Downtown Raleigh’s bar scene shines through two distinct drinking tours. The practical Trolley Pub delivers a straightforward 2-hour guided experience hitting the city’s essential pubs, complete with one complimentary drink. This tour earns high marks with a remarkable 98% satisfaction rate. The clever Raleigh Bar Hunt offers a modern twist, using smartphone navigation to combine sightseeing with pub visits. We’re especially fond of the Trolley Pub for its efficient route and proven track record of happy customers. Let’s explore these top drinking tours of North Carolina’s capital.
Key Points
- The Trolley Pub offers a unique 2-hour guided tour of Raleigh’s drinking scene, accommodating up to 14 travelers with a 5.0-star rating and 98% recommendation.
- The Trolley Pub tour is not wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level, but includes one complimentary drink and a cooler for personal beverages.
- The Raleigh Bar Hunt is an app-led scavenger hunt exploring the city’s bar scene, lasting approximately 2 hours and open to groups of up to 10 participants.
- The Raleigh Bar Hunt features challenges and trivia to uncover local landmarks, with food, drinks, and taxes included, but transportation not provided.
- While the Trolley Pub has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, the Raleigh Bar Hunt has a low rating based on limited participant experiences, suggesting significant variation in overall satisfaction.
Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh
The Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh offers a unique and lively way to explore the city’s vibrant drinking scene. This 2-hour tour takes up to 14 travelers on a guided journey through Raleigh’s hotspots, with a cooler provided and one free drink per customer.
Attendees can also purchase additional alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, cider, and seltzer, at the starting location.
The tour departs from and returns to 323 W Davie St, located near public transportation. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is recommended for those with a moderate level of physical fitness.
Passengers should be aware that the tour isn’t suited for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.
With a 5.0-star rating and a 98% recommendation from 979 travelers, the Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh promises an entertaining and memorable experience.
Bookings are non-refundable, and gratuities aren’t included in the $49 per person price tag.
Read our full review: Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh Review
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Raleigh Bar Hunt: Rowdy Raleigh Bar Crawl
Raleigh Bar Hunt: Rowdy Raleigh Bar Crawl offers an app-led scavenger hunt that lets participants explore the city’s vibrant bar scene. The activity lasts around 2 hours and is limited to groups of up to 10 people. Participants can expect to visit local bars, sample beers, and uncover hidden landmarks through challenges and trivia.
The meeting point is 14 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA, and the activity concludes at the same location. No reservations are required, as the app provides all the necessary clues and questions.
While food, drinks, and taxes are included, transportation to and from the attractions isn’t provided. The activity is open daily from 7 AM to 11:30 PM and is accessible to strollers and wheelchairs.
Participants must be 21 or older and have a moderate fitness level. The dress code is smart casual, with comfortable walking clothes and shoes recommended.
Unfortunately, the activity has received poor reviews, with an overall rating of 1 out of 5 stars based on 2 reviews.
Read our full review: Raleigh Bar Hunt: Rowdy Raleigh Bar Crawl Review
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Common Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Drinking Tours?
The dress code for drinking tours is typically casual and comfortable. Participants should wear clothes and shoes they can walk in easily. While there’s no formal dress code, it’s best to avoid overly formal or revealing attire.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
The tours generally accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies if notified in advance. Guests should inquire about the specific offerings and let the tour operator know of any needs when booking to ensure an enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Age Requirements or Minimum Age Limits?
Most drinking tours have age requirements, often setting a minimum age of 21. Guests should check with the tour operator to confirm their policies on age limits and any exemptions. Some tours may accommodate minors with adult supervision.
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Tours?
Most drinking tour operators don’t allow guests to bring their own alcohol. Guests are typically expected to purchase drinks from the venues visited during the tour. Checking the tour company’s policies beforehand is recommended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
What Happens if I Need to Use the Restroom During the Tour?
During the tour, if nature calls, participants can notify the guide who’ll make arrangements for a restroom break. Most tours accommodate this need and ensure guests feel comfortable throughout the experience.
The Sum Up
Raleigh’s vibrant bar and pub scene offers diverse drinking tours for visitors. The Trolley Pub Public Tour and Raleigh Bar Hunt: Rowdy Raleigh Bar Crawl provide fun and lively experiences, allowing guests to explore the city’s top bars and sample local brews. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour or a self-guided adventure, Raleigh has drinking experiences to suit every taste.