Haunted Old Town Alexandria Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour

Imagine strolling through the charming streets of Old Town Alexandria, a place full of history, charm, and stories of spirits both literal and figurative. This ghost-themed pub crawl offers a combination of ghost stories, historic bars, and a dash of humor, making it a memorable way to spend an evening in Virginia. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun, slightly spooky experience with friends, this tour hits the right notes.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the guides are highly praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills—people say they really bring the haunted tales to life. Second, the mix of walking, storytelling, and bar stops offers a relaxed yet lively way to explore the town. The only thing to consider? It’s tailored for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and who enjoy sharing drinks along the way. If you’re after an authentic, entertaining introduction to Alexandria’s ghostly side, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Small-group atmosphere enhances storytelling intimacy
• Tour includes multiple historic pubs for drinks (additional costs apply)
• Guides are well-reviewed for their enthusiasm and knowledge
• Tour lasts about 2.5 hours, covering key haunted spots in Old Town
• Includes a memorable souvenir, such as a commemorative cup or cooler
• Perfect for adults 21+ who enjoy ghost stories and a lively night out

An Overview of the Haunted Old Town Alexandria Booze and Boos Tour

This walking tour combines the thrill of ghost stories with the fun of pub hopping. For $34.68, you get about two and a half hours of exploration, storytelling, and drinks at historic bars. It’s operated by Nightly Spirits, renowned for their themed tours, and highly rated with a perfect 5.0 from 137 reviews. The tour is designed for small groups—no more than 12 participants—which means more personalized attention from your guide and plenty of chances to ask questions.

The tour is recommended to be booked about 15 days in advance, reflecting its popularity, and it’s a mobile ticket experience, making check-in straightforward. It begins at 480 King St, right in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, and winds down near the waterfront at Chadwicks on Strand Street, a perfect spot to finish with a late-night snack.

Why it’s attractive:

• Well-balanced mix of history, ghost stories, and pub atmosphere
• Guides dressed in costume add a fun, immersive element
• Visitors take home a souvenir cup or can cooler to remember the night
• The small group setting fosters a more engaging experience

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start at King & Rye

Your evening begins at King & Rye, a cozy “speak-easy” style bar where you’ll meet your guide in the lobby. Here, you can purchase a drink—whether a cocktail, beer, or soft drink—and settle in before the stories begin. Guests appreciate the relaxed start, and many reviews praise the guide’s engaging style, with one reviewer noting that Magic made the whole event feel like a group celebration. The first stop lasts about 25 minutes, giving plenty of time to get comfortable and get to know your fellow ghost enthusiasts.

Old Hat Bar

Next, you’ll visit the quirky Old Hat Bar, a place renowned for its unique vibe and lively atmosphere. Here, your guide shares tales of haunted happenings and the bar’s peculiar history. The ample time to explore allows you to soak in the ambiance or order another drink (additional cost). Reviewers often mention how the stories are brought vividly to life, making you feel as if the spirits themselves are sharing secrets.

Union Street Public House

Housed in a renovated 1790 Colonial warehouse, Union Street Public House is a highlight for its historic charm and ghostly tales. Your group will spend about 25 minutes here, which is enough to enjoy the stories and perhaps sample a drink if you wish. Many visitors comment on how the guide’s storytelling makes the old bricks and beams seem to whisper secrets from centuries past. It’s a perfect blend of history and hauntings.

The Final Stop at Chadwicks

The tour wraps up near the waterfront at Chadwicks, a popular spot where you can unwind and grab a late-night bite. It’s a scenic setting for concluding your haunted adventure. The last stop is approximately 15 minutes, a good opportunity to reflect on the stories and enjoy the lively waterfront scene. Some reviews mention how this is a nice way to end the evening, especially if you’re hungry or craving a casual drink.

Bonus: Tragic Love and Haunted Gelato

Along the route, your guide will point out a charming gelato shop with a spooky story involving a tragic romance and ghostly encounters. It’s a sweet ending to a spooky night, and many find the story, as described by one reviewer, quite captivating.

