Darkside of Brewing Tour: Cincinnati's Haunted History
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in average physical condition capable of walking 2-3 miles with some stairs and uneven sidewalks.
Overview
Explore Cincinnati’s dark past on the Darkside of Brewing Tour. Discover haunted landmarks, abandoned theaters, and chilling true crime stories in this exclusive outdoor adventure.
Darkside of Brewing Tour
$39 • Ages 10+ • 2 Hour Fall Tour • Tales of Cincinnati's Haunted & Gruesome Past • Includes Beer!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a chilling journey through Cincinnati's dark history with the True Crime and Gruesome Events Seasonal Tour. Explore grave robbing tales, a serial killer's haunt, and venture into an abandoned street, the Imperial Theater, and the historic Jackson Brewhouse. This unique experience promises thrilling stories and exclusive access to hidden gems.
True Crime and Gruesome Events Seasonal Tour!
Duration
2 Hours
About
Join the Brewing Heritage Trail on this limited edition seasonal tour and learn about gruesome and macabre events from Cincinnati's past. Grave robbing, a serial killing saloonist, and other murderous and deadly mayhem is explored on this new tour, which also includes a visit to an abandoned city street, overtaken by nature, as well as a flashlight tour of the Imperial Theater and the 19th century Jackson Brewhouse. Both have not been open to the public in many years and their exploration is only available through this tour!
More Information
This is an outdoor walking tour of less than one mile, beginning and concluding at the Northern Row Brewery & Distillery (111 West McMicken Ave.), for a pint of beer. Some content may not be appropriate for younger children, so please keep this in mind when booking.
What to Bring
Tours run rain or shine, so please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable footwear, as the tour route covers a variety of paved and unpaved surfaces. All guests will be provided with a flashlight for exploration of darkened streets and the inside of the theater and brewhouse.
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 sturdy shoes
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces, including abandoned buildings and outdoor streets, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Bring a flashlight
Some parts of the tour take place in dimly lit or indoor spaces where additional lighting helps enhance the experience.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts to complete check-in and hear important safety instructions.
Age restrictions apply
This tour is recommended for ages 13 and up due to mature themes and potentially frightening content.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban squirrels commonly seen near the old brewhouse
- Various bird species such as pigeons and sparrows in city parks
History
Cincinnati was a major brewing hub in the 19th century and has a notorious past filled with crime and industrial intrigue, visible on this tour.
Conservation
Efforts are underway to preserve Cincinnati’s historic buildings while promoting responsible tourism that respects neighborhood residents and local ecology.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cincinnati
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating streets and uneven grounds safely throughout the tour.
Portable flashlight
Helpful for exploring dimly lit interior spaces and enhancing visibility at dusk or in abandoned locations.
Weather-appropriate jacket
Necessary for cooler temperatures and occasional rain or wind.
spring|fall|winter specific
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is important during warm weather tours.
summer specific