Trolley Pub Public Tour

Venturing through Madison’s bustling downtown becomes a fun and social adventure with the Trolley Pub Public Tour. Priced at $45 per person, this two-hour pedal-powered pub crawl offers a lively way to explore some of the city’s best hotspots. The tour departs from 555 W Washington Ave, with a maximum of 14 travelers, making it an intimate experience that balances energy and comfort. While the tour is not motorized, and not all seats have pedals, it remains a popular choice—often booked 6 days in advance—thanks to its engaging stops and flexible BYOB policy.

This tour is perfect for those who want to combine socializing, sightseeing, and fun in a relaxed setting. The on-board cooler allows guests to bring their own wine or beer, and the music system lets everyone play their favorite tunes. With friendly guides leading the way and stops at iconic locations like Buckingham’s Bar, Camp Trippalindee, and the Memorial Union Terrace, it provides a balanced mix of drinks, views, and local flavor. A notable consideration: a less enthusiastic review mentions some guests doing all the pedaling, so expect a casual, non-motorized experience.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The $45 tour lasts approximately 2 hours and includes guided pedal-powered transportation.
• Location and Meeting Point: Starts at 555 W Washington Ave, Madison and ends there, making logistics simple.
• Stops and Highlights: Visits Buckingham’s Bar with specials, Camp Trippalindee for scenic views, and Memorial Union Terrace to relax and enjoy Lake Mendota.
• BYOB Policy: Guests bring their own wine or beer; the tour offers an on-board cooler and music.
• Group Size and Booking: Limited to 14 travelers, with high recommendations—96% of reviews suggest booking 6 days in advance.
• Reviews: Overall excellent rating of 5.0/5 from 125 reviews, though one review highlights issues with some seats not having pedals, leading to some guests doing all the work.

Exploring Madison’s Downtown Hotspots on the Trolley Pub

The Trolley Pub takes you through the heart of Madison’s downtown, focusing on three key stops. The journey begins at Buckingham’s Bar & Grill, a local favorite on Regent Street, where you can enjoy specials like 4 White Claws for $14 or Miller Lite pints with options to add pizza or nachos. This quick 15-minute stop sets a lively tone for the tour, with a chance to enjoy drinks and mingle.

Next, the Camp Trippalindee stop offers panoramic views of the Capitol building and Lake Mendota. Here, the tour features $3 trolley shots (rotating bartender’s choice) and $5 boozy slushies, making it a colorful and refreshing pause amidst the sightseeing. The 15-minute duration ensures a relaxed experience with picture-worthy vistas.

The final stop at the Memorial Union Terrace is where the tour truly relaxes. Guests can enjoy the sunset over Lake Mendota while sipping a famous Wisconsin craft beer. This 15-minute stop offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and local flavor, ideal for unwinding after the pedal portion of the tour.

Logistics and Group Experience

The meeting point for the tour is at 555 W Washington Ave. The guided tour includes a driver/guide, a cooler for your drinks, and two hours of pedal-powered fun. The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for many visitors.

The group size is limited to 14 travelers, which fosters a lively yet manageable social atmosphere. The tour is suitable for those with a moderate level of physical fitness, as some pedaling is involved, though not all seats require effort. Guests should be prepared for weather conditions, as the tour is non-refundable if canceled due to poor weather.

The tour’s non-motorized nature is a highlight for many, but it also raises a noted concern from a less favorable review, where some participants had to do most of the pedaling due to seat configurations. This aspect is important to consider for those with mobility limitations or preferences.

The Experience with Guides and On-Board Features

Guides on the Trolley Pub are known for being friendly and helping to keep the tour lively and fun. They manage the route, provide safety instructions, and ensure everyone is engaged. The on-board cooler and music system add personal touches, allowing guests to bring their preferred drinks and tunes.

The on-board cooler makes BYOB easy, and the music system creates a festive atmosphere. This setup encourages socializing and customization, making each tour unique depending on the group’s music choices and drink selections. The guides’ presence ensures safety and smooth operation throughout the two-hour adventure.

Highlights of the Stops: From Local Bars to Lakefront Views

Buckingham’s Bar & Grill provides an energetic start, with drink specials and a friendly atmosphere. The 15-minute window is enough to grab a drink and enjoy the vibrant street scene before heading to the scenic spots.

Camp Trippalindee offers a breathtaking view of Madison’s Capitol building and Lake Mendota. The $3 trolley shots and $5 boozy slushies add a fun, indulgent element, especially as you take in the scenery.

The Memorial Union Terrace is a favorite for many, as it combines sunset views over Lake Mendota with a relaxed vibe. Guests can unwind with a Wisconsin craft beer as the tour wraps up, making it an ideal spot for photos and reflection on the day’s adventures.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the tour is generally praised for its fun and social atmosphere, it’s wise to book at least 6 days in advance due to popularity. Guests should bring their own wine or beer to enjoy during the stops, as the tour does not provide alcohol.

Be prepared for moderate physical activity—pedaling is required, but not all seats are pedal-powered. Good weather is essential; the tour may be canceled in case of poor conditions, with options for rescheduling or refunds. The tour ends at the same location it starts, simplifying logistics.

A heads-up from a less enthusiastic review indicates that not all seats have pedals, and some guests may end up doing all the work. This detail might influence comfort levels, especially for those less inclined towards physical effort.

Who Will Love the Trolley Pub Madison Tour

This tour appeals most to social groups, friends, or couples looking to combine drinks, sightseeing, and fun in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for those who enjoy BYOB experiences with a lively guide and scenic stops. Visitors who want a short, manageable adventure within Madison’s city center will find it particularly convenient.

While the overall rating of 5.0/5 and high recommendation rate of 96% support its popularity, the single negative review serves as a reminder to be aware of seating arrangements and physical expectations. The tour is best suited for those who are comfortable with some pedaling and outdoor activity.

Madison’s Best Downtown Tour with Pedal Power: Final Thoughts

The Trolley Pub Public Tour provides a fun, flexible way to experience Madison’s downtown area. It combines local stops, scenic views, and BYOB with the social aspect of a group activity, all led by engaging guides. The two-hour duration is manageable and packed with highlights—perfect for a casual day out.

While not without its small drawbacks—such as seating arrangements—its excellent reviews and affordable price make it a worthwhile choice for anyone seeking a lively, social, and scenic Madison experience. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a laid-back, drink-in-hand tour with a bit of pedaling fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own alcohol on the tour?
Yes, the tour is BYOB, and you can bring your own wine or beer to enjoy during the stops.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops and pedaling time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 555 W Washington Ave, Madison.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Guests should have a moderate physical fitness level, as some pedaling is involved, and not all seats have pedals, which may affect comfort.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Buckingham’s Bar & Grill, Camp Trippalindee, and Memorial Union Terrace. Each offers unique drinks and scenic views.

Is this tour accessible in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, options for a different date or full refund are available.