St. John’s is a fantastic place to explore local drinking culture. Unlike many other cities, this Newfoundland capital offers a rich mix of craft breweries, historic pubs, and lively entertainment districts—making it perfect for drinking tours. What we especially like are tours that combine storytelling with tasting, offering insights into Newfoundland’s brewing traditions or its vibrant pub scene.
For example, the Newfoundland Beer Tour in St. John’s stands out for its focus on local brews and engaging history, giving you a taste of both the drinks and the stories behind them.
If you’re a history lover, the St. John’s Local Pub Tour & History Lesson offers an intimate look at the city’s pub scene with a storytelling twist. Whether you want to sample craft beers or explore historic taverns, St. John’s offers options that fit a range of interests and budgets.
1. Newfoundland Beer Tour in St. John’s
For around $70, this 2.5-hour tour provides a deep dive into Newfoundland’s brewing traditions, with visits to popular local breweries and pubs.
The tour kicks off on George Street, the heart of St. John’s nightlife, where you’ll get a quick overview of the city’s architecture and early settlement stories. From there, the tour visits well-known spots like Gahan House, The Newfoundland Embassy, and YellowBelly Brewery.
Each stops offers opportunities to sample multiple beers, including a sea salt sour and a complex stout, showcasing the variety of Newfoundland brewing.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on local brews and the chance to learn about Newfoundland’s beer history from guides with a passion for the craft. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge are consistently praised, and the tour’s flexibility in sampling different styles keeps it engaging.
The final stop at YellowBelly Brewery includes two samples and a story about the Irish influence on Newfoundland brewing.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for beer lovers who want a comprehensive and tasty introduction to local brews with an educational edge. The high reviews and rich beer variety make it a top choice for those wanting both culture and a good drink.
2. St. John’s Local Pub Tour & History Lesson
At just $22, this 2-hour tour offers a more budget-friendly, social way to explore St. John’s pub scene. Led by a guide with a knack for storytelling, the tour visits several downtown pubs, each with its own character and history. Small groups (up to 10 people) make for an intimate experience, allowing for meaningful conversations and personalized stories about the city’s drinking culture.
Guests rave about the local history shared at each stop, along with stories behind the pubs’ names and their significance. The tour is a good fit for travelers looking to combine local history with a relaxed pub crawl, especially if you’re interested in socializing and discovering lesser-known spots beyond the usual tourist trails.
Since the tour focuses more on the storytelling aspect and local atmosphere, it’s ideal for those who enjoy a laid-back, conversational experience with a pint in hand.
Bottom line: If you’re on a budget but still want an authentic, social experience that highlights St. John’s pub culture, this tour offers great value and an engaging way to spend an evening.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and what kind of experience you’re after. The Newfoundland Beer Tour is the best pick if you’re into craft beer and want a more structured, tasting-focused experience. It’s perfect for beer connoisseurs or those eager to learn about Newfoundland brewing.
On the other hand, the St. John’s Local Pub Tour offers a more casual, social vibe—great for meeting new people and exploring the local pub scene on a tighter budget. It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in stories and history rather than just sampling.
For those with limited time, both tours fit into a two-to-three-hour window, but if you’re a craft beer enthusiast willing to spend a little more, the Newfoundland Beer Tour delivers a more comprehensive sampling experience. Conversely, if you want to soak up the local nightlife and culture, the pub tour provides a lively, storytelling approach.
Final Thoughts
St. John’s offers a variety of drinking tours that cater to different tastes. The Newfoundland Beer Tour is ideal for those who love beer and want to learn about the local brewing scene with tastings included. Meanwhile, the Pub Tour & History Lesson is perfect for social travelers who want an authentic look at the city’s tavern culture and stories.
Both tours have excellent reviews and provide unique insights into Newfoundland’s local drinks and culture. If you’re planning a trip, consider booking early—these tours tend to fill up, especially during peak season. No matter which you choose, you’ll leave with new friends, stories, and a greater appreciation for St. John’s lively drinking scene.