Boston: Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl

Exploring Boston’s haunted past while enjoying a few drinks sounds like a fun way to spend an evening, and this Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl promises just that. In about two hours, you’ll wander through four historic pubs and five famously spooky locations, led by guides who know how to spin a good ghost story. It’s designed for those who love a mix of history, mystery, and a casual drink or two.

What I really like about this tour is the depth of storytelling. The guides aren’t just reciting canned tales—they weave authentic, well-researched stories that make the haunted history of Beantown come alive. Plus, the variety of venues—from old hotels to historic cemeteries—adds layers of intrigue. However, one thing to consider is that the tour involves some walking and standing, which might be a challenge for those with mobility issues. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a lively, spooky experience that’s more about storytelling than strenuous activity. If you enjoy ghost stories, local history, and a good pint, this tour is likely to be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Authentic Haunted Stories: Guides share credible, well-researched tales about Boston’s ghosts and history.
• Historic Venues: Includes visits to iconic spots like the Omni Parker House and Granary Burying Ground.
• Casual Atmosphere: Enjoy a drink at each pub, including a chance to share a moment with the ghost of JFK.
• Highly Rated Guides: Tours are praised for knowledgeable, friendly guides who keep the stories engaging.
• Two-Hour Duration: A compact, entertaining experience that fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Weather Considerations: Tours run rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.

An In-Depth Look at the Boston Haunted Pub Crawl

This tour offers more than just a walk through haunted sites; it’s about experiencing Boston’s spirited past in a lively, approachable way. Starting outside the Boston Common Visitors Center, your guide—easily recognizable in a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and lantern—sets the tone for a spooky evening. The meeting point is convenient, right at the heart of downtown Boston, making it accessible whether you’re staying nearby or just passing through.

The Itinerary

You’ll visit four pubs and five historic haunted sites, with the whole experience lasting about two hours. The first stop is the 21st Amendment. Here, you’ll get a chance to share a drink with the ghost of John F. Kennedy—something that really captures the tour’s fun, spooky vibe. The lively atmosphere of this bar makes it a great kickoff point, especially for JFK fans or history buffs keen to connect with Boston’s political past.

Next, the tour takes you to Emmets Pub, where the hearty Irish ambiance helps you feel transported across the Atlantic. This pub isn’t just about the drinks—your guide will share stories about Boston’s Irish heritage and how it intertwines with the city’s haunted legends.

A highlight is the visit to the Omni Parker House, one of Boston’s oldest hotels, where an unsettling presence is said to linger—specifically, the ghost of a liquor salesman haunting Room 303. The story behind this haunting is well-rooted in the hotel’s long and sometimes turbulent history, making it a fascinating stop for history lovers.

After that, you’ll head over to the Beantown Pub, famous for its connection to the city’s most legendary founding father, Sam Adams. Here, your guide recounts his turbulent life and mysterious death, adding human depth to the city’s revolutionary history.

The final stop is the Granary Burying Ground, Boston’s third oldest graveyard dating back to the 17th century. Walking among the tombstones, you’ll learn about the early settlers and the spirits said to still haunt these grounds.

Throughout the tour, you’ll pass by other spirited locations, adding to the eerie atmosphere that makes Boston’s haunted history so compelling.

The Guides

Guides like Alex and Adam (as praised by previous guests) are especially good at making the stories both credible and entertaining. Tour reviews mention how guides run the tour even if only a small group shows up, which shows their dedication. Their knowledge and humor turn what could be a standard ghost walk into a memorable experience.

The Experience

While the tour is primarily about storytelling, the venues are authentic historic locations that add a tangible sense of place. The mix of lively pubs and spooky sites means you get a well-rounded feel for Boston’s haunted reputation. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a drink at each pub adds a relaxed vibe, encouraging conversation and camaraderie among participants.

Practical Details

Costing $29 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the quality of stories and the unique venues visited. The two-hour duration fits nicely into a busy day of sightseeing or an evening activity. The group size tends to be manageable, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to most travelers.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to organize your own transportation and bring your own food and drinks; the tour only includes the guide and the stories. Weather isn’t an issue—they operate rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking and standing for the duration.

Why This Tour Works Well

If you’re a history enthusiast or a fan of ghost stories, this tour offers a nice blend of both. The guides’ ability to tell credible stories keeps the experience grounded and engaging, yet entertaining enough to hold your attention. It’s also a good pick for social travelers, as the pub atmosphere fosters a relaxed environment for mingling and sharing spooky tales.

The inclusion of historic pubs and sites means you’ll leave with a better sense of Boston’s layered past—both the celebrated and the haunted. The stories about JFK, Sam Adams, and early settlers help paint a vivid picture of the city’s complex history, making each stop more meaningful.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate authentic storytelling, historical ambiance, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a good choice for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting to meet others with similar interests. It’s also ideal for those on a budget, offering a fun and memorable way to explore Boston’s haunted side for just $29.

However, it’s important to note that the tour involves some walking and standing, so those with mobility issues might want to prepare accordingly. Also, since the tour is for guests 21 and over, it’s not suitable for younger travelers or those not of legal drinking age.

Final Thoughts

The Boston Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl offers a well-balanced mix of ghost stories, historic sites, and lively tavern atmospheres. Thanks to guides who are both knowledgeable and personable, it’s a fun way to explore Boston’s darker past without it feeling like a typical history lesson. The two-hour format keeps things lively without dragging on, making it a perfect evening activity.

At just $29, the value here is undeniable—you’re getting a genuine taste of Boston’s haunted tales, along with a few drinks and some good stories in authentic venues. It’s especially suited for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Boston’s spooky legends, making it a memorable addition to your trip.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it involves walking and standing for about two hours, so those with mobility challenges should consider their comfort level.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included; you are encouraged to purchase at each pub. The tour is designed to be casual and social, with the opportunity to enjoy your own beverages.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking and standing. The tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Can I bring my children?
No, the tour is only for guests 21 and older due to the focus on alcohol and adult-themed stories.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately two hours, making it a compact but immersive experience.

What is the meeting point?
You’ll meet your guide outside the Boston Common Visitors Center at 139 Tremont St. The guide will be in a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carrying a lantern.

Is it a guided tour or a self-guided experience?
It’s a guided tour led by knowledgeable storytellers, ensuring you get authentic, entertaining narratives as you explore.

To sum it up, if you’re after a fun, spooky, and historically rich way to spend an evening in Boston, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for those who love ghost stories with a serious dose of local flavor, all while enjoying some drinks in historic venues. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, the combination of credible storytelling and lively pub stops makes it a memorable way to uncover Boston’s haunted secrets.