Explore Cincinnati's Brewing Heritage on the Built on Beer Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; primarily walking with some stair climbing
Overview
Discover Cincinnati’s brewing past on a private two-hour tour featuring historic cellars, stunning architecture, and local brews.
Built on Beer Tour
$39 • All Ages • 2 Hours • Brewery Architecture History Tour Above Ground & Below • Includes Beer!
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About This Adventure
Discover the rich history of Cincinnati's brewing industry on this captivating two-hour tour through the Brewery District. Explore stunning 19th and early 20th-century architecture, venture into the impressive subterranean lager cellars of Jackson Brewery, and enjoy a local beer at a neighborhood taproom, making for an unforgettable experience.
This tour explores the west side of the Brewery District in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood and focuses on historic brewery architecture!
Duration
2 Hours
About
Brewing high quality beer was an art form to many Cincinnati breweries and the buildings that housed their operations needed to be an extension of this passion. Come and witness the evolution of the brewing industry through the size, complexity, and architectural grandeur of the city’s historic breweries.
Beginning at the Brewing Heritage Trail's "Hop On" sign at Findlay Market, we walk along the western portion of the Brewery District and marvel at the many remaining 19th and early 20th century structures, while sharing stories of those who built or doomed these brewing empires during beer’s industrial revolution.
Tours include a visit into the vast subterranean lager cellars of the historic (non-operating) Jackson Brewery, as well as outdoor visitation to the Sohn/Mohawk Brewery, several Christian Moerlein sites, and the location of the Bellevue Incline. The Jackson Brewery cellars were excavated from the hillside under the brewery, so we enter from street level and there are no stairs to climb going in or out, making these cellars very accessible and the total walking distance for this tour is less than a mile.
More Information
At the conclusion of each tour, the group will stop in at a neighborhood taproom for a pint of local beer, which is included with each drinking ticket.
What to bring
We suggest dressing for the weather and wearing comfortable shoes to walk in. On sunny days, sunglasses and a hat are suggested.
We recommend buying your tickets in advance for all tours. Any tour that has not sold tickets within 24 hours of the start time will be closed in order to inform our tour guides and taproom partners.
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces, including cellar stairs and cobblestone streets.
Bring a Valid ID
You must be 21+ to participate and enjoy the beer tasting portion of the tour.
Book in Advance
Private tours have limited availability, so reserve your spot early to guarantee your preferred date.
Stay Hydrated
Even though the tour is indoors and short, drinking water before and after beer tastings is recommended.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban birds like pigeons and sparrows
- Squirrels in nearby parks
History
Cincinnati was once known as the "Beer Capital of the World" due to its numerous and influential breweries dating back to the 19th century.
Conservation
Efforts in the Brewery District focus on preserving historic buildings while promoting sustainable tourism practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cincinnati
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supportive shoes will help you navigate cobblestone streets and cellar stairs comfortably.
Valid Photo ID
Required for age verification during beer tastings.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Spring evenings can be cool inside historic cellars and outdoors.
spring specific
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated, especially during beer tastings.