San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re looking for a way to combine a bit of history, a dash of spooky stories, and some good drinks, the San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl might just fit the bill. This tour offers a cozy, personalized way to explore downtown San Antonio’s dark past while enjoying a drink at some of the city’s most iconic bars. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and the experience outline, it seems to be a solid choice for those who love history with a side of ghost stories and a lively night out.

What we really like about this tour is the personalized approach—it’s a private experience, so you won’t be lost in a massive crowd, and your guide can tailor the storytelling to keep things engaging. Plus, visiting historic venues like Pat O’Brien’s and the St. Anthony Hotel makes it both fun and culturally rich. The price point of $29.99 per person also suggests it offers good value—especially considering the small-group vibe and the chance to continue your night on your own after the tour.

That said, there is one aspect worth considering: the tour’s pace and structure. Some reviews mention it being a little rushed, with stops that feel brief or sometimes outside bars, rather than inside, which can detract from the overall experience. If you’re someone who enjoys a relaxed pace with ample time to soak in stories and sip your drinks, this might be a minor drawback. Also, note that the tour is limited to most travelers and is best booked about 12 days in advance to secure your spot.

The Haunted Pub Crawl seems ideal for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and those wanting a fun, guided night of exploring San Antonio’s darker side. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy storytelling, a lively atmosphere, and a bit of spooky intrigue layered into a city stroll.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private tour offers a more tailored and intimate setting.
• Historic Venues: Stops include renowned bars like Pat O’Brien’s and the Cowabunga Bar, adding cultural flavor.
• Spooky Stories & History: Guides share tales of soldiers, outlaws, and ghostly happenings, blending history with ghostly legend.
• Good Value: At $29.99, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy an evening with drinks and stories.
• Tour Dynamics: Some guests find the pace a bit rushed, with brief stops outside bars and outside-the-building storytelling.
• Continuing the Night: After the tour, you’re free to stay and explore San Antonio’s nightlife at your leisure.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Stop 1: Pat O’Brien’s at 121 Alamo Plaza

Our journey begins at Pat O’Brien’s, a bar that transports you straight to New Orleans’ Big Easy. Originally a NOLA favorite, it has all the charm of a lively jazz club, with catchy drinks and a welcoming vibe. You’ll get a chance to buy a drink here, which is recommended if you want to add a bit of liquid courage to your spooky stories. The experience here lasts about 24 minutes, and the spot is perfect for setting the mood with its lively yet historic atmosphere.

Reviewers mention this stop as a fun way to kick off the night, though some felt the time was a bit short—”We did miss the last bar because we were still finishing our cocktails,” one reviewer noted. Still, it’s a great intro to the tour’s mix of history and ghostly tales.

Stop 2: The Alamo at 300 Alamo Plaza

Next, you’ll gaze upon the iconic Alamo, but the real star here is the story your guide will share about its haunted past. It’s a short stop, about 24 minutes, but the tales of fallen soldiers and lingering spirits add a spooky layer to this historic site. You might find yourself looking at the Alamo with new eyes, imagining the stories that echo through its walls.

A reviewer said, “Our guide provides a ghostly tale of the history surrounding this location,” which hints that the storytelling adds depth to the sightseeing. It’s a quick visit, but the stories are what make it memorable.

Stop 3: Oro at Emily Morgan Hotel at 705 E Houston St

Here, you’ll stop at Oro, a top-tier cocktail bar located inside the Emily Morgan Hotel, known for its haunted reputation. The ambiance is upscale, with a cozy vibe that’s perfect for hearing about the ghostly history linked to the hotel. You’ll have about 24 minutes here to enjoy a drink and listen to chilling tales about paranormal activity in this historic building.

Guests often say this stop enhances the spooky mood, and the stories about the hotel add a supernatural layer to your night. It’s an elegant setting that makes the ghost stories even more compelling.

Stop 4: Texan II at 114 Jefferson

This casual spot is a favorite among locals, offering a relaxed atmosphere for your next drink. The Texan II provides a laid-back environment for soaking in the stories of hauntings and local legends. Again, the stop lasts around 24 minutes, giving you a chance to chat with your guide and fellow travelers.

