River City: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re visiting San Antonio and have even a bit of curiosity about its darker corners, the River City: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl could be just the ticket. While I haven’t personally been on this tour, I’ve looked into what makes it stand out, and let me tell you—this isn’t your typical bar crawl. It blends history, ghostly tales, and lively local bars in a way that appeals to those who love a good story as much as a good drink.

One of the things I really appreciate about this experience is the focus on genuine stories and spooky legends. Plus, the tour is relatively short—about two hours—and priced at a reasonable $27, making it an accessible option for a fun evening out. On the flip side, since drinks are not included, you’ll want to budget extra if you’re planning to sample the bars. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a little haunted history, socializing, and don’t mind walking through San Antonio’s historic district at night.

Key Points:
– Engaging storytelling from knowledgeable guides
– Short, manageable tour perfect for an evening activity
– Variety of historic and haunted sites in downtown San Antonio
– Focus on local legends rather than just bar hopping
– No drinks included, so plan for additional costs
– Ideal for culturally curious adults who enjoy ghost stories and history

What the Tour Offers

At first glance, a haunted pub crawl might sound like a fun way to combine nightlife with a spooky twist. But this experience is more than just drinking at some bars; it’s about learning the stories that make San Antonio’s historic spots special—and sometimes a little creepy. For about two hours, you’ll be led through a carefully curated route of notable sites, each with its own ghostly tales and historical background.

What really draws people in, based on reviews, is the expertly told stories from guides who seem genuinely knowledgeable. The experience is described as informal, friendly, and fun, with guides sharing stories that keep everyone engaged. That sense of connection, combined with the stunning photos you might snap at iconic landmarks, makes this tour both educational and entertaining.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Hear

Let’s take a closer look at what each stop involves, because understanding the route will help you decide if this fits your vibe.

Stop 1: Crockett Tavern at 320 Bonham

Your journey kicks off here, where you’ll hear about how this historic tavern was built on a battlefield. It’s a prime spot to start with a little local lore and get into the mood. The guide might share tales of ghostly sightings or strange noises, which are common at old buildings with a turbulent past. The fact that this stop is free to enter is a bonus, and you get about 15 minutes to soak in the atmosphere.

Stop 2: Emily Morgan Hotel at 611 S Presa St

Next, you’ll stop at this iconic hotel, known for its haunted reputation. Guests have reported hearing the phone ring or seeing doors open on their own. The stories here are classic ghostly encounters, adding a touch of the supernatural to a beautifully historic setting. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, but enough to feel the haunted ambiance.

Stop 3: Haunt Bar at St. Anthony’s, 300 E Travis St

This stop introduces a darker story—the Lady in Red cocktail is named after a woman who took her life at this bar after being left at the altar. The guide might recommend you order the signature drink while pondering her story. It’s a poignant, chilling tale that makes the experience more immersive. You’ll spend about 15 minutes here, which is enough to chat, drink, and reflect.

Stop 4: Majestic Theater, 224 E Houston St

One of San Antonio’s oldest theaters, it’s known for hosting spirits—literally. The theater’s long history and reported paranormal activity make it a fun stop for anyone interested in the theater’s past and ghostly legends. The 10-minute window here offers just enough time to appreciate the elegant architecture and spooky stories.

Stop 5: Esquire Theater, 115 E Commerce St

Opened right after Prohibition, this theater has welcomed countless patrons and reportedly many spirits over the years. The stories of ghost sightings and eerie sounds add a layer of thrill to the experience. At 15 minutes, it’s a quick stop but packed with history and ghostly tales.

Stop 6: Sheraton Gunter Hotel

Your final stop involves hearing about a woman buried in wet cement who, since her story surfaced, has been associated with ongoing spiritual activity. It’s a fitting conclusion to a tour that’s heavy on haunted lore, with about 15 minutes to absorb the story.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the $27 ticket, you get an experienced guide, historic stories, and a route through some of San Antonio’s most haunted sites. However, drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring some extra cash or plan to buy drinks at each stop. According to reviews, guides like Amorette really shine, providing both entertainment and insight, making the experience more than just a walk-and-listen tour.

Group Size and Logistics

This tour caps at 20 travelers, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. Meeting at 6 p.m. in downtown San Antonio, the tour is easy to join, especially since it’s near public transportation. It’s a flexible activity, with a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Current reviews paint a pretty warm picture. One reviewer called the tour “wonderful,” highlighting how knowledgeable and prepared the guide was, making it educational as well as entertaining. Another shared that it was a “fun tour with nice bars,” and they loved the scenery and guide so much they couldn’t wait to return. A third reviewer praised the guide, Amorette, for creating a “very fun and informal atmosphere,” with great drink suggestions and loads of info.

These reviews underscore that the tour isn’t just about the ghost stories but also about the atmosphere, the guide’s personality, and the overall vibe. It’s especially praised for its storytelling quality and the scenic stops with historic buildings.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the price—just over twenty-seven dollars—and the experience offered, this tour provides solid value. You’re not just hopping between bars; you’re exploring some of San Antonio’s oldest and most haunted landmarks with a knowledgeable guide who makes the stories come alive. The quick stops mean you won’t spend hours walking, but you’ll walk away with interesting tales and maybe even some ghostly encounters of your own.

If you love history, ghost stories, or just a fun night out with friends, this tour hits the right notes. Keep in mind that drinks aren’t included, so if you want to fully indulge, budget accordingly. Also, if you’re easily frightened or prefer ghost stories in a more quiet setting, this might be a little lively for your taste—but for most, it hits that sweet spot of spooky, social, and informative.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This haunted pub crawl is best suited for adults who enjoy storytelling, history, and a lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for those interested in San Antonio’s haunted places, or anyone looking for a memorable night in the city’s historic district. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with friends or a group, and want an activity that combines fun, learning, and a little thrill.

If you’re traveling solo or with a partner, you’ll likely enjoy the social aspect and the chance to meet like-minded folks. Just remember it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes and an open mind will make your experience all the better.

FAQs

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll have to purchase your own at each stop, so plan for extra cash or cards.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops at six locations in downtown San Antonio.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 6:00 p.m., making it a great option for an evening activity.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
This tour is mainly geared toward adults interested in ghost stories and history. It’s not specifically designed for children.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 320 Bonham, San Antonio, and ends back at the same meeting point.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, keeping the experience intimate and engaging.

Final Thoughts

The River City: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers a compelling mix of dark tales, historic sites, and social fun. It’s especially appealing if you’re curious about San Antonio’s haunted past but want to keep things light and social. The knowledgeable guides, combined with well-chosen stops, make it a memorable way to spend an evening exploring the city’s spooky side.

Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost-story lover, or just looking for an interesting night out, this tour delivers a bit of everything—minus the drinks, which means extra flexibility (and expense). If you’re okay with that, and enjoy a good story told well, you’ll likely have a great time. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and come ready to listen, watch, and maybe even feel a chill or two.

Happy haunting and cheers to a night full of stories and spirits in San Antonio!