Bus Tour

Pre-Prohibition Historic Bar Tour

"This was perfect! We happened to hit two taverns that have been on my 'must have a drink there' list, both in one afternoon!" — Tiffany C.

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The Tale of Milwaukee’s Historic Taverns

From $99.00 per adult · 2.5-3 hours · 4 stops

Since 1847, Milwaukeeans have been quenching their thirst in Milwaukee’s many historic bars. On this local expert-led tour, you’ll sidle up to the bar in some of MKE’s most famous (and notorious) historic taverns. We’ll enjoy about 30 minutes at each location where you’ll relax, sample some brews, snacks, and cocktails, and hear the colorful history of Milwaukee in the rollicking pre-Prohibition era.

Price:

$99.00 per Adult

Length: 2.5-3 hours

Dates & Times: Select Saturdays and upon request for private tours.

Distance: 4 stops via bus transport (Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.)

26 guests max, led by a fun, expert guide.

Dress for the weather! We go rain, shine, or snow.
Washrooms available during the experience.

Vegetarian Options

To enjoy a vegetarian-friendly tasting, you must notify us when you book. Sorry, but we can’t accommodate other food allergies or dietary preferences.

Highlights

Cold Brews, Old World Bar Snacks & the Secret History of Milwaukee’s Famous Bars.

Join our expert local guide on a tour of four of Milwaukee’s most (in)famous historic bars.
Sample a number of local brews and a handmade cocktail while learning about Milwaukee’s pre-Prohibition tavern culture.
Nothing goes better with a few frothy cold ones than authentic German pretzels and a selection of Old World meats and cheeses.
Worry-free tour aboard our comfortable bus.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most fun history lessons always include beer.

Will local Milwaukeeans enjoy your tours?

Absolutely! More than half of our guests are local to the Milwaukee area, and they always say the same thing: “I learned so much about Milwaukee’s history and restaurant scene that I didn’t know!” Locals who come on our tours will find their new favorite date night spot, and can impress their visiting friends with all their Milwaukee “insider” knowledge.

I hate feeling like a tourist. Will the guide have a bullhorn and an umbrella?

Yeah, we hate that, too. And, no, no umbrellas or bullhorns. Our guides feel more like part of the group. They’re friendly without being annoying, and they don’t just recite a script. We hire people who love this city, and we train them extensively to make their job look effortless. No cringey tourist stuff, we promise.

This seems like a lot to spend on sample bites. How much do we get to eat?

No need to make reservations for after the tour. You’ll enjoy the equivalent of a full meal or more on our food tours.

What happens if it rains or snows?

Rain or shine, you gotta eat! Unless the weather looks like it’ll threaten the safety of our guests or guides, the tours will run in most conditions. If it’s too wet or cold, we’ll just spend more time indoors at our restaurant partners.

Can you accommodate my dietary restriction?

If you let us know when you book your tour, we CAN provide vegetarian-friendly tasting, but we CANNOT offer alternatives or substitutions for any other allergies (including lactose intolerant) or dietary restrictions (including vegan and gluten free). Vegetarian-friendly options must be requested in advance during the ticket purchase process.