Asheville: Terrors, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re curious about Asheville’s darker side, this haunted pub crawl promises an evening packed with ghost stories, historic tales, and a few spirited drinks. With visits to five unique venues, from historic buildings to modern bars, the tour offers a chance to experience the city’s spectral stories while sipping on craft beverages or enjoying local bites.

What we love most about this experience is how it seamlessly blends history with a fun, social atmosphere. The guides are clearly passionate and well-informed, making each story come alive. That said, the tour is quite walkable but involves some standing and moving around, so it’s worth considering if you have mobility concerns. Perfect for those who enjoy history, a bit of spooky folklore, and a lively night out, this tour is especially great for solo travelers, couples, and groups wanting a memorable, immersive experience.

Key Points

• Authentic ghost stories delivered by knowledgeable guides bring Asheville’s haunted past to life.
• Visiting historic and atmospheric venues adds depth and character to the tour.
• Flexible timing at each stop means you can enjoy the ambiance without feeling rushed.
• Cost offers good value considering the mix of stories, atmosphere, and drinks at your own expense.
• Family-friendly considerations are limited, as the tour is not suitable for those under 21 or with mobility issues.
• The tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately for weather conditions.

An In-Depth Look at Asheville’s Haunted Pub Crawl

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $30 per person, this two-hour tour provides a guided experience through some of Asheville’s most haunted spots. Your guide will be with you throughout, sharing tales of ghostly apparitions, tragic deaths, and local legends. While drinks and food are not included, you’ll have the chance to purchase craft beverages at each location—think small bites and local brews—adding to the overall value. The tour covers eight haunted sites across five venues, including historic landmarks and lively bars.

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The adventure begins outside Wedge Brewery Downtown, where your guide, identifiable by a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and lantern, will greet you. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to check in and settle in before the 6:00 PM departure. The tour ends conveniently back at the same spot, giving you the flexibility to continue exploring Asheville’s nightlife or wind down.

The Itinerary – What to Expect

Brahmari Brewing kicks things off, offering a cozy yet modern atmosphere. Here, your guide will spin tales of Asheville’s past that set the tone for the tour—think prohibition-era secrets, ghostly legends, and local lore. The next stop, Storm Rhum Bar, is known for its spirited cocktails and lively vibe, perfect for hearing tales of bootleggers and illicit activities.

Your journey then takes you to the historic Flatiron Building, one of Asheville’s architectural gems. This is a highlight, especially for history buffs, as you’ll learn about Zelda Fitzgerald’s tragic death and her connection to the city. The stories here are often accompanied by stunning rooftop views, which some reviewers have raved about, noting how Holly, the guide, made the history come alive with her enthusiasm and depth of knowledge.

Moving on to the Battery Park Hotel, you’ll hear about the ghost couple reportedly seen wandering its halls, a tale that gives you chills. The final stop is the Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge, a sleek, contemporary space where ghost stories mingle with the craft cocktail scene—perfect for winding down with a drink and a spooky story.

The Atmosphere and Experience

Each location offers a different vibe, from historic charm to modern elegance. The flexible timing at each stop allows you to soak in the ambiance, take photos, or chat with fellow guests. According to reviews, guides like Holly, Jane, and Dustin are passionate storytellers who know Asheville’s stories inside out. One reviewer noted, “Holly was incredible! She knew so much about Asheville and took us to some great spots,” emphasizing how guides contribute significantly to the experience.

The Guides and Their Stories

Guides are not just narrators—they’re storytellers who weave in local history, true crime, and ghostly encounters. Caitlyn raved about Matt’s knowledge and storytelling skills, while others appreciated the friendly, conversational style of Holly and Jane, which made the stories all the more engaging. This personal touch is what we love about this tour, turning what could be a simple pub crawl into a memorable storytelling experience.

Drinking and Dining Options

While drinks are not included, the venues you visit serve a variety of craft beers, cocktails, and bites. The Flatiron Buildings rooftop bar is often praised for its stunning views, making it an ideal spot for a drink and some awe-inspiring scenery. Guests have enjoyed the food at the final pub, with one reviewer mentioning how the food was “fantastic,” and a good way to cap off the spooky night.

Timing and Group Size

Starting at 6:00 PM and ending around 8:00 PM, the tour is well-paced for an evening activity. The group size tends to be moderate, but larger groups may experience some limitations, such as not being able to visit all stops in one go, as one reviewer pointed out. The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for those with serious mobility challenges or under 21.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At just $30, this tour offers a well-rounded mix of history, storytelling, and social fun. The value lies in the guides’ storytelling expertise, the historic venues, and the chance to discover Asheville’s spooky side without paying for separate tickets or drinks. We appreciate the flexibility to spend as little as 15 minutes or as long as 60 at each stop, ensuring you can tailor the experience to your pace.

The stories of Zelda Fitzgerald, ghost couples at historic hotels, and tales of bootleggers add layers of intrigue, making it more than just a bar crawl. Plus, the mix of atmospheric venues—from historic buildings to modern lounges—gives a well-rounded glimpse into Asheville’s diverse nightlife scene.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history lovers, ghost story enthusiasts, and those who enjoy a lively social scene with a spooky twist. If you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll find the guided stories engaging and the vibe welcoming. It’s also a fun, low-pressure way to explore Asheville’s nightlife and learn some local legends.

However, if you or your group have mobility issues or are under 21, this tour may not be suitable. Also, remember you’ll need to be comfortable walking and standing for a couple of hours, and dress appropriately for weather conditions since the tour runs rain or shine.

Final Thoughts

This haunted pub crawl in Asheville is a solid choice if you’re looking to combine history, ghost stories, and local craft drinks into one evening. The guides’ enthusiastic storytelling, combined with visits to some of Asheville’s most atmospheric venues, makes for an engaging and memorable experience.

The tour’s emphasis on authentic stories, paired with the chance to enjoy Asheville’s vibrant nightlife, offers excellent value. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a group, you’ll come away with a new appreciation for Asheville’s haunted past—and a few spooky tales to share.

If you’re after a fun, mildly spooky, and culturally rich night out, this tour checks all the boxes. Just remember to arrive early, bring comfortable shoes, and prepare to be entertained by stories that linger long after the tour ends.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, it’s not recommended for anyone under 21. It’s geared toward adults who enjoy ghost stories and nightlife.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase craft beverages and bites at each venue based on your preference.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, starting at 6:00 PM and ending around 8:00 PM.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it involves some walking, so consider your mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Don’t forget your ID if you plan to purchase alcohol.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts outside Wedge Brewery Downtown and ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy to continue your evening around Asheville.

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

This haunted pub crawl offers a lively combination of chilling stories, historic sites, and a taste of Asheville’s vibrant night scene. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun night out, it’s a journey into Asheville’s spooky soul you won’t forget.