Exploring Ottawa’s drinking scene is straightforward and rewarding with three standout tours. The City Beers bus tour efficiently connects visitors to multiple craft breweries in just 3 hours – perfect for sampling local specialties. Along the Ottawa River, the Lilo Floating Tiki Bar combines sightseeing with cocktails during a refreshing 90-minute cruise. The Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl offers independent spirits a fun way to discover downtown pubs through an interactive scavenger hunt format.
We especially appreciate the City Beers tour for its expert guides and behind-the-scenes access, while the Tiki Bar cruise earns points for its unique river views and relaxed atmosphere.
Let’s explore Ottawa’s best drinking tours.
Key Points
- City Beers: Bus Tour offers a 3-hour bus tour exploring local breweries with a maximum capacity of 25 participants, including beer sampling and insights.
- Lilo Floating Tiki Bar provides a 90-minute scenic cruise on the Ottawa River with a full licensed bar and on-board amenities like a restroom and Bluetooth music.
- Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl is a self-guided scavenger hunt through Ottawa’s nightlife, suitable for groups of up to 10 people and available daily.
- The tours offer friendly atmospheres, engaging guides, and comprehensive explorations of Ottawa’s craft beer and nightlife scenes.
- Positive traveler reviews highlight the quality of beers, scenic views, and memorable experiences across the different tour options.
City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries
The City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the thriving craft beer scene in Canada’s capital city. Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 54 reviews, the 3-hour bus tour takes guests to multiple local breweries, providing them with sampling opportunities and behind-the-scenes insights.
Travelers rave about the tour’s friendly atmosphere, engaging guides, and the chance to discover the best beers Ottawa has to offer.
The tour includes all taxes, fees, and sampling costs, as well as transport by a school-style bus. With a maximum of 25 participants, the experience ensures an intimate and personalized outing.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation and suitable for most travelers, excluding pregnant women and those with serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries Review
Book now: Check availability
Floating Tiki Bar (Boat Tour) on the Ottawa River
Nestled along the serene Ottawa River, the Lilo Floating Tiki Bar offers a unique and captivating experience for visitors to the city. This 90-minute floating tiki bar cruise accommodates up to 12 people, making it an ideal setting for celebrations with friends or family.
The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with 93% of travelers recommending the experience and an average rating of 5.0 stars.
On board, guests can enjoy the on-board amenities, including a restroom, Bluetooth music connection (with a $1 donation per song), and a full licensed bar. The friendly and attentive bartenders and knowledgeable captain contribute to the overall enjoyment of the experience.
While some customers have noted potential issues with shared tours, additional charges for music, and the sweetness of beverages, the majority of reviews highlight the great views, memorable moments, and beautiful scenery that the Lilo Floating Tiki Bar provides.
Read our full review: Floating Tiki Bar (Boat Tour) on the Ottawa River Review
Book now: Check availability
Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam
Designed to provide an immersive bar hopping experience, the Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl by Let’s Roam offers a self-guided scavenger hunt through the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Available daily from 7:00 AM to 11:30 PM, this activity caters to groups of up to 10 travelers at a price starting from $12.31 per person.
The crawl features a variety of bars across Ottawa, where participants can capture digital photos as part of the scavenger hunt.
While the current reviews highlight the enjoyment of bar visits, some participants have suggested incorporating trivia elements to enhance engagement.
Accessible to those with moderate physical fitness, the crawl allows service animals, wheelchairs, and strollers.
Confirming availability upon booking, the non-refundable activity provides an opportunity for visitors to explore Ottawa’s bar scene in a self-guided, app-led adventure.
Read our full review: Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
What Is the Average Cost of the Tours?
The average cost of drinking tours varies, but generally ranges from $50 to $100 per person. The exact price depends on factors like tour duration, number of stops, and any included food or beverages.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most drinking tours have age restrictions, typically requiring participants to be at least 19 or 21 years old, depending on local laws. Tour operators strictly enforce these age limits for the safety and comfort of all guests.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Many drinking tour companies accommodate dietary restrictions, offering non-alcoholic beverages and options for those with special dietary needs. Guests should check with the tour provider to ensure their requirements can be met.
How Long Do the Tours Typically Last?
The tours typically last 2-3 hours, allowing participants to explore a variety of establishments and sample different drinks. The duration provides ample time to experience the local drinking scene without feeling rushed.
Is Transportation to and From the Starting Point Included?
Transportation to and from the starting point is typically not included in the tour price. However, some tour operators may offer pick-up and drop-off services for an additional fee or as part of a package deal.
The Sum Up
Ottawa’s drinking tours offer a diverse range of experiences, from brewery bus tours to floating tiki bars on the river. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a lively night out, these options provide an engaging way to explore the city’s vibrant drinking scene. With a mix of guided tours and self-guided bar crawls, there’s something to suit all tastes and preferences.