Washington DC’s drinking tours combine history lessons with excellent libations. The most worthwhile options include history-focused pub crawls near the White House, where guides share fascinating presidential drinking stories and Prohibition-era tales.
For beer lovers, the local brewery tours stand out, offering generous tastings of 12 different craft beers with expert commentary.
My favorite tour is the haunted pub crawl through historic Georgetown – it’s the perfect mix of spine-tingling stories and colonial-era taverns.
The Potomac River yacht cruise delivers stunning monument views while you sip cocktails, though the more casual pirate ship option offers similar views at a better value.
Let’s explore the capital’s best drinking tours…
Key Points
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The History Tour Pub Crawl offers a unique exploration of D.C.’s past through the vibrant bar scene, with a 99% traveler recommendation.
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The Guided Craft Brewery Tours provide a 3.5-hour experience with VIP access to production areas and insights into the beer-making process.
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The Potomac River Yacht Cruise offers a lively atmosphere with an open bar, music, and city views from the water.
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The Pirate Ship Cruise is a unique 2-hour pirate-themed cruise on the Potomac River, featuring an open bar and dancing on open-air decks.
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The Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl is a 2-hour journey through D.C.’s spooky past and vibrant present, visiting historic haunted sites and pubs.
Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C.
This small-group history tour pub crawl in Washington, D.C. offers a unique way to explore the city’s past through its vibrant bar scene.
With 142 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, the tour has earned a Badge of Excellence. Priced from $59 per person, it accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers and includes either a Happy Hour package with 4 beers or a Dry Run option.
Led by knowledgeable and engaging guides like Dalton and Cassie, the tour takes you to historic bars while sharing tales of White House parties and Prohibition.
Whether you’re interested in the city’s history or just want a fun social experience, this tour provides an unforgettable blend of education and entertainment.
Read our full review: Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C. Review
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DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour
Explore Washington D.C.’s thriving beer scene on the DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour. This highly-rated 96%-recommended experience offers you up to 12 craft beer tastings at top local breweries.
You’ll enjoy round-trip transportation, snacks, and the expertise of a knowledgeable local beer guide. The tour departs from the National Portrait Gallery and returns to the same location.
Just be sure to arrive 10 minutes early, bring a valid ID, and wear closed-toe shoes. With a maximum of 14 travelers, you’ll have a fun, social experience exploring D.C.’s best breweries.
While vegetarian options are available, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals.
Read our full review: DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour Review
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DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures
The DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures offers a spine-chilling exploration of Washington D.C.’s haunted past.
This 2-hour tour takes you to several historic bars, where you’ll learn about documented accounts of ghostly encounters.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience promises research-based stories and an enjoyable mix of history and the supernatural.
While drinks aren’t included, the tour is wheelchair-accessible and near public transportation.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll get personalized attention.
Reviews praise the guides’ expertise but suggest room for more engaging ghost tales.
Read our full review: DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures Review
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Dc: Guided Craft Brewery Tours With a Snack
Enjoy the vibrant craft beer scene of Washington, D.C. with a guided tour that takes you behind the scenes of some of the city’s beloved breweries.
Priced from $105 per person, the 3.5-hour experience explores up to 3 local breweries, offering VIP access to production areas and insights into the beer-making process.
Savor up to 12 different craft beers while enjoying a paired savory snack, all while traveling in comfortable, air-conditioned transportation.
With a focus on inclusivity, the tour may visit breweries like the LGBTQ-owned Red Bear.
Just remember to wear closed-toe shoes and avoid pre-gaming, as visibly intoxicated individuals will be denied entry.
Read our full review: Dc: Guided Craft Brewery Tours With a Snack Review
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Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl
Dive into the captivating history and vibrant drinking culture of Washington, D.C. on this guided 2-hour pub crawl. Priced from Kč1,417 per person, this tour takes you to iconic bars while a knowledgeable local guide shares stories of the city’s past, from George Washington’s distilling adventures to Prohibition.
Choose between the Happy Hour option, which includes 4 draft beers, or the Dry Run for pay-as-you-go drinks. The tour is suitable for all ages and physical abilities, occurring rain or shine.
With a 5/5 overall rating from 38 reviews, this is a must-do experience for anyone eager to explore D.C.’s history through its lively drinking establishments.
Read our full review: Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl Review
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Washington, Dc: Potomac River Yacht Cruise With Open Bar
Set out on a lively 2-hour Potomac River yacht cruise in the heart of Washington, D.C. This adults-only event offers an open bar with unlimited drinks and complimentary pre-packed snacks.
Enjoy the music and lively atmosphere as you take in the sights of the city from the water. Reservations are recommended, as this cruise is likely to sell out.
Arrive at the meeting point in Georgetown, and don’t forget to bring your identification. While smoking and outside food/alcohol are prohibited, the cruise operates rain or shine, so dress for the weather.
Reviews are mixed, with some finding the experience fun and others feeling it lacked engagement early on.
Read our full review: Washington, Dc: Potomac River Yacht Cruise With Open Bar Review
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Washington Dc: Pirate Ship Cruise With Open Bar
For those seeking a unique and lively experience on the Potomac River, the Washington DC: Pirate Ship Cruise with Open Bar offers a two-hour adventure that’s sure to delight.
Priced from $68.90 per person, this pirate-themed cruise features an open bar with cocktails, liquor, beer, wine, and more.
Dance to music on the two open-air decks while enjoying views of Washington, DC. Though dressing up is encouraged, it’s not mandatory.
Keep in mind that the cruise operates rain or shine, and you’ll need to arrive 15 minutes early.
With an overall rating of 4/5 from previous guests, this cruise promises a memorable social event, especially around Halloween.
Read our full review: Washington Dc: Pirate Ship Cruise With Open Bar Review
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Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
Eager to explore the haunted history of Washington D.C. while indulging in libations? The “Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl” offers a 2-hour journey through the city’s spooky past and vibrant present.
During the tour, you’ll visit 8 historic, haunted sites, including 4 pubs where you can mingle with the spirits of prohibition-era bootleggers and share a brandy with the ghost of Ulysses S. Grant.
Enjoy signature cocktails and appetizers from acclaimed bartenders and chefs as you uncover the secrets of bygone politicians.
This tour isn’t suitable for those under 21, and it runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
With a 4/5 overall rating, this experience is sure to delight.
Read our full review: Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl Review
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The Sum Up
Explore Washington, D.C.’s rich history, craft breweries, and haunted pubs on these engaging tours. From guided brewery visits to spooky pub crawls, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these tours offer a unique way to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife and drinking culture. Dive in and discover the best of D.C.’s drinking scene.