San Francisco: Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

A Walk Through San Francisco’s Haunted Streets and Historic Pubs

Imagine strolling through San Francisco’s historic districts at night, with a lively guide sharing tales of Gold Rush ghosts, mysterious deaths, and restless spirits. This tour, priced at just $30 per person and lasting two hours, offers more than your average pub crawl; it’s an engaging walk through the city’s eerie past. Starting outside the High Horse Saloon on Washington Street, you’ll visit eight haunted sites, including four distinctive pubs, each with its own character and ghostly tales.

What we love about this experience are the variety of venues—from vintage saloons to modern lounges—and the expert storytelling that makes history come alive. The guide’s ability to weave chilling stories into the ambiance of each pub creates a memorable atmosphere, and the flexibility in how long you spend at each stop allows for a relaxed pace.

A potential consideration is that some pubs may be closed on certain days or seasons, which could slightly alter the experience. Also, drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for additional beverages if you wish to sip while listening to stories.

This tour will appeal most to history buffs, ghost-story enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun, atmospheric evening with a dash of intrigue. If you enjoy a mix of entertainment, history, and socializing, this experience is well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from knowledgeable guides makes the history tangible.
• Varied venues provide different atmospheres, from historic saloons to modern lounges.
• The two-hour duration offers a manageable but immersive evening.
• No drinks included, so plan to purchase beverages at your own expense.
• Flexible stop times enhance comfort and allow for relaxed exploration.
• Suitable for adults over 21 interested in ghosts, history, and lively nightlife.

A Detailed Look at the Haunted Pub Crawl

When considering a tour like this, the first question is often about what makes it special. The San Francisco Haunted Pub Crawl stands out because it’s not just a typical pub crawl—it’s a curated journey into the city’s ghostly legends and historic watering holes. For just $30, you gain access to a 2-hour guided walk that mixes spooky stories with visits to iconic venues.

The Starting Point: Meeting Outside High Horse Saloon

Your journey begins outside the High Horse Saloon, a lively spot on Washington Street. The tour guide, easily recognizable in a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and carrying a lantern, greets you and sets the tone for an evening of storytelling. It’s a practical location since it’s central to many of San Francisco’s historic districts, making it easy for most travelers to join.

The Walk and the Venues

Over the two hours, you’ll visit eight different sites, including four pubs. Each stop offers a unique flavor—think timeless charm, historical significance, and vibrant atmospheres.

• The Old Ship Saloon, built into a Gold Rush shipwreck, is a standout. Its history as a ship’s former saloon combined with ghost stories makes it a visual and narrative highlight.
• The Hungry I, legendary for its entertainment history, also offers a glimpse into the city’s lively past, with spooky tales of spirits lingering after hours.
• The Lions Den Lounge and Bar represents the modern side of the city’s nightlife, where contemporary spirits meet supernatural stories.

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The Stories and Atmosphere

Our guides are the real stars here. As Kathleen noted, her guide Ben took the time to customize the experience based on her interests, sharing stories about spectral hauntings and San Francisco’s dark history. The stories range from tales of restless spirits to mysteries surrounding Jayne Mansfield’s death, adding layers of intrigue.

You’ll spend between 15 and 60 minutes at each venue, depending on the day and season. This flexibility ensures you can soak in the stories without feeling rushed. The atmosphere varies from cozy and historic to lively and modern, depending on the venue, which keeps the experience dynamic.

The Drinking Component

While drinks aren’t included in the price, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to sample local craft beers, cocktails, or soft drinks as you go. This allows you to tailor your experience, whether you’re just here for the stories or want to enjoy a drink or two in each venue.

The Group and Overall Vibe

Groups tend to be small enough to foster a personalized experience, and the guide’s knowledge and storytelling skills greatly enhance the tour. As Tamara from Ireland put it, her guide Taylor was captivating and made the tour entertaining and educational at the same time.

What Makes This Tour Worth It?

This experience offers excellent value. For just $30, you get a guided walk through historic districts coupled with ghost stories, all set in atmospheric venues. The two-hour duration strikes a balance—not too long to tire you out, but enough to feel like a meaningful exploration.

The authenticity of the stories, combined with the varied venues and personable guides, provides a unique blend of entertainment and education. Plus, the tour’s central location makes it accessible and easy to include as part of an evening out in San Francisco.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for adults over 21 who enjoy history, ghost stories, and social outings. It’s perfect for those who want a fun group activity with a bit of spookiness, but without the commitment of a full night out or a more expensive experience. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate stories from knowledgeable guides and want to learn about San Francisco’s dark side in a lively, entertaining way.

Final Thoughts: Is It for You?

If you’re craving a lighthearted yet atmospheric introduction to San Francisco’s haunted past, this tour fits the bill. It’s a well-balanced experience that combines history, storytelling, and social interaction, all in a relaxed, two-hour format. The affordable price point makes it accessible, and the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge add genuine value.

However, if you prefer structured tours with included drinks or are not comfortable in lively pub settings, this might not be your ideal choice. Also, keep in mind that some venues may be closed on certain days, so checking ahead is a good idea.

This haunted pub crawl offers a fun, slightly spooky evening that reveals San Francisco’s mysterious side—perfect for those who love stories and a good drink in historic settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes. The tour does not include drinks, so you can enjoy the storytelling without any obligation to purchase beverages. It’s more about the atmosphere and stories than drinking.

How long do we spend at each location?
Stop times vary from 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the venue and season. This flexibility allows for a relaxed experience and the chance to soak in each venue’s unique vibe.

Are the venues open during the tour?
Most venues are open, but some may be closed on certain days or seasons. It’s worth checking in advance or expecting some variation in the stops.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, as it involves walking between locations and navigating historic venues.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and don’t forget an ID card if you plan to purchase drinks. Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour runs rain or shine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

To sum it up, this San Francisco haunted pub crawl offers a unique way to explore the city’s dark and lively side in one engaging evening. With the guidance of passionate storytellers and visits to historic and spirited venues, it delivers both entertainment and insight. Perfect for those who love stories, a bit of spooky fun, and a chance to socialize in atmospheric settings.

You can check availability for your dates here: