Ghost Bus Pub Crawl

Our review of the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl aims to give you an honest look at this unique way to experience San Antonio’s spooky charm. If you’re intrigued by ghost stories but prefer to avoid walking miles in the Texas heat, this tour might just be your perfect evening outing. It combines history, haunted tales, and a relaxed atmosphere—all from the comfort of a climate-controlled bus.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the carefully selected stops—each rich with stories—and the unusual format that keeps things lively without the exhaustion of a typical walking ghost tour. But, as with any experience, there are a few considerations. The price might seem steep for some, especially since alcoholic beverages aren’t included, and the tour’s success depends on good weather and enough participants.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a good story, a bit of spooky ambiance, and socializing over a few drinks. If you’re after a fun, atmospheric night with a touch of the supernatural and don’t want to spend hours on foot, the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl offers a memorable way to explore San Antonio’s haunted corners.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation in a fully air-conditioned bus offers comfort and ease.
• Historic bar visits include admission to the oldest bar in Texas and a Victorian séance-themed spot.
• The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.
• Limited tickets mean you should reserve early to secure a spot.
• Ghost stories and local legends are shared by informative guides, enhancing the experience.
• Alcoholic beverages are not included, but stops are set in bars with plenty of local character.

An In-Depth Look at the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl

What makes this tour stand out?

Unlike many ghost tours that involve walking through dark alleys or historic districts, this one offers a relaxed, comfortable journey. The fully air-conditioned bus takes you from one haunted locale to another, avoiding sore feet and weather concerns. This makes it accessible even for travelers who might find walking tours physically demanding or who prefer a more laid-back experience.

The tour’s top-rated status—being voted one of the Top 3 Ghost Tours in the nation by USA Today for five consecutive years—speaks to its popularity and credibility. Creators of Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours have crafted an experience that balances storytelling with entertainment, making it especially appealing for groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable night out.

How is the itinerary structured?

The tour kicks off at the Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours & Oddities Parlor on Alamo Plaza, a fitting starting point in the heart of San Antonio’s historic district. From there, you’ll hop aboard the bus at 8:00 pm, ready to explore three carefully chosen haunted sites.

Stop 1: Menger Bar

Our first stop is the Menger Bar, celebrated as the oldest and most historic bar in Texas. Beyond its long-standing tradition, it’s famous for its connection to local legends and ghost stories. The included 30-minute visit features admission, giving you time to soak in the ambiance—think of wood-paneled walls and a sense of the past lingering in every corner.

Guests have loved this stop, with one reviewer noting, “No spirits hitched a ride home,” hinting at the playful spirit of the tour rather than actual ghostly encounters. Still, the stories and historic atmosphere set a perfect tone for the evening.

Stop 2: Southtown House of Spirits

Next, the bus takes you to the Southtown House of Spirits, a Victorian-era séance-themed bar that opened on Halloween 2024. This second-floor venue is uniquely atmospheric, with a theme that immediately transports visitors to a different era. Its recent opening means it’s fresh and still building its reputation, but the setting alone sparks curiosity.

Guests will spend about 30 minutes here, exploring the Victorian décor and perhaps catching a whisper of ghost stories associated with the venue. The review mentioning “outstanding and entertaining” guides suggests the storytelling at this stop adds a memorable layer to the experience.

Stop 3: Hotel Havana

The final stop is at Hotel Havana, a boutique hotel built in 1914 along the River Walk. The vintage furnishings and historic charm are complemented by local legends of ghostly guests still lingering in the halls. With another 30-minute visit, this stop wraps up the tour with a blend of history and imagination.

Guests have commented positively on the “eerie ambiance” and the guides’ storytelling ability, which truly brings the haunted tales to life.

What’s included, and what’s not?

The tour’s ticket price of $62 per person covers local guides, admission to each site, and the air-conditioned bus. The inclusion of admission fees is a significant value, considering the historic nature of the stops. However, alcoholic beverages are not included, so you might want to bring some cash or plan to purchase drinks at the stops.

Group size and timing

With a maximum of 33 travelers, the tour maintains a convivial atmosphere without feeling overcrowded. The start time at 8:00 pm is ideal for enjoying San Antonio’s evening weather and the city’s nighttime ambiance. The duration—about 2 to 3 hours—makes it an evening activity that won’t overextend your schedule.

What do the reviews tell us?

Two reviews from recent travelers highlight the tour’s entertainment value and friendly guides. One mentioned, “Lady Lex and Robert took very good care of us,” emphasizing the personal touch. The other was surprised to find tarantulas included—indicating some unexpected surprises and engaging storytelling moments.

While the reviews are limited, they suggest the tour is well-organized, fun, and informative—perfect for those wanting a ghostly adventure without the effort of walking tour fatigue.

Is it worth the price?

Given the included admissions, guided stories, and transportation, the tour provides good value for a two- to three-hour experience. It’s especially appealing for visitors interested in local legends, history, and a relaxed social atmosphere. For those seeking a ghostly thrill with minimal physical exertion, this tour strikes a nice balance.

Practical tips for booking

• Reserve early, as tickets are limited.
• Arrive at the meeting point at the designated time to ensure a smooth start.
• Dress comfortably and consider bringing a jacket if the evening air turns cool.
• Remember, alcoholic beverages aren’t included—plan accordingly if you want drinks at the stops.

Who should consider this tour?

This Ghost Bus Pub Crawl is ideal for travelers who want to combine history, storytelling, and a bit of the supernatural without the physical strain of walking. Perfect for groups, couples, or solo explorers who appreciate a good story and a fun night out. It’s also a fantastic way to see some of San Antonio’s haunted landmarks in a relaxed, social setting.

However, if you’re looking for a pure, historical ghost tour with walking and extensive history, this might not meet those needs. Likewise, if you’re sensitive to loud environments or prefer quiet, contemplative experiences, this lively, story-driven tour may feel too energetic.

Final Thoughts

In the world of ghost tours, the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl offers a playful, comfortable, and engaging way to experience San Antonio’s haunted past. Its combination of historic bars, lively guides, and atmospheric storytelling makes it a memorable evening for those curious about local legends and ghostly tales. The fully air-conditioned bus ensures comfort, and the stops are selected for their ambiance and stories, not just their historic significance.

The price reflects the experience’s value, considering the included admissions and guided storytelling. Travelers who enjoy a relaxed social atmosphere, ghost stories, and a bit of Texas history will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their San Antonio adventures.

FAQs

• What is the starting location of the tour? The tour begins at Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours & Oddities Parlor at 204 Alamo Plaza, suite J, San Antonio.

• What time does the tour start? The tour starts at 8:00 pm.

• Are alcoholic beverages included? No, drinks are not included, but you can purchase alcohol at the stops.

• How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours.

• What stops are included? The tour features three stops: Menger Bar, Southtown House of Spirits, and Hotel Havana.

• Is this suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 33 for a more personal experience.

• What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In essence, whether you’re a history buff, a ghost story lover, or just looking for a fun, atmospheric night out in San Antonio, this tour packs a punch—minus the sore feet.