If you’re considering a different way to experience Annapolis, the Ghost Tours Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers an inviting mix of ghostly stories, historic pubs, and a little liquid courage. While I haven’t personally taken the tour, reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture of what you might expect—especially if you enjoy a good ghost story paired with a cozy local pub vibe.
One of the things I really like about this experience is how it combines history and spirits—both the ghostly kind and the drinks kind—in a way that feels approachable and fun. Plus, the tour’s guide, Ryan, gets high marks for being friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, which makes all the difference when you’re wandering through a city known for its historic buildings and legends. That said, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a heavy-hitter haunted tour; it leans more toward storytelling and atmosphere than intense scares.
If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local legends while casually enjoying a drink or two, this tour could be right up your alley. However, if you’re craving a deeply spooky, scare-your-socks-off experience, this might not be the tour for you. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, engaging tales, and a chance to soak in Annapolis’ ambiance without diving into intense paranormal investigations.
Key Points
- Balanced experience: Combines ghost stories with visits to historic pubs, making it a fun mix of history and relaxation.
- Knowledgeable guides: Ryan and others are praised for their friendliness and research, ensuring stories are engaging and accurate.
- Flexible pace: The tour includes several stops, each lasting about 10-20 minutes, giving you time to absorb the stories and enjoy drinks.
- Cost-effective: At $27 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore Annapolis’ spooky side, especially considering the local flavor.
- Limited drinks included: Be prepared to purchase your own beverages, as drinks are not included in the ticket price.
- Group size: Max of 25 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere for storytelling and mingling.
A Deep Dive into the Haunted Pub Crawl
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An Introduction to the Experience
This tour starts at 22 Market Space in Annapolis around 6:00 pm, winding through some of the city’s most historic and haunted-historic sites. The general vibe is laid-back, with a friendly guide leading the way, sharing stories that are well-researched and rooted in local lore. The two-hour duration makes it easy to fit into an evening plan, especially if you enjoy a mix of history, ghost tales, and a few drinks.
What makes this experience appealing is the combination of storytelling and pub visits. It’s not just about ghost stories—it’s about experiencing parts of Annapolis that you might miss on your own, with a bit of spooky flavor thrown in. You’ll visit some iconic spots, sip a drink, and hear about spirits—both the historical ones and the ghostly kind.
The Itinerary and What You Can Expect
Stop 1: Middleton Tavern
This nearly 300-year-old tavern kicks off the tour, offering a glimpse into early American life. The staff’s named “Roland,” a mysterious spirit, adds an extra layer of intrigue. Expect to hear stories about the tavern’s past residents and maybe catch a whiff of something unexplainable while inside. The visit is about 20 minutes, and you can enjoy a drink if you like (though beverages are on your own).
Stop 2: 136 Dock St, Old Annapolis Jail
Next, you’ll step into the jail, where tales of accused criminals who still supposedly walk these streets will send shivers down your spine. This stop is also about 20 minutes long and offers a historical perspective on what life was like for those awaiting trial, mixed with local ghostly legends.
Stop 3: Reynolds Tavern and 1747 Pub
Here, the stories revolve around a famous local legend, with an emphasis on staying on the good side of the resident spirit. It’s a cozy, well-regarded spot, perfect for relaxing and listening to stories that blend fact and folklore. About 20 minutes here.
Stop 4: St. Anne’s Parish
This nearly 300-year-old church survived a major fire in 1858, adding to its mystique. The story of a man who is said to have started the hauntings is fascinating, and you’ll learn about the spirits believed to still lurk on the grounds. It’s a shorter stop, about 10 minutes.
Stop 5: Rams Head Tavern
At this tavern, you’ll hear about the tragic lives of early Annapolis residents and perhaps encounter one of the petty spirits said to reside within. It’s a lively place with a rich past, perfect for a final ghostly story before wrapping up.
