DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures

If you’re considering a ghost-themed tour in Washington DC, the DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl might catch your eye. It promises a two-hour walk through the city’s most historic and supposedly haunted bars, combining spirits (the drinks and the ghosts) into a lively experience. Designed for groups of up to 15 people, it offers an intimate way to see D.C. at night, while soaking up some spooky tales along the way.

What we love about this tour is the way it balances entertaining storytelling with historic insights. The guides seem well-researched and personable, making the experience feel authentic rather than hokey. Plus, visiting iconic venues like the Old Ebbitt Grill and the Round Robin Bar inside the Willard Hotel adds a real sense of history and ambiance. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the ghost stories can sometimes feel a bit light or forced, according to some reviews, which might disappoint those looking for spine-tingling tales.

This tour is perfect if you enjoy historic bars, a little ghostly lore, and a relaxed, social vibe. It’s not about intense scares but rather a fun way to explore D.C.’s darker stories over a couple of drinks. If you’re into history, architecture, or just a unique way to spend an evening, this pub crawl could be a good fit — especially if you’re traveling with friends or solo and want to mingle.

Key Points

• Intimate small-group experience capped at only 15 participants for a more personal feel.
• A good mix of history and ghost stories, with some stops where the stories are more detailed than others.
• Visit historic bars like Old Ebbitt Grill and the Willard Hotel’s Round Robin Bar, where famous figures and presidents once drank.
• Price point at $36 per person is generally reasonable, considering the historical sites and the guided experience, but drinks are not included.
• Tour’s duration is around two hours, making it a manageable and fun evening activity.
• Some reviews mention the ghost stories could be more compelling, but many appreciate the knowledgeable guides and historic ambiance.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Starting at Old Ebbitt Grill

The tour kicks off at one of DC’s oldest restaurants, a favorite haunt of presidents and political heavyweights. Here, you’ll get a quick introduction to the city’s history, with the added fun of knowing you’re in a place steeped in political and social lore. While drinks aren’t included in the tour price, it’s a chance to sip at a historic spot—if you choose to order.

The Rhodes Tavern and Mark Twain

Next, you’ll visit the site of the historic Rhodes Tavern, which has its own ghostly reputation. Some say Mark Twain haunts this area, adding a literary twist to the ghost stories. You’ll hear about the hauntings without needing an admission ticket, making it more about storytelling than entry fees.

Occidental Grill and the Spirit of DC

The journey continues at the Occidental Grill, another historic bar that’s hosted many political deals. It’s said to be haunted by lingering spirits—a common theme in DC’s oldest watering holes. The stories here might be more intriguing if you’re into the history of political power and the secret deals made behind closed doors.

The Round Robin Bar inside the Willard Hotel

This is probably the highlight for many: sipping a drink in the iconic Round Robin Bar, rumored to be frequented by President Grant. The hotel itself oozes history, and this stop promises a blend of real history and ghostly tales. It’s one of those places where you can imagine past presidents and famous figures enjoying their favorite libations.

The John Wilson Building

Moving to the John A. Wilson building, you get a sense of the city’s layered history. This former streetcar power station is said to be haunted by two workers who died in a fire. It’s a somewhat less-glamorous stop but adds depth to the tour’s haunted narrative.

The National Theatre and the Green Hat

The tour wraps up with a visit to the National Theatre, home to a jealous actor’s spirit, and then a stop at Proper 21 where you can try a classic Gin Rickey—a drink developed right here in DC. It’s a fun nod to the city’s cocktail history and offers a chance to relax at a lively bar. The final stop inside The Hamilton may also reveal sightings of the Man in the Green Hat, another spirit of local legend.

The Experience and Its Value

The guides are often praised for being knowledgeable and personable, making the experience more engaging. Multiple reviews mention how much they appreciated the stories, with some describing their guides as “very knowledgeable” and “great storytellers.” The fact that the tour is research-based lends credibility to the tales, even if some guests felt the ghost stories could be more compelling or haunting.

While the tour doesn’t include drinks, it’s worth noting that the bars visited are historic and often high-end, so you might find the drinks somewhat pricey. Be prepared for the extra expense if you plan to indulge, especially at places where prices tend to be higher.

The 2-hour duration feels just right: enough time to enjoy the stops and stories without it dragging on. The small-group size makes it feel more personal and allows for better interaction with guides.

Price and Value

At $36 per person, the tour is quite reasonable, especially considering the historic venues you visit and the guided storytelling. However, since drinks are not included, you’ll want to budget extra if you plan on ordering cocktails or spirits. Some reviews point out that while the experience is fun and informative, it’s more about the ambiance and stories than a full-on haunted adventure.

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

The tour is designed for a moderate physical fitness level—you’ll be walking between stops, mostly outdoors, but nothing overly strenuous. It’s conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. Service animals are allowed, which is a considerate touch.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and a bit of spooky fun. It’s a great way to see some of DC’s most historic bars, learn about their haunted legends, and enjoy a lively evening out. If you’re a solo traveler, it’s an excellent chance to meet new people, and if you’re with friends, it’s a relaxed way to spend a couple of hours in the city. It’s less about scares and more about stories, ambiance, and a shared sense of fun.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Washington DC and craving an evening of history with a spooky twist, the DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a well-researched, friendly, and engaging way to explore the city’s darker corners. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and personality, and the stops at historic bars add a layer of authenticity you won’t find on a regular sightseeing tour.

While the ghost stories might not blow you away if you’re a seasoned horror fan, they are fun enough to add some mystery to your night. The price is fair, especially considering the city’s historic venues and the personalized experience. Just be prepared to spend extra on drinks if you want to enjoy what the bars have to offer.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who like a mix of history, architecture, and stories with their cocktails. It’s a relaxed, social activity that can add a memorable twist to your Washington DC trip.

FAQ

Are drinks included in the tour price? No, drinks are not included. You’ll need to buy your own beverages at the bars, which can be pricey at some locations.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

Is transportation provided? No, transportation is not included. You’ll walk between the stops, which are all within a reasonable distance in downtown DC.

What is the group size? The tour is capped at 15 participants, ensuring a more personal experience and better interaction with the guide.

Is this suitable for children or families? The tour is designed for adults, especially given the bar stops and ghost stories. It’s best for travelers aged 18 and over.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations later than that are non-refundable.

This walk through Washington DC’s haunted history offers a unique way to spend an evening. With knowledgeable guides, historic venues, and fun ghost stories, it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a memorable, slightly spooky experience in the nation’s capital.