The Original Haunted Pub Tour

If you’re heading to St. Augustine and love a mix of history, spooky stories, and a little social drinking, the Original Haunted Pub Tour might catch your eye. It’s a two-and-a-half-hour guided adventure through the city’s most infamous haunted watering holes, with stops at a handful of local pubs where you can grab a drink (own expense). We’ve looked into what makes this tour a popular pick—and where it might fall short—so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your visit.

What we really like about this tour is that it offers a personalized experience with small groups, plus plenty of engaging stories about the city’s haunted reputation. The guides seem to know their stuff, and the variety of pubs means you get a good sense of downtown St. Augustine’s old-world charm. On the flip side, some might find the focus on drinking a bit limiting, especially if they’re expecting a traditional ghost tour with more spooky sights. Still, if you’re after a fun, social evening with stories and history, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere and are comfortable with some walking, as well as those curious about haunted legends but not expecting to see actual ghostly apparitions. It’s also ideal if you want to combine a little nightlife with a bit of spooky storytelling—just remember, drinks are on you.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Engaging guides bring stories alive, making history fun and memorable.
• Variety of pubs offers different vibes and atmospheres, adding to the overall experience.
• Drinks are not included, so budget extra for your own beverages.
• Tour length of 2.5 hours strikes a good balance between sightseeing and socializing.
• Good value for the price, considering the stories, a souvenir, and the overall experience.

What to Expect from the Haunted Pub Tour

The tour kicks off at 162 St George St, right in the heart of historic St. Augustine. You’ll meet your guide, who will introduce you to the haunted reputation of the city and its most haunted pubs. The group is limited to 16 travelers, which helps keep the experience more engaging and less rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes, and you’ll visit several pubs throughout downtown. The stops are spaced out just enough to enjoy each place without feeling hurried, and the route is designed to maximize your exposure to both the city’s history and its haunted legends.

While the exact venues may vary from night to night, most are notable for their history and stories rather than just their drinks. Many of the pubs are historic buildings, which adds a certain authenticity to the ghost stories. One of the highlights is the cemetery stop, where your guide might share tales involving a young boy’s photo in a tree—something that’s garnered praise for its authenticity and creepiness.

The Atmosphere at Each Pub

Expect a mix of cozy, intimate bars and more lively spots, each with its own vibe. Some reviews mention that the pubs tend to be quiet and private, making it easier to chat and hear the stories. Others note that some venues might only serve beer and wine, which is typical for many haunted pubs in the historic district—no hard liquor, so plan accordingly.

The guides are consistently praised for their storytelling skills and knowledge. One reviewer said, “Sarah was great. Engaged with everyone and was a great storyteller,” highlighting how important a good guide can be. Another review mentions that “Q took us to some places I’ve never been and shared great stories,” emphasizing how the route can reveal hidden gems in downtown St. Augustine.

The Ghost Stories

While some reviews mention that the focus is on stories rather than seeing haunted rooms or objects, the tales are often lively and well-researched. You might not see actual evidence of hauntings, but the stories are atmospheric and entertaining. Several reviewers loved the storytelling; one called Steve’s stories “great,” and others appreciated the mix of history and personal anecdotes.

Costs and Value

At just under $27 per person, this tour is quite reasonable when you factor in the two-and-a-half hours of entertainment, the souvenirs, and the chance to explore downtown St. Augustine at night. Since drinks are not included, guests should budget extra for their own beverages, though many seem to find the pub stops well-chosen and enjoyable.

The price reflects good value if you enjoy stories, history, and lively social atmospheres. However, if you’re expecting a more sightseeing-focused tour or more active haunted sites, this might not fully meet those expectations.

The Group Experience and Pace

Most travelers find the group size ideal for interaction and storytelling, with a maximum of 16 travelers. The pace is generally relaxed, allowing plenty of time for conversation and to soak in the atmosphere. You’ll walk through the historic district, which means some steps and possibly stairs at certain pubs—be ready for a bit of a stroll.

Guides like Steve, Sarah, and Q seem to genuinely enjoy what they do, often sharing personal experiences and local insights that add a layer of authenticity. One reviewer pointed out, “Q was funny and super knowledgeable about the hauntings,” which shows how engaging the guides can be.

Pros and Cons

The Pros:

• Engaging, knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life
• Small groups create a friendly, personal vibe
• Variety of pubs adds a diverse flavor to the experience
• Good value for the length and content of the tour
• Interesting mix of history and ghost stories with a lively social atmosphere

The Cons:

• Drinks are not included, so budget extra
• The tour focuses on storytelling, not on seeing actual haunted spots or rooms
• Some venues may be limited to beer and wine, which might not suit all preferences
• Not ideal for those expecting a traditional ghost tour with more ghostly sights
• The experience is about social drinking and stories, not haunted investigations

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a fun, social way to explore St. Augustine’s haunted legends with a bit of local history thrown in, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy storytelling, a relaxed atmosphere, and a few drinks along the way. It’s also great for groups of friends or couples wanting a memorable evening out.

However, if haunted sights and ghost-hunting are your main goal, you might find this less intense than some ghost tours. Similarly, if you’re not into drinking or prefer more active or visual haunted experiences, this might not be your top pick.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Haunted Pub Tour

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, it’s designed for adults 21 years and older, primarily because of alcohol and the nature of the pub stops.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll need to purchase your own beverages at each pub.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance won’t be refunded.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as there is some walking involved. The tour involves a short walk through downtown, with stairs at some pubs.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 2 hours 30 minutes, which is perfect for a relaxed evening you won’t feel exhausted from.

What’s the group size?
Maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a friendly and engaging experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 162 St George St and ends at 20 Avenida Menendez, with the final location varying slightly each night.

What’s included in the tour?
A unique haunted pub tour souvenir and the stories. Drinks and food are extra.

How are the guides?
Reviews praise the guides for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging, often sharing personal stories along with historical facts.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Wrapping Up: Is It Worth It?

For those interested in a lighthearted, entertaining evening that combines history, ghost stories, and pub stops, this tour hits many of the right notes. It offers a chance to see downtown St. Augustine in a relaxed, social setting, with seasoned guides bringing local legends to life. The small group size makes it personable, and the mix of stories and venues keeps it engaging.

It’s especially appealing if you’re after a fun night out with friends or a romantic partner, and you don’t mind paying for your drinks separately. If you enjoy stories more than haunted sights, and you’re okay with a little walking, you’ll likely enjoy this experience.

On the other hand, if you’re craving a more intense haunted experience or want to see actual haunted locations, you might want to look for a different type of ghost tour. But for a spirited, social, and fun way to discover St. Augustine’s haunted reputation, this tour generally delivers.

In brief: The Original Haunted Pub Tour offers a unique way to explore the spooky side of St. Augustine while enjoying drinks and lively storytelling. It’s a solid choice for those looking for a relaxed, fun evening filled with local legends and good company.