Stop 6: Government House of Maryland
While not the original government house, this building is steeped in history and haunted tales. It offers a quieter, more reflective moment in the tour.
Stop 7: Galway Bay Irish Restaurant and Pub
The last stop is especially fun—sit down and enjoy a drink at this historic pub, which played a role during Prohibition. It’s a fitting end to a tour that’s about stories, spirits, and a little bit of local flavor.
What Travelers Are Saying
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with Kathleen_J calling Ryan a “terrific Ghost Pub Crawl guide” and noting how much she enjoyed the cozy pubs and Ryan’s company. That personal touch really adds to the experience—knowing you’re in good hands makes a big difference.
Some feedback points to the storytelling—reviews suggest the stories are well-researched and authentic, which is great if you’re into the lore. However, not everyone felt the stories were extensive; Nancy_P mentioned, “I would have preferred learning about more historical ghost stories,” indicating the tour balances storytelling with pub visits rather than focusing solely on a deep dive into ghost tales.
The Value and Practicalities
At $27, the tour is quite affordable considering it includes a guided walk through some of Annapolis’ most haunted spots and an engaging host. Keep in mind, drinks are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to enjoy a few during the stops. The tour lasts about 2 hours, which makes it easy to fit into an evening without feeling rushed or too long.
The group size maxes out at 25, ensuring a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded. It’s accessible to most travelers, though the tour isn’t recommended for folks with mobility issues, mainly because of the walking and standing involved.
Final Thoughts on Who Should Join
This tour is ideal for history buffs who love ghost stories or anyone interested in Annapolis’ haunted side with a laid-back approach. It’s perfect for those who enjoy socializing in cozy pubs and hearing local legends in a friendly setting. If you prefer your spooky stories with a side of humor or don’t mind a bit of a casual pace, you’ll find this tour quite enjoyable.
However, if you’re seeking high-intensity ghost encounters or a strictly haunted experience, this might fall a bit short. The focus on storytelling, atmosphere, and local flavor makes it a memorable, fun way to spend an evening rather than a chilling ghost hunt.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour generally appeals to most travelers, it’s primarily aimed at adults who enjoy ghost stories and pub stops. It may not be ideal for young kids due to the content and nature of the stops.
Are drinks included?
No, beverages are not included. You’ll have the chance to purchase drinks at each pub, so bring some extra cash if you want to indulge.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours, covering multiple stops with brief visits ranging from 10 to 20 minutes.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at 22 Market Space in Annapolis at 6:00 pm.
Is the tour conducted indoors or outdoors?
Most stops involve visiting pubs and outdoor walking between sites, so dress accordingly for the weather.
What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 25 travelers, ensuring a friendly and intimate group setting.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour. Just keep in mind that cancellations less than 24 hours prior are not refunded.
Is this experience accessible for all?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments because of walking and standing involved, but service animals are allowed.
Will I see actual ghosts?
There’s no guarantee, but the guide shares well-researched stories and local legends that evoke a haunted atmosphere.
Are tips for the guide included?
Tips are not included in the price, so consider tipping if you enjoyed the experience.
Annapolis Ghost Tours Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
“We had a great time with Ryan, the tour is very informative, the pubs are super cozy and quaint, Ryan is a great, patient tour guide, we would have…”
Final Word
The Annapolis Ghost Tours Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a uniquely relaxed way to explore the city’s haunted corners while enjoying some local pub culture. It’s a solid choice for anyone who appreciates a good story, a cozy tavern, and a bit of spine-tingling fun without the intensity of more extreme ghost hunts.
If you’re looking for an evening that combines history, spirits, and friendly conversation, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even on your own, as the guides seem excellent at creating a welcoming atmosphere. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and maybe a few dollars for drinks—because this tour promises a memorable blend of stories and sips.
Whether you’re a seasoned ghost enthusiast or just looking for a charming way to spend an evening in Annapolis, this pub crawl might just be the spooky, spirited adventure you didn’t know you needed.
