Explore Cincinnati’s brewing past and present on a 2½‑hour guided walk from a working distillery into a 19th‑century lagering cellar and on to a pre‑Prohibition brewery. The tour combines behind‑the‑scenes production insights with spirit and beer tastings.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step into a warm taproom on a cool Over-the-Rhine afternoon: the air is toasted grain and new oak, the hum of conversation punctuated by the hiss of a pour. The Brewing Heritage Trail guides guests from Northern Row’s stills to a 19th-century underground lagering cellar where stone holds a constant chill, then forward to Rhinegeist’s pre‑Prohibition production rooms and a final seasonal flight.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Light activity: standing, walking short distances, and negotiating stairs; suitable for most fitness levels.
Wildlife
History
Cincinnati’s brewing roots date to mid‑19th‑century German immigration; breweries used limestone cellars and the Ohio River for cold storage and transport, with Jackson Brewery operating since the 1850s.
Conservation
Many local breweries focus on sustainable practices—wastewater treatment and grain reuse—while visitors are encouraged to drink responsibly and support local producers.
Reserve your spot on the Cincinnati Brewing & Distilling Tasting Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a photo ID
This experience includes alcoholic tastings—carry a government photo ID to participate in spirit and beer samples.
Dress in layers
Cellars and historic brick rooms are cool and damp compared with taprooms, so a light jacket is useful year‑round.
Be ready for stairs
Parts of the tour require steps down into the underground cellar and up through historic buildings; comfortable shoes help.
Plan for transit and parking
Arrive 15 minutes early; paid lots and occasional street parking are nearby, and public transit serves the Over‑the‑Rhine neighborhood.
Government ID
Required for alcohol tastings and age verification.
Comfortable shoes
Good grip and support help on stairs and uneven historic floors.
Light jacket or layers
Underground cellars remain cool year‑round—layers keep you comfortable during tastings.
Credit card or small cash
Useful for parking, souvenirs, or extra drinks after the tour.