Downtown Wilmington’s drinking tours offer memorable ways to experience North Carolina’s coastal nightlife.
Three standout tours make exploring the local beer scene both fun and practical.
We love the E-Bike Bar Crawl (3 hours) because it’s efficient and entertaining – you’ll discover local hangouts while cruising through historic streets on an electric bike.
The 1972 VW Bus brewery tour wins points for its nostalgic charm and intimate setting that fits 7 people, perfect for small groups or families.
History buffs will appreciate the 4-Hour Craft Beer and History Crawl, which smartly pairs local brews with fascinating stories about the port city’s past.
These are our recommended drinking tours in Wilmington:
Good To Know
- Wilmington offers a range of drinking tours, including the E-Bike Dive Bar Crawl, Private Brewery Tour in VW Bus, and Craft Beer and History Crawl.
- The E-Bike Dive Bar Crawl provides a 2-hour tour through Wilmington’s dive bar scene, catering to travelers seeking an intimate nightlife immersion.
- The Private Brewery Tour in VW Bus offers a unique, personalized experience, with a 1972 Volkswagen Bus transporting up to 7 guests to various breweries.
- The Craft Beer and History Crawl combines craft beer tastings with historical insights, spanning 4 hours and accommodating a maximum of 12 participants.
- These tours provide a range of options for visitors to explore Wilmington’s vibrant drinking scene, with features like free cancellation policies and accessibility considerations.
3 Hour Wilmington E-Bike Dive Bar Crawl
Departing from a central meeting point in the heart of Wilmington, participants embark on a thrilling 2-hour e-bike bar crawl through the city’s vibrant dive bar scene.
Equipped with optional head protection, a basket for personal belongings, and a cell phone holder, riders cruise along the streets on e-bikes, making their way to several local watering holes.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 14 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
With a strong physical fitness level required, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions or serious medical issues.
Following the tour, participants return to the original meeting point, having enjoyed a memorable evening of exploring Wilmington’s unique bars on electric bicycles.
The tour’s positive reviews and ratings suggest it’s a must-try activity for visitors looking to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Wilmington E-Bike Dive Bar Crawl Review
Book now: Check availability
Private and Custom Brewery Tour in a 72 VW Bus
Guests board a vibrant 1972 Volkswagen Bus operated by Roadies Local for a private and customized brewery tour through the streets of Wilmington. This 5.0-rated tour offers a unique and intimate experience, accommodating up to 7 people.
Throughout the journey, guests enjoy complimentary bottled water, snacks, a cooler with ice, and Roadies Local coozies as souvenirs. The bus is also equipped with a Bluetooth speaker for playing music.
The tour picks up from locations within Wilmington, Kure Beach, Carolina Beach, or Wrightsville Beach, and the activity ends at the meeting point in front of Rebellion restaurant. Guests must be 21 or older, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Guests can also opt for the reserve now, pay later option.
At €311.23 per group, this private brewery tour in a vintage VW Bus offers a delightful and memorable way to explore Wilmington’s beer scene.
Read our full review: Private and Custom Brewery Tour in a 72 VW Bus Review
Book now: Check availability
Travelers seeking a more immersive experience can join the Craft Beer and History Crawl in Wilmington. This 4-hour tour, operated by Amanda Leese, takes groups of up to 12 participants on a journey through the city’s craft beer scene and historic landmarks.
Starting at 4:00 PM, the tour departs from Edward Teach Brewing and ends two blocks away at Flytrap Brewing, with alcoholic beverages included throughout.
The tour offers a unique blend of beer tastings and historical insights, allowing participants to discover Wilmington’s rich past while sampling local craft brews. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the experience provides a more personalized and intimate setting.
The tour is accessible to most guests, though it’s not wheelchair accessible. Booking is available with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time, and the lowest price is guaranteed.
Read our full review: Craft Beer and History Crawl Shared Experience in Wilmington Review
Book now: Check availability
Questions About Staying Here
How Many People Can Fit in the 72 VW Bus?
The capacity of a 72 VW bus can vary, but it typically seats up to 9 passengers comfortably. The exact number may depend on factors like the bus’s specific configuration and whether any additional seating has been installed.
Are the Beer Samples Included in the Tour Price?
The beer samples are generally included in the tour price. Most drinking tour providers offer a set number of samples or tastings as part of the package, allowing participants to sample a variety of local brews.
Do the E-Bikes Have Adjustable Seat Heights?
The e-bikes typically have adjustable seat heights to accommodate riders of different sizes. This allows customers to find a comfortable riding position and ensures a more enjoyable experience.
Can We Bring Our Own Snacks on the Craft Beer Crawl?
Yes, you can generally bring your own snacks on the craft beer crawl. Most tour operators allow participants to bring small personal snacks to enjoy during the tour, as long as they don’t interfere with the drinking experience.
Are the Tour Guides Knowledgeable About Wilmington’s History?
The tour guides are generally knowledgeable about Wilmington’s history. They can provide insights into the city’s past and how it has influenced the local craft beer scene during the tours.
Worth The Stay
Wilmington’s diverse drinking tour options cater to various preferences. From exploring the city’s historic pubs on foot to hopping between craft breweries in a retro VW bus, there’s an experience to suit every taste. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to discover the local nightlife, these tours provide an engaging and convenient way to experience Wilmington’s vibrant drinking scene.