Austins Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl

Austin’s Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: A Review for Curious Ghost Seekers and Nightlife Lovers

If you’re looking to combine a bit of spooky storytelling with a fun night out in Austin, the Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl might just be your best bet. For $30 per person and lasting about two hours, this tour takes you through some of Austin’s most iconic bars—starting at the historic Driskill Bar—while weaving in tales of ghostly apparitions and mysterious legends. Led by knowledgeable guides (notably, guides named Katie seem to receive high praise), you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace, enough time to savor your drinks, and plenty of spine-tingling stories.

What we especially like about this experience is the authentic local atmosphere — visiting well-loved spots like Casino El Camino and Maggie Mae’s—and the well-researched, credible stories that bring Austin’s haunted past to life. Plus, the tour’s focus on craft cocktails and local bars means you’ll get a genuine taste of the city’s nightlife scene. However, it’s worth noting that drinks are not included, and some visitors felt that the tour could have offered more guidance on drink selections or more engaging storytelling. Still, for those interested in a light-hearted, spooky pub crawl that highlights Austin’s character, this tour fits the bill.

This experience best suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history and humor, are comfortable walking between bars, and don’t mind a lively, sometimes bustling setting. If your idea of a fun evening includes hearing ghost stories and sampling local drinks in iconic venues, this tour is a solid pick.

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Key Points

Historic venues like The Driskill and Casino El Camino serve as the tour’s focal points.
Engaging guides and credible ghost stories enhance the experience.
Flexible pacing allows ample time at each stop for conversation and drinks.
No drinks included, but plenty of opportunities to enjoy Austin’s local cocktails.
Suitable for ages 21 and over; not recommended for mobility-impaired travelers.
Tour duration is consistently around two hours, with a departure at 6:00 PM.

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Exploring the Haunted and Lively Sides of Austin

The Austin Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers a taste of both the city’s lively bar scene and its mysterious past. Starting at the famous Driskill Hotel, known for its historic significance and rumored hauntings, the tour immediately sets a tone of intrigue. The guide—easily identifiable by a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and a lantern—leads you through the city’s most iconic bars with a focus on authentic stories of ghostly sightings and legends.

The Itinerary: A Mix of History, Drinks, and Stories

Each stop is carefully chosen for its history, atmosphere, and local flavor. You’ll begin at the Driskill Bar, where the setting is as much a part of the experience as the stories told. Here, you might learn about the “Man With The Cigar” haunting the Paramount Theater, adding a spooky layer to your evening.

Next, the tour visits Casino El Camino, a favorite among locals, where you’ll enjoy a unique twist on a Bloody Mary—an inventive cocktail that complements the ghostly tales of the casino’s past. The guide may share lore about other spots like Maggie Mae’s and the San Jac Saloon, each with its own ghostly reputation and lively ambiance.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

The tour typically lasts around two hours, with 15 to 20-minute stays at each venue—plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere, chat with your guide, and sample drinks. The pace is relaxed yet structured; your guide aims to keep everyone engaged and on schedule, often receiving praise for their knowledge and friendliness.

While drinks are not included in the price, the tour ensures you get enough time to enjoy your beverages—be it a craft beer, cocktail, or soft drink—and mingle with fellow travelers. The overall experience aims to strike a balance between ghost story immersion and nightlife enjoyment.

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Authenticity and Audience Fit

One of the tour’s strengths is its well-researched stories, which many reviews note as being more credible than just superficial ghost tales. Guides like Katie receive high praise for making the stories engaging, informative, and fun. However, not all guides are equally lauded—at least one reviewer felt that some guides might lack enthusiasm or sufficient research, highlighting the importance of the guide’s personality in overall enjoyment.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy history with a spirited twist, like ghost stories combined with bar-hopping, and are comfortable in a group setting. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a lighthearted, spooky night that also showcases Austin’s bar scene.

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A Closer Look at the Stops: What Makes Each Special

The Driskill Bar: The Historic Heart

Austin’s most famous hotel, the Driskill, dates back to 1886 and has a reputation for paranormal activity. Its ornate architecture, vintage decor, and historic ambiance make it a perfect starting point. It’s easy to see why it’s considered haunted—many visitors have reported strange noises and sightings. Here, you’ll get a taste of Austin’s historic charm along with ghostly tales that set the mood.

Casino El Camino: A Local Favorite

Known for its retro vibe and delicious burgers, Casino El Camino also has a haunted reputation, especially connected to its long history as a bar. Here, the guide might tell you about the legend of the casino’s ghost, while you enjoy a twist on a Bloody Mary, making this stop both flavorful and atmospheric.

Maggie Mae’s and San Jac Saloon: Lively Venues with Legends

Both venues are lively spots where the music and crowd add to the evening’s fun. Maggie Mae’s, in particular, is noted for its friendly atmosphere and history as a live music venue. The San Jac Saloon adds to the historic mix, with stories of ghostly sightings that lend a spooky edge to your night.

The Value of a Ghostly Night Out

At $30, this tour offers a cost-effective way to experience some of Austin’s most beloved bars and hear stories that give them a layer of depth and intrigue. Compared to a night spent wandering alone, the guided aspect means you won’t miss out on the best stories or the most atmospheric spots.

While drinks are not included, the tour’s flexibility allows you to choose your preferred beverages, whether craft cocktails or local beers. The two-hour duration is well-paced, ensuring you’re not rushed but also not lingering too long at any one place.

Final Thoughts on the Tour

This pub crawl hits a sweet spot for those who want a fun, slightly spooky experience that also showcases Austin’s vibrant nightlife. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in ghost stories rooted in real history rather than just gimmicks, and if you enjoy meeting fellow travelers.

The main drawbacks might be inconsistent guide enthusiasm or some venues that could be perceived as less engaging. It’s also worth noting that the experience depends heavily on the guide’s storytelling skills—an engaging guide can make or break this tour.

In the end, if your idea of a great night involves stories of haunted Austin, good company, and authentic local bars, this tour offers a memorable way to spend an evening.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people under 21? No, the tour is only open to those 21 and over, as alcohol consumption is involved.

Are drinks included in the price? No, drinks are not included. You’ll have plenty of time at each stop to purchase your preferred beverages.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with a departure time of 6:00 PM and concluding around 8:00 PM.

Where do we meet the guide? The meeting point is outside The Driskill Bar at 604 Brazos Street. Look for a guide wearing a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carrying a lantern.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and an ID are recommended. Bringing water and snacks is also advised for comfort.

Is transportation provided? No, the tour involves walking between bars. Ensure you’re prepared for some light walking.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

What if the guide isn’t engaging? While most reviews praise the guides, experiences can vary. A guide’s enthusiasm significantly impacts enjoyment, so manage expectations accordingly.

Final Verdict

The Austin Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers a playful, atmospheric walk through some of the city’s most legendary bars with an added dash of ghostly lore. It’s best suited for adventurous spirits who enjoy storytelling, local history, and a lively pub atmosphere. For around $30, you get a well-paced, engaging evening that combines Austin’s quirky charm with its haunted tales—perfect for a fun, memorable night out. If you’re prepared for some walking, don’t mind the absence of included drinks, and love stories with a supernatural twist, this tour will delight your curiosity and your taste buds alike.