If you’re thinking about exploring Richmond’s darker, ghostly tales while enjoying some drinks, the Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl might be just your thing. It’s a tour designed for those who love a little history with their spirits—literally—and a chance to soak in the city’s haunted streets, all while hopping between some of its most beloved pubs.
What makes this tour stand out are two things we genuinely appreciate: the knowledgeable guides who keep the stories alive and the opportunity to enjoy a variety of local craft beverages. However, a word of caution—some reviews point out issues with consistency and organization, which is worth considering if your expectations lean towards a seamless, worry-free experience.
This tour is best suited for curious history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a fun, slightly spooky night out. It’s not perfect, but for those who love a good ghost story paired with a cold drink, it could be a memorable part of your Richmond trip.
Key Points
- Historical storytelling adds depth to the pub crawl experience.
- Multiple haunted sites enrich the journey through Shockoe Bottom.
- Variety of craft beers and drinks available at different stops.
- Guides can make or break the experience—know that reviews praise some guides, but others have been less engaging.
- Duration is around 2 hours, with time spent at each stop depending on the day.
- Not a traditional bar crawl—drinks are not included, and the focus is on stories and atmosphere.
What is the Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl?
This isn’t your average bar-hopping tour. Instead, it combines Richmond’s haunted history with visits to three of its popular pubs, including craft breweries and local favorites like Patrick Henry’s Pub. Expect a mix of spooky tales, ghostly legends, and some well-crafted drinks. It’s a lively way to explore the Shockoe Bottom district, known for its historic vibe and darker past.
The tour lasts about two hours, usually in the evening, making it perfect for after dinner or as a unique way to wind down your day. You’ll meet outside JewFro, with your guide wearing a black USGA T-shirt and carrying a lantern—setting the perfect eerie tone right from the start.
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The Itinerary: What to Expect
While the exact stops and haunted sites can vary, the general flow is fairly consistent. You’ll visit three bars, which include both craft breweries like JewFro and Richbrau Brewing, as well as local staples such as Patrick Henry’s Pub & Grille.
In each place, your guide will share local ghost stories, often tied to the sites’ historic background. These tales cover everything from civil war spirits and wartime murders to murder-suicides and legendary apparitions. We loved the way these stories lend a sense of authenticity to the experience—they’re told with a mix of humor, respect, and intrigue.
It’s important to note that drinks are not included in the ticket price—you’ll have the chance to purchase and enjoy a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails at each stop. This allows for some flexibility in what you want to sip on, but it also means you should budget extra for beverages.
The Haunted Stops and Stories
One standout aspect is how the tour mixes history with the supernatural. For example:
- A murder-suicide story tied to one of the haunted locations, which is often accompanied by sampling African wine—an unusual twist that adds flavor (literally and figuratively).
- Tales of wounded Civil War soldiers who are said to still linger in some of the historic sites.
- A search for the spirit of Edgar Allen Poe, which involves a fun, tipsy quest at one of the pubs.
Many reviewers mention how the guides bring these stories to life. Sharon called her experience “awesome” and praised her guide, Mars, for being “so knowledgeable and fun.” She also appreciated the walking aspect, which kept everyone attentive and engaged.
Group Size and Guide Quality
The experience’s success heavily depends on the guide. Some reviews highlight guides who are charismatic and lively, making the stories more captivating. One reviewer raved about Tim, saying he balanced “chilling stories with the best jokes,” creating a fun, entertaining atmosphere.
That said, not everyone’s experience was seamless. One guest had a disappointing time when the guide never showed up, and no tour took place—so, it’s clear that consistency isn’t guaranteed. It’s worth noting that the group size can vary; larger groups might limit the interaction or lead to some logistical hiccups. According to the info, groups should ideally be no more than 15, but issues can still arise.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value and Cost
At $30 per person, this tour offers a pretty reasonable way to combine history, ghost stories, and nightlife. Since drinks are not included, you’re free to choose what you want to sip and how much to spend. This might make it feel less “all-inclusive,” but it can also be a plus—you’re not locked into a specific drink package, and you can enjoy quality beverages at your own pace.
Considering the length (just two hours), it’s a good value if you’re interested in storytelling and local culture rather than just drinking. Some reviews, like Allison’s, highlight just how much fun they had, describing guides who were “dressed to impress with lanterns and blood,” which adds to the spooky vibe.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Great mix of haunted stories and local pubs
– Knowledgeable guides add authenticity
– Opportunity to sample local craft drinks
– Suitable for those who enjoy a mix of history and nightlife
– Wheelchair accessible, accommodating more travelers
Cons:
– Experiences may vary depending on the guide
– Not all tours may adhere to expectations (some reviews mention issues)
– Drinks not included, so additional costs are on you
– Not recommended for those with mobility issues or under 21
– Possible group size limitations impacting the experience
Who Would Love This?
This tour is best suited for people who enjoy ghost stories, local history, and a relaxed pub environment. If you’re a fan of Richmond’s historic spots and want a fun, slightly spooky way to explore the city, you’ll likely enjoy it. It’s especially appealing if you don’t mind walking and are open to spending a little extra on drinks.
However, if you’re looking for a perfectly organized, high-end experience, or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. The inconsistent reviews hint at some unpredictability, but the good ones show that when everything clicks, it can be a blast.
The Bottom Line
For around $30, this tour offers a spirited way to uncover some of Richmond’s haunted secrets while enjoying drinks and lively storytelling. It’s perfect for curious travelers, ghost enthusiasts, and those wanting to add a spooky twist to their night out. Just keep in mind that the experience can depend heavily on the guide and group size.
If you’re someone who loves a good ghost story, appreciates local craft beer, and doesn’t mind walking, this could be a highlight of your Richmond visit. Just be prepared for some variability—and perhaps bring along a sense of adventure and humor.
Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for families or children? No, this tour is not recommended for those under 21, and it’s not designed as a family-friendly activity. It’s aimed at adults looking for a spooky, social experience.
Are drinks included in the tour price? No, drinks are not included. You will have the opportunity to purchase beverages at each stop, giving you control over what and how much you want to drink.
How long does the tour last? The tour lasts about 2 hours, with varying time spent at each pub depending on the day and season.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it available to more travelers.
What do I need to bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your ID are recommended. As it takes place rain or shine, dress accordingly.
Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.
What if the guide doesn’t show up? Unfortunately, there’s a risk of guides not arriving, as noted in one review. It’s advisable to check recent reviews before booking to gauge the current situation, as experiences can be inconsistent.
This haunted pub crawl can be a highlight for those who love stories, history, and a good drink, but it’s wise to go in with an open mind and a sense of humor. Keep your expectations realistic, and you might just find yourself swapping ghost stories long after the tour ends.
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