Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures

If you’re headed to Salem and love the idea of combining a spirited night out with stories of the supernatural, the Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl might just be your cup of tea. This experience promises not just a chance to sip craft beverages but also a journey into Salem’s notorious ghostly tales and haunted landmarks. We’ve looked into what this tour offers, and here’s the scoop for anyone considering joining.

What we really like about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides who keep the stories engaging and fun, and second, the stunning nighttime views of Salem, which set a perfect spooky mood. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that some people have found it less scary than expected and a bit hit-or-miss depending on the weather or group size. Still, if you’re into history, ghost stories, and lively pub stops, this tour offers a balanced blend of all three.

This experience suits those with a sense of adventure who enjoy storytelling and socializing over drinks. If you’re looking for a low-key, relaxed way to explore Salem after dark, it’s a good pick. But if your main goal is genuine hauntings or a more intense spooky experience, you might want to keep expectations in check.

Key Points

• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and humor, making the stories come alive.
• The tour visits historic and haunted landmarks, adding a sense of authenticity and local flavor.
• Multiple pub stops allow for enjoying craft drinks and mingling in Salem’s nightlife.
• Weather can impact the experience, particularly if it’s rainy or cold, so dress accordingly.
• Tour length is around 1.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.
• Group size is small, usually up to 20 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere.

What the Tour Looks Like — A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point and First Stop: 87 Washington St

The tour kicks off at 87 Washington Street, a bar with more than just spirits on tap. According to staff, the place has some unexplained phenomena, like glasses shattering when the bar is empty, and feelings of sadness from staff after hours. While some may find these stories a bit cheesy, others love the added creepy vibe. It sets the tone for a night where history and ghostly tales intermingle.

This first stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving you time to settle in, enjoy your first drink, and get introduced to Salem’s dark side. As one reviewer mentioned, “There really wasn’t many haunted things, mostly pub crawl with some history,” but the stories and atmosphere still make it worth the visit.

The Joshua Ward House: An Iconic Haunted Landmark

Next, the group moves to the Joshua Ward House, a site renowned for paranormal activity. This historic building is known for genuine hauntings, and the guide shares chilling accounts from staff and visitors who’ve experienced sensations of unseen presences. This stop’s appeal is rooted in authenticity—if you’re into haunted houses with a real reputation, this is an eye-opener.

Rockafellas Restaurant: A Party Spot With a Haunted Side

The third stop is Rockafellas, a lively bar that’s also said to have its share of unexplained happenings. Staff have reported feeling watched or hearing strange noises when they work late. One reviewer noted, “The staff love the bar, but are bothered by mysterious happenings,” adding a playful layer to the night’s spooky theme. This stop lasts about 30 minutes, offering another chance to relax with a drink and listen to ghostly tales.

A Quaint Book Shop With a Ghostly Past

Later, the tour takes you past a small Salem bookshop, where stories of death and apparitions are shared. Sometimes, you might even glimpse a shadowy figure through the windows. This stop emphasizes Salem’s literary history intertwined with its haunted reputation. The guide’s storytelling here is often described as “chilling,” making it a highlight for fans of ghostly lore.

Village Tavern: The Ground of Last Breath

The final stop is the Village Tavern, built on land said to be the site of many last breaths and restless spirits. It’s not just the bar but the ground it sits on that adds to the eerie ambiance. Here, the tales of lingering spirits are told while guests enjoy a final round, making for a memorable close to the tour.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour costs $27 per person, which is pretty reasonable considering the number of stops, stories, and the local guide’s insights. The price covers all the storytelling and guided visits to haunted landmarks—but you’ll want to bring extra for drinks, as alcoholic beverages are not included. Gratuities are also separate, so if you enjoyed your guide, tipping is appreciated.

A key benefit is the small group size, often capped at 20, which keeps the experience intimate and allows the guide to answer questions and tailor the tales. Plus, the mobile ticket setup means you can just scan and go, easing the start of your spooky adventure.

The Guides and Their Stories

Across reviews, guides like Bella, Mason, Kristen, and Lou stood out for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills. One reviewer said, “Bella added humor to the stories and was very knowledgeable,” while others appreciated guides’ ability to answer questions and keep everyone engaged. The guides help turn what could be just a pub crawl into a fun, spooky storytelling night.

The Atmosphere and Experience

Most guests agree that Salem at night is especially atmospheric, with the streets quiet and the historic buildings casting long shadows. The mood is often described as “eerie,” thanks to the combination of the stories and the setting. However, some have noted that if you’re expecting hardcore scares, you might find this tour more fun than frightening.

Weather Considerations

While the tour runs rain or shine, the reviews highlight that bad weather can impact the fun. One guest mentioned, “It rained hard and was windy, and it was awful,” especially if the weather forces you to sit outside or rush through stops. Dress accordingly, especially in colder months or if rain is forecasted.

How Do Travelers Feel About It?

Based on the reviews, most people rate this experience highly — an impressive 4.7 out of 5 from 130 reviews. Many praise the guides’ storytelling, the fun pub stops, and the local insights. One reviewer summed it up well, saying, “It was just the 2 of us, but Bella did a great job and made it very fun!”

A few less enthusiastic comments note that the tour is not particularly scary, with one saying, “Not so scary, mostly history and pub crawl,” and a couple of reviews mentioning weather issues or that the guide left them briefly to run errands. But overall, the positive experiences far outweigh the negatives, especially when considering the value for the price and the lively guides.

Final Thoughts — Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a lively, story-driven experience with a spooky twist. It’s especially suitable if you’re a fan of Salem’s history, ghost stories, and lively pub atmospheres. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a personalized experience you’ll likely enjoy.

However, if your main goal is a truly frightening or immersive haunted adventure, you might find this more playful than terrifying. Also, be prepared for the weather, especially if you’re doing this in colder months or when rain is forecasted.

All in all, it’s a fun way to explore Salem’s nightlife with a story twist, perfect for locals or visitors looking for a memorable, reasonably priced evening. The mix of historic landmarks and lively taverns, combined with entertaining storytelling, makes this a good choice for a relaxed but engaging night out.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is primarily aimed at adults, especially since it involves pub stops and drinking. There’s no specific mention of family-friendliness, so it’s best suited for older teens and adults.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity to fit into an evening in Salem.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included. You’ll want to budget for additional drinks during the pub stops.

What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, but bad weather might make the experience less comfortable. Dress appropriately and be prepared for outdoor elements.

How many people are in each group?
The tour typically has no more than 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. Last-minute cancellations will not be refunded.

Is the tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed, so if you have one, you’re good to go.

If you’re in Salem and want a fun, story-rich night with some local history and drinks, this pub crawl could be your next memorable adventure. Just don’t forget to dress for the weather and have a good sense of humor about the haunted tales.