Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: A Deep Dive

If you’re into history, ghost stories, and local pubs, the Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a fascinating way to explore the Shockoe Bottom neighborhood. For just $27.75 per person, this 2-hour walking tour takes you through some of Richmond’s most storied historic pubs, each with a ghostly reputation that adds a twist of spooky intrigue. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour promises stories of haunted buildings, ghostly apparitions, and local legends. It’s a lively way to get a taste of Richmond’s dark side — with a few drinks along the way.

What we love about this tour is its blend of authentic historic locations and engaging storytelling. You’ll visit several notable spots, including the oldest Masonic lodge still in use, the Edgar Allan Poe Museum, and a historic church rumored to be haunted by four ghosts. Another highlight is the chance to sample local drinks like Farmhouse hard cider and African wines, adding a flavorful local touch. Plus, the tour’s small size (max 15 people) ensures you get a more personal experience.

However, a potential drawback is that some reviews mention restrictions like no alcohol or smoking during the tour, and limited access to the pubs. If you’re expecting full bar visits and lively pub atmospheres, it’s worth considering that this might be more of a storytelling walk with stops rather than a party crawl. This experience suits those who enjoy history, ghost stories, and a relaxed pace over a full night of drinking.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Richmond’s haunted spots. It’s especially appealing if you want to learn about the city’s past in a fun, slightly spooky way while sampling some local drinks.

Key Points

• Historic sites with ghost legends: The tour visits buildings with stories of paranormal activity, like the old Masonic lodge and the church with four ghosts.
• Knowledgeable guides: Several reviews praise guides like Mars for their storytelling and engaging demeanor.
• Cultural and local flavors: Enjoy tasting local drinks, such as Farmhouse hard cider and African wines, enhancing the experience.
• Limited pub access: Some customers were disappointed they didn’t get to enter all the pubs, often due to rules about alcohol and smoking.
• Short but rich: The 2-hour length keeps the experience manageable, focusing on quality storytelling and key locations.
• Mixed reviews: While many loved the stories and atmosphere, others found it underwhelming or lacking in ghostly activity.

A Closer Look at the Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Tour

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $27.75, you get a professional, knowledgeable guide, who will take you through Richmond’s haunted spots with well-researched stories and local legends. The tour includes authentic ghost tales about buildings like St. John’s Church and the Edgar Allan Poe Museum, which is housed in the city’s oldest building. You also get to sample local drinks, including Farmhouse hard cider and African wines, which adds a cultural flavor to the experience.

However, food and drinks are not included, so if you’re eager to indulge at each stop, you’ll need to purchase your own. Transportation isn’t provided, so be prepared for a walking tour through historic streets. The tour starts at JewFro at 6:00 pm and ends back at the same spot, making it simple to plan around.

The Itinerary: A Walk Through Richmond’s Haunted Past

Stop 1: Rosie Connolly’s Pub Restaurant
Housed in a building that once served as a Railroad YMCA, Rosie Connolly’s is located in what used to be Richmond’s red-light district. The historic structure lends itself to ghostly tales, and you might feel that extra ‘presence’ while enjoying a drink. Reviewers note it’s a captivating start, with some joking about ghostly hands pouring drinks.

Stop 2: JewFro
This spot is shrouded in superstition, given its location in Richmond’s oldest commercial building. Many businesses have failed here, fueling rumors of a curse. The story of Daniel Denoon, a ghost said to haunt the site, makes it particularly spooky. Nearby, Smith and Foundry offer African wines for tasting, a lovely way to sample local flavors.

Stop 3: The Old Masonic Lodge
One of the world’s oldest Masonic lodges still in operation, this building also served as a hospital during the War of 1812. Ghostly activity here has persuaded even skeptics that something paranormal is happening. The atmosphere is thick with history and mystery.

Stop 4: Edgar Allan Poe Museum
Richmond’s literary legend is celebrated in this museum housed in the oldest structure in the city. Visitors report seeing Poe’s ghost around the house or near his personal belongings — a fitting tribute to the master of macabre tales.

Stop 5: Richbrau Brewing
This stop explores the history of beer in the U.S., and you can sample the house brew after learning about Richmond’s brewing roots. Several reviewers praise the relaxed environment and the chance to taste local beer, making it a highlight.

Stop 6: The Old Church
Built as Richmond’s first church, this site has witnessed many tragedies and is rumored to host four ghosts haunting the cemetery and building. Its dark history adds a chilling dimension to the tour.

Stop 7: Civil War Hospital and Tobacco Store
This site saw over 300 Civil War troops die and served as a hospital. Visitors report ghost sightings and unexplained noises, adding to the eerie atmosphere.

Stop 8: Patrick Henry’s Pub & Grille
The final stop offers Farmhouse Dry Cider, allowing you to taste a colonial favorite. Reviewers mention that if you notice anything odd or a ghostly whisper, it might be the spirits lingering in the historic building.

The Real Experience: Atmosphere and Authenticity

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of historic buildings and engaging storytelling. The guides share legends, some based on local lore, others backed by documented history, creating a layered experience. Many reviews mention guides like Mars, who was praised for being animated and personable, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

While some critics felt the tour was underwhelming or lacked enough ghostly encounters, others appreciated the depth of historical detail and the chance to understand Richmond’s layered past. The mix of haunted tales and local drinks offers a balanced, enjoyable evening — even for those who aren’t die-hard ghost hunters.

Group Size, Timing, and Practicalities

The tour is designed for up to 15 travelers, which fosters a more intimate setting. Starting at 6:00 pm, it’s well-suited for a relaxed evening after a day of sightseeing. The walking isn’t strenuous, but you’ll want moderate physical fitness to navigate the historic streets comfortably.

Because food and drinks are not included, you may want to plan ahead if you’re hungry or thirsty. Also, keep in mind that some locations restrict access, especially regarding alcohol and smoking, which might limit certain expectations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This haunted pub crawl is ideal for history enthusiasts, ghost-story lovers, and those interested in Richmond’s past. If your idea of a fun evening involves a mix of storytelling, local culture, and a touch of the supernatural, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suitable if you prefer small groups and knowledgeable guides to enhance the experience.

On the flip side, if your priority is a lively bar crawl with full pub access and drinking, you might find this experience less satisfying. Likewise, if you’re expecting intense ghost encounters, be aware that some reviews suggest the ghostly sightings are more legends than frequent occurrences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, this tour is not recommended for travelers under 21 years old, due to the nature of the drinks and some locations.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 10 days in advance, and spots can be limited. It’s best to reserve early.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase beverages at the stops, which are optional.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at JewFro, located at 1721 E Franklin St, Richmond, VA, at 6:00 pm.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start. Refunds are not available within 24 hours.

Are the locations accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the tour is near public transportation, making it convenient to reach the starting point.

The Sum Up

The Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a unique blend of history, ghost stories, and local flavors, making it a compelling choice for those curious about the city’s darker past. The knowledgeable guides, like Mars, add personality and depth to the storytelling, bringing Richmond’s haunted sites to life — or perhaps, to ghostly whisper.

While some might wish for more access to pubs or more ghostly encounters, the tour’s real charm lies in its rich narratives and atmospheric locations. It’s a good fit for history buffs, ghost fans, and anyone looking for a fun, slightly spooky evening with a friendly group.

If you’re after an authentic, relaxed experience that combines storytelling, history, and a taste of local drinks, this tour can make for a memorable night. Just keep expectations in check regarding access and ghostly activity, and you’ll find it’s a worthwhile exploration of Richmond’s haunted corners.

Note: Remember to book early, arrive prepared for a walk, and enjoy the stories that bring Richmond’s past to life — or to ghostly whispers.