Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

Experience Philadelphia’s Haunted Side on the Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Pub Crawl

Imagine wandering through Philadelphia’s atmospheric Old City, where the echoes of history mingle with whispers of spirits from the past. For about $36 per person, you and your fellow adventurers will spend roughly two hours on foot, visiting four historic taverns famous for their ghostly legends. Led by knowledgeable guides and sharing tales of spectral sightings, this tour combines history, storytelling, and a splash of nightlife—a perfect blend for those who enjoy a bit of the supernatural with their socializing.

What we love most about this experience is the attention to detail from guides who really know their haunted Philadelphia. The stories are well-researched, adding an authentic aura to each location. Plus, the tour’s casual group size makes it easy to mingle and make new friends—some even sharing their own ghostly encounters! The opportunity to visit historic sites like Independence Hall and Carpenters’ Hall while enjoying local drinks makes this more than just a ghost story session; it’s a lively, historic pub crawl with a spooky twist.

One consideration to keep in mind is that drinks are at your own expense, and some guests have mentioned that crowd size can vary, with a maximum of 35 participants. Also, at certain stops, guests have noted that background noise can make it a little tricky to hear the guide clearly—something to consider if you prefer more intimate or quiet tours.

This tour suits history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and social travelers who want to experience Philadelphia’s nightlife with a haunted flavor. It offers a lively way to explore the city’s old taverns, learn about their spectral legends, and enjoy some local beverages along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling by knowledgeable guides brings Philadelphia’s haunted history to life.
• Visit historic landmarks like Independence Hall and Carpenters’ Hall, enriching your understanding of the city’s past.
• Enjoy a social, group atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow travelers and sharing ghost stories.
• Drinks are not included in the price, so budget accordingly for beverages at each stop.
• Short stops at each location provide just enough time for a quick drink or snack without feeling rushed.
• Flexible ending location at the Silver Buckle allows for continued mingling or exploring the nightlife.

A Detailed Look at the Haunted Pub Crawl Experience

An Introduction to the Tour

When you sign up for the Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Pub Crawl, you’re signing on for a 2-hour nighttime stroll through Philadelphia’s historic Old City, a neighborhood brimming with colonial charm and tales of the supernatural. Starting at Independence Beer Garden, your guide will meet you there around 7:00 pm, and from there, the adventure begins.

The tour is designed to be a relaxed, social experience—not a full-fledged ghost-hunting expedition. You’ll visit eight stops, each with its own spooky story or legend, and a chance to enjoy local drinks. The tour’s focus is on storytelling and atmosphere, making it suitable for anyone interested in history, ghost stories, or just a fun night out.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Independence Beer Garden
This outdoor spot offers a lively, historic setting on the grounds of an important American site. Guests often report feeling a “sense of spirits” while enjoying a local IPA here. It’s a great introduction, setting the tone with casual chatter and a bit of historical ambiance.

Stop 2: Independence Hall
The birthplace of American independence, this site is rumored to host spectral colonial figures who still pace its halls. The stories evoke images of spirited debates from the founding days, and many visitors find the atmosphere surprisingly eerie, especially after sunset.

Stop 3: American Philosophical Society Museum
A library filled with ancient texts and mysterious whispers, this site is said to harbor phantom voices. Some guests have reported hearing phantom whispers between the stacks—perfect for those who love scholarly ghosts.

Stop 4: Revolution House
Standing on land tied to revolutionary history, this trendy bar is linked to spirits of revolutionaries. Their signature cocktails, like the “Bens Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned,” are a hit, and some patrons swear they feel a ghostly touch or see shadowy figures upstairs.

Stop 5: Carpenters’ Hall
Where the First Continental Congress met, this hall is said to host a mysterious shadowy figure that appears near the entrance before vanishing—an image that’s enough to give even skeptics a shiver.

Stop 6: First Bank of the United States
Rumored to be haunted by Alexander Hamilton’s spirit, this location reportedly has sounds of coins rattling when no one is around—an irresistible detail for history and ghost fans alike.

Stop 7: City Tavern (Museum)
Once frequented by Washington and Adams, this tavern now functions as a museum, but some claim to smell pipe smoke or hear laughter in empty rooms—classic signs of lingering spirits.

Stop 8: The Silver Buckle
This modern moonshine bar boasts a rebellious history, once a hub for bootleggers. Guests have reported phantom footsteps upstairs, giving it an authentic Prohibition-era ghostly vibe.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Each location is allotted roughly 13 minutes, giving enough time to order a drink or snack, listen to the story behind the legend, and soak up the ambiance. The pace is relaxed, and guides often include additional backstories or historical tidbits that make each stop memorable. While drinks aren’t included in the price, the variety of spots—from historic pubs to modern moonshine bars—means you’ll find plenty of options.

Authentic Stories and Guide Expertise

Guests frequently praise their guides for their knowledge and storytelling skills. Jessica, Sadie, and Loren (the guides mentioned in reviews) are noted for making the stories come alive and including additional fun facts about the buildings and history. As one reviewer mentioned, “Loren was knowledgeable and a lot of fun and told some pretty good stories,” highlighting how engaging and informative the guides are.

The Atmosphere and Group Dynamic

This tour tends to attract a friendly, lively crowd, with some guests noting that they met new friends during the walk. The maximum group size is 35, which helps keep the experience intimate enough to hear the guide easily, although some have mentioned noise at certain stops can be a challenge. It’s a perfect setting for socializing and swapping ghost stories with fellow travelers.

Practical Considerations

Remember, drinks are at your own expense, so budgeting for beverages at each stop is wise. Also, since the tour is walking-based, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable. The meeting point is easy to access via public transportation, and the entire experience is designed to be accessible for most travelers.

Value for the Price

At $36, this tour offers good value, especially considering the authentic storytelling and access to historic sites that many travelers don’t usually see on their own. If you enjoy a mix of history, socializing, and spooky legends, you’ll find this a worthwhile addition to your Philadelphia trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re curious about paranormal tales woven into American history or enjoy outdoor social experiences, this tour hits the spot. It’s especially good for those who appreciate guided storytelling and want to explore the city’s historic Old Town after hours. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a full ghost-hunting adventure or those who prioritize quiet, intimate experiences.

FAQs

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included; you’ll need to purchase your own at each stop. Most venues serve a variety of beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately two hours, with each stop lasting around 13 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Independence Beer Garden and ends at The Silver Buckle, giving you a chance to continue enjoying Philadelphia’s nightlife afterward.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults, given the social drinking aspect. It’s best suited for ages 21 and up.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the start point is near public transit, making it easy to reach without a car.

What if I can’t hear the guide at some stops?
Some guests have noted that background noise can make it hard to hear during certain parts of the walk. Attentiveness and a small group help, but earplugs might improve the experience if noise is an issue.

Final Thoughts

The Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a unique mix of history, ghost stories, and lively socializing in Philadelphia’s historic Old City. With guides who truly know their stuff and a well-chosen route through haunted landmarks, it appeals to travelers looking for entertainment with an authentic historical twist.

While it’s not a deep-dive into paranormal investigations, it’s a fun, accessible way to learn about Philadelphia’s spookiest legends in a relaxed, friendly setting. Perfect for history buffs, socializers, or anyone curious about ghostly tales, this tour delivers a memorable, slightly spooky night out.

Whether you’re visiting Philly for the first time or are a seasoned local, this haunted pub crawl offers a spirited way to experience the city’s past—and its ghosts.