The Top 6 Minneapolis Saint Paul Drinking Tours

Minneapolis Saint Paul may be known for its vibrant arts scene and the Twin Cities’ legendary sports teams, but it also has a lively drinking scene perfect for exploring on guided tours. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a history buff with a love for local bars, or just looking to sample some of the best drinks with knowledgeable guides, this area offers plenty of options.

We particularly like the All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour for its generous sampling and small-group experience, and the Twin Cities Walking Tour for its mix of history and fun bar-hopping through the trendy neighborhoods.

If you’re into discovering hidden spots, the Uncover St. Paul’s Iconic Bars tour takes you through the city’s legendary watering holes, while the Minneapolis Bar Hunt offers a fun, app-led way to explore on your own schedule.

Not to forget, the Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery combines great bites with craft beer, for those who like to do more than just drink.

Below is a quick overview of the top options, each bringing its own flavor of Minneapolis Saint Paul nightlife and history, so you can pick the perfect tour based on your interests and pace.

1. All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour

At number one, the All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour offers a deep dive into local craft brewing with the convenience of round-trip transportation and unlimited sampling. This guided tour visits notable breweries like Fair State Brewing Co-op, Lakes and Legends, and Modist Brewing, all known for their innovative beers.

The tour runs about three hours, with options in the afternoon or evening, perfect for fitting into a flexible schedule.

For $95 per person, you get to sip as many beers as you like—full pints or flights—at each stop, making it a great value for serious beer lovers.

What sets this tour apart is the small-group size, ensuring a personalized experience with a friendly guide who shares insights into Minneapolis’s brewing scene. The stops include some of the best local taprooms, and snacks are included, so you’re not just drinking on an empty stomach.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the relaxed atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “Eric was a great host and made the experience so much fun,” emphasizing the personal touch.

Bottom Line: Perfect for beer aficionados wanting to explore Minneapolis’s craft scene without worrying about transportation or overindulgence. It’s a well-rated, fun, and inclusive way to experience the city’s brewing culture.

2. Twin Cities Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Minneapolis Bars

Next on the list is a three-hour walking tour that combines history, local lore, and a taste of the city’s best bars. This tour is ideal if you want to combine a little sightseeing with your drinks.

You’ll walk through neighborhoods like the Warehouse District, where old warehouses have transformed into trendy brewpubs and cocktail bars, and even get a glimpse of landmarks like Target Field and Target Center. Depending on the tour date, you might get behind-the-scenes access, adding an extra layer of value.

The tour includes four stops, each offering a different vibe—from dive bars to upscale spots like Nye’s Bar—giving you a well-rounded picture of Minneapolis’s bar scene. The guide is praised for their local knowledge; one reviewer said, “Dan made the experience fun and interesting,” making the history come alive as you sip.

The tour is perfect for curious travelers who want to learn about the city while sampling its drinks and seeing the sights.

Bottom Line: Best suited for history lovers and those who enjoy a leisurely walk with drinks and stories, this tour offers a combination of exploration and entertainment without feeling rushed.

3. Minneapolis Local Bar Tour with Tastings

For a more intimate look at Minneapolis’s bar scene, the Local Bar Tour with Tastings offers a two-and-a-half-hour walk through the city’s neighborhoods with a focus on character and local flavor.

Led by expert guides, you’ll start on cobblestone streets of Saint Anthony Main, then explore Nicollet Island, and visit some favorite neighborhood spots along North Washington Avenue. The tour emphasizes the stories behind each bar and the city’s culture.

You’ll sample drinks that define Minneapolis—maybe a local brew or a signature cocktail—and chat with the bartenders about the city’s long winters and sports passions. The tour includes four stops, with each lasting about 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy your drinks and the atmosphere.

One reviewer called it “a great way to see the city and try new bars,” highlighting how enjoyable and educational it is.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in local culture and character in a relaxed setting, this tour combines history, community, and drinks for a memorable experience.

4. Uncover St. Paul’s Iconic Bars

At number four, this three-hour walking tour takes you through St. Paul’s legendary bars, emphasizing its long-standing liquor culture. Starting with Cossettas, a historic Italian restaurant with a storied past, the tour introduces you to four carefully selected venues, including Patrick McGovern’s Pub and Parlour—a craft cocktail pioneer.

The tour explores the city’s past, showing how drinking has been intertwined with St. Paul’s development since the days of bootleggers like “Pig’s Eye Parrant.”

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on historic and iconic bars, giving you a taste of the city’s storied past along with drinks. Visitors have praised their guides, especially for sharing lively stories and insights. The tour is perfect for history buffs or anyone interested in St. Paul’s local drinking traditions.

Bottom Line: A great pick if you want to combine history with a good night out, especially if you’re curious about St. Paul’s legendary drinking spots.

5. Minneapolis Bar Hunt: Double Your Fun in the Twin Cities

For those who prefer exploring on their own terms, the Minneapolis Bar Hunt combines technology and fun as you navigate the city’s best pubs using an interactive app. Starting at just $12.31, this self-guided tour allows you to visit a variety of pubs at your own pace, completing challenges, taking photos, and learning about Minneapolis’s history through the app.

It’s an excellent choice for small groups, parties, or corporate outings. Since you set your own schedule, it’s flexible for different fitness levels and interests. The challenges add a playful element, making it more engaging than a typical bar crawl.

Although it doesn’t come with reviews, its affordability and flexibility make it attractive for independent travelers who want a customized experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for tech-savvy groups who want control over their schedule and a fun, interactive way to experience Minneapolis’s nightlife.

6. Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Minneapolis

Finally, for a different kind of evening, this two-hour sushi-making class combines culinary skill and craft beer. Led by a talented chef, you’ll learn how to roll sushi from seasoned rice to expert knife techniques, crafting two types: a California roll and a spicy salmon roll. The class takes place at a local brewery, blending the art of sushi with the enjoyment of fresh craft beers.

This experience is perfect for those who want to do more than just drink—who enjoy hands-on activities and learning new skills while pairing their creations with local brews. The class is suitable for all skill levels and offers a fun, social environment. Although no reviews are available yet, the price point of $75 per person makes it a good value for a unique night out.

Bottom Line: A fun and interactive choice for foodies and beer lovers who want to combine a culinary experience with local brewing.

How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, and how much activity you want. If you’re all about exploring Minneapolis’s craft beer scene with a guide and unlimited tastings, the All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour (see details) is hard to beat.

For a more cultural, walk-and-learn experience, the Twin Cities Walking Tour (see details) offers a great mix of sights and drinks.

If you’re into discovering neighborhood character and local haunts, the Minneapolis Local Bar Tour with Tastings (see details) is a perfect fit. For history and legendary bars, try the St. Paul Iconic Bars tour (see details). Budget travelers or those seeking independence may prefer the interactive bar hunt (see details), while culinary aficionados will love the sushi and beer class (see details).

Final Thoughts

Minneapolis Saint Paul offers an impressive variety of drinking tours that cater to all interests — from craft beer enthusiasts to history lovers and curious explorers. The All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour stands out for its unlimited tasting and small-group focus, while the Twin Cities Walking Tour provides a relaxed way to explore neighborhoods and history.

For a more personalized experience, the Bar Hunt offers flexibility, and the St. Paul Iconic Bars tour is perfect for those interested in local legends.

No matter your style, booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel months. Select the tour that best fits your interests, and don’t forget to bring your sense of adventure and taste for good stories along. Cheers to discovering Minneapolis Saint Paul’s lively drinking scene—one glass at a time.