Reviewers mention this as a good balance of fun and storytelling, although some feel the stop could be longer. Still, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy some local flavor.

Stop 5: Cowabunga Bar at 300 E Travis St

The tour wraps up at the Cowabunga Bar inside the historic St. Anthony Hotel. This stop is particularly notable because of the haunted reputation of the hotel, with ghost stories swirling around its halls. Here, you’ll have your final chance to buy a drink and hear about the legends of paranormal activity at one of San Antonio’s most storied hotels.

The tour ends around 24 minutes after this stop, and you’re then free to continue exploring or head back to your accommodations. Guests have praised the storytelling here, describing guides as engaging and knowledgeable.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

The San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl balances history, storytelling, and a bit of spooky fun. Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm—”Eli was the best guide we’ve ever had,” one reviewer raves. The stories range from ghostly soldiers to legendary outlaws, making each stop feel like stepping into a living ghost story.

Most guests appreciate the small-group atmosphere, which fosters engagement and makes for a more personalized experience. You’re not just listening to a spiel; you’re part of a narrative that brings the city’s haunted past to life. The inclusion of drinks adds an extra layer of enjoyment, although reviews suggest you’re not obligated to buy alcohol at every stop—just a suggestion for those wanting to embrace the experience fully.

However, some reviews point out that timing can be tight. A few found the stops rushed, especially if they were still finishing their drinks when moving on. For example, “We missed the last bar because we were still finishing our cocktails,” one unhappy guest remarked. So, if a relaxed pace is your style, this might feel a little hurried.

Guides and Their Role

Guides like Richard, Eli, and Zach are often highlighted for their storytelling skills and enthusiasm. Guests describe them as personable, knowledgeable, and passionate about San Antonio’s stories—”Eli was amazing, so personable and energetic,” says one review. Their ability to weave history with spooky tales is what elevates the experience from a simple pub crawl to a memorable night out.

The Value and Cost

For $29.99 per person, the tour offers a good deal—covering multiple stops, engaging storytelling, and access to some of the city’s most historic bars. Considering the private nature of the tour and the quality of the venues, the value seems solid. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, you can plan confidently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history lovers, ghost story enthusiasts, and those seeking a fun, guided way to enjoy San Antonio’s nightlife. It’s suitable for travelers who don’t mind a quick-paced evening and are okay with outside storytelling at some stops. If you enjoy a mix of culture, history, and a little supernatural spookiness, this tour should be on your radar.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl offers a charming and engaging way to explore the city’s darker side. You’ll get to walk through historic landmarks, listen to stories that bring the past alive—and do so in a small, private group where the guide’s enthusiasm really shines. The stops at iconic bars and haunted hotels make the experience memorable, especially if you appreciate a good ghost tale with your cocktail.

However, the pace can be brisk, and some may prefer more time inside each venue or a less rushed experience. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a lively, story-filled evening and enjoy hearing about local legends from passionate guides. Overall, it’s a fun, reasonably priced tour that balances entertainment with a touch of history, perfect for a night out in San Antonio.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
This tour is designed as a nightlife experience, focusing on bars and ghost stories often aimed at adults. It’s not particularly family-friendly, especially with alcohol involved, and the stories might be too spooky for young children.

Do I need to buy drinks at each stop?
Buying drinks is optional. The tour provides the opportunity to purchase a beverage at each venue, but it’s not required. If you prefer just to listen and enjoy the stories, you can skip buying drinks.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with each of the five stops lasting around 24 minutes. Keep in mind that the timing might feel a bit tight, especially if you’re slow to finish your drinks.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Hipolito F. Garcia Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse at 615 E Houston St and ends at the Cowabunga Bar inside the St. Anthony Hotel.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours will not be refunded.

What if some bars are closed?
Some guests note that certain bars might be closed on specific nights, like Sundays. To get the full experience, booking on a Saturday is recommended for access to all planned venues.

If you’re after a fun, story-rich night that combines San Antonio’s history with a few ghostly tales, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a lively pace and a good dose of spooky stories to keep you entertained.