Planning a night out in Philadelphia that combines a little history, a dash of the supernatural, and some good drinks? This haunted pub crawl might just be your kind of adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of ghost stories, or just someone after a fun, atmospheric evening, this tour promises a mix of both chilling tales and lively pub vibes.
What really works here are the engaging guides who bring the stories alive and the variety of venues, each with its own unique character. Plus, the tour offers a great way to explore some of the city’s historic spots while stirring up a little spooky fun. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that drinks aren’t included, so you’ll be paying extra at each stop, and the tour’s pacing might feel a bit uneven depending on the season.
This experience is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of history and suspense, along with a relaxed evening of socializing. If you’re in town and looking for something different from the usual sightseeing, or if you love ghost stories paired with a good drink, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Authentic stories and credible history make this tour both fun and informative.
- Atmospheric venues like The Independence Beer Garden and The Revolution House each add their own charm.
- Guides are knowledgeable, making the tales engaging and memorable.
- Flexible timing at each stop allows for relaxed conversations and enjoying your drink of choice.
- Price point of $30 offers a reasonable way to combine history, spooky tales, and nightlife.
- Not included are drinks, so budget extra if you plan to indulge at each pub.
What to Expect on the Haunted Pub Crawl
Starting at 7:00 PM from outside the Independence Beer Garden, the tour guides you through four distinct pubs, each with their own vibe and ghostly tales. The venues include The Independence Beer Garden, JJ Bootleggers, The Plough & the Stars, and The Revolution House.
Each stop offers somewhere between 15-60 minutes to soak in the atmosphere, chat, and sip on whatever you fancy — craft cocktails, local brews, or soft drinks. The variety ensures you’ll experience a range of historic and modern settings, from rustic to stylish. The stories shared by your guide are crafted from credible, well-researched history, peppered with genuine ghostly encounters.
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The Venue Vibes
The Independence Beer Garden is a lively, outdoor-friendly spot with a historic feel. It’s a perfect starting point, where the atmosphere is casual but tinged with stories from the past.
JJ Bootleggers offers a more intimate vibe, with plenty of character—think vintage decor and cozy corners—where ghostly legends have been shared over the years.
The Plough & the Stars brings a rustic pub appeal, often bustling but with enough quiet nooks to hear the tales.
The Revolution House blends historic significance with a welcoming pub scene, ideal for those interested in Philly’s revolutionary past and its haunted whispers.
The Stories and Atmosphere
The stories shared by guides are what elevate this experience beyond just pub-hopping. As you move from one venue to another, the guide will tell you about Philadelphia’s haunted past, recounting tales of ghostly encounters and mysterious happenings.
One reviewer described the guide as “great,” noting that they even shared personal experiences and took attendees to some new historic sites they hadn’t seen before. That personal touch can make the stories even more compelling, creating a sense of connection to the city’s history and hauntings.
While the stories are spooky, they’re also rooted in real history, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience. The combination of credible history and ghostly tales keeps things interesting whether you’re a skeptic or a believer.
The Practicalities
The tour lasts about two hours, making it manageable without feeling rushed. You should arrive 15 minutes early to check in, especially since your guide will be easy to spot, wearing a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carrying a lantern.
The meeting point is convenient — outside the Independence Beer Garden at 100 S Independence Mall West. The tour runs rain or shine, so dress weather-appropriate and wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking around.
While drinks aren’t included, you’ll find plenty of options at each pub, allowing you to pace yourself and enjoy the vibe. Expect to spend extra on your drinks, but remember that the tour itself is a affordable way to combine history, ghost stories, and nightlife.
More Great Tours NearbyConsiderations
- Not suitable for people with mobility impairments, given the walking involved.
- No smoking or video recording allowed during the tour.
- You’ll need ID to purchase alcohol.
- The tour is in English, so keep that in mind if you’re not a native speaker.
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The Value and the Experience
At $30, this tour offers a solid value considering the mix of storytelling, local venues, and the chance to see a different side of Philadelphia. The guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging style, making the stories come alive.
Since drinks are extra, you might spend a bit more, but that’s typical for pub crawls. If you’re someone who enjoys combining history with socializing and loves a dash of the supernatural, this experience provides good bang for your buck.
One reviewer summed it up nicely: “It was a very nice experience with history/spooky facts and good drinks & conversations.” That’s exactly what this tour delivers—a relaxed, social, and slightly spooky evening.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy history, ghost stories, and social drinking. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a casual evening with a fun, spooky twist. People interested in local Philadelphia landmarks with a haunted reputation will find this especially engaging.
If you’re in town for a night out and want something that mixes storytelling with lively venues, this is a great pick. However, if you’re after a more intense or in-depth ghost tour, or if mobility is an issue, you might want to explore other options.
FAQs
- How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours, starting at 7:00 PM, ending around 9:00 PM. - Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You can order any drinks you like at each venue, paying on your own. - Where do I meet the tour?
Outside the Independence Beer Garden at 100 S Independence Mall West. The guide will be wearing a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carrying a lantern. - Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s primarily designed for adults; it’s not explicitly family-friendly, especially considering alcohol consumption and walking requirements. - Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. - Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance reservation is recommended to secure your spot. - What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised, as you’ll be walking around. - Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments. - Will I get a chance to see historic sites?
Yes, guides take you to some historic locations and share stories about their haunted past. - What language is the tour in?
The tour is in English.
Philadelphia: Ghosts, Boos, and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a night that blends history, ghostly tales, and a fun social atmosphere, this haunted pub crawl in Philadelphia hits the right notes. The guides’ storytelling skills and the variety of venues keep things lively and interesting. The tour offers a unique way to see the city’s darker side while enjoying good drinks and good company.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who love stories of the supernatural, enjoy exploring local spots, and want a relaxed, entertaining evening. Just keep in mind that drinks are extra, and the walking might be a consideration if you’re not used to that. This experience offers a memorable, spooky twist to your Philly nights—something you’ll probably remember long after the drinks are gone.
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