11 Fantastic Drinking Tours In Charlotte

Charlotte stands out as a lively city for drinking tours thanks to its diverse brewery scene, lively neighborhoods, and innovative experiences. Whether you’re after a fun way to explore the city or looking for a more intimate tasting adventure, Charlotte offers options to match your style.

For example, the Trolley Pub Tour combines sightseeing with a pedal-powered pub crawl — a great mix of activity and socializing.

Meanwhile, the Original Charlotte Brewery Tour provides a deeper dive into local craft beers, perfect for beer lovers wanting to learn more about brewing while sampling some of Charlotte’s best breweries.

No matter your preference, these tours highlight Charlotte’s unique drink culture. From lively buses and golf carts to private brewery visits, there’s something for all who wants to enjoy the city’s vibrant beer, wine, and even culinary scenes.

1. Trolley Pub Tour of Charlotte

At number 1, the Trolley Pub Tour of Charlotte offers a lively way to get acquainted with Charlotte’s Uptown district. For approximately $49 per person, this 2-hour tour combines city sightseeing with a pedal-powered pub crawl. The route is tailored based on rider requests, with two to three stops at local bars or attractions, all while you pedal along with friends or fellow travelers.

The guide makes the experience fun and easy, making it an ideal option for groups wanting a balance of activity and socializing.

What makes this tour stand out is the interactive nature — you stay active while sipping your own bottles (bring your favorite drinks). The atmosphere is lively, with reviews praising the music, costumes, and the energetic hosts. Many travelers appreciate that it keeps you moving but doesn’t require much walking, making it accessible for most.

It’s especially suited for those looking for a fun, casual evening out that combines sightseeing with a bit of exercise. The only downside might be the weather, so check forecasts if you plan an outdoor ride.

Bottom Line: Perfect for lively groups who want to see Charlotte while having fun with friends in a flexible, social setting.

2. The Original Charlotte Brewery Tour – Craft Beer Experience

At number 2, the Original Charlotte Brewery Tour is a 5-hour immersion into Charlotte’s craft beer scene. For $150, you visit four local breweries, sampling a variety of beers and learning about the brewing process from knowledgeable guides. The tour includes a sit-down meal at Midwood Smokehouse, making it a well-rounded experience for beer enthusiasts.

This tour is limited to 14 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The breweries visited — Petty Thieves, Protagonist, Lower Left, and others — are some of Charlotte’s favorites, with each offering distinctive styles.

The guide Vinnie or Jan is praised for their expertise and engaging stories. The price includes all beers, making it a good value for those eager to deepen their appreciation of craft brewing.

The only potential drawback is the pace — the long duration means it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full evening of tasting.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for serious beer lovers who want to explore Charlotte’s brewing craftsmanship while enjoying a meal.

3. Live Music and Brewery Bus

Number 3 on our list is the Live Music and Brewery Bus, a 3-hour experience combining craft beer, live bands, and sightseeing. For $69 per person, this colorful purple bus takes you to three breweries — NoDa Brewing, Resident Culture, and Hi-Wire — with each stop lasting around 30 minutes. The bus itself features a stage for live music, creating a lively festival atmosphere.

Guests can BYOB (bring your own beer or wine) and enjoy the music while exploring Charlotte’s South End. The tour gets high marks for its casual vibe, energetic hosts, and the chance to enjoy live performances during the ride. It’s an ideal choice if you want to combine music, local beers, and a fun group dynamic.

The bus’s unique design and music make it a memorable experience, especially for those who enjoy a lively, interactive environment.

Bottom Line: Best suited for music lovers and social butterflies wanting to combine live entertainment with craft beer exploration.

4. Charlotte Private Brewery/Bar Crawl

Moving to a more personalized experience, the Charlotte Private Brewery/Bar Crawl offers a tailored tour with your private guide. For about $319 per person, you get a 3-hour tour focusing on your preferred breweries, traveling comfortably by golf cart. This private setup allows you to customize your visit, choosing from local favorites that appeal most to your group.

Guests rave about the flexibility and the opportunity to skip the crowds, with Keith, the guide, praised for his accommodating nature. The tour is ideal for small groups seeking a relaxed, exclusive experience.

The main advantage here is the ability to craft a tour that matches your tastes, whether focusing on historic breweries or modern taprooms. The higher price reflects the personalized service and private nature.

Bottom Line: Great for groups wanting a custom, intimate brewery tour without the hassle of navigating Charlotte’s streets themselves.

5. Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte

Number 5 offers the Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart, a fun and quirky way to explore uptown Charlotte. Costing $240 for up to five people, this 1- to 2-hour tour is perfect for small groups or celebrations. The route includes scenic drives around City Park, Uptown, and South End, with stops at popular bars like Charlotte Beer Garden and Small Bar South End.

This experience emphasizes the festive atmosphere, with the golf cart decorated with a giant disco ball. The driver customizes the stops, making each ride unique. It’s a relaxed, social option that combines sightseeing with bar hopping and a touch of silliness. The tour is best suited for those who want to party and see the city without the pressure of a large group or structured schedule.

