Cincinnati is a city that takes its beer seriously, with a brewing scene that dates back over a century. Whether you’re into sampling innovative craft brews or exploring the city’s historic beer districts, Cincinnati offers a variety of drinking tours that cater to different tastes and interests. We’re especially fond of the Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop, which combines great beer with a relaxed, small-group atmosphere—perfect if you want to enjoy local brews without the hassle of driving. The Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour offers a rare underground adventure into tunnels and caverns that most visitors miss, making it a hit for those looking for something unique. Each of these tours offers a different slice of Cincinnati’s beer culture, ensuring you can find one that fits your style.
From historic walking tours to behind-the-scenes brewery visits, Cincinnati’s drinking tours give you a chance to experience the city’s craft beer scene and its storied past. Whether you’re interested in learning about Cincinnati’s brewing heritage or tasting the latest local concoctions, these experiences promise fun, flavor, and a little bit of education. Looking for a laid-back afternoon? The Built on Beer Tour delivers an engaging walk through historic sites. Craving underground tunnels and cave-like cellars? The Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour provides a rare peek beneath the city streets. Read on for our top picks, detailed insights, and practical advice to help you choose your perfect Cincinnati beer adventure.
1. Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop
This small-group tour (maximum 10 people) is a fantastic way to experience Cincinnati’s craft brewing scene without worrying about transportation. For around $63.59, you’ll spend about 3.5 hours visiting three highly-rated breweries, sampling a total of nine different beers. Snacks are included, which is a thoughtful touch—keeping your energy up as you chat and taste. The tour starts at the Hard Rock Casino and runs at a relaxed pace, making it ideal for those who want a personalized experience.
What makes this tour stand out? The personalized service from your guide and the diversity of breweries visited. Each stop has a unique vibe, from lively taprooms to cozy spaces, giving you a well-rounded view of Cincinnati’s brewing culture. Guests often comment on the knowledgeable hosts—like Alex and Mike—who share insights without talking down to beginners. One review notes, “Loved that each brewery had a different vibe,” emphasizing how varied the experience is. This tour is perfect for beer aficionados who want to taste a range of brews and learn about Cincinnati’s brewing legacy in a fun, relaxed environment.
Bottom line: For a comprehensive, social beer tour that includes snacks and nine tastings, the Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop is a great choice, especially if you want to avoid driving.
2. Built on Beer Tour
At number 2, the Built on Beer Tour offers an accessible, two-hour walking journey through Cincinnati’s historic Brewery District. Priced at $45 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore both Cincinnati’s brewing history and its architecture. The tour takes you along the Brewing Heritage Trail in Over-the-Rhine, with visits to underground lagering cellars and historic sites like the Jackson Brewery and Christian Moerlein locations. You’ll get insights into how beer shaped the city’s development—an engaging mix of history and local flavor.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of history, architecture, and beer, with the guide sharing lively stories along the way. You also get a complimentary pint of local beer, adding to the experience. The tour is well-loved, with reviews highlighting the informative narration and the opportunity to access parts of the brewery heritage that many visitors miss. It’s perfect for history buffs and beer lovers alike, especially those who enjoy a relaxed walk and storytelling. The only downside noted is some standing on concrete, but it’s a small trade-off for the depth of history covered.
Bottom line: The Built on Beer Tour offers an engaging, historical perspective of Cincinnati’s brewing past in a manageable walk, ideal for those interested in both beer and architecture.
3. Bruckmann Brewery History Tour
The Bruckmann Brewery History Tour offers a deep dive into one of Cincinnati’s most significant brewery sites. Priced at $45 per person, this 1.5-hour guided visit explores the well-preserved remnants of the 19th-century Bruckmann Brewery complex—one of the most complete in the country. Starting at Cumminsville, you’ll see the original brewhouse, stables, bottling plant, and the underground lagering cellars, all still standing today.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on preservation and architecture. Guests often comment on how impressive it is to walk through these historic structures and see how brewing was done over 150 years ago. The guide explains the significance of each part of the complex, providing context for Cincinnati’s brewing industry. It’s ideal for those interested in industrial history and historic architecture, along with beer fans eager to learn about brewing evolution. Since the tour is relatively short, it’s best suited for people with an interest in history or those looking for a quick, educational outing.
Bottom line: The Bruckmann Brewery History Tour provides an intimate look at one of Cincinnati’s most iconic brewery sites, perfect for history aficionados and architecture buffs.
$45.00 per person
4. Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting
For those craving something truly different, the Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour combines underground exploration with beer tasting. This 2-hour experience costs $49 per person and takes you through two sets of tunnels—the Linck Brewery tunnels from 1850 and the Jackson Brewery tunnels, which are off-limits to the general public. You’ll also visit the Northern Row Taproom for a beer tasting afterward, making it a complete adventure.
What makes this tour special is its focus on Cincinnati’s underground brewing history. You’ll see the sites where Johnny Cash filmed a movie and explore the last remaining structures of the Christian Moerlein Brewery. The guide shares many stories about local history, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at Cincinnati’s beer-making past. The tour appeals most to adventure-seekers and history enthusiasts who enjoy discovering hidden spaces. Guests note that the caves are accessible but may involve some walking and stairs, so it’s best for those with a reasonable fitness level.
Bottom line: The Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour offers a rare peek into Cincinnati’s underground brewing heritage, combined with beer tastings—perfect if you want to step off the usual tourist trail.
$49.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Cincinnati
When selecting your perfect Cincinnati drinking tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you want a social, all-in day of tasting and learning, the Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop offers a relaxed, personalized experience. For those interested in history and architecture, the Built on Beer Tour provides a rich walk through Cincinnati’s brewing heritage. If your focus is on historic brewery sites, then the Bruckmann Brewery History Tour is a great quick dive into industrial Cincinnati history. And for adventure lovers or underground explorers, the Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour offers a one-of-a-kind subterranean experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred date. Think about the level of physical activity involved—some tours involve walking outdoors or stairs—so choose based on your fitness and comfort level.
Final Thoughts
Cincinnati offers a wide range of beer-focused experiences that suit different interests and budgets. Whether you prefer tasting local craft brews in a lively brewery, exploring historic buildings, or wandering underground tunnels, the city has it covered. For a lively, social afternoon, the Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop is a standout. If history and architecture excite you, the Built on Beer Tour won’t disappoint. For those seeking an offbeat adventure, the Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour offers a truly memorable experience.
Whatever your choice, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on Cincinnati’s vibrant beer scene. Cheers to a memorable trip filled with good stories, great beer, and fascinating discoveries!