Ghost Bus Pub Crawl

Introducing the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl in San Antonio

If you’re curious about San Antonio’s spooky legends but prefer a relaxed, fun approach rather than a walking tour, the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl might just be your new favorite way to explore. This tour offers a unique blend of history, ghost stories, and cold drinks—all without the sore feet afterward. Instead of trekking from bar to bar, you’ll hop onto a comfortable, air-conditioned bus that whisks you around some of the city’s most haunted and historic spots.

What really caught our interest is how seamlessly this experience combines entertainment and education. Plus, being rated one of the top ghost tours nationwide by USA Today for five years running is a solid sign of quality. A second highlight? The fact that it’s designed as an easy-going night out—no walking, no sweating, just relaxing and enjoying some stories with friends or fellow travelers.

On the flip side, one aspect to consider is that alcoholic beverages are not included in the ticket price, so you’ll need to plan for that separately. Also, it’s best suited for those who like a good story, a bit of history, and a relaxed evening rather than an adrenaline-pumping ghost hunt. Overall, if you’re after a mix of spooky tales and social fun, this tour could be just right.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy ghost stories, historic spots, and a comfortable, social atmosphere. If you’re visiting San Antonio and want to experience something different from the usual sightseeing or walking tours, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: No walking involved; the tour is conducted on a fully air-conditioned bus.
• Historic & Haunted Spots: Visits include some of San Antonio’s most iconic and haunted locations.
• Informative Guides: Lady Lex and Robert are praised for their care and entertaining storytelling.
• Flexible Duration & Price: Around 2-3 hours, costing $62 per person, offering a relaxed evening experience.
• Inclusive Stops with Tickets: Entry fees at each stop are included, but drinks are separate.
• Limited Group Size: Up to 33 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging atmosphere.

Deep Dive into the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl Experience

What’s the core appeal?

This isn’t your average ghost tour. Instead of wandering the streets on foot, you’re comfortably seated in a bus that’s part tour vehicle, part social hub. When we think about how this enhances the experience, it’s the perfect setup for those who want to enjoy chilling stories without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets or sore feet at the end of the night.

The tour’s two-hour to three-hour duration makes it a great evening activity—long enough to soak in several stories and stops without feeling dragged out. Plus, the air-conditioned bus ensures you stay comfortable, even during hot Texas nights.

How is the itinerary structured?

The tour hits three notable locations, each adding its own flavor to the haunted experience.

Stop 1: Menger Bar
This is the oldest bar in Texas, dating back to 1876. It’s steeped in history and has seen numerous stories of ghostly activity. The admission here is included, and the 30-minute stop allows ample time to soak in the atmosphere, snap photos, and enjoy the historic vibe. Guests have noted that this stop sets a great tone for the evening and offers a glimpse into the city’s past.

Stop 2: Southtown House of Spirits
A Victorian-era bar with a séance theme, opened on Halloween 2024. Sitting upstairs in a second-floor space, it offers a blend of history and a slightly mystical mood. The included ticket makes it easy to explore without worry about extra costs, and the stories told here tend to lean into the spirits’ theme—both ghostly and alcoholic, though drinks aren’t included.

Stop 3: Hotel Havana
Built in 1914, this boutique hotel on the River Walk is renowned for its vintage charm and haunted tales. Legends whisper of ghostly visitors lingering in the vintage furnishings. The 30-minute stop here is a highlight for many, with stories that blend history and ghostly lore.

What do the reviews say?

From what we gathered, guests generally rave about the guides. One reviewer mentioned, “Lady Lex and Robert took very good care of us,” emphasizing how the guides added a lot of value to the experience with their storytelling and care. Another reviewer loved that it was an unexpected mix of entertainment and oddities, mentioning the inclusion of tarantulas, which surprised and delighted them.

The tour’s value is reinforced by the fact that tickets include entry to each stop, making the $62 fee quite reasonable considering you’re not paying extra for each location. However, since drinks are not included, if you’re looking to enjoy a few cocktails, be prepared to purchase those separately.

What about the logistics?

Starting at the Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours & Oddities Parlor at 8:00 pm, the tour lasts around 2 to 3 hours. The meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, and the bus drops you off outside Morton’s Steakhouse behind the Menger Hotel—so it’s easy to plan your evening around this experience.

With a maximum of 33 travelers, the group stays intimate enough for personalized stories, yet lively enough for socializing. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but if you’re sensitive to cold or heat, note the bus is air-conditioned, which might be a bonus in the Texas heat but could feel chilly for some.

How does the price compare to the experience?

At $62 per person, this tour offers good value when you consider the included stops and guided storytelling. The convenience of transportation and the historic sites make it a more relaxed alternative to walking ghost tours, especially for those who prefer not to endure long walks or intense crowds. Plus, the limited group size means you’ll get more personal attention from your guides.

Why might this tour be perfect for you?

If you enjoy ghost stories and history but prefer to sit back and relax while learning and listening, this tour hits the spot. It’s also great if you’re looking for an evening activity that combines entertainment with a bit of local legend. And, since it’s designed as a fun night out rather than a serious, spooky investigation, it’s suitable for travelers who want some lighthearted scares and stories.

Potential downsides?

The main consideration is that alcoholic drinks aren’t included, so if you want to enjoy cocktails, you’ll need to budget for those separately. Also, if you’re not a fan of bus rides or prefer more immersive or interactive ghost hunts, this might not be your first pick.

Final thoughts: Who is the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl best for?

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy history, ghost stories, and social experiences but prefer a relaxed setup. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or small groups wanting to enjoy a comfortable evening learning about San Antonio’s haunted past. If you’re into ghost lore but dislike walking long distances or prefer an easy-going night, this tour aligns perfectly with those preferences.

Travelers who value storytelling and a little local charm will find this both entertaining and informative. It’s a great way to see some historic sites without the pressure of a traditional walking tour, all while enjoying a few drinks and good company.

FAQs

Is alcohol included in the tour? No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You’ll need to purchase drinks separately at the stops if you want to enjoy a cocktail or two.

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, giving enough time to visit three locations and listen to their stories without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins at Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours & Oddities Parlor at 8:00 pm and ends outside Morton’s Steakhouse behind the Menger Hotel.

Is this tour suitable for children? The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it involves stories about haunted locations and a pub crawl atmosphere, it’s likely better suited for adults or older teens.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Beyond that, the full amount isn’t refunded.

Who operates this tour? It is run by Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours, known for their engaging ghost experiences in San Antonio.

What’s included in the ticket price? Your ticket includes a local tour guide, entry to three historic stops, and transportation on an air-conditioned bus.

Is this tour family-friendly? The tour is geared more toward adults interested in ghost stories and history, so it might not be suitable for young children or sensitive travelers.

If you’re looking for a laid-back, story-filled night exploring San Antonio’s haunted places, the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl offers a fun and comfortable way to do just that. With friendly guides, historic locales, and a social vibe, it’s a good pick for those wanting a bit of local lore without the fuss. Just plan for drinks separately, and you’re all set for a memorable evening.