Boston Haunted Pub Crawl

Our review of the Boston Haunted Pub Crawl offers a glimpse into an experience that combines two of Boston’s most beloved traditions — its storied past and its vibrant pub scene. This tour promises an entertaining evening filled with ghost stories, historic taverns, and the chance to meet fellow travelers all sharing a common curiosity about Boston’s haunted corners. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to explore Boston after dark, this experience aims to deliver.

What we particularly like about this tour is its balanced approach: it’s not just about spooky tales, but also about learning local history in a lively social setting. Plus, with knowledgeable guides who keep the stories engaging, it’s clear that a lot of thought has gone into making this both fun and informative. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the busy bars can make hearing the guide a challenge at times — a small hiccup for those who prefer a quieter, more intimate tour.

This tour is ideal for adventurous spirits who enjoy a mix of history, spirits, and a dash of the supernatural. If you’re traveling with friends or solo and appreciate stories told with enthusiasm, you’ll likely find this a memorable way to spend an evening in Boston.

Key Points

• The tour costs $29.99, making it a reasonably priced way to combine sightseeing and entertainment.
• It’s a 2-hour, approximately walking pub crawl with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group.
• Guides are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging storytelling.
• The stops include some of Boston’s most historic and haunted sites, like Faneuil Hall, the Union Oyster House, and King’s Chapel Burying Ground.
• Drinks are not included, but the tour visits bars with interesting atmospheres and historic significance.
• The experience is booked on average 14 days in advance, highlighting good planning for those with a schedule.

A Detailed Look at the Boston Haunted Pub Crawl

Introduction to the Tour

Starting at the Samuel Adams Memorial, your journey into Boston’s ghostly past begins with a story about Samuel Adams himself. Here, you’ll hear about his role in the American Revolution—and perhaps some of the haunted tales associated with his legacy. The guide’s storytelling sets the tone for the evening: a blend of history and haunting, delivered with a dash of humor.

The tour then moves through famous historic sites where the veil between the living and the dead seems thin. The mix of revolutionary history, haunted pubs, and ghostly encounters makes this tour ideal for those interested in Boston’s layered past but who prefer their history served with a side of spooky stories.

The Stops: What You’ll See and Hear

Stop 1: 60 Congress Street
This location introduces us to Samuel Adams, a founding father whose influence on American independence is well-known. The stories here focus on Adams’ legacy, but with a haunted twist, exploring how his spirit might still linger. The guide’s storytelling creates a vivid picture of 18th-century Boston, bringing history alive and maybe a little beyond.

Stop 2: Faneuil Hall and Ned Devine’s
Built in 1742, Faneuil Hall has seen countless protests, speeches, and gatherings. Legend has it, Peter Faneuil’s ghost still haunts the halls—an apparition sometimes seen or heard in the night. Across the street, Ned Devine’s and the Green Dragon Tavern are both steeped in revolutionary lore, with reports of shadowy figures and strange noises. One reviewer noted that “the Green Dragon was my favorite,” thanks to its history and spooky atmosphere.

Stop 3: Union Oyster House
As America’s oldest restaurant, dating back to 1826, it’s no surprise that the Union Oyster House is also haunted. Visitors have reported seeing a former waitress’s ghost, feeling chills, or sensing unseen presence. Interestingly, Chester A. Arthur’s ghost is said to haunt the restaurant, adding a presidential touch to the supernatural tales.

Stop 4: 11 Marshall Street
The Green Dragon Tavern once hosted Patriots like Paul Revere and Samuel Adams. It was the hub of revolutionary plotting—and, legend has it, ghostly Patriots still debate over the future. The reservations about ghostly sightings at historic taverns add a layer of authenticity to the experience.

Stop 5: Boston Common and Mary Dyer
Mary Dyer’s story of defiance and martyrdom is powerful. She was hanged for protesting Puritan laws but reportedly haunts Boston Common, where she was executed. Her story remains a testament to rebellion—her ghostly presence symbolizes resilience.

Stop 6: King’s Chapel Burying Ground
Established in 1630, this cemetery is one of Boston’s oldest. It’s known for its haunted graves, with stories of shadowy figures and whispers in the night. The graves of early settlers like John Winthrop are part of the ghostly lore.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

The guided walk is the core of this experience, with the guide sharing stories and leading you from site to site. Entry into the pubs and historic sites is free, but drinks are not included, so it’s wise to budget extra for beverages if you wish to partake. The tour’s mobile ticket makes checking in straightforward, and the 2-hour duration is enough to enjoy several sites without feeling rushed.

Group Dynamics and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the group size strikes a good balance—large enough for lively conversation but small enough to keep the stories intimate. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Beth, Nicole, and Liberty for their friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging approach. They keep the stories lively, often peppered with humor and local insights, which makes the experience memorable.

The Overall Experience

Most travelers find this pub crawl fun and informative, with many calling it a highlight of their Boston trip. As one reviewer noted, “Liberty was a great tour guide. Very engaging and made it fun.” Others appreciate the atmosphere of the historic pubs, which, despite being busy, add to the authentic feel of the tour.

That said, a few travelers mention that at busy times, hearing the guide can be a challenge. If you’re sensitive to noise or prefer quiet tours, this is worth keeping in mind.

Evaluating the Value

At just under $30, this tour offers a cost-effective way to combine sightseeing, history, and entertainment. You get a lively guide, visits to historically significant sites, and a chance to experience Boston’s haunted side—all within a manageable 2-hour window. It’s a good entry point for those who want to combine social fun with a touch of the supernatural, especially if you enjoy stories told with enthusiasm and local color.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This haunted pub crawl suits adventurous travelers who love stories, history, and a little ghostly fun. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy guided walks in historic neighborhoods, and if you appreciate friendly guides who can bring stories to life. If you’re traveling with friends, solo, or even as a couple, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to chat, laugh, and maybe even shiver a little at the spooky tales.

It’s also a good choice for those who want to explore Boston’s historic taverns and cemeteries without the hassle of planning multiple visits. However, if you’re looking for a quiet, museum-style experience with more focus on detailed history, this might be a bit lively for your taste.

The Sum Up

The Boston Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively way to explore Boston’s historic and ghostly side in a social setting. With knowledgeable guides, atmospheric stops, and compelling ghost stories, it’s a tour that provides both entertainment and insight for a reasonable price. The mixture of haunted sites, historic pubs, and storytelling makes it a memorable evening for those interested in Boston’s darker, more mysterious past.

If you’re someone who enjoys history with a spooky twist, this tour hits the right notes. It’s perfect for travelers who can appreciate a good story, a cold drink, and a bit of the paranormal—especially on a crisp Boston night. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a fun night out, this experience is designed to entertain and educate in equal measure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for anyone under 21?
No, this tour is only for guests ages 21 and over, as it involves visiting pubs and drinking alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. This allows you to choose your own beverages at the various pubs.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point at Samuel Adams Memorial is near public transit, making it easy to access.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience lively yet intimate.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about two weeks in advance, so planning ahead is recommended, especially during busy seasons.