A Haunted Pub Crawl in Historic St. Augustine: A Blend of Spirits and Stories
When you think of St. Augustine, you probably picture cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and a city steeped in centuries of history. But for those interested in a darker, more mysterious side of this charming town, the Original Haunted Pub Tour offers an engaging way to explore its haunted past — with a boozy twist. For just under $27, you get about two and a half hours of walking, storytelling, and bar hopping through downtown’s most infamous taverns.
What we love about the tour is how it combines entertaining ghost stories with the lively atmosphere of local pubs. It’s a perfect mix for those who enjoy a good spooky tale paired with a cold drink. The small group size, capped at 16, ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd and can enjoy more personal interactions with your guides. And the souvenir included adds a fun keepsake to remember the night.
One thing to keep in mind is that drinks are not included — so be prepared to purchase your own at each stop. Also, as some pubs might serve only beer and wine, if you’re after spirits, it’s worth checking ahead or being flexible. The tour is best suited for adults 21 and over with a good sense of humor and a curiosity for ghostly tales.
This tour is a great fit for history buffs who enjoy a creepy story, social travelers looking to experience downtown’s nightlife, or anyone wanting to add a dash of the supernatural to their visit. It’s also a good option if you prefer a more intimate, engaging experience rather than large, rushed tours.
Key Points
- Authentic storytelling from knowledgeable guides
- Visiting historic, haunted pubs in downtown St. Augustine
- Includes a souvenir to commemorate your spooky night
- Great value for a two-and-a-half-hour tour with drinks at your own expense
- Small group size for a more personal experience
- Age restriction of 21+ ensures a lively, spirited crowd
A Closer Look at the Haunted Pub Tour Experience
The tour kicks off at 162 St George St, a prime spot in the heart of historic St. Augustine. Your guide, whose storytelling is often highlighted as a highlight by past participants, will lead you through a short walk around downtown, sharing tales of the city’s haunted history and the legends behind each of the pubs you’ll visit.
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Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect
Stop 1: Downtown St. Augustine
Your journey begins with an overview of the city’s haunted past, setting the tone for what’s to come. As you walk, your guide will relay stories about the most haunted pubs and their ghostly residents, some of which are so spooky that multiple visitors have been moved to walk out early, as one reviewer mentioned.
Pubs and Bars
The stops vary from night to night, but generally, you’ll visit several pubs—each with its own character and spooky stories. Past guests appreciated the authenticity of the stories and found the pubs to be quite atmospheric, often quiet enough to listen and chat, creating a cozy, slightly eerie vibe. Some venues might serve only beer and wine, which is worth noting if spirits are your preference.
Stories and Atmosphere
Many reviewers praise tour guides like Steve and Sara for their engaging storytelling. One reviewer mentioned that Steve’s stories about the cemetery and the young boy in the tree were especially authentic, thanks to his lively narration. Others appreciated guides who took the time to know the group and answered questions, making the experience feel more like a night out with friends than a scripted tour.
Drinks and Cost
Drinks are not included in the ticket price, so you’ll be responsible for your purchases. The value here lies in the experience — the stories, the atmosphere, and the chance to visit some of the oldest, most haunted locations in the city.
Souvenir and Closure
At the end of the tour, you’ll receive a unique haunted pub tour souvenir — a nice touch that helps you remember a night of spirits, both ghostly and alcoholic.
Authenticity and Quality: What Do Others Say?
The majority of reviews are glowing, with many travelers calling it “so much fun” and “a great experience.” Guests love the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Mike, Sara, and Q, praising their ability to entertain while sharing interesting historical details.
However, some critics found the experience less engaging — one reviewer called it “uneventful” and mentioned that they didn’t get to see the actual rooms or objects linked to hauntings. This highlights that, by design, the tour is more about storytelling than a ghost-hunt or investigation.
The small group size is frequently noted as a big plus, enabling everyone to hear the stories clearly and participate more actively. People also enjoy the variety of pub environments — from quiet, intimate bars to slightly busier spots, each adding its own flavor.
The Value for Your Money
At $26.90 per person, the tour is a solid deal considering the duration and the quality of storytelling. While drinks are extra, many guests see the entertainment value and the chance to experience the city’s haunted bar scene as well worth the price. The souvenir is a thoughtful extra, offering a tangible memory of a fun, slightly creepy night.
Practical Tips for Participants
- Book in advance — it’s popular; on average, it’s booked 13 days ahead.
- Arrive on time at the meeting point on St George Street to start smoothly.
- Be prepared to walk for about 2.5 hours, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Expect some stairs at certain pubs, which could be a consideration for those with mobility issues.
- Bring cash or card for drinks; you’ll want to indulge at your own expense.
- Remember, service animals are allowed, but the tour is geared toward adults 21+.
- The tour operates rain or shine — bring an umbrella or jacket if needed.
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Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re a history or ghost story enthusiast who enjoys lively storytelling, you’ll find this tour engaging. It’s particularly well-suited for adults who are comfortable with alcohol consumption, as drinks are part of the experience, but not included. It’s also a great activity for friends or couples looking for a social, memorable night.
Those who prefer more interactive or investigative ghost tours might find this more about storytelling than actual haunting exploration. Conversely, if your main goal is to see haunted locations with a focus on real paranormal activity or access to private rooms, this might not meet those expectations.
The Sum Up
In the end, the Original Haunted Pub Tour in St. Augustine offers a delightful mix of history, humor, and spooky tales — all set against the backdrop of some of the city’s oldest pubs. It’s a terrific way to add some intrigue to your evening, especially if you enjoy a good story with a drink in hand. The guides are generally praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the experience feel warm and genuine rather than touristy.
For travelers who love authentic local pubs, engaging storytelling, and a dash of ghostly lore, this tour provides great value. It’s less about ghost-hunting and more about enjoying the atmosphere and stories of a city that’s practically haunted by history itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, it’s designed for adults aged 21 and over, mainly because of alcohol consumption and the nature of the storytelling.
Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll need to purchase your own at each stop.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the tour involves about 2.5 hours of walking. Be prepared for weather changes — bring an umbrella or jacket if needed.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just your ID to prove age, some cash or card for drinks, and your curiosity for ghost stories.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 162 St George St and ends at a location nearby in downtown St. Augustine, with the exact end point varying night to night.
Is there a tour guide?
Yes, guides like Steve, Sara, and Q are praised for their engaging storytelling and knowledge.
How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 16, ensuring a personal experience.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Some stops involve stairs, so check ahead if mobility is a concern.
To sum it up, if you’re after a fun, atmospheric way to explore St. Augustine’s haunted past, this tour will not disappoint. It offers a good balance of history, humor, and spooky tales, all delivered by friendly guides in a cozy, social setting. It’s best suited for those who enjoy storytelling, local pubs, and a little ghostly fun without the need for investigative paranormal activity.