Salem: Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl

Salem: Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl — A Spooky Night Out

If you’re heading to Salem and looking for more than just witch souvenirs, the Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively, hauntingly fun way to explore the city’s historic nightlife. For $30 per person, you get about two hours of wandering through 8 historic locations, including 4 pubs and haunted spots, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

The tour stands out for its mix of spooky stories, authentic haunted tales, and the chance to sample Salem’s vibrant drinking scene—without the tour price including drinks, so bring some cash for your poured potions.

What we love most: First, the well-researched ghost stories add a layer of authenticity that elevates the experience beyond a typical pub crawl. Second, the friendly, engaging guides make the tales come alive while ensuring everyone feels included and entertained.

A possible drawback: If you’re expecting a quiet, sit-down experience, this is more active and walking-intensive, with visits to up to 8 locations and flexible times at each. Also, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or under 21, so plan accordingly.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love a mix of history, ghost stories, and lively socializing. Solo travelers, groups, or couples looking to meet new people will find this a perfect way to enjoy Salem after dark.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Haunted Stories: Well-researched, engaging tales make history come alive.
• Vibrant Salem Nightlife: You’ll visit popular spots like Mercy Tavern and Rockafellas, experiencing the city’s lively atmosphere.
• Flexible Itinerary: Between 15 minutes to an hour at each location, allowing you to soak in the ambiance.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Jenn, Kristen, and Mason are praised for their storytelling and friendliness.
• No Drinks Included: Budget extra for beverages, which are available at each pub.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

A Full Look at the Salem: Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl

Salem’s reputation as the birthplace of witch hysteria blends perfectly with its lively modern nightlife, making this tour a fascinating mix of history, hauntings, and happy hour. Starting at East India Square, the meeting point is easy to find—your guide wears a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and carries a lantern, creating a fun, slightly spooky vibe even before the tour begins. Arrive 15 minutes early to settle in and get ready to explore.

The Itinerary and Venues

The tour visits up to four pubs, among them favorites like Rockafellas, Village Tavern, and Mercy Tavern, each with its own character. For example, Mercy Tavern is not just a lively spot but also a place where you might mingle with the ghosts of bootleggers—a story that captures Salem’s shady past. The stops are spaced out with interwoven haunted locations, contributing to the eerie atmosphere that makes Salem so special.

Each venue is allocated between 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the season and day. This flexible timing allows for casual mingling, enjoying drinks, or soaking in the ambiance. It’s worth noting that drinks are not included, so budget extra cash for your favorite cocktails or mocktails. The tour ensures you get a good mix of historic taverns and lively bars, giving you a taste of Salem’s nightlife.

The Ghost Stories

One of the tour’s highlights, according to reviews, is the storytelling skill of guides like Jenn, Kristen, and Mason. They bring Salem’s haunted reputation to life with research-backed stories, some humorous, others chilling. For example, travelers like Nicole from the UK mention her guide “created a great vibe, keeping the whole group entertained and informed.”

Others praise the authenticity of the tales, with Mason being described as “very knowledgeable” and Kristen as “extremely passionate about Salem’s haunted spots.” The stories often include local legends, secret tunnels, and tales of murder and witchcraft, giving the experience a genuine sense of stepping back into Salem’s mysterious past.

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Atmosphere and Group Dynamics

The tour tends to attract a friendly, fun-loving crowd, often mixed with solo travelers, couples, and groups of friends. Many reviews highlight how guides excel at creating a welcoming atmosphere. Macy appreciated her tour as a solo traveler, saying, “I basically got a private tour and enjoyed it a lot.”

The small group size (usually around the number of people in your booking) means everyone gets a chance to ask questions and interact, which enhances the overall fun. Guides like Lou and Jena are praised for their personality and ability to connect, making the experience feel more like sharing stories with friends.

The Value Proposition

At $30, you get a well-structured, entertaining experience that combines history, ghost stories, and lively socializing. Considering the quality of guides, the interesting venues, and the authentic tales, this tour offers excellent value compared to pricier, less interactive alternatives. Keep in mind, drinks are extra, so budget accordingly to enjoy the full experience.

What’s Not to Love?

The main limitation is that this is a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s also not suited for those with mobility challenges or under 21. Plus, the tour’s flexible schedule means some stops could be brief, which might leave those craving more in each location wanting a longer visit.

Who Should Sign Up?

This experience appeals most to history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and social travelers who enjoy a spirited night out. If you want to meet new people and learn about Salem’s darker tales in a relaxed, informal setting, this will be right up your alley. Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and authentic stories will find the tour especially worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

The Salem: Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl is a perfect blend of history, haunted tales, and nightlife. Its focus on well-researched stories and engaging guides makes it stand out from other pub crawls or ghost tours. The inclusion of popular Salem venues, combined with the spooky vibe, results in a memorable evening.

If you’re heading to Salem and want to experience its lively spirit after dark, this tour delivers a fantastic mix of fun and fright. It’s best suited for those who enjoy interactive storytelling, aren’t fussed about including drinks in the price, and want a social, authentic way to explore Salem’s haunted reputation.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers find this tour to be a great way to meet people and enjoy an engaging experience with friendly guides.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll want to bring extra cash to enjoy beverages at each pub.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 2 hours, visiting up to 8 historic locations.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but check with the provider if you have specific mobility needs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since Salem’s streets can be cobbled and uneven.

Can I participate if I’m under 21?
No, the tour is not suitable for those under 21.

Are the ghost stories suitable for children?
The stories are designed for adult audiences and may be spooky or mature, so discretion is advised for children.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour available rain or shine?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

How do I find the guide?
Look for the guide wearing a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and carrying a lantern, waiting at East India Square 15 minutes before the start.

In summary, the Salem Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl offers an engaging, authentic, and social way to experience Salem’s haunted history. It’s perfect for those ready to combine a little fright with a lot of fun and some lively drinks. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends, you’ll leave with stories—and maybe a few ghostly impressions—that will stay with you long after the night ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: