Spirits of Nashville Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re heading to Nashville and are curious about its darker side, the Spirits of Nashville Haunted Pub Crawl might just catch your interest. We haven’t personally done this tour, but after digging into what it offers, it seems like a lively way to combine some local history, ghost stories, and a bit of nightlife—perfect for those who love a mix of storytelling and a casual pub vibe.

What really draws us in is how this tour is led by guides who have lived in Nashville for years, some with personal paranormal experiences at the locations visited. That local insight can turn a simple walk through historic spots into something more memorable. Plus, the tour’s low-key nature, lasting just under two hours, makes it easy to fit into an evening without feeling like a full-on night out.

However, a couple of things are worth considering. First, the reviews are mixed, with some guests expressing frustration over guide attendance or organization issues. And, while the tour is focused on haunted spots, the “haunted” element is more about storytelling and local lore rather than guaranteed ghost encounters. It’s best suited for those interested in Nashville’s stories—both the lively and the spooky sides—rather than hardcore ghost hunters.

All in all, if you’re after a fun, informative, and slightly spooky intro to Nashville’s secrets, this tour could suit you. It’s especially good if you enjoy a casual walk, some local tales, and exploring parts of the city that aren’t on every tourist’s radar.

Key Points

• Guides with local roots and paranormal experience add authenticity to the stories.
• Short and manageable at just under two hours, fitting easily into your Nashville plans.
• The tour covers famous spots like the Ryman and less known alleys, blending history with ghost tales.
• Cost-effective at $25 per person, though alcohol isn’t included.
• The tour’s small group size (max 20 people) encourages a more personal experience.
• Be aware of some mixed reviews about organization—timing and guide presence have caused issues.

An Honest Look at the Itinerary

Starting at Alley Taps

This spot, opened in 2018, is a charming throwback to classic Nashville, with a relaxed vibe, good drinks, and nightly live music. It’s a solid warm-up point where you can settle in before diving into the darker stories ahead. The fact that admission here is free is a bonus, and it sets a friendly tone for the tour.

Ryman Auditorium

A Nashville icon, the Ryman is a must-see for any music lover. Passing by, you might catch a glimpse of the stage where legends have performed. While the tour doesn’t go inside, just being near this legendary site adds flavor to the experience. It’s a quick stop—only about 10 minutes—so don’t expect a deep dive, but the connection to Nashville’s musical soul is palpable.

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

This legendary honky-tonk is famous for its history with country stars and musicians. The tour suggests you might also spy some “spirits” hanging around—both of the ghostly and the boozy variety. You’re here for about 25 minutes, so it’s enough time to soak in the lively atmosphere and maybe imagine the tales of the performers who’ve graced this stage.

Nudie’s Honky Tonk

Here, you get a taste of Nashville’s glitz—the world of Nudie Cohn, the famous tailor to stars, and the longest bar in town. It’s a vibrant spot that adds some sparkle to the ghostly stories. The tour’s emphasis on this bar, which is free to enter, is a good chance to experience Nashville’s honky-tonk charm firsthand.

Cerveza Jack’s and Cumberland Pirates

This stop is packed with local lore. Learn about how Commerce Street got its name and hear about the Cumberland Pirates—famous thieves from Nashville’s early days. Both spots are free to walk through and give a sense of the city’s rough-and-tumble past, with stories that will appeal to history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Skull’s Rainbow Room

The final stop is a place with a lively past and a reputation for being haunted. Many musicians started their careers here, and it’s reputedly one of Nashville’s most haunted buildings. You can enjoy a drink while listening to tales of paranormal activity, with about 20 minutes allocated to soak in the atmosphere.

What’s the Value?

At $25, this tour offers a pretty accessible window into Nashville’s storied past, quirky spots, and ghostly legends. The fact that the tour is guided by locals with firsthand experiences makes it more engaging than just wandering on your own with a guidebook. Plus, the small group size enhances the chance for questions and personal stories.

One thing to note is that most of the locations are free to enter, which helps keep costs down. The $25 covers the guide, stories, and the experience itself rather than entry fees, which makes it a good deal, especially for those traveling on a budget.

That said, some reviews point to organizational hiccups, like guides not showing up or delays. It’s worth arriving a little early and being patient. Also, the tour doesn’t include drinks, so plan on purchasing beverages at each stop if you want to sip along.

Who Is It Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy stories—both historical and ghostly—and prefer a laid-back, social atmosphere. It’s great for those new to Nashville, wanting a quick overview infused with local lore, or anyone intrigued by the city’s darker, mysterious side. It’s not a heavy haunted house experience, but rather a narrative walk with some drinks and lively conversation.

People who appreciate small groups and personalized storytelling will likely find this a charming addition to their Nashville trip. If you love exploring overlooked alleys and hearing tales from locals, this tour might be right up your alley.

Final Thoughts

The Spirits of Nashville Haunted Pub Crawl offers an entertaining way to experience Nashville’s haunted stories and some of its most iconic spots. It’s a tour that values local insight, blending history with ghostly tales in a casual setting. While organizational issues have been reported, the overall value and authenticity make it worth considering—especially if you’re into Nashville’s music scene, local legends, and spooky stories.

This tour is particularly good for curious, social travelers who want to see some hidden corners of the city without committing to a long, expensive excursion. It’s a good mix of fun, history, and a little bit of the mysterious side of Nashville.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
Yes. Alcohol isn’t included in the price, and the tour mainly features stories and visits to iconic spots. You can choose to skip drinks and still enjoy the narrative.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, making it a manageable activity in your evening.

What’s the meeting point?
You’ll gather at 162 Printers Alley, a lively area in Nashville. The tour ends a bit further up the street, near many bars and eateries.

Are tickets available on the day of the tour?
It’s recommended to book about 30 days in advance, as it tends to fill up, especially during peak times.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour appropriate for families or children?
No, the tour is for guests 21 and older, mainly because of location and alcohol-related aspects.

Will we see inside the buildings?
Most stops are outside or in public areas; the tour focuses on stories and the atmosphere rather than inside access.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if it’s canceled due to rain or other issues, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 20, which keeps things intimate and manageable.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Nashville’s history?
Absolutely. Guides are locals with years of experience and firsthand paranormal encounters, adding credibility and color to the stories.

If you’re curious about Nashville’s less seen side, love a good story, and want to keep things relaxed and fun, this haunted pub crawl could be a memorable part of your trip. Just go in with an open mind and a sense of adventure.