Wilmington: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a spirited combination of ghost stories and craft beverages in North Carolina’s charming coastal city. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, this tour promises a fun-filled, slightly spooky evening exploring Wilmington’s most haunted bars and historic landmarks. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective—through its ghostly legends and lively pub scene.
Three things we particularly love about this experience are the variety of vibrant local venues, the authentic storytelling from guides, and the chance to learn about Wilmington’s haunted past while enjoying delicious drinks. A potential drawback is that, according to some reviews, you won’t get inside most of the stops, which might limit the depth of historical exploration. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a casual mix of history, humor, and a good drink, especially those with a curiosity for ghost stories and local legends.
Good To Know:
- Authentic ghost stories from knowledgeable guides enrich the experience.
- Variety of haunted hotspots, from quirky bars to historic houses.
- Two-hour tour offers a manageable, fun evening.
- Includes craft beers and drinks, providing great value.
- Limited inside access at some locations, as noted by reviewers.
- Perfect for casual ghost enthusiasts and curious locals alike.
An Introduction to Wilmington’s Haunted Nightlife
This pub crawl isn’t your average bar hop. It’s a themed journey through Wilmington’s spooky stories, historic landmarks, and lively taverns, all wrapped into an easy two-hour walk. What makes it stand out is the way it marries local history and ghost lore with the lively atmosphere of Wilmington’s bar scene. Whether you’re a ghost-hunter or just in it for a good time, this tour promises a memorable night.
The tour is led by US Ghost Adventures, with guides dressed in themed attire (your guide will wear a lantern and a distinctive T-shirt), adding to the spooky vibe. The emphasis on well-researched stories and friendly, approachable guides makes this experience accessible, even if you’re not exactly a ghost story aficionado.
You can check if your dates are available here:What We Love About the Experience
First, the diversity of venues. Starting at Prost Biergarten, a German-style beer garden with a haunted reputation, sets a lively tone. Friendly patrons and the authentic vibe help you settle into the spooky theme while enjoying some of Wilmington’s best craft beers. The stories of spirits lingering from past revelers add a fun, eerie layer to the experience.
Second, the variety of haunted sites. From the Museum of the Bizarre with flickering lights and oddities to Lula’s quirky bar filled with spectral whispers, each stop offers a new flavor of Wilmington’s haunted tales. Visiting historic landmarks like Latimer House, where ghostly figures are said to haunt the halls, gives a tangible sense of the city’s ghostly reputation.
Third, the engaging guides. Reviews highlight hosts like Stormy, who brings passion and respect for both the history and spirits. One reviewer notes that the guide “obviously cares about the stories,” making the tour more captivating and authentic. Knowledgeable guides help turn ghost stories from mere anecdotes into vivid tales that stick with you long after the tour ends.
Lastly, the social vibe. The combination of chilling tales and drinks fosters a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. Many reviews reveal that participants left with a good handful of stories and laughs, making it perfect for groups or solo travelers looking to connect over a shared spooky adventure.
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The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
The tour begins at Prost Biergarten, where your guide will introduce you to Wilmington’s haunted reputation. Here, the focus is on craft beer and stories of spirits believed to linger in the beer garden. Some patrons claim to have felt chills or heard strange noises during past visits—perfect for setting a spooky mood.
Next, the group moves to the Museum of the Bizarre, a place filled with oddities and flickering lights. Though you might not go inside, the guide will share tales of paranormal phenomena linked to the museum. One reviewer mentions that the flickering lights and eerie ambiance hint at paranormal activity, adding to the spooky vibe.
Lula’s, a quirky bar with artistic decor, is the next stop. Spectral whispers here add an unusual element to the bar’s lively atmosphere. Stories of ghostly encounters blend with the bar’s unique art and eclectic vibe, making for a memorable experience.
The historic Latimer House, a stately building from the 1800s, offers a more immersive experience. Ghostly figures are said to still haunt the halls, and the guide shares tales of restless spirits seen by staff and visitors alike. Although you won’t go inside, the exterior and history make it a compelling stop.
Finally, the Blue Post Billiards provides a relaxed, friendly environment for the tour’s closing. Known as Wilmington’s most spirited local hangout, it’s a fitting end to a night of ghost stories and drinks. It’s a lively spot where you can unwind, compare notes, and maybe even try your luck at the billiards table.
The Practical Details
This 2-hour tour is designed to fit into an evening, usually starting around sunset or early evening. It’s accessible for most, but the review notes that people with mobility issues might find it challenging, as the tour involves walking through historic streets and some uneven surfaces.
The price of $29 per person offers reasonable value, especially considering the inclusiveness of craft beers and the guided storytelling. You won’t need to pay extra for the drinks, and the guides’ local knowledge adds a lot of depth to the experience. Keep in mind, transportation to and from the meeting point (Prost Biergarten) isn’t included, so plan accordingly.
Tours are conducted in English, and you should bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your ID. As the tour involves alcohol, no smoking or video recording is allowed during the stops.
What Reviewers Say
Most reviews are positive, with an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5. One reviewer called the guide “Stormy” the “best host,” praising her enthusiasm and respect for the spirits. Another reviewer appreciated the “fun and spooky night” but noted that much of the historical info was hearsay and that they didn’t get inside some locations. The lack of inside access was a slight disappointment for some, but the storytelling and walking tour element kept most entertained.
A standout quote from a reviewer: “It was great, we enjoyed it,” capturing the overall positive vibe. Conversely, one reviewer suggested that the tour could be more captivating with more inside visits, but still acknowledged the fun walk around key points.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Sum Up: Who Is It For?
This haunted pub crawl is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of history, storytelling, and socializing over drinks. If you love ghost stories, quirky bars, and engaging guides, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal for those new to Wilmington or visitors looking for a relaxing yet spooky way to spend an evening.
However, if you’re after in-depth inside access to haunted sites or a more serious ghost-hunting experience, this tour might feel a bit light on details. Still, the lively atmosphere, authentic stories, and well-chosen venues make it a worthwhile jaunt for most casual ghost enthusiasts.
For families or travelers with mobility challenges, consider the walking nature of the tour and the limited inside access. But for anyone seeking a fun, approachable introduction to Wilmington’s haunted side, this tour offers a good balance of chills, drinks, and local charm.
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FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s designed for adults or those of legal drinking age, as it involves alcohol and bars.
Are drinks included in the ticket price?
Yes, the tour includes craft beers and drinks at each stop, providing good value for the cost.
Can I join the tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the focus is on drinks, non-alcoholic options might be available at some venues; check with the provider in advance.
What if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through historic streets and may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Are inside visits possible at any of the locations?
Most stops do not offer inside access, which was noted in some reviews as a downside.
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, making it easy to fit into an evening.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your ID are recommended.
Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code, but comfortable, casual clothes are best for walking.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
What language is the tour conducted in?
English.
To sum it up, Wilmington’s Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl is a lively, approachable way to explore the city’s haunted past. It combines engaging storytelling with fun venues and good drinks, making it perfect for curious travelers who enjoy a dash of the supernatural. While it might not satisfy those seeking in-depth paranormal investigations, it offers a memorable, enjoyable evening of ghostly tales and local flavor. Whether you’re a solo ghost enthusiast or a group of friends looking for a unique night out, this tour delivers plenty of ghostly fun with a lively, social atmosphere.
You can check if your dates are available here: