Haunted Washington D.C. Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour

When it comes to exploring Washington D.C., most visitors focus on monuments, museums, and politics. But for those wanting a different kind of evening, the Haunted Washington D.C. Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour promises a mix of spooky stories and historic pubs, all wrapped into a lively 2.5-hour experience. It’s a unique way to combine local legends, history, and drinks into one entertaining package.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guides who bring the stories to life with humor and knowledge. Second, the carefully selected bars filled with history — each pub has its own character and stories, making the stops more than just places to drink. One thing to consider is that some guests found it hard to hear the guide in noisy pubs, which could impact your enjoyment if you’re not close to the speaker. This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a combination of storytelling, history, and a relaxed pub crawl. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with walking, standing, and having a good time in a small group.

Key Points

• Combines a ghost tour with a pub crawl, covering historic and haunted sites.
• Led by a knowledgeable, entertaining guide in costume.
• Visits 2-3 historic pubs, with a drink at each (at your own expense).
• Small-group format ensures a personal experience.
• Suitable for ages 21+ with valid ID; includes take-home souvenir.
• A great night for those interested in D.C.’s spooky side and local history.

An Unusual Way to Explore D.C.

This tour offers a two-in-one experience—a ghost walk paired with a pub crawl—making it stand out from standard evening tours of the city. Starting outside the Occidental hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue, you’ll meet your costumed guide, ready to lead you through the darkened streets, sharing tales of Washington’s hidden hauntings and its lively drinking history.

The journey begins in Lafayette Square, just north of the White House. Here, in front of the iconic residence, your guide sets the tone with stories about the ghosts of the White House and Lafayette Park. From the outset, you get a sense that this isn’t just a walk focused on history but a playful exploration of the city’s supernatural side.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $62, you get a well-paced 2.5-hour tour led by a costumed guide, who enlivens the stories with humor and theatrical flair. You’ll visit two to three historic pubs along the way, each with its own character and stories. The tour also features a fun take-home souvenir — a commemorative can cooler or cup.

It’s important to note that alcoholic beverages are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for drinks at each pub stop. The menu options are up to you, and the stops are designed to highlight historic drinking spots with their own stories and ambiance.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Lafayette Square

Your ghostly journey begins here, in front of the White House. The guide shares stories about presidents and their ghostly visitors, adding a layer of intrigue to the neighborhood’s history. Visitors often appreciate the chance to snap photos of the White House at dusk, capturing the atmosphere of the haunted capital.

Historic Pubs and Hotels

As you walk through the city, your guide takes you to two or three historic bars and hotels. These aren’t your average pubs; they’re places brimming with stories, ghosts, and centuries of history. Past guests have enjoyed hearing about hauntings at these iconic venues, making each stop more memorable.

End at the Round Robin Bar

The tour wraps up at the Willard InterContinental’s Round Robin Bar, a historic spot itself, where you can continue your evening if you wish. Some reviews note that the tour sometimes ends a bit early and that not all stops might be open, which is worth keeping in mind.

The Guide: Knowledge and Entertainment

Guest reviews consistently praise the guides — describing them as knowledgeable, energetic, and engaging. Whether in costume or not, guides are adept storytellers who balance fun anecdotes with interesting facts about Washington D.C.’s haunted past.

One reviewer mentioned, “Steven did an awesome job with the tour. We learned so much while also listening to spooky stories.” Another said, “Elizabeth was great and had the best energy.” These positive comments highlight how much a good guide can elevate the experience.

The Experience: Atmosphere and Authenticity

Walking the streets of D.C. at night, listening to ghost stories, and visiting historic bars creates an authentic and immersive atmosphere. The small group size — limited to 10 people — means you’re less likely to get lost in a crowd and more likely to feel involved.

However, some guests have noted challenges. A few found it difficult to hear the guide in the noisy bars, which could mean missing some of the best stories unless you’re close to the speaker or actively ask the guide to speak louder.

Price and Value

At $62, the tour offers good value for those who enjoy storytelling, history, and socializing. The included souvenir adds a nice touch, and the experience of visiting historic, haunted pubs provides a tangible connection to Washington’s past.

Compared to other tours, it’s a reasonably priced, relaxed way to spend an evening. You’re paying for entertainment, historical insights, and a memorable shared experience, rather than just the stops themselves.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous night owls, history buffs with a taste for the supernatural, and anyone looking for a fun, social way to explore D.C. after dark. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples seeking an intimate and lively activity.

It’s not ideal if you’re sensitive to noise or prefer a more formal, informative tour without the pub element. Also, keep in mind that you must be 21+ with valid ID to participate.

This ghost and pub crawl in Washington D.C. offers a unique blend of spooky storytelling and historic tavern visits. The guides’ charisma and knowledge turn what could be a simple walk into a memorable experience. The tour’s focus on small-group intimacy and authentic venues makes it stand out among other city excursions.

While it has minor drawbacks — mainly the occasional difficulty hearing in noisy environments and the early ending reported by some — these don’t overshadow the overall fun and atmosphere. If you’re after an entertaining, slightly spooky night that combines local legends with a taste of D.C.’s historic drinking scene, this tour is worth considering.

Whether you’re a ghost story enthusiast, a history lover, or just in search of a different way to experience D.C., this tour offers a lively, engaging, and memorable evening. It’s best for those who enjoy storytelling, socializing, and exploring city secrets in a relaxed setting.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, you must be 21 or older with a valid photo ID to participate, as it involves visiting pubs and consuming alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity that won’t wear you out.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll purchase beverages at the pubs, which are selected for their historic ambiance and stories.

What if I can’t hear the guide well?
Some guests have experienced difficulty hearing in noisy pub environments. It’s helpful to stay close to the guide or politely ask them to speak louder if needed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Occidental on Pennsylvania Avenue and ends at the Round Robin Bar at the Willard Hotel.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

In the end, the Haunted Washington D.C. Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour stands out as a fun, engaging way to experience the city’s haunted side. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a good ghost story, historic pubs, and a lively atmosphere. With friendly guides and a cozy group size, it promises an evening of stories, laughs, and maybe a ghost or two.