Charleston: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl

Experiencing Charleston through its haunted pubs offers a unique blend of ghost stories, local legends, and a lively vibe. This 2-hour haunted pub crawl promises a mix of spooky tales and craft drinks, all led by guides who know their stuff. It’s an adventure that appeals to those who love a touch of the supernatural paired with a good dose of local flavor.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is how the tour combines history and storytelling with casual bar hopping. It feels less like a tourist trap and more like a fun night out with friends who happen to love ghost stories. However, a potential consideration is the variable duration at each pub, which depends on the day of the week and season—meaning your time at each spot might be shorter or longer.

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, entertaining evening that’s richer than your typical bar crawl. If you’re into stories of haunted legends, enjoy vibrant local atmospheres, and don’t mind paying for your own drinks, this tour could be just your thing.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from knowledgeable guides, making the history come alive.
• Diverse venues ranging from historic pubs to modern bars, offering a variety of atmospheres.
• Flexible timing at each location, allowing for immersive experiences or quick visits.
• Local legends and spooky tales enhance the experience beyond just drinking.
• Cost is affordable at $29 per person, but drinks are at your own expense.
• Ideal for those interested in Charleston’s haunted past and lively bar scene.

An In-Depth Look at the Charleston Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re looking to combine history, ghost stories, and a night out, this tour is a well-rounded choice. Led by guides like MJ and Bruce, who are praised for their extensive knowledge and storytelling skills, you’ll find yourself immersed in Charleston’s haunted tales and lively bar atmospheres.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at 6:00 PM on the West side of the Exchange building, next to the Slavers Marker on East Bay Street. Your guide, easily identified by their black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and lantern, will greet you 15 minutes early, setting a relaxed tone for the evening. The tour lasts exactly 2 hours, ending back at the starting point, leaving plenty of time afterward to continue exploring or unwind.

During the walk, you’ll visit four distinct venues: The Blind Tiger Pub, Bar Vaute, The Griffon, and Tommy Condon’s. Each brings its own flavor to the experience, from historic charm to lively modernity. The guided tour is more than just bar hopping. Between stops, you’ll be regaled with spooky tales about cryptids, demons, and local legends like the Angel Oak or Boo Hag.

The Venues: Atmosphere and Ambiance

• The Blind Tiger Pub is known for its historic roots, likely offering a cozy, traditional pub environment. Its ambiance often lends itself well to storytelling.
• Bar Vaute might lean toward a more modern or eclectic setting, providing a fresh backdrop to ghostly tales.
• The Griffon exudes a lively, energetic vibe, perfect for engaging in some friendly drinking games.
• Tommy Condon’s is a classic spot with a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for winding down after a spooky night.

While drinks aren’t included, the venues serve a variety of craft beers and specialty drinks, so you’ll have plenty of options to toast to the tales you hear. And, based on reviews, guides like MJ and Bruce do an excellent job weaving history with fun, making these stops more than just watering holes—they’re part of the story.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Reviews highlight guides like MJ and Bruce for their wealth of knowledge and storytelling prowess. MJ, for instance, is noted for offering credible, well-researched history, and making guests feel comfortable even if they’re the only person registered—though this can sometimes mean shorter stays at each pub. Bruce, on the other hand, is praised for his deep understanding of Charleston’s history and his ability to tell compelling stories.

This level of expertise makes the tour more engaging. You’re not just drinking and listening; you’re gaining insights into Charleston’s haunted lore and its vibrant bar culture. Expect to be encouraged to ask questions and participate actively.

The Experience: Balancing Fun and Fright

The tour balances lively drinking games with spooky storytelling, making it suitable for groups wanting both entertainment and a dash of the supernatural. While the tour is not designed for those with mobility impairments or who dislike walking, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a walking tour with a fun twist.

The flexible timing at each pub means you can choose to spend more or less time at each place, depending on your interest. If you’re eager to hear every story, arriving early or staying longer at specific venues might enhance your experience.

The Cost and Value

Pricing at $29 per person is quite reasonable given the experience’s content and guide expertise. Remember, drinks are paid for separately, so this is more about the storytelling and social aspect than an all-inclusive experience. For the price, you’re getting a well-guided, entertaining tour through Charleston’s haunted past, layered with history and local legends.

Authenticity and Local Legends

The stories shared are based on well-researched and credible history, with guides sharing authentic local legends like the Boo Hag, Angel Oak, and tales of cryptids and demons. The guides’ ability to bring these tales to life adds a layer of authenticity and excitement that’s often missing from generic pub crawls.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for history buffs and ghost story enthusiasts who enjoy lively atmospheres. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate well-informed guides and want a relaxed, social experience. If you’re traveling with friends or solo and love stories of haunted Charleston, this tour offers a great way to combine entertainment and education.

It’s less suited for those with mobility issues, as it involves walking between venues, and the timing at each stop can vary. If you’re not a fan of walking or prefer a strictly structured experience, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Charleston: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers a fun, atmospheric way to explore the city’s spooky side. With knowledgeable guides, authentic storytelling, and a mix of historic pubs, it provides a memorable evening that balances history, legends, and good old-fashioned fun.

At just $29, it’s a budget-friendly way to experience Charleston’s haunted charm, especially if you’re interested in local legends and enjoy a relaxed pub vibe. The tour’s flexible schedule and engaging guides make it an experience worth considering for anyone wanting to see a different side of Charleston—one filled with stories of ghosts, cryptids, and the city’s lively bar scene.

FAQ

Does the tour include drinks?
No, drinks are not included. You will have the opportunity to sample craft beverages and local specialties at your own expense during the stops.

Where does the tour start?
It begins on the West side of the Exchange building, next to the Slavers Marker on East Bay Street. Look for a guide wearing a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and carrying a lantern.

How long is each stop?
The group spends anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes at each venue, depending on the day of the week and season, providing some flexibility to tailor your experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since alcohol isn’t included but the experience involves drinking and walking, it’s generally best suited for adults. The focus on spooky stories might also be too intense for young children.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking between venues and may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

In summary, if you’re after an evening filled with stories, local legends, and a chance to enjoy Charleston’s bar scene in a fun environment, this tour hits the mark. It’s an excellent choice for curious travelers who want to combine history with a bit of supernatural intrigue, all while enjoying some drinks along the way.