Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour

If you’re a fan of craft beverages and local history, the Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour promises a compelling blend of both. With an emphasis on small-group intimacy, indoor comfort, and educational fun, this tour takes you through some of Cincinnati’s most iconic brewing and distilling sites. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur, history buff, or just curious about Cincinnati’s storied beverage scene, this experience offers plenty to enjoy for a modest price of $59.

What we love about this tour is how it combines engaging storytelling with hands-on tastings, all within a manageable 2.5-hour window. The knowledgeable guides consistently get praise for their passion and expertise, creating a warm, authentic atmosphere. Plus, the chance to see historic underground cellars and pre-Prohibition structures is a delightful bonus. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the tour might feel a touch lengthy for those who prefer a brisk pace, so it’s worth considering your preferred tour length.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate local history, craft drinks, and small, friendly groups. It’s ideal for visitors wanting a relaxed yet rundown of Cincinnati’s brewing and distilling roots. If that sounds like your kind of experience, read on for a detailed, honest look at what you can expect from this lively tour.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 15 people ensures personalized attention
• Mostly indoors, making it suitable rain or shine
• Includes behind-the-scenes visits to Northern Row, Rhinegeist, and historic lagering cellars
• Tastes of spirits and beers complement the educational content
• Guided by knowledgeable hosts with consistently high reviews
• A good value for the price, especially considering the multiple tasting stops

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Northern Row Brewery & Distillery – The Starting Point

The tour begins at Northern Row, a spot with a pre-Prohibition history. Here, you’ll learn about the building’s past as a fermentation house, which adds a tangible sense of history to the experience. The highlight is a behind-the-scenes tour of the distilling operations—a rare peek into the process that turns grains and botanicals into spirits.

Many reviewers, like Patty D, praised this first stop as both educational and fun. She mentioned, “Our hosts are very good at their job and made the tour fun. They were extremely knowledgeable about the beer industry and Cincinnati.” After the tour, you’ll enjoy a spirit tasting in the taproom, which allows you to sample a few of their creations, making this stop both informative and delicious.

Jackson Brewery Lagering Cellars – A Historic Underground Experience

Next, the tour takes you to the Jackson Brewery lagering cellars, which date back to the 1850s. Descending into these underground tunnels offers a glimpse into Cincinnati’s brewing past—an environment that was used for fermenting and cold-storing beer more than 150 years ago. These historic cellars provide an atmospheric setting that many find both fascinating and photogenic.

While some might find the pace slightly leisurely, the historical significance makes it worthwhile. As one guest noted, “The beer cellars provided a unique opportunity to view Cincinnati brewery history.” If you’re interested in seeing tangible remnants of the city’s brewing past, this stop is a highlight.

Rhinegeist Brewery – The Modern Craft Scene

The final stop is Rhinegeist, housed in a pre-Prohibition building that’s been repurposed into a modern brewery. Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes tour of the brewing process, gaining insight into how contemporary Cincinnati breweries operate within historic structures. The tour concludes with a flight of seasonal winter beers—a perfect way to enjoy some of the city’s craft brewing artistry.

Reviewers like Haley V and Jennifer E remarked on how engaging guides like Lisa and Alex made the tours lively and educational. One noted, “The beer at Northern Row is delicious,” and another appreciated the friendly, laid-back environment, mentioning that the guide kept things light and fun.

Practical Details and Experience Flow

The tour starts at 111 W McMicken Ave and ends at 1910 Elm St. At just $59 per person, it offers excellent value—especially considering the multiple stops, tastings, and insider knowledge. Most participants find the timing just right, lasting about two and a half hours, balancing education with tasting without feeling rushed or dragged out.

The small group size (up to 15 travelers) ensures that everyone has time to ask questions and engage directly with guides. Reviews show that guides like Lisa and Alex are well-liked for their deep knowledge and friendly approach, which enhances the overall experience. The tour is mostly indoors, so it’s suitable in any weather, which is an important consideration in Cincinnati’s climate.

You’ll find the tour accessible and near public transportation, making it easy to include in your Cincinnati itinerary. The mobile ticket system simplifies booking, and the free cancellation policy offers flexibility if plans change.

What Travelers Are Saying

Several reviews highlight the knowledgeability of the guides, with comments like “Knew her material and clearly enjoyed sharing it,” and “Alex was a great guide and had so much information.” The tastings are consistently praised for their quality, with many reviewers noting the delicious beers and spirits sampled.

One guest pointed out that the underground tunnels were a cool feature, emphasizing that the experience offers a tangible connection to Cincinnati’s brewing history. Others appreciated the casual atmosphere, making the tour accessible for all levels of beer or spirit enthusiasts.

A few critics mentioned that the tour could feel a bit lengthy or slow at times, especially if you’re not a history or beverage fanatic. That said, most agree that the overall value and engaging guides outweigh this small drawback.

The Bottom Line

This tour is a standout for those interested in Cincinnati’s beer and spirits scene, especially if you prefer small groups, indoor venues, and expert guides. The combination of historic underground cellars, modern brewery tours, and tastings of local beverages makes for a well-rounded experience that’s both fun and educational.

It’s particularly suited for history buffs, craft drink lovers, and curious travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions without feeling overwhelmed. The modest price point, coupled with the inclusion of multiple stops, makes it a good value for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Cincinnati’s brewing legacy.

For those who love deep dives into local history combined with delicious drinks, this tour hits the spot. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or solo, and want to spend a relaxed afternoon exploring Cincinnati’s beverage heritage, this experience is well worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, most of the tour is indoors, so you won’t be affected by rain or cold weather.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically runs around 2 hours 30 minutes, including visits to three key sites.

What is included in the price?
The $59 fee covers guided visits to Northern Row, Jackson Brewery cellars, and Rhinegeist, plus tastings of spirits and beers.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s mainly geared towards adults given the tastings and historical content.

Are there any dietary restrictions or allergies to consider?
The tour involves alcohol tastings, so those with sensitivities should consider this before booking.

How many people are in a typical group?
The maximum group size is 15, ensuring a personalized, relaxed experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is offered if you notify at least 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, the Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, craftsmanship, and flavor. It’s a perfect fit for curious travelers eager to learn about local heritage while sampling some of Cincinnati’s best brews and spirits. With knowledgeable guides, a relaxed pace, and historic settings, it’s a rewarding way to spend an afternoon—whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply want a taste of Cincinnati’s vibrant beverage scene.