Thinking about exploring Philadelphia’s haunted past? This Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a fun mix of history, spooky tales, and a drink or two with a side of ghostly legends. It’s a great option if you enjoy a bit of eerie storytelling mixed with the lively atmosphere of historic pubs.
What we really like about this tour is how it combines authentic historic sites with entertaining ghost stories — and all within a manageable two-hour walk. Plus, the chance to visit the 250-year-old City Tavern and experience a little bit of colonial history while sipping a drink adds a special touch.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues or anyone under 21, so it’s best for adults comfortable with walking and standing. If you’re someone who enjoys stories about the supernatural, history, and a relaxed group vibe, this tour could be just right.
This experience is perfect for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or travelers wanting a different way to see Philly’s historic core. It’s casual, informative, and a little spooky — and definitely worth considering if you’re in the mood for some haunted fun.
Key Points

- Historic & Haunted: Combines storytelling of Philadelphia’s spooky past with visits to iconic sites.
- Authentic Pubs & Sites: Includes a visit to the 250-year-old City Tavern and historic locations like Independence Hall.
- Affordable & Compact: At just $30 per person for 2 hours, it offers good value for a lively walk with stories.
- Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides who share detailed tales and ghostly legends.
- Nighttime Vibe: Usually runs in the evening, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
- Accessible & Flexible: Wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation with advance notice.
An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re into stories that mix ghostly legends with real history, this haunted pub crawl is a solid pick. The tour lasts about two hours, which hits the sweet spot for a quick but engaging evening activity. You’ll meet your guide outside the Independence Beer Garden, where the lantern-wielding guide dressed in a black Ghost Adventures T-shirt sets the tone for what’s to come.
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The Itinerary and What You’ll See
The tour is designed to take you through some of the oldest and most haunted parts of colonial Philadelphia. Your journey begins at the Independence Beer Garden, a lively spot to meet your guide before heading off on foot. From there, expect stories that reveal the city’s darker side, like tales of bloody duels and curses that have supposedly haunted these streets for centuries.
One of the tour’s highlights is visiting Independence Hall, where Benjamin Franklin and Benedict Arnold’s spirits are said to still linger. The guide will share stories of the ghostly presences that supposedly wander the grounds, adding a layer of spooky authenticity to the historic site.
Next, you’ll explore the grounds of the first US Bank and hear how two ironworkers supposedly lifted a curse over the city. These stories are not only entertaining but also give context to the city’s haunted reputation.
Pubs and Historic Stops
A major draw is the City Tavern, which has been welcoming patrons for over 250 years. Here, you’ll get to imagine what it was like during the Constitutional Convention while listening to stories of the founding fathers’ secret spirits. The tour focuses more on storytelling rather than actual drinks included, so plan to buy your own at each stop.
The Eastern State Penitentiary features prominently in tales of daring escapes and ghostly sightings. While you won’t be touring the prison itself, the stories are vivid enough to give you a taste of its haunted reputation. The guide recounts the dramatic escape from this notorious prison, making it a highlight for fans of true crime and ghost stories alike.
How the Tour Feels
What really makes this experience stand out is the guide’s storytelling ability. According to reviews, guides like Steve are highly praised for their mix of historical knowledge and ghostly storytelling. As one reviewer put it, “We had the best time with Steve!! Highly recommend!”
However, not everyone loved the level of character immersion. One traveler mentioned, “The guide being more ‘in character’ would have made it better,” indicating that some may prefer a more theatrical presentation. Still, most found the stories engaging and the guide’s knowledge impressive.
More Great Tours NearbyGroup Size & Atmosphere
Since this is a walking tour, expect a small to medium group, which makes it more personal and easier to ask questions. The tour’s atmosphere stays relaxed, with plenty of time to listen and soak in the stories. The fact that it’s walkable and only two hours long makes it easy to fit into an evening.
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The Cost & Value
At $30 per person, this tour offers pretty good value for a mix of history and entertainment. You won’t find drinks included, but the experience itself — the stories, the historic sites, the fun atmosphere — makes it worth the price. Plus, you get a chance to explore the city’s haunted past without any pressure to buy additional tickets or souvenirs.
Practical Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking for about an hour or more.
- Bring cash for drinks or tips.
- Dress weather-appropriate since part of the tour is outdoors.
- Have your ID handy, especially if you want to buy drinks at the pubs.
- The tour isn’t recommended for people who cannot walk more than a mile or for children under 21.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost pub crawl is a good fit if you’re a history enthusiast with a taste for the supernatural, or just someone looking for a fun night out with friends. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling, historic architecture, and a relaxed, social vibe. It’s less ideal for those with mobility concerns or anyone under 21, as the walking and drinking age restrictions are in place.
If you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group, you’ll likely enjoy the intimate feel and chance to chat with the guide. Families with older children might find it somewhat spooky, but not overly scary, depending on the group and the stories told.
The Sum Up

The Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a genuinely engaging way to discover the city’s haunted spots while enjoying some lively storytelling. You’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides, the chance to explore historic sites, and the fun of hearing ghost stories that keep the night interesting.
While no drinks are included, the tour’s price makes it accessible for many travelers wanting a memorable, spooky experience without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for those who love history with a side of ghostly legends, or anyone looking to add some excitement to their Philadelphia visit.
This tour provides a nice mix of entertainment and education, making it a great option for a laid-back evening outing. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring cash for drinks, and be ready for some stories that might just give you chills.
Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This tour is designed for adults over 21, mainly because of the drinking aspect and the spooky stories. It’s not suitable for children or people with mobility issues.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, typically in the evening, making it a quick but fun activity after a day of sightseeing.
Do I need to buy drinks during the tour?
Drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, so you’ll want to bring cash if you plan to purchase beverages at the pubs.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential since you’ll be walking around the historic streets. Dress weather-appropriate, as some parts of the tour are outdoors.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, which makes it more inclusive.
What is the meeting point?
You meet outside the Independence Beer Garden at 100 S Independence Mall West. The guide will be wearing a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and holding a lantern.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans are not yet solid.
How many people are typically in the group?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s small group size promotes an intimate experience, which most travelers enjoy.
Is this a guided tour?
Yes, you’ll be led by a live guide who shares stories in English, making the experience engaging and informative.
This haunted pub crawl strikes a good balance between fun, history, and spooky storytelling. If those elements appeal to you, it’s likely to be a memorable part of your Philadelphia trip.
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