If you haven’t seen a pedal wagon rolling through the Short North in the last week, we’re going to assume you’ve been traveling. Business is booming for the Cincinnati-based company, according to co-owner jack Heekin, with the announcement that riders can now enjoy beer or wine while on the Pedal Wagon.
In April, John Kasich signed House Bill 47 into effect allowing designated open container areas in cities with a population of more than 35,000. There has been some confusion that this change for Pedal Wagon is a direct result of open container laws, which is not exactly the case. Instead, there was a sub-bill attached to the same law that addressed this issue for the company.
With over 12,000 riders since 2013, Pedal Wagon plans to see even more business in the wake of this change. “When you look at other states that have changed [the law] and operate the same way, when it happens they see a major boost in business,” said Heekin. The Columbus Pedal Wagon currently runs tours in the Short North and Arena District but Heekin hopes to open up more tours in the next year or two.
The law allows each rider their choice of three beers in 12 oz. cans at/or below 7% or three 6 oz. pours of wine. The wagon operator will check ID’s if patrons are riding with alcohol and watch each rider put their three beers (or equivalent) into a cooler. Alcohol can either be purchased separately our brought onto the wagon at the beginning of the tour. The Cincinnati pedal wagon offers an online-purchasing feature where you can pick your beer or wine after signing up for the tour and it will be waiting for you at the time of your arrival. Heekin hopes to launch a similar service for Columbus but for now guests may pick up beer from North High Brewing, attached to the tours launch site.
Helen and co-owner Tom O’Brian own a craft beer growler and bottle shop in Cincinnati and take a great deal of pride in serving the local craft beer, bar and alcohol scene. They hope to continue supporting those businesses in Columbus through the Pedal Wagon. For more information or to book a tour, visit www.pedalwagon.com