Bottom Line: Ideal for groups seeking a fun, lighthearted way to explore Charlotte’s bar scene with a bit of flair.

6. Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Charlotte

Number 6 features a hands-on sushi-making class at a Charlotte brewery. For $75 per person, this 2-hour experience offers instruction in crafting sushi rolls, including a spicy tuna and vegetable roll, while enjoying craft beer in a relaxed setting. The class teaches techniques like seasoning rice, rolling, and slicing, perfect for anyone wanting a culinary skill to impress at home.

What’s special about this experience is the blend of culinary artistry and local craft beer. The instructor is experienced, and the small class size ensures personalized attention. The reviews highlight the fun and professional atmosphere, making it suitable for foodies and curious cooks.

The only potential drawback is that it’s a shorter session, so those seeking a longer experience might prefer other tours.

Bottom Line: A great pick for those who want to combine culinary skills with beer tasting in a friendly environment.

7. Charlotte: Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery

Number 7, the Pasta Making Class is a 2-hour hands-on session where you learn to make fresh pasta from scratch. The class includes making pappardelle and a hearty Bolognese sauce, all enjoyed with craft beer. The focus is on technique, from kneading to rolling, perfect for those wanting a practical culinary skill.

This tour emphasizes authentic pasta-making in a relaxed brewery setting. The instructor’s guidance helps even beginners produce impressive results. The combination of pasta and beer tasting makes it appealing for food lovers seeking a more substantial culinary experience. A downside might be the limited time, but it’s ideal if you want to learn and eat well.

Bottom Line: Perfect for pasta fans interested in a hands-on experience paired with local brews.

8. Charlotte: Private Brewery/Pub Crawl

The Private Brewery/Pub Crawl offers a 4-hour personalized tour of Charlotte’s microbreweries and pubs. Using an electric cart, your group can sit back and relax as your guide takes you through the city’s best nightlife spots. This is a flexible option, ideal for those who want to customize their itinerary and enjoy a comfortable ride.

Reviews are limited, but the concept of a private tour with live music and local drinks makes it attractive for groups wanting a tailored experience. It’s great for celebrating special occasions or just enjoying Charlotte’s nightlife without the hassle of planning.

Bottom Line: Best for groups seeking a customized, relaxed way to explore Charlotte’s beer scene with added comfort.

9. Charlotte: Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery

This experience repeats as number 9, focusing on sushi crafting with a professional chef. For $75, you learn to make spicy tuna and vegetable rolls, perfect for home entertaining. The class combines skill-building with beer sampling in a friendly setting.

The focus on practical sushi techniques makes this perfect for aspiring sushi chefs or those curious about Japanese cuisine. It’s similar to the earlier sushi class but at a different venue, offering another chance to learn and enjoy craft beer.

Bottom Line: A fun, educational choice for sushi lovers eager to master the art of rolling in Charlotte.

10. Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Charlotte

Number 10 provides another opportunity to learn pasta making, this time emphasizing from scratch techniques like kneading and rolling. The 2-hour class costs $75 and features a rich Bolognese sauce alongside craft beer.

Ideal for those wanting a culinary skill and a relaxed atmosphere, this class emphasizes hands-on technique. The experience is suitable for all skill levels, with the instructor’s guidance helping beginners create delicious pasta dishes.

Bottom Line: A practical, tasty experience for pasta enthusiasts wanting to learn a skill and sample local brews.

11. Charlotte Bar Hunt: Uptown Charlotte Showdown

Finally, the Charlotte Bar Hunt is an app-led scavenger hunt exploring uptown Charlotte. For just $12.31, it’s an active way to discover hidden spots, landmarks, and enjoy pub challenges. The activity involves answering trivia, completing tasks, and hopping between bars and landmarks.

This tour suits those who prefer a self-guided adventure over a structured tour. It’s perfect for small groups, birthdays, or corporate team-building. The digital photo aspect adds a fun memory element to the experience.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, interactive way to explore Charlotte’s downtown with a competitive twist.

How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Charlotte

When selecting the best drinking tour for your trip, consider your budget, preferred pace, and interests. For those wanting a lively, active experience, the Trolley Pub Tour offers a fun pedal adventure.

If craft beer is your passion, the Charlotte Brewery Tour provides an in-depth tasting with educational insights. For a more personalized experience, a private tour like the Private Brewery/Bar Crawl lets you tailor your route.

Budget travelers might enjoy the Charlotte Bar Hunt, while those seeking a culinary twist can try a sushi or pasta class. Timing can influence your choice; summer evenings are ideal for outdoor or bus tours, while during colder months, private or indoor experiences offer comfort.

Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the brewery visits, which can fill quickly on weekends or holidays.

Charlotte’s drinking scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods. Whether you’re after a lively pedal-powered tour, an immersive brewery experience, or a fun cooking class, you’ll find something that fits your style.

For a memorable visit, pick a tour that matches your interests, and consider combining a couple for a truly flavorful trip. Don’t wait too long — these experiences tend to fill up, especially during peak travel seasons.