Salem: Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re planning a trip to Salem and want to combine its spooky past with lively nightlife, the Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl might just be the perfect evening activity. Although we haven’t personally joined the tour, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded experience—blending haunted tales with visits to some of Salem’s most popular bars. For those who enjoy a good ghost story paired with a social drink, this tour offers a unique way to explore the “Witch City” after sunset.

What we love about this experience is its focus on authentic, researched ghost stories delivered by knowledgeable guides, and the chance to mingle with fellow travelers in Salem’s vibrant bar scene. A potential drawback? The tour is primarily walking, so those with mobility issues or seeking a more transportation-focused experience might find it less suitable. Still, this tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling, history, and a fun, social atmosphere. It’s particularly great for solo explorers, groups of friends, or couples looking for a spirited evening with a local flavor.

Key Points

• Authentic ghost stories enhance the Salem experience and make the history come alive.
• The tour visits up to four popular pubs and four haunted locations, blending nightlife with history.
• Guides are praised for being knowledgeable, engaging, and personable.
• The tour emphasizes value for money, offering a two-hour adventure at a reasonable price of $30.
• Drinks are not included, so budget for additional beverages at each venue.
• The flexible schedule allows for full immersion at each stop, with time varying from 15 minutes to an hour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Haunted Pub Crawl Experience

This two-hour tour is designed as a fun, relaxed way to see Salem at night. Starting at East India Square, where your guide will be dressed in a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and carrying a lantern, you’ll meet your group and set off on a walk through the historic streets. The tour promises visits to 8 locations, including 4 pubs and 4 haunted sites, with the goal of combining Salem’s vibrant nightlife with its chilling past.

The itinerary is flexible, meaning stops may shift depending on the season and group size. Expect to spend roughly 15 minutes at some venues—great for quick drinks and socializing—and up to an hour at others, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere. Each pub provides a different vibe: from cozy taverns to lively craft cocktail bars, offering something for every taste.

Visiting Salem’s Best Bars and Haunted Sites

One of the biggest draws is the balance of entertainment and education. During the walk, the guides tell researched stories of witchcraft, murder, secret tunnels, and ghostly encounters. Multiple reviews praise guides for their vast knowledge and engaging storytelling style, making the ghost tales lively and believable rather than cheesy.

Some of the popular stops include places like Mercy Tavern, where you’ll mingle with “the ghosts of bootleggers,” and Rockafellas, a lively spot with a vibrant atmosphere. The tour features a special cocktail called the Devil’s Touch, which you can sip while playing drinking games—adding a little playful fun to the night.

Between bars, your guide will share ghost stories tied to Salem’s haunted history, often including locations that are said to be genuinely creepy or haunted. The stories are well-researched, making this more than just a bar crawl—it’s an experience that delves into Salem’s ghostly legends and dark past.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking through Salem’s charming but uneven streets. The group tends to be small and intimate, which enhances the experience—most reviews mention guides making an effort to create a friendly vibe and include everyone.

Your guide will point out historic buildings, secret tunnels, and other interesting sites as you stroll. The knowledgeable guides receive high praise for their storytelling, often sharing stories that are both spooky and amusing. One reviewer exclaimed, “Our guide (Andrew) was excellent! Extremely knowledgeable and friendly!”

The tour is designed to be casual—no need to worry about formalities. While drinks are not included in the ticket price, the bars offer a variety of tasty options, meaning you’ll want to bring some extra cash for beverages. With an average of 15 minutes to an hour at each stop, you’ll have ample time to enjoy your drinks and chat with your companions.

The Value of This Tour

For $30, this experience offers a solid value—two hours of guided storytelling, visits to eight historic locations, and a chance to enjoy Salem’s nightlife without worrying about transportation. The price is reasonable considering the high praise for guides and the chance to explore privately or with small groups.

Many reviewers highlight how they appreciated the mix of history, humor, and ghost stories, making the tour both educational and fun. One guest noted, “It was December 19th so I was the only one that booked, so I basically got a private tour. I enjoyed it a lot.” That flexibility is an added bonus for those seeking a personalized experience.

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Detailed Breakdown of the Stops

The tour’s core includes visits to Salem’s haunted pubs and locations with stories that have been carefully researched. The stops like Mercy Tavern are noted for their historical significance and lively atmosphere, making them ideal for socializing. The guide’s storytelling often includes tales of witchcraft, murder, or secret tunnels, adding a layer of intrigue to each location.

The variety of venues ensures you encounter different environments—some cozy, others bustling—so you can experience Salem’s nightlife diversity. The bar visits are complemented by stops at haunted sites where ghost stories come to life, often adding an authentic spine-tingling thrill.

Authenticity and Guide Quality

Guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, personality, and storytelling skills. Several reviews mention guides like Jena, Kristen, Mason, and Andy as creating memorable, personalized tours. Their enthusiasm and familiarity with Salem’s history make the stories believable and engaging.

One reviewer shared, “The best part was how knowledgeable Mason was of the history. He was very polite as well,” emphasizing the importance of knowledgeable guides. Others appreciated guides who took time to answer questions and foster a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Atmosphere and Group Dynamics

Most reviews note that the tour’s small size fosters a friendly environment, allowing for easy conversations and personal interaction. Many travelers appreciated the chance to meet like-minded ghost enthusiasts or fellow solo travelers. With up to four pubs and four haunted locations, the tour balances socializing with sightseeing.

The walking aspect allows you to enjoy Salem’s historic streets at a leisurely pace, with plenty of chances for photos or spontaneous conversations about what you’re seeing and hearing.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about 2 hours, with departure from East India Square. Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most ages over 21 (as alcohol is involved). It operates rain or shine, so dress in weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes.

Since drinks are not included, you’ll want to budget extra cash for beverages at each pub. The tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so plan accordingly. Cancellation is flexible—free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This crawl is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy stories and social outings. Solo travelers often find it a great way to meet people, as noted by several reviews. Those interested in Salem’s history, ghost stories, or vibrant nightlife will find plenty to love.

However, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or under age 21, given the walking and alcohol consumption. If you’re seeking a more passive experience or prefer guided bus tours, this might not be the right fit.

Final Thoughts

Salem’s Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively, authentic way to experience Salem after dark. With engaging guides, researched ghost stories, and a handful of popular pubs, it combines the thrill of haunted tales with the enjoyment of Salem’s bustling nightlife. At just $30, it’s a budget-friendly way to get a taste of Salem’s haunted reputation and its welcoming bar scene.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a group of friends, or a couple looking for a fun night out, this tour makes for a memorable evening filled with stories, laughs, and perhaps a few ghostly encounters. Just remember to bring your curiosity, some cash for drinks, and your best walking shoes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking around Salem’s streets, which may be uneven. It’s best suited for those who can comfortably walk and stand for a couple of hours.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You will need to bring extra cash if you want to purchase beverages at each pub during the stops.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably in weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes, especially since Salem’s streets can be uneven and the tour runs rain or shine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

What time does the tour usually run?
The tour is typically available in the afternoon and evening, lasting about 2 hours.

Is this experience good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how solo travelers enjoyed meeting new people and appreciated the friendly, small-group atmosphere.

Exploring Salem’s haunted past with a group of fun-loving strangers and local stories makes for an unforgettable night. With its mix of history, ghost tales, and vibrant pub stops, the Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl is a spirited way to see the city after dark.

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