Richmond, Virginia, is a city that offers more than just historic sights and Southern charm. Its vibrant craft beer scene and spooky tales make it an ideal destination for unique drinking tours. We particularly like the Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl because it combines history, local legends, and a good dose of fun—perfect for those who enjoy stories as much as spirits.
On the other hand, the Richmond: Guided Tour of Local Breweries with Tastings offers a more laid-back, beer-focused experience that’s perfect for craft beer lovers. Whether you’re into ghost stories, historic pubs, or brewery hopping, Richmond has something to suit every taste.
If you’re wondering which tour fits your style, know that both options deliver memorable experiences—one with a spooky twist, the other with a craft beer focus. We’ll help you weigh the details, so you pick the perfect way to enjoy Richmond’s lively drinking scene.
Quick Overview
Richmond offers two standout drinking tour options. The $1 takes you through historic, haunted spots in Shockoe Bottom with tales of murder, war, and spirits—both ghostly and alcoholic. It’s a two-hour walk with a focus on Richmond’s darker side.
Meanwhile, the $1 is a 2.5-hour brewery hop that combines learning about the brewing process with tasting some of the city’s best craft beers and a special food pairing. Both tours offer about the same duration but focus on very different ways to enjoy Richmond’s drinking culture.
1. Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
Starting at just $30 per person for a 2-hour journey, this tour is an affordable way to combine history, storytelling, and a few drinks. The pub crawl explores the Shockoe Bottom district, an area packed with historic buildings and stories that are better left unspoken after dark.
As you visit several historic pubs, your guide shares stories of murder-suicides, Civil War soldiers, and the ghost of Edgar Allan Poe, whose spirit supposedly haunts some of Richmond’s oldest haunts. You’ll sip on beer, wine, and African wine during the tour, adding an international flair to the ghost stories.
What makes this tour stand out is its mix of spooky tales and local flavor. You’re not just drinking; you’re learning about Richmond’s turbulent past—wars, murders, and legends—delivered in a lively, sometimes chilling tone. It’s particularly well suited for history buffs or those who love a good ghost story with their drink.
With a rating of 4.1/5 based on 12 reviews, most visitors appreciate the storytelling and atmosphere, though some suggest arriving early for the best experience.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy haunted tales, historic pubs, and a little liquid courage, this tour is a fun, affordable way to experience Richmond’s darker side.
2. Richmond: Guided Tour of Local Breweries with Tastings
For around $89 per person, this 2.5-hour tour dives deep into Richmond’s craft beer scene. It includes visits to three distinct breweries, where you’ll sample flagship brews and seasonal specials, all explained by an expert guide. One of the highlights is a food pairing at one of the breweries, which elevates the experience beyond just drinking.
The guide also shares insights into Richmond’s history and growth as a craft brewing hub, making this tour as educational as it is tasty.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on beer education and tasting. If you’re curious about brewing techniques or want to learn how to identify different beer styles, this is your chance. Plus, the small group size and knowledgeable guide make for a personalized experience.
While the reviews aren’t available yet, the value is clear: you get to visit three breweries, taste multiple beers, and enjoy a curated food pairing—all for a reasonable price given the quality of the experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for craft beer fans or anyone wanting to enjoy Richmond’s brewing culture, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two Richmond drinking tours, consider your interests and mood. If you love stories with a spooky twist and a bit of history, the Haunted Pub Crawl is a great choice. It’s also budget-friendly and perfect for an evening adventure.
If your focus is on beer and learning, the Brewery Tour with Tasting offers a more relaxed, educational experience, ideal for craft beer aficionados or those eager to explore Richmond’s brewing scene.
Think about your budget: the haunted pub crawl is more affordable, but the brewery tour includes multiple tastings and a food pairing, which adds value.
Consider your physical comfort too—both tours involve walking and some standing, but the brewery tour’s longer duration might be more suitable for those who want a leisurely pace. Booking early is advised, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.
Richmond’s drinking scene offers diverse ways to experience its local flavor and stories. Whether you choose to chase ghosts in historic pubs or discover the city’s craft beer gems, both tours promise fun and memorable moments. For history lovers, the haunted pub crawl offers a vivid taste of Richmond’s past—complete with spooky tales and spirited drinks.
For those more interested in the craft beer movement, the brewery tour provides insight into the city’s brewing industry with plenty of tastings.
Ultimately, both options are worth considering. If you’re on a tight budget, the haunted pub crawl gives a lively, affordable experience. If you want a more in-depth exploration of Richmond’s beer culture, the brewery tour is a smart pick. Whichever you choose, be sure to book early and get ready for an enjoyable taste of Richmond.