Cincinnati’s beer scene connects modern craft brewing with 19th-century German heritage. Three standout tours offer distinct ways to experience this city’s sudsy culture. The Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour ranks high for its fascinating underground look at pre-Prohibition tunnels beneath the historic Moerlein complex. For intimate tastings and local insights, we love the small-group Original Craft Brewery Tour – it includes generous samples and a take-home glass. The 3 Stop Hop efficiently covers three different breweries, perfect for comparing styles and techniques. These top-rated options let you explore Cincinnati’s beer culture firsthand.
Check out our detailed recommendations below:
Key Points
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The Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour offers an immersive exploration of historic tunnels and the original Christian Moerlein Brewery complex, led by knowledgeable guides.
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The Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour provides a personalized experience with beer samples, a pretzel, and a souvenir taster glass.
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The Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop tour focuses on visiting three top craft breweries, allowing participants to sample nine different beers.
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The Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour combines baseball heritage with craft beer exploration, though feedback suggests room for improvement in transportation and restroom breaks.
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The Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s brewing and distilling history, including tastings and underground tunnel access.
Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati With Beer Tasting
On the Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati, guests embark on an immersive exploration of the city’s rich brewing history.
Starting at the Northern Row Brewery & Distillery, the approximately 2-hour tour takes visitors through the historic Linch Brewery Tunnels, a filming location for a Johnny Cash movie, and the original Christian Moerlein Brewery complex.
Guests also stroll through the iconic Findlay Market and learn about Rhinegeist Brewery’s role in the 19th-century beer scene.
The highlight of the tour is gaining access to the tunnels beneath the closed Jackson Brewery.
Throughout the experience, knowledgeable guides, such as Miranda, Harrison, Matt, and Renee, provide engaging historical context and captivating narratives, including ghost stories.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with limited mobility or serious medical conditions, as it requires moderate physical fitness.
However, for those who can participate, the Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour offers an educational and entertaining glimpse into Cincinnati’s brewing legacy, complete with a beer tasting for guests 21 and over.
Read our full review: Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati With Beer Tasting Review
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Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour
This small-group Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Tour takes participants on an engaging exploration of the city’s vibrant beer scene. Capped at a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience, earning it a 94% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.
Over the course of the afternoon, guests will visit several local craft breweries, sampling three six-ounce beers at each stop and enjoying a large baked pretzel to start. The tour also includes a souvenir taster glass, allowing participants to bring a piece of the experience home.
While lunch or dinner isn’t provided, the tour’s meeting point at the Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati offers convenient access to parking and public transportation.
Though not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable and humorous guides, who skillfully handle any logistical challenges that may arise.
Read our full review: Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour Review
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Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop
Although the Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the city’s beer scene, the Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop offers a more focused and immersive experience.
This small-group tour takes participants to three of Cincinnati’s finest craft breweries, where they can sample nine different beers and learn about the city’s rich brewing heritage.
The tour is led by knowledgeable hosts who guide visitors through each brewery, sharing insights into the production process and the unique character of each hotel.
Participants will enjoy snacks and a souvenir glass to enhance the experience. The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey between the breweries.
With a 97% recommendation rate from previous travelers and a Badge of Excellence, the Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop is a must-do for any beer enthusiast visiting Cincinnati.
The tour’s combination of beer sampling, educational elements, and a curated selection of breweries make it a standout experience in the city’s vibrant craft beer scene.
Read our full review: Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop Review
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Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour
Blending the city’s rich baseball heritage and thriving craft beer scene, the Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour offers visitors a unique and immersive experience.
Over the course of 3 hours, this guided tour takes participants to explore the iconic Cincinnati ballparks and local breweries. Starting at the Moerlein Lager House, the tour accommodates up to 14 travelers and includes alcoholic beverages and a souvenir map.
Participants have provided mixed feedback on the tour. While many praised the knowledgeable and interactive tour guide, some noted issues with the bus comfort and limited stops at breweries.
Recommendations for improvement include more comfortable transportation, restroom breaks, and broader trivia questions to enhance the overall experience. The tour operator has acknowledged the feedback and committed to addressing these concerns for future tours.
Despite the room for improvement, the Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour remains a compelling option for those seeking to explore the city’s rich sports and beer culture in a convenient and guided format.
Read our full review: Cincinnati Ballparks & Breweries Bus Tour Review
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Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour
As a popular option for those seeking to enjoy Cincinnati’s thriving craft beverage scene, the Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour offers participants a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich brewing and distilling heritage.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24 reviewers, the 2.5-hour tour boasts a 92% recommendation rate, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to discover the city’s storied past. Beginning at the Northern Row Brewery & Distillery, guests embark on a journey that includes tastings and behind-the-scenes access at multiple renowned establishments, culminating at the iconic Rhinegeist Brewery.
Praised for their knowledgeable and engaging guides, the tour provides participants with a deep dive into Cincinnati’s brewing and distilling legacy, including the chance to explore underground tunnels.
While some reviewers have suggested the tour could be streamlined, the majority of feedback highlights the overall enjoyment of the historical insights and convivial group dynamics.
For those seeking an immersive and educational experience in Cincinnati’s vibrant craft beverage scene, the Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour is a must-consider option.
Read our full review: Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?
Gratuity is typically not included in the tour price for brewery tours and tastings. Visitors should expect to pay an additional gratuity, usually around 15-20%, for the tour guide and staff who provide the service.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically varies by brewery tour, but many offer flexible options. Customers should check the specific policy before booking, as some may allow for full refunds if cancelled within a certain timeframe, while others may only offer partial or no refunds.
Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks on the Tour?
Most brewery tours allow visitors to bring their own snacks, but not outside drinks. Some tours may offer food and non-alcoholic beverage options for purchase. It’s best to check the tour’s policies before arrival to ensure a smooth experience.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Many brewery tours are wheelchair accessible, providing ramps, elevators, and wide pathways. Visitors should check the specific tour’s accessibility details before booking. Some tours may have limited accessibility, so it’s best to inquire about accommodations when making reservations.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Many brewery tours and tastings accommodate dietary restrictions by offering non-alcoholic options and providing information about ingredients. Visitors with specific needs should inquire about the tour’s policies before booking to ensure their requirements can be met.
Recap
Cincinnati’s brewery scene offers a diverse array of tours and tastings. From hidden cavern explorations to ballpark hopping, there’s something for every beer enthusiast. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these experiences provide an immersive way to discover the city’s rich brewing heritage and vibrant craft beer culture. With so many options, you’re sure to find a tour that piques your interest and quenches your thirst.