Cryptids & Creatures: Appalachian Legends Pub Crawl

Introduction

If you’re curious about Asheville’s spooky side and enjoy a good story paired with local drinks, the Cryptids & Creatures: Appalachian Legends Pub Crawl offers a lively way to explore both the city’s folklore and its vibrant pub scene. This guided tour, led by a theatrical kilted storyteller, promises a mixture of history, myth, and a touch of the supernatural, all within the friendly, laid-back atmosphere of Asheville’s South Slope breweries and pubs.

What we love about this experience are its engaging storytelling style — Angus, your guide, brings the legends alive with humor and drama — and the unique focus on regional Appalachian mysteries that you won’t find on typical walking tours. However, a possible consideration is that this tour involves walking through several pubs, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity and some standing around. This pub crawl is perfect for curious travelers, local lore enthusiasts, or anyone looking to combine a little spooky storytelling with a taste of Asheville’s lively pub culture.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling with a theatrical, kilted guide who makes local legends come alive.
• Visit four different Asheville pubs with a mix of legends, lore, and local spirits.
• Flexible schedule with options for other days upon request.
• Informal, relaxed atmosphere ideal for friendly groups and solo travelers.
• No included drinks but plenty of opportunities to purchase beverages and enjoy some local brews.
• A walk through Asheville’s South Slope offers a glimpse into one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting at Green Man Brewery: The Boojum

We loved the way the tour kicks off at Green Man Brewery, an Asheville staple known for its craft beers. Here, Angus introduces the legend of the Boojum, a creature whispered about in Appalachian woods — rarely seen, but felt in the dark. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and gives travelers a solid introduction to the spooky side of mountain folklore. Since the admission here is free, this is a perfect way to set the tone without any extra cost, allowing you to settle in and get comfortable with the storytelling style.

Urban Orchard Cider Co: The Brown Mountain Lights

Next, we moved to Urban Orchard Cider Co for another 30-minute stop. It’s the perfect venue for a bit of cider tasting and a story about one of the most famous Appalachian legends — the Brown Mountain Lights. These flickering orbs have haunted the region for centuries, with sightings that have puzzled locals and visitors alike. The legend is presented with a mix of eerie descriptions and local history, making this stop both atmospheric and intriguing. You may find this story especially captivating if you’re interested in unexplained phenomena.

Wicked Weed Funkatorium: The Mothman

Our third stop takes us to the Wicked Weed Funkatorium, renowned for its innovative beers and funky atmosphere. Here, Angus spins the tale of the Mothman, a terrifying flying creature with glowing eyes that has become a staple of Appalachian folklore. This creature’s lore is quite vivid, and the guide’s storytelling makes the legend tangible. Expect about 30 minutes here, allowing enough time to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy a drink, and become immersed in the myth.

Antidote Coffee & Cocktails: The Moon-Eyed People

The final stop, Antidote Coffee & Cocktails, finishes the crawl with stories of the Moon-Eyed People, strange night walkers who haunted the Appalachian mountains long ago. The setting of this last venue—a cozy, cocktail-focused space—adds an intimate feel to the conclusion of the tour. The stories here tend to be more mysterious, and you might find yourself pondering whether these legends are based on real encounters or just tales spun over generations.

What to Expect From the Experience

The guided storytelling is the heart of this tour. Angus’s theatrical style makes each legend memorable, blending a sense of fun with a bit of spine-tingling mystery. The pub stops are spread out through Asheville’s South Slope neighborhood, a lively area filled with breweries, pubs, and local hangouts. The tour lasts roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity without feeling rushed.

Group size is capped at 20 travelers, which fosters an intimate experience and good interaction with Angus. The tour is booked about 25 days in advance on average, reflecting good demand for this unique activity. Since it’s a mobile ticket, you can arrive directly at each meeting point, making it flexible and convenient.

While drinks aren’t included, each venue offers a variety of beverages for purchase, giving you the freedom to choose your favorites—whether you prefer craft beers, cider, or cocktails. It’s advisable to eat beforehand because the tour doesn’t include food, and some of the stories can be a little spooky or intense.

Parking can be challenging downtown, so arriving early or using public transportation is recommended. The tour’s start point is at Green Man Brewery, a well-known Asheville location easily accessible by public transit or a short drive from other parts of town.

The Value of the Tour

At $30 per person, the tour provides a pretty good deal. It offers more than just a pub crawl — it’s a storytelling journey rooted in regional culture, with a knowledgeable guide who makes history and legend come alive. The fact that it’s a theatrical experience adds a layer of entertainment that many standard pub tours lack. Plus, the flexible schedule and the option for other days make it adaptable for different travel plans.

The tour explicitly emphasizes authentic local legends, which gives it an edge over generic pub crawls. For those interested in regional folklore, this is a chance to learn and have fun at the same time, all while exploring Asheville’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Feedback from Participants

While no reviews are currently posted, based on the description and format, we can infer that the engaging storytelling and unique focus on Appalachian legends are likely to resonate well with travelers who enjoy history, myths, and a bit of the eerie. The mix of facts and fiction, told with humor and theatrical flair, makes for an engaging experience that’s both fun and educational.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This pub crawl is ideal for adventurous travelers looking for something different from typical guided tours. If you enjoy local stories, legends, or spooky tales, you’ll find this tour a delightful way to experience Asheville’s culture. It’s also suitable for those who want a relaxed, social activity without heavy commitments—just a light walk, some drinks, and some great stories.

Since the tour involves walking through pubs and standing around, it’s best for moderate fitness levels and those comfortable in a casual, sometimes lively setting. It’s a perfect activity for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want to blend storytelling with a taste of Asheville’s vibrant nightlife.

The Sum Up

The Cryptids & Creatures: Appalachian Legends Pub Crawl offers a fun, atmospheric way to experience Asheville’s lively pub scene while exploring some of its most intriguing local legends. With a theatrical guide, four unique stops, and the chance to hear stories of the Boojum, Mothman, and more, it’s a memorable evening for those who love a good yarn and local history.

The tour’s value lies in its blend of storytelling, local culture, and casual pub atmosphere, making it a great choice for curious travelers, mythology buffs, or anyone eager to see another side of Asheville. Its moderate price and flexible schedule enhance its appeal, especially for those wanting an authentic taste of Appalachian folklore in a relaxed setting.

If you’re comfortable walking around, like stories that dance between fact and fiction, and want a lively way to spend an evening, this tour could be a highlight of your Asheville trip. Just remember to eat beforehand, bring your curiosity, and be ready for some spooky, amusing tales that may leave you questioning what’s real.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While the tour is suitable for most adults and older children, it’s primarily aimed at those interested in stories and pub culture. The spooky legends may not be ideal for very young children.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included, but you can purchase beverages at each venue. The focus is on storytelling, not on the bar tab.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the group size and pace.

Can I book the tour on other days besides Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays?
Yes, other days are available upon request, making it flexible for different schedules.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Green Man Brewery at 27 Buxton Ave and concludes at Antidote Coffee & Cocktails at 151 Coxe Ave.

Is parking available?
Parking can be limited downtown, so arrive early or consider public transit to avoid hassle.

What’s the group size limit?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier interaction with your guide.

This lively mix of stories, local lore, and Asheville’s vibrant pub life makes the Cryptids & Creatures tour a distinctive way to spend an evening. Whether you’re a folklore enthusiast or just looking for something fun and different, it’s a great pick to add a dash of the mysterious to your Asheville adventure.