Cincinnati: Uptown Cocktails & Bites Tour

Explore Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine on a Curated Cocktail Tour

The Cincinnati: Uptown Cocktails & Bites Tour offers a lively introduction to the city’s historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood in just 2.5 hours. This small-group experience, limited to 8 participants, combines delicious cocktails, light snacks, and local stories in a relaxed, engaging way. For $69 per person, you gain VIP treatment, skip the lines at cozy venues, and enjoy curated drinks at four distinct locations.

The tour starts at Washington Park on 14th and Race Streets, where your guide awaits at 3:45 pm. This experience is best suited for those interested in craft cocktails, local architecture, and neighborhood history. It’s important to note that pregnant women, minors under 21, and individuals with mobility challenges should consider other options, as the venues are small and sometimes less accessible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Limited to 8 participants ensures an intimate experience
• Visit four unique venues with VIP skip-the-line access
• Includes three light snacks perfectly paired with drinks
• Learn about Over-the-Rhine’s German immigrant roots from your guide
• All taxes and bartender tips included, no extra costs
• Flexible cancellation policy allows full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

The Starting Point at Washington Park

This tour departs from the NE corner of Washington Park, on 14th and Race Streets, directly opposite Losanti Restaurant. The guide is easy to spot standing at the designated corner. The gathering time is 3:45 pm, giving guests a moment to settle in before the exploration begins. The location’s central position makes it a convenient starting point, close to many of Cincinnati’s attractions.

Visiting Diverse Cocktail Venues in Over-the-Rhine

Over-the-Rhine’s vibrant atmosphere is reflected in the four venues visited during the tour, each offering a distinct ambiance. Locations may include an underground German lager cellar, a city hideaway, an apothecary-themed bar, a wine and jazz lounge, or Cincinnati’s first craft cocktail bar. Since the venues vary weekly, each tour provides a fresh experience, encouraging repeat participation.

The focus on small, cozy venues means that guests enjoy a more intimate setting. The VIP treatment ensures quick entry and personalized service, making the most of the time spent at each spot. Guests can expect a relaxed pace, with enough time to savor drinks, enjoy light snacks, and soak in the neighborhood’s lively vibe.

Curated Cocktail Selection and Light Snacks

The tour features pre-selected cocktails designed to showcase a variety of spirits, offering a taste of Cincinnati’s creative bar scene. Three light snacks are included, carefully paired to complement the drinks. These snacks offer a simple but tasty addition, enhancing the overall experience without overwhelming the palate.

All taxes and bartender tips are included in the ticket price, simplifying the experience. Those with dietary restrictions or seeking non-alcoholic options can request vegetarian and non-alcoholic beverages, though availability cannot be guaranteed at every stop. Guests are encouraged to call ahead if they have specific dietary needs.

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Learning About Over-the-Rhine’s German Immigrant Roots

The guide offers insightful commentary on Over-the-Rhine’s history, emphasizing its roots as a community settled by German immigrants in the mid-1800s. Guests learn about the neighborhood’s fascinating architecture and how its history influences Cincinnati’s cultural landscape today.

While enjoying their drinks, participants are entertained with stories of the neighborhood’s past, adding depth to the visual experience. This historical context enriches the tour, making it more than just a bar crawl—it’s a journey through Cincinnati’s vibrant origins.

The Variety of Venues and Atmospheres

Each venue is chosen for its distinct character and ambiance. From an underground German lager cellar to an apothecary-themed bar, guests experience Cincinnati’s diverse bar scene. One stop might feature a 70s-themed bar, another a wine and jazz lounge, making each tour unique.

The weekly variation in venues ensures that no two tours are alike, encouraging repeat visits for those eager to explore different spots. The small group size fosters a friendly, relaxed environment, perfect for conversations and discovering hidden gems within Cincinnati’s nightlife.

Practical Details: Group Size, Cancellation, and What to Bring

The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 8 participants, allowing for a personalized experience. Guests should bring a driver’s license, credit card, comfortable clothes, and cash for any additional purchases. The cancellation policy is flexible, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours before the tour.

Since the venues are small and sometimes less accessible, guests with mobility issues should consider this before booking. The experience is conducted in English, with the guide providing engaging storytelling throughout.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience appeals most to adults interested in Cincinnati’s history, craft cocktails, and neighborhood culture. It’s ideal for those who prefer small, intimate venues and enjoy learning about local architecture and stories while sipping drinks. Since non-alcoholic options and vegetarian snacks are available, it can accommodate a range of dietary preferences.

However, this tour is not suitable for minors under 21, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility challenges, given the venue setup and alcohol focus.

The Value of VIP Treatment and Local Recommendations

Beyond just the drinks, the tour offers skip-the-line VIP access at each venue, saving time and providing a more relaxed experience. The guide’s local knowledge ensures guests leave with recommendations for popular restaurants and entertainment venues nearby, extending their Cincinnati adventure beyond the tour.

This added value makes it a practical choice for visitors who want an insider’s perspective on Cincinnati’s lively Over-the-Rhine district.

Final Thoughts on the Cincinnati Uptown Cocktails & Bites Tour

The Cincinnati: Uptown Cocktails & Bites Tour provides an engaging, well-organized way to explore Over-the-Rhine’s diverse bar scene, architecture, and history in just 2.5 hours. The small group size, VIP access, and curated stops offer a personalized experience that emphasizes quality over quantity.

While the focus on small venues and limited accessibility might not suit everyone, those with an interest in Cincinnati’s cultural and drinking scene will find this tour both enjoyable and informative. It’s a perfect option for adults seeking a laid-back, insightful glimpse into the neighborhood’s lively spirit, complemented by light snacks and expertly selected cocktails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, vegetarian and non-alcoholic beverages are available, but it’s best to call ahead to confirm specific options.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the NE corner of Washington Park, on 14th and Race Streets, opposite Losanti Restaurant.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for guests under 21 or pregnant women.

Can the tour accommodate mobility impairments?
The venues are small and may be less accessible; guests with mobility issues should consider this.

Is gratuity included?
Yes, bartender tips are included in the ticket price.

How many people are in each tour group?
The group is limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby