Private Drunk History Tour: Lunch, Libations & History

A fun and flavorful way to discover San Antonio’s stories

If you’re looking for a tour that blends history, food, and drinks into one memorable experience, this Private Drunk History Tour: Lunch, Libations & History might just be your cup of tea—or cocktail. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details suggest it’s a unique way to see the city through a more relaxed, personal lens.

What really grabs our attention? First, the personalized attention that a private tour offers—no big group to herd around, just you and your guide. Second, the mix of history with food and drinks makes for a lively, interactive way to learn about San Antonio’s past and present.

One thing to consider is that lunch and drinks are at your own expense, which means budgeting a little extra. While it’s not a packaged food and drink experience, it does add to the freedom to choose what you want to eat and sip.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling, a bit of a laid-back pace, and an interest in local landmarks like the Alamo and the historic Menger Bar. If you’re into history but prefer a more casual, fun approach, this might be just right.

Key Points

• Personalized private experience with just your group and guide
• Expert guide with extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling
• Includes iconic stops like the Alamo, River Walk, and Menger Bar
• Food and drinks are optional extras, giving flexibility
• A relaxed, unhurried pace suited for those who want a leisurely exploration
• Perfect for history buffs and foodies looking for something fun and different

An in-depth look at what you can expect

Meet at Alamo Plaza and kick off with history

The tour begins at 204 Alamo Plaza, where your guide will fill you in on the famous 1836 battle and ongoing redevelopment efforts surrounding this iconic site. It’s a 15-minute stop, so you get a quick but meaningful intro before heading to your next adventure. Expect to learn details that you might not catch on your own, especially if your guide is as knowledgeable and personable as the reviews suggest.

Strolling along the River Walk

From there, you’re led to the San Antonio River Walk—arguably the city’s crown jewel. Here, the tour really shines because you get to enjoy lunch right by the water (at your own expense), while your guide shares insider stories about the engineering, flood control measures, and even the behind-the-scenes of the river parades.

Our favorite part? The personal touch of a guide with 20 years of experience, who’s well-versed in local lore and can answer your questions in a relaxed, friendly manner. With many reviews praising the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, you’re in good hands to learn more than what’s just on the plaques.

The historic Menger Bar and hotel

Later, the group heads to Menger Bar, a landmark with a storied past. It’s the same place where Teddy Roosevelt recruited many of his Rough Riders—an interesting tidbit that adds flavor to the experience. You’ll visit the oldest hotel west of the Mississippi River, where the atmosphere is charming yet historic, and enjoy a drink (own expense) in a setting that’s both nostalgic and lively.

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the fun stories shared here. One reviewer even noted how the guide incorporated photos on his iPad to bring history alive, which is a little modern touch that enhances the storytelling.

Flexibility and personal attention

Since this is a private tour, the experience is very much tailored to your interests and pace. The total duration is around 2.5 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching outing. The tour is also perfect if you prefer a more intimate, one-on-one experience or have specific questions about San Antonio’s history.

What’s not included

Remember, the lunch and drinks are at your own expense, so be prepared to budget accordingly. This actually works in your favor if you’re particular about where and what to eat or drink. You won’t be confined to a set menu or limited options, giving you the freedom to explore local flavors at your pace.

How much does it cost and what’s the value?

Priced at $95 per person, this tour is a bit of an investment, but considering the personalized guiding, multiple landmark visits, and the insider stories, it can be quite a good value. Plus, since it’s private, you’re not sharing your experience with strangers, which adds to the overall quality and intimacy.

What travelers love most

The reviews are nearly unanimous in praising the knowledge and personality of the guide, Emzy. Many mention how he “showed us so much that we wouldn’t have learned with anyone else,” and how his enthusiasm made the tour both fun and informative.

One reviewer even noted that the tour felt “great for getting one-on-one time” and enjoyed the delicious food and tapas they sampled during the stops. Although the actual food and drink are not provided by the tour, the flexibility to choose your own makes for a more personalized experience.

Downsides or considerations

While this tour offers a lot, it’s important to keep in mind that lunch and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to plan for those expenses. Also, the tour is designed for those comfortable walking and standing for a bit, as it involves stops at key sites around the city.

If you’re looking for a tour that’s strictly educational, this one leans more toward the lively, storytelling side. It’s not a comprehensive historical lecture but a relaxed, engaging narrative, perfect for those who enjoy stories and local legends.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, food lovers, or anyone who enjoys a laid-back, private approach to sightseeing. It’s especially good if you’re traveling as a couple, a small group, or even solo (since it’s customizable). If you appreciate having a guide to answer questions and share behind-the-scenes stories, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer guided tours with a set schedule, or those seeking a big group experience. Also, if you’re not interested in spending extra on lunch and drinks, you may want to consider other options. But for a personalized, fun, and informative way to explore San Antonio’s landmarks, this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

This Private Drunk History Tour offers a refreshing take on exploring San Antonio. By combining iconic sites, local stories, and personal touches, it makes history come alive in a friendly, approachable way. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge are consistently highlighted in reviews, making it a great choice for travelers craving authenticity and intimacy.

While not a cheap experience, the value lies in the personalized attention and insider stories that elevate it beyond just walking around. It’s perfect for those who want to learn and enjoy without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd, especially if you’re into history, storytelling, or just having a relaxed day of exploring with good company.

If you enjoy discovering a city through engaging narratives, with the flexibility to indulge in food and drinks at your own pace, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your San Antonio trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it involves walking and some historical storytelling, which can appeal to older children or teenagers. However, younger kids might find the focus on history and drinks less engaging.

Are lunch and drinks included?
No, both lunch and alcoholic beverages are at your own expense. This offers you the flexibility to choose where and what to eat and sip during the stops.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you a leisurely look at key sites without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Alamo Plaza and ends back at the same spot, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby.

What’s the group size?
This is a private tour, so it’s just your group and guide—perfect for a more personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 18 days ahead, giving you enough time to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

If you’re after a fun, intimate way to explore San Antonio’s history, combined with good conversation and some local flavor, this tour seems like a solid choice. Just remember to budget for your own lunch and drinks, and you’ll be set for a memorable day.