Minneapolis is a city that takes its craft drinks seriously, with a lively scene blending history, innovation, and local pride. Whether you’re into discovering hidden bars, sampling local craft beers, or even learning how to make your own sushi with a brew in hand, Minneapolis offers memorable ways to enjoy a drink.
We particularly like the Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl: Hidden Bars & Stories because it combines fascinating local stories with access to some of the city’s most distinctive cocktail bars. It’s a great way to explore neighborhoods locals love, all while sipping on craft drinks in a lively setting.
If you’re interested in a hands-on experience, the Minneapolis: Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery offers a delightful twist—learning to make sushi on-site at a brewery, pairing the best of food and drink.
Or, for the craft beer enthusiasts, the Highest Rated 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour delivers a tasting of the city’s top breweries with a knowledgeable guide. Below, we’ll explore each of these options in detail to help you choose the perfect Minneapolis drinking tour.
1. Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl: Hidden Bars & Stories
At number 1 on our list, this 3-hour Minneapolis historical bar crawl blends the city’s craft drinks with tantalizing local stories that give you a deeper appreciation of Minneapolis. Starting with a complimentary first drink, the tour visits hand-picked signature bars and craft breweries that aren’t just trendy but loaded with character.
Your guide is passionate about sharing “liquid history”, revealing stories behind the spots and drinks that define the city’s nightlife.
What makes this tour special is its focus on neighborhood culture. You’ll meet the bartenders who keep Minneapolis’s drinking scene vibrant and discover hidden gems that many travelers never see. The tour guarantees entry to some of the most distinctive bars, each offering original cocktails and craft beers.
With a high rating of 4.9/5 from nine reviews, it’s clear this experience resonates with travelers wanting an authentic taste of Minneapolis’s drinking culture. The 3-hour format is perfect for those wanting an engaging but not overly lengthy outing.
Bottom line: If you love stories as much as drinks, this tour offers an immersive way to explore Minneapolis’s neighborhoods while enjoying some of the best craft beverages the city has to offer.
2. Minneapolis: Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery
For around $75 per person, the Minneapolis: Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery is a unique blend of food and drink. This 2-hour experience is led by a talented chef, Chef Pao, who guides participants in making sushi rolls from scratch. It’s not just about the food, but also about understanding how to master the art of rolling sushi and seasoning rice perfectly.
What makes this class stand out is the combination of culinary skill-building with the brewery setting. You’ll learn to create delicious California and spicy salmon rolls, then enjoy tasting your own handiwork alongside craft beers. It’s ideal for travelers who want a hands-on activity that’s interactive and fun, especially if you enjoy sushi or want to learn how to craft your own rolls at home.
The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 rating from one reviewer, emphasizing the engaging instruction and tasty results.
Potential drawback: If you’re not a fan of sushi or allergic to seafood, this might not be your top choice, but for food lovers, it’s a memorable experience. The value is excellent, offering a culinary lesson paired with craft beers in a cozy setting.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies who want to learn a new skill and enjoy some local brews, all in a relaxed, friendly environment.
3. Highest Rated 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour in Minneapolis
If you’re a craft beer aficionado, the Highest Rated 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour is a fantastic way to sample the city’s best brews. For $100, this tour takes you through some of Minneapolis’ top breweries, focusing on their most popular beers and the stories behind them. The guide is knowledgeable about the history of craft brewing in Minneapolis, making the experience both educational and flavorful.
What’s particularly appealing about this tour is the all-you-can-drink style, meaning you can enjoy generous tastings of locally produced craft beers. It’s suited for travelers who want a relaxed, social experience with plenty of options. The tour’s 4.5/5 rating from two reviews indicates that participants appreciate both the quality of the beer and the insights shared about brewing history.
The tour is well-paced for those who prefer a more laid-back, tasting-focused outing rather than a structured bar crawl.
Potential drawback: The price point is higher, but for craft beer enthusiasts, the value lies in the variety and local knowledge. It’s best suited for those who want an immersive beer experience with plenty of sampling.
Bottom line: A must-do for craft beer lovers eager to explore Minneapolis’s brewing scene with a guide who knows his stuff.
How to Choose
When picking your ideal drinking experience, consider your interests and schedule. The Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl is perfect if you want an authentic, story-rich evening exploring neighborhoods. If you’re a foodie interested in learning to make sushi while sipping craft beers, the Sushi Cooking Class is a fun, interactive choice.
For those who simply want to taste the best local brews, the Craft Brewery Tour offers a relaxed, all-you-can-drink experience.
Budget, time, and interests should guide your choice. The bar crawl is great for a social night out, while the sushi class suits foodies wanting a hands-on activity. The brewery tour is ideal if you’re after ample tastings and learning about Minneapolis’s brewing history. Booking early is advisable, especially for the high-demand brewery tours or classes, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Minneapolis offers a rich variety of drinking tours that cater to different tastes—whether you’re after historic stories, craft beer tastings, or culinary skills.
The Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl stands out for its engaging neighborhood exploration, while the Sushi Cooking Class offers an interactive food and drink combination. Meanwhile, the Craft Brewery Tour is perfect for beer lovers wanting a comprehensive tasting experience.
No matter your preference, these options are sure to deepen your appreciation for Minneapolis’s unique drinking culture. To ensure you don’t miss out, consider booking your favorite tour well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Cheers to a memorable Minneapolis drinking adventure!