Ottawa’s drinking tours offer authentic ways to experience Canada’s capital city. The stand-out Lilo Floating Tiki Bar delivers a refreshing twist, combining river views with cocktails – ideal for summer afternoons. We’re especially fond of the Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl, which cleverly uses your smartphone to guide you through the city’s best pubs while teaching local history. For beer lovers, the City Beers bus tour connects you with the craftspeople behind Ottawa’s excellent brewing scene.
These well-organized tours earn consistently high marks from visitors. Let’s check out the top drinking tours in Ottawa.
Key Points
- Lilo Floating Tiki Bar offers a unique 5.0-star rated floating bar experience on the Ottawa River with amenities like an onboard restroom and licensed bar.
- Floating Tiki Bar Cruise provides a 1.5-hour sightseeing tour along the Rideau Canal with tropical cocktails and a tiki-themed boat.
- Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl is an app-led scavenger hunt exploring the city’s vibrant bar scene with trivia, challenges, and team competitions.
- City Beers: Bus Tour is a 4-5 hour craft beer tour visiting three or more local breweries, led by knowledgeable guides.
- Ottawa offers a variety of drinking tours that combine local culture, entertainment, scenic views, interactive activities, and positive guest feedback.
Lilo Floating Tiki Bar on the Ottawa River
The Lilo Floating Tiki Bar on the Ottawa River offers a unique and captivating experience for visitors looking to explore Ottawa’s waterways. With an overall rating of 5.0 stars based on over 55 reviews, this floating bar boasts a recommended rating of 93% from travelers.
The bar offers a range of amenities, including a restroom onboard, great music and atmosphere, and a licensed bar for alcoholic beverages, allowing guests to bring their own food. The experience can accommodate a maximum of 12 travelers per tour and is stroller-accessible, with service animals allowed and proximity to public transportation.
While the reviews highlight the friendly and attentive staff, enjoyable atmosphere, and beautiful views, some guests have noted issues with weather and discrepancies in drink availability and sweetness.
Guests have expressed a desire for clearer communication regarding shared bookings and music system charges. The Lilo Floating Tiki Bar is recommended for special occasions and casual outings, with many guests eager to return for another experience, particularly during the evening for the beautiful lighting and ambiance.
Read our full review: Lilo Floating Tiki Bar on the Ottawa River Review
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Ottawa: Floating Tiki Bar Cruise on the Ottawa River
Offering a unique twist on the typical river cruise, the Ottawa: Floating Tiki Bar Cruise on the Ottawa River invites visitors to sip tropical cocktails and bask in the city’s scenic waterfront views.
The 1.5-hour cruise takes guests along the picturesque Rideau Canal, allowing them to enjoy the sights of downtown Ottawa from the comfort of a tiki-themed boat. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by previous passengers, the experience is a popular choice for those looking to combine sightseeing with lively entertainment.
With a variety of exotic cocktails and a festive atmosphere, the Floating Tiki Bar Cruise provides a fun and relaxed way to explore the city’s waterways.
Whether you’re seeking a unique date night activity or a memorable group outing, this unique tour offers a delightful twist on the traditional river cruise experience in the nation’s capital.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Floating Tiki Bar Cruise on the Ottawa River Review
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Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam
Visitors seeking a lively exploration of Ottawa’s vibrant bar scene can embark on the Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl, an app-led scavenger hunt adventure by Let’s Roam. Priced from $12.31, the experience takes participants on a journey through the city’s landmarks and hidden gems, engaging them in trivia, challenges, and team competitions along the way.
Each player can select an interactive role with personalized challenges, fostering a sense of engagement throughout the experience. The tour meets at 115 Rideau Street and concludes at the same location, operating daily from 7 AM to 11:30 PM.
The activity is accessible to wheelchair users and strollers, with a moderate fitness level required. While the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, participants can capture digital copies of their scavenger hunt photos as a memento.
With a 3.0 overall rating from a single review, the Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl provides a unique and interactive way to discover the city’s nightlife.
Read our full review: Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam Review
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City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries
An immersive beer-lover’s odyssey, the City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries whisks participants on a captivating journey through the city’s thriving craft beer scene.
Over the course of 4-5 hours, guests visit three or more local Ottawa breweries, enjoying guided tours, tastings, and delicious snacks.
With a maximum group size of 25, the tour offers an intimate and engaging experience led by knowledgeable local guides.
Travelers are provided with tasting note cards to document their brew discoveries, while learning about the ingredients and brewing processes behind each unique craft beer.
Recommended by 98% of previous guests, the tour boasts a perfect 5.0 rating from 54 enthusiastic reviews.
Whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply curious about Ottawa’s vibrant brewing culture, this bus tour promises an educational and enjoyable adventure.
Inclusive of all taxes, fees, and gratuities, the City Beers experience is a must for anyone seeking to enjoy the heart of Ottawa’s thriving craft beer scene.
Read our full review: City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Dress Code Requirements for the Tours?
The dress code for these tours is generally casual and comfortable. Participants are encouraged to wear clothing and shoes that are suitable for walking and exploring the local establishments. There are typically no strict dress requirements beyond maintaining a neat and presentable appearance.
Are the Tours Suitable for Families With Young Children?
The tours may not be the best choice for families with young children, as they typically focus on adult beverages and activities. However, some operators may offer family-friendly options or accommodate children on their tours with prior arrangements.
Do the Tours Provide Transportation to and From the Venues?
The tours typically provide transportation to and from the venues, making it convenient for guests. However, the suitability for families with young children may vary, so it’s best to inquire about the tour’s policies beforehand.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for the Tours?
Many drinking tour companies offer discounts or package deals to customers. Some provide combo packages that include transportation, while others may have group rates or early-bird specials. It’s best to check with each company for their specific discount offerings.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Fit Specific Preferences or Group Sizes?
Many tour companies offer customizable options to accommodate group sizes and preferences. Customers can often work with the tour operator to tailor the experience, such as adjusting the itinerary or including specific stops based on their interests.
Recap
Ottawa offers a variety of unique drinking tours for visitors. From a floating tiki bar on the river to an epic bar crawl through the city’s top breweries, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely cruise or a lively night out, these tours provide an immersive experience and a great way to explore Ottawa’s vibrant drinking scene.