The Experience and What You’ll Get

Guides and Atmosphere:
According to reviews, the guides—often dressed in costumes—are a major highlight. They’re described as knowledgeable, engaging, and friendly, making sure everyone feels involved and entertained. One reviewer called their guide “Magic,” noting that he made the tour feel like a group event, which is exactly what you want for a fun night out.

Stories and Authenticity:
The tales shared aren’t just superficial ghost stories—they’re delivered with a mix of humor and respect for the haunted locations. The guide’s ability to bring history alive through storytelling is often singled out as a big plus. Many reviews mention how well the stories are told, effectively sending chills or eliciting laughs.

Bar Stops and Drinks:
The tour includes visits to historic pubs, each with its own story and character. While drinks are not included in the ticket price, the option to buy beverages at each stop adds to the experience, allowing you to toast your ghostly discoveries. Many guests find this a great way to relax, socialize, and savor the old town atmosphere.

Souvenir and Value:
Participants receive a commemorative cup or can cooler, making the experience memorable beyond the night. Considering the price—around $35—you’re paying for a lively, story-rich experience with the added bonus of exploring local bars. Guests frequently comment on the good value, especially for such an entertaining and well-organized tour.

What to Keep in Mind

This tour is designed with adults in mind—participants must be 21+ with valid ID. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves about two and a half hours of walking at a relaxed pace. While the group size is small, ensuring more interaction, it also means that punctuality is key—cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

Weather can influence the experience, so check the forecast before booking. The tour is outdoors, and if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll have the option to reschedule or get a full refund.

The Value Proposition

For the price, this ghost tour offers considerably more than just storytelling. You’re getting a guided walk through historic, haunted spots, combined with visits to iconic local pubs, and a souvenir to remember your night. The guide’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and costume add layers of authenticity and entertainment, making it a compelling choice for anyone wanting a lively, engaging evening.

It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate history mixed with fun, or who want a social, relaxed way to experience Old Town Alexandria after dark. It’s perfect for adults looking for a night of stories, drinks, and a few shivers—without the fuss of large tour groups or overly commercial experiences.

The Sum Up

This Haunted Old Town Alexandria Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour balances history, entertainment, and local flavor remarkably well. The knowledgeable guides, lively atmosphere, and well-curated stops make it an excellent value for those wanting a memorable evening in Alexandria.

If you’re into ghost stories delivered with humor and authenticity, and enjoy exploring historic bars with a lively group, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s also ideal for visitors who prefer small-group experiences, ensuring a more personal and engaging adventure.

While it’s not a deep dive into history—if that’s your priority—you’ll certainly walk away with a handful of spooky tales, new insights into Alexandria’s past, and hopefully, a few ghostly chuckles. For a fun night out that’s both atmospheric and social, this tour offers genuine value and plenty of memorable moments.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, participants must be 21+ with a valid photo ID to enjoy the pub stops and alcohol purchases involved.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, covering several historic sites and pub visits.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available for purchase at the stops, but the tour fee includes a souvenir cup or cooler.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 480 King St and concludes near the waterfront at Chadwicks on Strand Street.

Is the tour walkable for most people?
Yes, the tour involves walking through Old Town Alexandria’s streets, with a moderate fitness level recommended.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of participants is 12, offering a more intimate and interactive experience.

Are tours canceled in bad weather?
Yes, bad weather may lead to a cancellation, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 15 days ahead, as the tour is popular and tends to fill up fast.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

What makes this tour stand out?
The blend of knowledgeable, engaging guides, authentic ghost stories, and historic pub stops creates a lively, memorable experience.

This tour offers a lively, historically tinged ghost story experience that combines entertainment with a taste of Old Town Alexandria’s lively nightlife. Whether you’re a local or visitor, it’s a fun way to explore the haunted side of this charming town—and probably share some laughs along the way.