Indianapolis isn’t just about sports and sports bars; it’s a surprisingly lively city for creative drinking experiences. Whether you’re a local looking for a new way to unwind or a visitor eager to see the city from a different angle, the drinking tours in Indianapolis offer something memorable. We especially like the Indianapolis Mobile Pub Tour and Experience for its fun mix of sightseeing and social game-playing, as well as the Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour, which combines city exploration with cold drinks and good music. Both tours make the city feel more accessible and fun, especially if you enjoy a bit of group activity and outdoor adventure.
For a more laid-back, customized brewery journey, the Top Shelf 14-Passenger Brewery Tour offers a flexible, private experience, perfect for groups wanting to sample local brews without the hassle of planning. Whatever your style, these tours showcase Indianapolis’s rich drink scene with a unique twist that makes them worth considering.
Quick Overview
Our list features three top-rated drinking experiences: a lively pedal-powered pub tour Indianapolis Mobile Pub Tour and Experience, an intimate brewery tour for groups up to 14 people Top Shelf 14-Passenger Brewery Tour, and a fun, social pedal pub adventure Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour. Each offers a different way to enjoy the city’s drink scene, from active group outings to private, relaxed tastings.
1. Indianapolis Mobile Pub Tour and Experience
This 2-hour pedal pub tour is a fantastic way to see Indianapolis’s landmarks while enjoying local drinks. The tour features a pedal-powered bus that seats up to 15 people, making it ideal for celebrating birthdays, bachelor(ette) parties, or simply having fun with friends. As you pedal your way through the city, your guide shares insider tips and stories about Indianapolis’ history and culture. The highlight is the stop at the Indiana War Memorial and Museum, where you can step off the bike, take photos, and play lighthearted games organized by your guide.
The tour also includes a close-up look at the Soldiers & Sailors Monument and the Bicentennial Unity Plaza—sites that are central to Indy’s identity. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and the lively, social atmosphere. Since drinks are part of the experience and the pace is relaxed, it’s perfect for those wanting to combine sightseeing with fun. The price of $54.99 per person makes it an affordable way to explore with a group.
Bottom line: This tour is best suited for groups wanting a mix of sightseeing, socializing, and drinking in a lively, outdoor setting, with the bonus of organized games and photo stops.
2. Top Shelf 14-Passenger Brewery Tour
For groups seeking a more customized and flexible tour, the Top Shelf 14-Passenger Brewery Tour delivers a private experience that can last anywhere from four to twelve hours. Priced at $599 per group, it offers exceptional value for a tailored day of sampling some of Indy’s best breweries. Although it has fewer reviews (3), the emphasis on treating people well and catering to your preferences makes this a popular choice among groups who want a laid-back, long-lasting brewery crawl.
The tour is perfect for beer enthusiasts who want to visit specific breweries or explore different neighborhoods in Indianapolis. Since the tour is flexible, guides can adjust the itinerary based on your interests, whether you want to focus on local craft breweries, visit historic brewing districts, or include a stop for food. This experience is less about party pace and more about savoring the local beer scene at your leisure.
Reviewers mention that the driver is accommodating, and the experience is memorable for those looking for quality beers and personalized service. The main downside is the higher price point, but for groups of up to 14, the cost per person becomes quite reasonable.
Bottom line: This is ideal for beer lovers wanting an exclusive, customizable tour with a relaxed pace and the chance to focus on specific breweries or styles.
3. Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour
At about 100 minutes long, the Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour combines urban exploration with lively drinks in a casual, social setting. For $64 per person, you get to pedal through Indianapolis on a pedal-powered bar, with electric assist to make pedaling easier. The tour includes ice-cold local beverages, music, and games, making it a perfect choice for those who want to add some fun and movement to their drinking experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its casual, party-like atmosphere. You get to turn Indianapolis into your playground, moving from landmark to landmark while enjoying your drinks. The guides keep the energy high with music and lighthearted games, making it especially popular among bachelor(ette) parties or groups celebrating special occasions.
Guests appreciate the lively vibe and the ability to see the city from a different angle. The electric assist ensures that even those who aren’t avid cyclists can join in the fun without breaking a sweat. The shorter duration makes it a good choice for a quick, energetic outing before dinner or more sightseeing.
Bottom line: Suitable for groups wanting a fun, upbeat experience with music, games, and cold drinks in an easy-going outdoor setting.
How to Choose
When deciding between these Indianapolis drinking tours, consider your group’s interests and how much activity you want. If you prefer a party atmosphere with sightseeing, the Indianapolis Mobile Pub Tour offers a great mix of both. For those focused on tasting local beers at a relaxed pace, the Top Shelf Brewery Tour provides a private, customizable experience. If you’re looking for a short, lively outing with music and games, the Open-Air Pedal Pub hits the mark.
Think about your budget and group size as well. The mobile pub tour is affordable and perfect for small to medium groups, while the brewery tour suits larger groups seeking exclusivity. The pedal pub is a shorter, more energetic option that works well for groups wanting to keep things lively.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons and weekends, to secure your preferred time slot. Also, check for any seasonal considerations—some tours may operate differently depending on the weather or city events.
Final Thoughts
Indianapolis offers a surprising variety of options for drinking tours that go beyond typical bar-hopping. Whether you want a fun outdoor pedal pub ride, a personalized brewery experience, or a social mobile pub adventure, there’s something to match your style. For groups seeking affordability and activity, the Indianapolis Mobile Pub Tour is a top choice. For those wanting a more relaxed, private brewery journey, the Top Shelf Brewery Tour fits perfectly. And if your goal is quick, energetic fun with music and drinks, the Open-Air Pedal Pub won’t disappoint.
No matter which you choose, booking early and planning around your interests will ensure a memorable Indianapolis experience. Cheers to discovering new ways to enjoy this dynamic city’s drink scene.