Washington, D.C. Booze and Boos Tour

Washington, D.C. Booze and Boos Tour offers a lively yet eerie way to explore the nation’s capital after dark. For about two and a half hours, you’ll wander past iconic sites like the White House and Lafayette Square, visiting some of the city’s oldest, most haunted bars. Led by a knowledgeable and engaging guide, this tour combines storytelling, history, and a taste of D.C.’s vibrant pub scene.

What we really appreciate is the tour’s mix of fun ghost stories tied to real historic buildings, and the chance to enjoy drinks inside historic venues—it’s a wonderful blend of education and entertainment. Another highlight is the view of the White House at night, which feels especially atmospheric when paired with tales of presidential spirits.

A possible consideration is the duration and pace—though 2.5 hours isn’t long, the walking and standing between stops might be a challenge for some. Also, drinks are not included in the tour price, so you’ll want to budget for those if you plan to indulge.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a storytelling twist on history, are curious about ghost stories, and want a relaxed yet engaging evening out. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a good drink, a bit of history, and a lively group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Unique blend of ghost stories and historic pub crawl
• Great value for the experience and multiple bar visits
• Visiting iconic locations like the White House and Lafayette Square
• Guided by knowledgeable guides who keep stories lively and engaging
• Ample time at each stop to sit, rest, and enjoy a beverage
• Not suitable for under 21s and drinks are paid separately

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Washington, D.C. Booze and Boos Tour in Detail

This tour is a fantastic way to see Washington D.C. at night, especially if you’re interested in its darker side. Starting at Occidental Grill and Seafood, a historic and haunted pub near the White House, you’ll meet your guide—often described as enthusiastic and well-versed in the local lore. The guide sets the tone with stories of ghostly visitors that are linked to D.C.’s notable buildings and historic landmarks.

The Itinerary: A Walk Through History and Haunts

The tour begins with a stroll through Lafayette Square, a place that’s seen plenty of history and ghostly tales. Walking outside the White House, you’ll get a chance to see the iconic residence in a different light—at night, with the city quiet and the stories alive.

The real charm of this tour lies in its sequence of four pub stops, including two of the oldest bars in the city. Each venue is carefully chosen for its historical significance and haunted reputation. At each pub, you’re given approximately 20 minutes—enough time to savor a drink, soak in the atmosphere, and chat with fellow travelers.

The Pubs: Old Bars with Stories to Tell

From the historic Occidental Grill to other venerable establishments, the bar interiors are part of the experience. They’re cozy, full of character, and often with tales of prohibition, presidents, and spirits—both ghostly and alcoholic. The reviews highlight that the guides are animated storytellers, keeping things lively and interesting even when the stories get spooky.

The Stories: Ghosts, Presidents, and Prohibition

The tales range from Civil War era spirits wandering the White House to stories of presidents who enjoyed their drinks in these very establishments. One traveler noted that the guide “was fantastic with his storytelling” and kept the group engaged with plenty of historical detail.

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Atmosphere and Group Dynamic

The tour ends within a block of the starting point, in a relaxed, friendly environment where you’ve already met interesting people from across the country. The small group size makes for a more intimate experience, and the walk at night provides a different perspective of D.C.’s streets and landmarks.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs a reasonable fee for the combination of storytelling, sightseeing, and drinks—though drinks are not included, each stop allows you to purchase what you like. With around 15-20 minutes between each stop, there’s ample time to rest and enjoy your beverage without feeling rushed.

The 2.5-hour duration makes it a manageable evening activity, and the meeting point at the Occidental Grill is convenient, situated near the White House. The tour is suitable for those 21 and over, and you’ll need to carry an ID.

Reviews consistently praise the guide’s storytelling skills and the stunning views of D.C. at night. One said, “Our guide was phenomenal! She was so well spoken and knew D.C.,” adding that the experience offers “great drinks, to die for.” The value here is clear—combining history, ghost stories, and drinks in one engaging package.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys stories of the spooky and historical, this tour offers a fun, relaxed way to see D.C. after hours. It’s ideal for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique night out with a lively group. It’s also good for visitors who want to combine sightseeing with a social experience, rather than a traditional museum or monument tour.

Final Thoughts: Is the Washington, D.C. Booze and Boos Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a distinctive blend of history, storytelling, and socializing. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, making the stories both entertaining and educational. The chance to visit some of D.C.’s oldest, most haunted bars adds a tangible charm and authenticity that big bus tours often miss.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys a little mystery, historic pubs, and scenic nighttime views, this experience can be a highlight of your Washington D.C. visit. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate local history, good drinks, and engaging guides.

However, if you prefer more structured, museum-style tours or are not comfortable walking outdoors at night, you might find this tour less suitable. Also, remember that drinks are paid for separately, so budget accordingly.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, participants must be 21 or older. The tour involves drinking in the pubs, and ID verification is required.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll have about 20 minutes at each pub to order and enjoy your beverage.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 2.5 hours, covering about a mile of walking and stopping at four pubs.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Occidental Grill and Seafood, located at 1475 Pennsylvania Ave NW, near the White House.

Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, the live guide speaks English.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport, as proof of age is required.

Is it a small group?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a cozy group size that allows for a personalized experience.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
You can still participate, but you’ll need to abstain from drinking at the stops. The focus is on storytelling and sightseeing.

To sum it up, the Washington, D.C. Booze and Boos Tour stands out as a lively, authentic way to experience D.C.’s nocturnal side. Combining chilling tales, historic venues, and scenic views, it offers a memorable evening for those looking to enjoy the city’s history with a spirited twist. Ideal for curious travelers who enjoy storytelling, historic ambiance, and a relaxed social atmosphere—this tour is worth considering when planning your D.C. nights.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby