Philadelphia: Ghosts, Boos, and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

Philadelphia: Ghosts, Boos, and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl — A Detailed Review

If you’re looking for a night filled with ghost stories, historic pubs, and a splash of local spirits, the Philadelphia Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures might just be the adventure for you. While we haven’t personally joined this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a lively, spooky, and engaging experience that blends history, mystery, and fun.

What immediately catches our eye are a few standout features: the knowledgeable guides who share credible ghostly tales, the opportunity to explore diverse historic and atmospheric pubs, and the chance to enjoy local drinks at your own pace. However, a potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include drinks or food, so you’ll be spending extra if you want to sip on cocktails or beers throughout the evening.

This tour is perfect for those who love history with a spooky twist, enjoy socializing in historic settings, or are simply curious about Philadelphia’s darker stories. It also offers great value for travelers wanting a 2-hour mix of storytelling and bar hopping with a lively guide leading the way.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic stories: Well-researched, credible ghost stories shared by knowledgeable guides.
• Atmospheric venues: Four diverse pubs with unique vibes, from rustic to modern.
• Flexible pacing: 15-60 minutes at each stop, depending on the day and season.
• Cost-effective: Only $30, but drinks are paid for separately.
• Inclusive of history: Learn about Philadelphia’s haunted past as you sip.
• Great for social groups: Encourages conversation and shared spooky experiences.

What to Expect from the Haunted Pub Crawl

The tour kicks off at 7:00 PM outside the Independence Beer Garden, a lively spot in the heart of Philadelphia. Your guide, easily identifiable in a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and lantern, sets the tone for an evening of storytelling and exploration. The tour lasts about 2 hours, during which you’ll visit four carefully selected pubs, each with its own character and ghostly stories.

The Pubs You’ll Visit

The Independence Beer Garden: An open-air spot with historic charm, perfect as a lively starting point. Expect to hear stories about Philadelphia’s haunted past that set the tone for the night.

JJ Bootleggers: A more rustic, historic pub with a cozy atmosphere. Reviewers mention the host’s engaging storytelling, which combines history and personal accounts—adding authenticity to the experience.

The Plough & the Stars: Known for its cozy, Irish pub vibe, this stop offers a more intimate setting. The stories here often involve ghostly encounters tied to Philadelphia’s Irish heritage, adding a cultural layer.

The Revolution House: A historic pub with a colonial feel, steeped in stories of the city’s revolutionary history and paranormal lore. This spot is praised for its credible stories and atmosphere.

The Atmosphere & Experience

Throughout the tour, guides share captivating tales of Philadelphia’s haunted sites, uncovering ghostly encounters and mysterious happenings. One reviewer, Danielle, pointed out that their guide, Loren, was “great” and shared some personal experiences that made the stories more believable. The atmosphere at each pub varies—from rustic and historic to modern and lively—making for an engaging journey through the city’s darker corners.

While the tour does not include drinks, you’re encouraged to order craft cocktails, local brews, or whatever beverages suit your taste at each venue. This flexibility means you can indulge as much or as little as you like, adding to the casual, social vibe of the evening.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Group Size & Pacing

Depending on the season or day of the week, you might spend 15 to 60 minutes at each pub, which allows for a relaxed pace where you can chat, soak in the atmosphere, or ask questions. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a sense of camaraderie among ghost-hunting enthusiasts and casual explorers alike.

Value and Practical Details

At $30 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a 2-hour experience filled with storytelling, local history, and lively pub atmospheres. While drinks are an extra expense, the focus on well-researched ghost stories and atmospheric venues elevates the experience beyond a typical pub crawl.

The tour is suitable for those comfortable walking about a mile in total, as the route involves moving between four pubs. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially if the tour takes place rain or shine.

Note that it’s not suited for people with mobility impairments, as walking and standing are involved. Also, guests need a valid ID to purchase alcohol, and smoking or video recording during the tour is not permitted.

Meeting & Booking

The meeting point is outside the Independence Beer Garden at 100 S Independence Mall West in Philadelphia. Arrive at least 15 minutes early, as the tour starts promptly at 7:00 PM. You can reserve your spot with flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours before the event.

Authenticity & Reviewer Insights

Multiple reviews highlight the depth of knowledge the guides bring to the tour. Sue from the UK called it “great fun,” while Livia from Switzerland appreciated the mix of history, spooky facts, and friendly conversation. Reviewers also appreciated the personal stories shared by the guides, which added credibility and intimacy to the experience.

The pubs themselves are well-chosen for their historic ambiance and special stories, making each stop memorable. The combination of authentic ghost stories and engaging guides creates an experience that’s both fun and informative.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This haunted pub crawl will appeal most to history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and social travelers seeking a night of fun with a spooky twist. It’s also ideal for those wishing to explore Philadelphia’s vibrant bar scene while learning about its haunted past. If your group includes people who appreciate authentic local stories or enjoy lively atmospheres, this experience hits the mark.

However, if you prefer guided tours with included food and drinks or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Philadelphia: Ghosts, Boos, and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a smart combination of storytelling, historic venues, and social fun. For just $30, you get an engaging two hours of ghostly tales and lively bar stops, led by guides who bring credibility and personality to their stories. The diversity of pubs means you experience Philadelphia’s historic and modern sides, all while uncovering ghostly mysteries.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nightlife, and spooky stories, all in a relaxed, social setting. It’s a fantastic way to explore the city’s darker corners and enjoy some local drinks along the way.

If you love stories that send a chill down your spine or simply want a different way to experience Philadelphia’s nightlife, this haunted pub crawl is a worthwhile choice. Just remember to set aside some extra money for drinks and wear comfortable shoes—you’ll want to soak in every spooky detail.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
This tour is designed for adults, especially since it involves alcohol purchases and walking. It’s not recommended for children or those with mobility impairments.

How long do we spend at each pub?
Depending on the day and season, you may spend between 15 and 60 minutes at each stop, allowing for a relaxed experience and plenty of time for stories and drinks.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You can order what you like at each pub, paying separately.

Is the tour suitable for people with a fear of ghosts?
While the stories are entertaining and based on credible tales, they can be spooky, so use your judgment if ghostly encounters tend to bother you.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended since the tour takes place rain or shine.

How do I find the meeting point?
Look for your guide outside the Independence Beer Garden at 100 S Independence Mall West. They will be wearing a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carrying a lantern.

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

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the tour and guide are in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

To sum it up, this haunted pub crawl offers a well-balanced blend of spooky tales, historic ambiance, and social fun. Perfect for history lovers and thrill-seekers alike, it provides an engaging way to spend an evening in Philadelphia, with plenty of stories to take home and maybe even a ghostly tale or two to keep the night interesting.

You can check if your dates are available here: