both fun and educational.

In summary, the Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl offers a unique, authentic exploration of the city’s drinking culture and history, perfect for those seeking a lively, informative night out. It’s a smart choice for travelers eager to see Minneapolis through the eyes of locals, sampling great drinks and hearing stories that will stay with you long after the evening ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: