Haunted Chicago Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour

If you’re looking to combine a love for history, a good dose of spooky tales, and a bit of nightlife flair, this Haunted Chicago Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour might just be your cup of ghostly tea. We don’t claim to have taken this tour ourselves, but based on a lot of reviews and detailed descriptions, it sounds like a memorable way to experience Chicago’s haunted past—especially if you’re into stories that mix history with a little supernatural spice.

What really stands out is the expert guides dressed in period costumes, transforming the whole experience into a playful, immersive journey through the city’s dark corners. Plus, the visit to three unique bars gives you an authentic local vibe, and the chance to sip a drink while listening to tales of spirits—both from the city’s past and beyond. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour is definitely geared toward adults, since it involves alcohol and is limited to those 21 and over.

If you’re someone who appreciates a good story, enjoys exploring city secrets, and isn’t afraid of a little ghostly lore, this tour could be right up your alley. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a fun night out with a spooky twist. However, if you’re traveling with kids or prefer daytime activities, this might not be the best fit.

Key Points

• Unique local experience: Combines history, ghost stories, and Chicago’s nightlife.
• Engaging guides: Costumed guides bring the stories to life and add to the fun.
• Three distinct bars: Each stop offers a different vibe, with stories about haunted residents and famous spirits.
• Two and a half hours of fun: A good length for a relaxed evening without it feeling rushed.
• Great value: At around $36 per person, it offers a mix of storytelling, history, and nightlife.
• Weather-proof: Operates in all weather conditions so you can plan confidently.

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Chicago Booze and Boos Tour

The Overview and What to Expect

This ghost walking tour is designed for those who enjoy a combination of spooky tales, city exploration, and a bit of social drinking. With a duration of approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, it’s a comfortably paced way to spend an evening in Chicago. The tour is led by a local guide dressed in period costume, which adds a playful, authentic touch to the storytelling. The guides seem to have a knack for weaving history with ghostly legends, making the experience both informative and entertaining.

Price-wise, at $35.87 per person, it’s fairly affordable considering it includes visits to three bars and the storytelling. Note that drinks at the bars are at your own expense, so plan for some extra cash if you want to sample their offerings. The tour is also mobile ticket-based, making it convenient to join no matter where you’re staying in the city.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Glascotts Saloon

Your evening kicks off at Glascotts Saloon, a family-owned spot with a long history dating back four generations. Originally a meat market, it transformed during Prohibition into a speakeasy known as James Morley Soft Drinks. This building’s layered past makes it the perfect starting point for tales of Chicago’s underground nightlife. The guide will share stories about how this place operated as a clandestine bar during Prohibition, setting the tone for the spooky stories ahead.

Guests typically spend around 25 minutes here, giving you time to settle in and grab a drink at your own expense. The atmosphere is lively, yet the stories add a sense of mystery that contrasts nicely with the modern surroundings.

Exploring Lincoln Park and the Alley of John Dillinger’s Ghost

As you move along, you’ll walk through Lincoln Park’s spooky corners, possibly catching a glimpse of the ghost of John Dillinger near the theater alley. The legend of Dillinger, one of America’s most notorious gangsters, adds a gritty, real-world element to the ghostly tales. The walk itself is part of the fun—strolling through Chicago’s historic neighborhoods while your guide recounts ghost stories and local legends.

Stop 2: Lilly’s

Next, you’ll stop at Lilly’s, a bar famous for its haunted residents. The 30-minute visit here offers another chance to relax, enjoy a drink, and hear more about Chicago’s supernatural inhabitants. The stories shared by guides are often described as engaging and well-informed, adding depth to the experience.

Stop 3: Hook and Ladder

The final bar visit is at Hook and Ladder, a fire-themed bar with a fascinating connection to Chicago’s firefighter history. Its sister venue, Halligan, is linked via a secret doorway—a fun detail that adds to the ghostly intrigue. The building has been a bar for over a century, and the guide will tell you about John Weiss, a ghostly former owner. This stop typically lasts 25 minutes and is a favorite among guests who appreciate unique decor and local history.

Additional Stops and Walks

Along the route, you’ll walk past Oz Park, where you might imagine Dorothy and her friends wandering after dark, and King of Cups, Chicago’s first Spirit Lounge, which boasts tales of spectral patrons and even nightly Tarot readings. The stories about the Red Lion, a pub that was once a grim Western saloon and transformed into an English-style pub, add a historic yet eerie touch.

The Guide and Atmosphere

Guests consistently mention that the guides are knowledgeable and entertaining, bringing history to life with theatrical flair. The reviews highlight guides like Katie and Mallory, who are not only well-versed but also lively and engaging storytellers. Their enthusiasm keeps the group captivated, making the stories feel more real and compelling.

The Bars and the Drinking Experience

While drinks are not included, the bars visited are well-chosen for their ambiance and history. Each venue has its own character—whether it’s the speakeasy roots of Glascotts, the haunted residents of Lilly’s, or the firehouse theme of Hook and Ladder. You can expect a variety of craft cocktails, beers, or non-alcoholic options, all at your own expense. This setup allows you to enjoy a night out without feeling like it’s all about the price tag.

Price and Value

At just under $37, this tour offers good value considering it combines entertainment, education, and nightlife. The reviews are full of praise for the knowledgeable guides and interesting stops, with many noting the experience as worth the price. The inclusion of a take-home souvenir like a can cooler or cup adds a small but nice touch.

Practical Considerations

• Physical fitness level should be moderate, as walking between stops is involved.
• The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
• Minimum age is 21 due to alcohol consumption.
• The tour keeps a small group size—up to 12 travelers—which helps keep things intimate and lively.
• Booking is usually done about 20 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure your spot.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This ghost pub crawl is ideal for adults who enjoy local history, spooky stories, and lively nightlife. It’s not suited for children or those seeking a daytime or family-friendly activity. Many reviews mention how engaging guides make the stories come alive, perfect for travelers who appreciate storytelling and authentic local venues. It also works well for groups celebrating birthdays or just looking for a fun, memorable night in Chicago.

This experience is less about serious ghost hunting and more about having a good time with friends while learning some quirky, ghostly lore. If you’re a history buff or a fan of Chicago’s underground and haunted stories, you’ll likely find this tour fascinating.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Chicago Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour offers a lively mix of storytelling, local history, and nightlife, all wrapped into a manageable evening adventure. The guides’ enthusiasm and the authentic bars make it a standout option for those wanting to experience Chicago’s haunted side without sacrificing fun or comfort.

While it’s not a deep-dive into ghost lore or a daytime museum visit, it’s a well-balanced experience that’s engaging, atmospheric, and good value for the price. If you enjoy a good story, a drink, and a bit of spooky fun, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

For travelers who want to combine a bit of history, a few good drinks, and a night full of legends, this is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind a small group and enjoy guided storytelling with a theatrical touch.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum age is 21 because alcohol is involved and the stories are geared toward adults.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 2 hours 30 minutes, which is a relaxed pace allowing time to enjoy each stop.

Do I need to purchase drinks during the tour?
Yes, drinks are available at each bar but are at your own expense.

What’s included in the tour price?
You get a guided experience, a tour escort, and a take-home souvenir like a can cooler or cup. Drinks are not included.

Can this tour be canceled if weather is bad?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 20 days ahead is recommended, as it’s popular and often booked out early.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.

If you’re intrigued by Chicago’s haunted history and enjoy a mix of storytelling and nightlife, this tour could be a memorable way to spend an evening. Just be ready for some spooky tales, a few drinks, and a lot of fun stories from a knowledgeable, lively guide.