Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re looking for a way to explore Boston’s haunted side while enjoying some of the city’s best pubs, the Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively, spooky, and surprisingly educational experience. For $36 per person, you’ll spend about two hours hopping between four historic bars, hearing chilling tales of ghosts, past scandals, and eerie encounters from friendly, knowledgeable guides.

What we like most about this tour is its combination of storytelling and local pub culture—the stories really bring Boston’s history to life, and the pub stops give you a chance to relax and soak in the atmosphere. Two of the key highlights include learning about Boston’s architecture and its more spectral side, as well as enjoying small-group personalized attention that makes the experience more engaging.

One potential drawback is the disappointing inconsistency some guests noted; if the bars are unaware of the tour or the ghost stories seem less ghostly, it might feel a bit underwhelming. Still, if you love history with a dash of the supernatural and appreciate lively storytelling, this tour is a fun way to spend an evening.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy history, ghost stories, and socializing—especially those looking for a lighthearted, entertaining way to see Boston’s historic taverns and hear some spooky tales along the way. It’s perfect for small groups or couples seeking a relaxed, fun night out.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Personalized attention from guides enhances storytelling and interaction.
• Historic Pubs: Four iconic bars, each with its own character and stories, from Irish pubs to political landmarks.
• Haunted Tales: Well-researched stories that bring Boston’s spooky history to life, from Mary Dyer to haunted hotels.
• Flexible and Convenient: Two-hour duration makes it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing.
• Value for Money: At $36, you get stories, drinks, and a taste of Boston’s dark side—great for those on a budget.
• Limited Group Size: Max 15 travelers ensures a cozy, engaging atmosphere.

A Detailed Look at the Haunted Pub Crawl in Boston

Setting the Scene: What You Can Expect

Starting at the Boston Common Visitors Center and ending at the Beantown Pub on Tremont Street, this tour promises a mix of history, ghost stories, and pub hopping. The entire experience is designed to blend entertainment with education—guides share eerie stories about Boston’s past while you enjoy a drink or two (though drinks are not included in the price).

The tour’s duration of around two hours keeps it lively without dragging on, making it a perfect evening activity or a fun break during a busy sightseeing day. The mobile ticket makes booking straightforward, and the small group size guarantees that you won’t feel lost in a crowd, allowing for a more intimate experience.

Exploring the Stops

Stop 1: The 21st Amendment

This historic site, originally built in 1899 as Boston’s most luxurious hotel, offers a glimpse into Boston’s past with a twist of ghostly legend. Once renowned for its luxury and the city’s first “passenger lift,” it was a hotspot for the rich and famous, including rumored visits by John F. Kennedy who was said to write speeches by the fireplace.

Guests often find the stories about its dark corners and ghostly whispers intriguing—although some reviewers note that the bar staff may not be fully aware of its haunted reputation. Still, the atmosphere and history make this stop quite charming.

Stop 2: Emmet’s Pub & Restaurant

Next, you’re whisked away to a true Irish pub, where the warmth of the drink and the convivial atmosphere contrast nicely with the spooky tales. It’s a favorite among participants for its authentic charm and the chance to enjoy a pint amid Boston’s historic streets. The storytelling here often focuses on haunted experiences reported at the pub, which adds to its allure.

Stop 3: The Omni Parker House Hotel

One of Boston’s most haunted landmarks, the Omni Parker House Hotel has stories of tormented travelers and ghostly sightings. The hotel’s long history as a site of social and political gatherings makes it a perfect setting for ghost stories—think of ghosts lingering in the grand halls and haunted spirits seen near the historic rooms.

Stop 4: The Last Hurrah & Beantown Pub

The Last Hurrah boasts a stunningly long bar with an impressive whiskey collection and a sense of political history, having long been a political hangout. Here, the guide shares stories of hauntings and spectral encounters in Boston’s halls of power.

Finally, the tour wraps up at the Beantown Pub, directly across from the grave of Sam Adams himself. Guests often comment on the relaxed atmosphere, and many appreciate the chance to enjoy a Boston-style brew while contemplating the city’s haunted past.

The Stories and Guides

Guests consistently praise guides like Max and Freddie for their knowledge, humor, and engaging storytelling. One reviewer mentioned that Max was “very personable, knowledgeable, and skilled at engaging the group,” which is essential for making ghost stories come alive.

The stories are intense and well-researched, with documented accounts of hauntings and historic events. Some guests, however, felt that not all bars were fully prepared or aware of the ghostly stories—highlighting a possible inconsistency in experience.

The Experience: Value and Atmosphere

The $36 price point offers good value considering the small-group setting, the stories, and the pub stops. It’s a relaxed, informal way to combine history, local culture, and ghostly tales. The two-hour duration is ideal for a night out without feeling rushed or overly long.

Guests love the personal touch—small groups mean guides can tailor stories and answer questions. Plus, the stops are centrally located, making this tour accessible for visitors staying downtown.

Practical Details

• Booking in advance is recommended, with an average booking window of about 24 days.
• The tour is near public transportation, which simplifies getting to the meeting point.
• Physical activity is moderate; walking between stops is manageable, but be prepared for some standing or light walking.
• Drinks are not included in the ticket price, so you can choose your preferred beverages at each pub.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This haunted pub crawl is ideal for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and social drinkers who want a relaxed way to see Boston’s nightlife and hear spooky stories. It works well for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a fun, authentic experience. If you’re expecting scary ghost encounters, be aware that some guests felt the stories weren’t very “ghostly,” but most found the tales engaging and fun.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

If you’re looking for a more intense ghost-hunting adventure or are sensitive to ghost stories, this tour may lean more towards entertainment and storytelling rather than genuine paranormal encounters. Also, if you’re not interested in pub stops or drinking, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

For a cost-effective, lively, and informative way to explore a different side of Boston, this Haunted Pub Crawl hits the mark. It offers a pleasant blend of history, ghostly intrigue, and local tavern atmosphere, all led by guides who enjoy sharing their knowledge and stories.

While it may not satisfy the most dedicated ghost hunters, it’s perfect for anyone wanting a light-hearted yet fascinating introduction to Boston’s haunted taverns and eerie legends. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group interaction and want to combine history with a few drinks in a historic setting.

If you’re in Boston and craving a unique evening that mixes spirits—both ghostly and liquid—this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely, yes. It’s designed for adults who enjoy pub environments and ghost stories. Minors may be allowed but should be accompanied by adults, and alcohol consumption is not required.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll have the chance to purchase beverages at each pub, which are not part of the ticket cost.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately two hours, covering four pub stops with about 15 minutes at each location.

Is transportation provided between stops?
No, guests walk from one pub to another, making the experience quite accessible and easy to follow.

What is the group size?
The tour is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to book about 24 days in advance, as it’s a popular activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and a sense of curiosity. Bring your ID if you plan to purchase alcohol, and dress appropriately for Boston’s weather.

In the end, this tour offers a fun, sociable way to learn about Boston’s haunted past while enjoying some of its historic taverns. Whether you’re a history lover, a ghost enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxed evening out, the Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl provides a memorable mix of storytelling, local culture, and good cheer.