Uncover St. Paul’s Iconic Bars

If you’re wondering how to experience a city’s soul through its social hubs, this St. Paul bar crawl might be just what you need. The tour promises a walk through some of the city’s best watering holes, all while uncovering stories and enjoying a variety of drinks. It’s a straightforward, laid-back way to get a taste of the local scene without the fuss of planning each stop yourself.

What we really like about this experience? First, the diversity of bars — from historic breweries to lively pubs and craft cocktail spots, you’re given a well-rounded snapshot of St. Paul’s drinking culture. Second, the personal touch that comes from a guide tailoring the route based on group size and weather, making each tour unique. Of course, a potential hiccup could be that you only visit four bars, so if you’re a big fan of longer nights or more stops, this might feel a bit quick.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love exploring a city’s character through its local venues, are comfortable walking, and enjoy learning stories behind the places they visit. It’s not a wild party tour but a relaxed, informative stroll with plenty of chances to chat and soak in the atmosphere.

Key Points

• Personalized route based on weather, group size, and season
• Visit four carefully chosen bars that showcase St. Paul’s drink scene
• Includes historic and craft venues, highlighting local craftsmanship and stories
• Guided by a friendly local guide with a knack for storytelling
• Cost of $79 offers a good value for a curated, small-group experience
• Duration of around 3 hours keeps it manageable without feeling rushed

Why This Tour Stands Out

This isn’t just a bar crawl for the sake of drinking; it’s a way to understand the city’s culture, history, and community through its pubs and breweries. The fact that it’s a guided walk means you’ll get insights you might miss exploring alone, plus a chance to meet fellow travelers in a small, intimate group (max 12 people).

The tour’s flexibility is a bonus. Your guide will select four bars from a list of diverse options, ensuring a mix of atmospheres — from historic spots like Cossettas to modern craft breweries like Bad Weather Brewing.

How the Itinerary Shapes Your Experience

The stops are designed to give you a layered experience of St. Paul’s drinking scene. Here’s what you can expect at each one:

Stop 1: Cossettas

Starting at this Italian hotspot, you’ll head upstairs to the Louis Bar, which is steeped in local history. It’s a perfect warm-up to get a feel for the city’s Italian-American roots and enjoy a slice of local past.

Stop 2: Patrick McGovern’s Pub

Next, a visit to this independent, family-run spot provides a cozy, authentic vibe. Located near the Xcel Energy Center, it’s notable for maintaining its independence through the years, despite nearby big developments.

Stop 3: Parlour St. Paul

A craft cocktail pioneer in the Twin Cities, Parlour impresses with its tasty, well-crafted drinks. It’s a great example of how St. Paul balances tradition with innovation.

Stop 4: Bad Weather Brewing Company

This industrial brewpub is highly praised for its beers, which some consider among the best tasting in the area. The venue’s playful atmosphere includes options like board games, perfect for relaxing after a few drinks.

Other stops like Keg and Case Market, Waldmann Brewery, Mancinis, White Squirrel, and Burger Dive offer more layers of history, local flavor, and lively ambiance, but the actual four visited depend on the guide’s discretion.

What We Loved About the Experience

One of the standout features, as noted in reviews, is the knowledgeable guide. Our source mentions a guide sharing great stories and making the experience engaging, which really enhances the tour. The variety of venues means you get a taste of different facets of St. Paul’s drinking culture — from historic breweries to lively music bars.

The timing and group size keep the experience intimate and relaxed, avoiding the chaos that larger tours might bring. Plus, with only around 12 travelers, you’re likely to have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized recommendations.

Another plus is the cost, at $79 per person, which, considering the curated stops and guide, offers decent value. This isn’t a pub crawl with unlimited drinks, but it’s enough to sample a good variety, learn some local stories, and enjoy the walk through the city.

Authenticity and Authentic Locals

Travelers consistently mention how friendly and personable the guides are, making the experience feel less like a touristy gimmick and more like exploring with a knowledgeable local friend. This makes it especially suitable for those who prefer a more personal touch.

The Downside: Keep Expectations Real

A key consideration is that the tour only visits four bars, which might feel a little short for those used to longer nights. If your goal is to hop around numerous venues or really indulge in a drinking marathon, this might be a tad limited. Also, since the stops are chosen on the day, you won’t have a set route, which could mean missing out on some favorite spots if you’re familiar with the city.

The tour duration (about 3 hours) means it’s manageable but not overly lengthy — perfect if you want a taste rather than an all-night affair. Keep in mind it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if the weather isn’t ideal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers interested in learning about local culture through its bars, those who appreciate a guided story, and anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging way to explore St. Paul’s social scene. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or friends who enjoy discovering hidden gems and trying crafted drinks. If you’re looking for a wild night with a big group, this might be too subdued, but for those wanting a personable, well-rounded mini-adventure, it hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many stops does the tour include?
The tour visits four bars, carefully selected by the guide based on the day’s circumstances. You won’t visit all nine listed, but the chosen venues will offer a varied and interesting experience.

What kind of drinks will I get to try?
You’ll sample a variety of drinks, including craft cocktails at Parlour and perhaps some locally brewed beers at Bad Weather Brewing. The experience is about tasting the local flavor rather than unlimited drinks.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since the focus is on bars and alcohol, it’s primarily for those who enjoy drinking. However, non-drinkers can still enjoy the social atmosphere, the stories, and the sightseeing.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, which is enough time to visit four bars, learn some stories, and enjoy the ambiance without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Cossettas in downtown St. Paul and usually ends near Keg and Case Market, but exact endpoints can vary slightly depending on the day.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a friendly, local guide leads the tour, sharing stories and customizing the route based on weather, group size, and preferences.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this a family-friendly activity?
Since it involves visiting bars and sampling alcohol, it’s best suited for adults. The tour is not designed for children.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an authentic, friendly way to experience St. Paul’s bar scene with some local insights, this 3-hour guided tour offers a good balance of history, social atmosphere, and variety. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a moderate pace, engaging storytelling, and exploring a city’s personality through its favorite watering holes.

While it’s not a night-long party, it provides enough time to get a feel for the city and perhaps discover some new favorite spots. The small-group setting and personalized approach make it a memorable, enjoyable addition to your St. Paul trip, especially if you appreciate good stories as much as good drinks.