Haunted Pub Crawl

Haunted Pub Crawl in Sitka: A Spooky, Authentic Night Out

If you’re visiting Sitka and craving a night infused with local stories and a touch of the supernatural, the Haunted Pub Crawl might just be your perfect evening. For $75 per person, you’ll spend about two hours exploring some of Sitka’s most haunted locations, all while you mingle with friendly locals and enjoy specially crafted cocktails. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience offers a delicious mix of history, ghost stories, and unique sights that you won’t find in any standard city tour.

What we particularly like about this experience is how intimate and authentic it feels: you’re not just a tourist passing through, but a guest invited into the town’s secretive past. The storytelling is lively and personal, with bartenders sharing firsthand encounters with ghosts, and the tour visits invite you behind the velvet rope to places normally off-limits to the public. Plus, the views and old buildings add a tangible sense of history that makes the stories come alive.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves walking through Sitka’s historic streets and alleys, which may be a bit challenging for those with mobility concerns or limited stamina. It’s also an evening activity, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, atmospheric experience rather than a high-energy night out.

This tour is ideal for curious history buffs, lovers of ghost stories, and those wanting a different way to experience Sitka’s character — especially if you enjoy mingling with locals and savoring exclusive cocktails.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from guides and bartenders with first-hand ghost encounters
• Visits to private and historic sites normally not open to the public
• Specialty cocktails created for each pub stop, adding a unique flavor to the experience
• Short walking segments through Sitka’s streets and alleys, offering scenic views and historic ambiance
• Includes a welcome drink at the private Moose Lodge, enhancing the social atmosphere
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Pub Crawl Experience

An Engaging Introduction at Harrigan Centennial Hall

The tour kicks off at Harrigan Centennial Hall, where you check in and meet your guide. This spot serves as the perfect starting point — a central location with easy access, right in the heart of Sitka. Here, your guide sets the tone with a brief introduction to Sitka’s haunted tales, immediately drawing you into the dark and mysterious atmosphere. The check-in process is straightforward, requiring ID verification to ensure all participants are of legal drinking age. It’s a good idea to arrive a few minutes early to settle in and get acquainted with your fellow ghost enthusiasts.

Exploring the Moose Lodge: A Private Club with a Secret Past

The first official stop is the Moose Lodge, a private club that once served as a clandestine gambling hall during Alaska’s territorial days. This historical setting heightens the sense of stepping back in time. The guide shares stories of soldiers passing through the lodge, many of whom allegedly met their fates within these walls. You’ll love that the lodge’s atmosphere combines cozy exclusivity with a layer of suspense, and the included admission makes this stop both accessible and engaging.

The Fisherman’s Bar: Tales from the Russian Cemetery and Beyond

Next, you’ll head beyond the Russian Cemetery — a site that adds a hauntingly beautiful backdrop to your walk. The Pioneer Bar is filled with fishing photographs, but what stands out are the stories of local characters who still “haunt” the place today. The guide recounts encounters with spirits that have been felt or seen by staff and patrons over the years. This stop offers a genuine glimpse into Sitka’s maritime roots and how these stories persist in the collective memory. Best of all, it’s a free stop that’s rich in atmosphere and local color.

Ernies Old Time Saloon: The Scene of a Historic Murder

The story intensifies at Ernies Old Time Saloon, the location of a notorious late 1800s murder. While enjoying expertly crafted cocktails, you’ll hear tales of ghostly activity linked to this dark chapter of Sitka’s past. The historic ambiance, combined with the chilling stories, makes this stop a highlight. The fact that the saloon is still active today adds to the authenticity, and you might find yourself glancing over your shoulder, wondering if the spirits are listening.

Winding Through Sitka’s Haunted Alleys

The final part of the tour takes you through Seward Street, a network of back alleys with a reputation for ghostly encounters. Your guide points out a few buildings with haunted histories, sharing stories of those who passed away over a century ago. The views of Sitka’s harbor and old buildings lend a visual layer to the stories, making this winding walk both scenic and spine-tingling. It’s a gentle way to conclude the tour and reflect on what you’ve heard and seen.

Why This Tour Provides Good Value

While the $75 price might seem steep at first, consider what’s included: access to private venues, specialty cocktails, and the storytelling of local residents—an experience that’s both entertaining and educational. The tour’s small-group format ensures personalized attention, making it more engaging than a large, impersonal walk. Plus, the combination of scenery, history, and ghost stories offers a well-rounded glimpse into Sitka’s character.

The Guide and Atmosphere

Guests consistently mention how knowledgeable and personable the guides are, which is crucial for a storytelling tour like this. A good guide makes all the difference, turning ghost tales into stories you actually believe — or at least find fascinating. The night’s atmosphere is enhanced by Sitka’s historic architecture and scenic views, making the stories all the more compelling.

Authenticity and Unique Access

One of the tour’s major selling points is the access to “invitation-only” haunted sites. These are places normally closed to the public, giving you a rare glimpse into Sitka’s secret past. This exclusivity adds a layer of thrill, and the stories shared within these locations feel more real because of the setting’s authenticity.

Practical Tips for Participants

Since the tour involves walking and standing for about a half-mile, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Wearing comfortable shoes and dressing in layers is wise, especially considering Sitka’s often unpredictable weather. Participants must show valid ID and not have consumed alcohol prior to the tour — a responsible policy that keeps everyone safe and ready to enjoy the stories.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the walking involved, which may be challenging for some. Also, since it’s an evening tour, those who prefer daytime activities might find it less appealing. Lastly, the spooky stories might not be suitable for young children or those sensitive to ghostly tales.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This haunted pub crawl suits travelers who love storytelling, history, and a dash of mystery. If you’re eager to see Sitka through a different lens—by exploring its haunted past—this tour offers a memorable evening. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed but intriguing experience. It also appeals to those who enjoy local interactions and handcrafted cocktails, making it both a cultural and a spirited adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Pub Crawl in Sitka offers a compelling blend of history, local color, and ghost stories, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Alaska’s old port town. The guide’s storytelling, combined with exclusive access to historic spots, creates an experience that’s both fun and meaningful. At $75, it provides good value for those interested in a small-group, authentic look at Sitka’s haunted side.

For anyone curious about the darker corners of Sitka’s past or simply looking for an enjoyable evening with a storytelling twist, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a chance to connect with local legends, enjoy some great drinks, and see a different side of Alaska’s historic town.

FAQs

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Harrigan Centennial Hall, where you check in and meet your guide.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including walking and stops at various sites.

Are drinks included?
Yes, your first drink at the private Moose Lodge is included in the ticket price, and each pub stop features a specialty cocktail exclusive to this tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, participants must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid ID.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and layers are recommended, especially since Sitka can be quite cool and unpredictable weather.

Is the tour accessible for mobility concerns?
Participants should evaluate their comfort with walking a half-mile and climbing up to 10 stairs, as this is part of the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.

Are the locations visited private or public?
Many of the sites are invitation-only or private venues, offering rare access to the group.

What’s the guide like?
Guests often praise the guides for their knowledge, engaging storytelling, and ability to bring Sitka’s haunted tales to life.

Is parking available nearby?
While not explicitly stated, Harrigan Centennial Hall is centrally located, and public transportation is nearby, making it accessible.

To sum it up, the Haunted Pub Crawl in Sitka offers a lively, memorable way to explore the town’s spooky side. It combines local tales, scenic streets, and exclusive access to haunted sites, making it an experience that’s both fun and enriching. Perfect for those who love stories and a good cocktail, it’s a distinctive way to spend an evening in Alaska’s historic port.