Trolley Pub Public Tour

Exploring the Trolley Pub Public Tour in Madison: A Friendly, Honest Look

If you’re looking for a fun way to see Madison’s vibrant downtown, the Trolley Pub Public Tour might just be your ticket. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve researched it thoroughly and chatted with past participants. It’s a popular choice, especially if you enjoy a laid-back, social vibe combined with a scenic experience.

What really stands out about this tour is its casual, community feel and the fact that it’s BYOB, giving you control over your drinks and playlist. Plus, the stops seem thoughtfully chosen to give a good taste of Madison’s best spots. On the flip side, some reviews hint that the pedal aspect might not be for everyone, and the experience can vary depending on your group dynamic.

This tour appears to suit folks who like to socialize, enjoy a bit of outdoor activity, and want to make the most of Madison’s lively downtown. Whether you’re visiting with friends, a group of locals, or looking to add a relaxed activity to your day, it’s worth considering. Just keep in mind that it’s not a high-energy party tour; it’s more about enjoying the atmosphere, scenery, and good company.

Key Points

• Casual social experience perfect for groups or friends.
• BYOB policy allows you to bring your own wine or beer, saving money and customizing your drinks.
• Scenic stops like the Memorial Union Terrace offer beautiful views of Lake Mendota and Madison’s skyline.
• Group size is limited to 14, giving a more intimate feel.
• Weather dependency: good weather is essential; tours can be canceled if conditions aren’t right.
• Pricing is reasonable at $45 per person, especially considering the included stops and guide.

What to Expect on the Trolley Pub Public Tour

This tour promises a two-hour pedal-powered adventure through Madison’s downtown. It’s essentially a mobile bar on wheels, with stops at some of the city’s hotspots. The experience blends sightseeing, socializing, and a bit of light exercise—though not everyone pedals equally, which is worth noting.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Buckingham’s Bar & Grill

Your first stop is Buckingham’s, a renowned spot on Regent Street. Here, the tour offers exclusive Trolley specials—4 White Claws or Miller Lite pints for $14, with the option to add pizza or nachos for $8 more. The vibe here is casual, and it’s a great way to kick off the tour with some local flavor.

You’ll spend around 15 minutes here—more than enough time to grab a drink and soak in the atmosphere. Past guests mention that this first stop is a good warm-up, setting a relaxed tone for the rest of the tour.

Stop 2: Camp Trippalindee

Next, you’ll head to Camp Trippalindee for panoramic views of the Capitol building and Lake Mendota. This spot offers something extra: $3 Trolley Shots (bartender’s choice) and $5 boozy slushies with two flavors to choose from. It’s a nice break from pedaling, with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic vistas.

Participants typically spend around 15 minutes here. Be aware that this stop is more about the views and drinks than a lengthy stay; it’s a quick, refreshing pause.

Stop 3: Memorial Union Terrace

The final stop is the famous Memorial Union Terrace, a local favorite with a relaxed ambiance and stunning sunset views over Lake Mendota. It’s an ideal spot to unwind after the pedal portion of the tour, and you can enjoy a Wisconsin craft beer while taking in the scenery.

This stop also lasts about 15 minutes and functions as a nice wrap-up. Many find it a fitting conclusion—ample opportunity to relax and chat before heading back.

What’s Included and What You Need to Bring

The tour provides you with a driver/guide, a cooler for your BYOB drinks, and two hours of pedal-powered fun. You’ll want to bring your own wine or beer, which makes this a flexible, budget-friendly outing.

The tour is designed to be easy to join, with mobile tickets and the starting point conveniently located at 555 W Washington Ave. It’s a small group experience, capped at 14 people, which helps keep things cozy and lively.

Practical Tips

• Bring your own drinks – the cooler is there for your convenience.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for pedaling—moderate physical activity is expected.
• Confirm weather conditions before booking, as poor weather cancels the tour.
• The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible to most.

The Good, the Not-So-Good, and the Honest

Many travelers rave about how fun and relaxed the tour is, with excellent value for money given the stops and scenic views. One reviewer pointed out the good selection of drinks and said it’s a great way to experience Madison casually with friends.

However, not everyone loved the pedal aspect. One negative review bluntly states, “We got off and left within 30 minutes… this is not motorized at all, and not all of the seats have pedals, so half of the guest do all the work.” If you’re not keen on pedaling or expecting a fully motorized or self-driving experience, this might be a downside.

The tour’s popularity—booked on average 6 days in advance—speaks to its appeal, but the non-refundable policy could be a frustration if weather or plans change suddenly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for groups of friends looking for a relaxed social outing, especially if you enjoy a bit of outdoor activity combined with good drinks and beautiful scenery. It’s also great if you want to explore downtown Madison in a fun, memorable way without a formal tour or heavy sightseeing agenda.

If you’re okay with the pedal-powered format and looking for an affordable, flexible outing, this could be a highlight of your visit. However, if you prefer motorized transport or are not comfortable with physical exertion, it might be worth considering other options.

Final Thoughts

The Trolley Pub Public Tour offers a light-hearted, social way to explore Madison’s lively downtown. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate the freedom of BYOB and enjoy scenic stops with friends. The included stops at Buckingham’s, Camp Trippalindee, and Memorial Union Terrace are thoughtfully chosen to give a sense of local flavor and beautiful views.

While the pedal aspect might not be for everyone, many reviewers find it adds to the fun and camaraderie of the experience. The reasonable price makes it accessible for most budgets, and the small group size ensures a more personal feel.

In summary, if you’re after a relaxed, social outing that blends sightseeing with drinks and a touch of exercise, this tour could be just what you need. Just remember to check the weather, bring your favorite drinks, and be prepared for a casual, memorable Madison adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for adults, especially since it involves drinking (BYOB) and pedaling. It’s not recommended for children.

Can I bring my own wine or beer?
Yes, you are encouraged to bring your own wine or beer to enjoy during the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The actual pedal-powered experience lasts about two hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 555 W Washington Ave, Madison.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 6 days ahead, and spots are limited to a maximum of 14 travelers.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the guide, the cooler for your drinks, and two hours on the trolley pub. Drinks are not included.

Is this tour physically demanding?
Moderate physical activity is involved; not all seats have pedals, and a good fitness level is recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are canceled in poor weather, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can service animals join?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Since BYOB and the focus on drinking, it’s best suited for adults. Not suitable for children.

If you’re after a laid-back, social, and scenic way to enjoy Madison’s downtown, the Trolley Pub Public Tour offers a fun, affordable option. Just plan ahead, bring your favorite drinks, and enjoy the ride.