Wilmington, North Carolina, isn’t just about beautiful beaches and charming streets—it’s also a lively place to enjoy a drink or two. What makes Wilmington stand out as a perfect spot for drinking tours is its mix of historic taverns, craft breweries, and scenic waterways. We especially love the Trolley Pub Public Tour for its fun, laid-back vibe pedaling through downtown, and the Wilmington E-Bike Tour for combining sightseeing with craft beer tasting in a way that’s both active and relaxed. If you’re into a private experience, the Roadies VW Bus Brewery Tour offers a unique way to explore Wilmington’s burgeoning craft beer scene in style.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a craft beer enthusiast, or just in search of a fun way to see the city, Wilmington’s drinking tours provide something memorable. The variety—from guided pub crawls to private brewery cruises—means you can pick an experience that matches your pace and interests. Let’s explore the best options available.
Quick Overview
Our list covers three different kinds of Wilmington drinking tours. First, there’s the energetic and social pub crawl on a pedal-powered trolley, perfect for groups and lively afternoons. Next, a 4-hour e-bike tour offers a combination of history, sightseeing, and beer tastings, making it ideal for those who want a more active and educational experience. Lastly, a private brewery tour in a classic VW bus provides a personalized, relaxed day exploring Wilmington’s craft breweries at your own pace. Each offers a distinct way to enjoy Wilmington’s drinking scene—check out the details below.
1. Trolley Pub Public Tour
This two-hour pedal-powered pub crawl is one of the most fun ways to experience downtown Wilmington. The Trolley Pub Public Tour combines sightseeing, socializing, and a bit of exercise, all while stopping at some of Wilmington’s hottest spots. The tour is BYOB, and the onboard cooler makes it easy to keep your drinks cold. Plus, you can play your own music, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Your journey begins at Slainte Irish Pub—famous for once selling the most Jameson in North Carolina—and includes a quick stop at Hell’s Kitchen, a dive bar known from “Dawson’s Creek.” The trolley then pedals along the Cape Fear Riverwalk, offering beautiful views of Wilmington’s waterfront. What makes this tour stand out is the lively atmosphere and the chance to visit iconic local bars without the hassle of planning. The guide ensures a fun, relaxed experience, making it perfect for groups of friends, birthdays, or even a casual bachelor/bachelorette trip.
With a perfect 5.0-star rating from 127 reviews, this tour is highly rated for its engaging guides and good times. The $49 price offers excellent value for a memorable two hours, especially considering it includes stops at top spots and the chance to BYOB.
Bottom Line: If you want a social, energetic way to explore Wilmington’s bar scene with friends, the Trolley Pub Public Tour delivers a lively, laid-back experience that’s hard to beat.
2. THE Wilmington History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour
For around $75, this half-day guided e-bike tour offers a unique mix of history, scenery, and craft beer. It’s perfect for those who want to combine physical activity with cultural insights. With an electric bike that makes pedaling easier, you’ll cover more ground with less effort, visiting key landmarks and breweries across downtown Wilmington.
The tour includes stops outside Waterline Brewing Company, where you can sample local brews and tour the brewery. The guide, known for storytelling, shares insights about Wilmington’s famous sites like Thalian Hall, Wilmington Oakdale Cemetery, and Bellamy Mansion. These stops aren’t just for quick photos—they’re filled with fascinating stories. The ride also takes you along the Riverwalk, where you can explore or simply enjoy the view.
What makes this tour special is the combination of history, architecture, and beer tastings. Small groups of just four people ensure a personal experience where everyone can ask questions and enjoy a relaxed pace. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guide, the fun of riding e-bikes, and the variety of breweries visited. Guests also appreciate the flexibility to choose breweries like Fly Trap, HiWire, or Drumtrout.
Value-wise, at $75 for four hours, it’s a good deal for those who want more than just a pub crawl—this is about learning, exploring, and tasting. Plus, the small group size helps create a friendly, intimate vibe.
Bottom Line: The Wilmington E-Bike Tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and craft beer, making for a well-rounded day out.
3. Private Custom Brewery Tour in a ’72 VW Bus – Roadies Local
This private tour is truly one-of-a-kind. For $350 per group of up to 7 people, you’ll cruise Wilmington in a vintage 1972 VW Bus, making the experience both stylish and personalized. The tour is completely customizable, allowing you to pick your preferred breweries—whether Waterline, Fly Trap, or Wilmington Brewing, among others.
Your driver and guide will pick you up at your home, hotel, or Airbnb, with a cooler stocked with water and snacks, setting a relaxed, flexible tone. Over 3 to 4 hours, you can visit up to three breweries, each with its own vibe. Many breweries offer food trucks, so you can enjoy local bites alongside your tastings. The itinerary is flexible, and the tour can include stops at iconic spots like Edward Teach Brewing or Bellamy Mansion if you wish.
Guests love the personalized approach, the fun of the vintage VW bus, and the ability to control the day’s pace. Reviewers mention that “Rachel was very accommodating and flexible,” and that the bus was a hit at every stop. It’s perfect for birthdays, small groups, or anyone wanting a private, stress-free way to explore Wilmington’s craft beer scene.
The private nature and customization come at a higher price, but it’s a great value for a tailored experience that lasts longer and feels exclusive.
Bottom Line: For groups seeking a private, flexible, and memorable brewery tour with a vintage vibe, this VW bus experience is the top pick.
How to Choose Your Wilmington Drinking Tour
When deciding between these Wilmington drinking tours, consider your budget, group size, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a social, lively afternoon with minimal planning, the Trolley Pub (see more here) is perfect. For those interested in combining history and craft beer with a bit of exercise, the E-Bike Tour (details here) offers a great mix. If your group values privacy, customization, and a vintage touch, the VW Bus Brewery Tour (more info) will suit you best.
Think about your fitness level—if biking isn’t your thing, the pub crawl or private tour might be better. Also, consider the time you have—two hours for the pub crawl, four hours for the e-bike, or a flexible afternoon for the VW bus.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to ensure availability. Wilmington’s craft beer scene is booming, and these tours are a great way to experience it authentically.
Final Thoughts
Wilmington offers a range of drinking tours that fit different interests and group sizes. For a fun, social outing, the Trolley Pub stands out for its lively atmosphere and ease. If you’re looking to learn about Wilmington while sampling local brews, the E-Bike Tour combines sightseeing and storytelling seamlessly. For something truly personal and unique, the VW Bus Brewery Tour in a vintage vehicle provides a memorable, customizable experience.
No matter which you choose, each tour offers a glimpse into Wilmington’s local culture, craft beer, and friendly spirit. Book early, gather your friends, and enjoy discovering Wilmington one drink and story at a time.