If you’re looking for a way to mix Austin’s legendary bar scene with a dash of the supernatural, the Austins Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers just that. This two-hour tour takes you through the city’s historic district, blending local spirits, haunted tales, and a vibrant bar atmosphere. It’s a fun, budget-friendly way to get a taste of Austin’s nightlife with an eerie twist.
What we love about this tour is the chance to visit iconic spots like The Driskill Bar and Casino El Camino while hearing stories that make your spine tingle. Plus, the fact that it’s led by guides who are knowledgeable and engaging makes the experience genuinely enjoyable. That said, it’s worth noting that drinks aren’t included—so if you’re hoping for an all-inclusive experience, you’ll need to budget extra.
This tour suits those who enjoy storytelling, a bit of history, and a lively group atmosphere, especially if you’re keen on the paranormal or just looking for a unique night out.
This experience made our article of The 15 Top Drinking Tours In Austin: Which Is Best?.
- Key Points
- Introduction: What’s This Tour All About?
- What Makes This Tour Worth Considering?
- An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
- What Are the Highlights and Drawbacks?
- The Value of This Experience
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- The Best Of Austin!
- More Drinking Tours in Austin
- More Nightlife Experiences in Austin
- More Tour Reviews in Austin
Key Points
- Engaging guides with credible, well-researched ghost stories
- Historic bars with authentic atmospheres and local charm
- Affordable price point at $30 for two hours of fun
- Variety of stops including The Driskill, Casino El Camino, and more
- Not suitable for minors or mobility-impaired travelers
- Tips: Bring water, snacks, and an open mind for a memorable night
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Introduction: What’s This Tour All About?
This haunted pub crawl in Austin is designed for those who want more than just a drink. It’s a lively walk through the city’s historic district, where each stop offers a chance to enjoy a good story, a great drink (your own cost), and a taste of local nightlife. We appreciate that it’s not just a drinking tour but also a storytelling experience rooted in Austin’s past.
Two things that stand out are the knowledgeable guides and the authentic historic venues. The guides are praised for their engaging storytelling, making the ghostly tales come alive, and their ability to keep the group on schedule. The bars themselves—like The Driskill and Casino El Camino—offer a genuine Austin vibe that makes each stop special.
One thing to consider is that drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for beverages separately. Also, the tour lasts only two hours, which means it’s perfect for an evening activity but not for a lengthy night out. This experience is best suited for travelers who love stories, enjoy a spirited atmosphere, and are curious about Austin’s haunted legends.
You can also read our reviews of more nightlife experiences in Austin
What Makes This Tour Worth Considering?
Authentic storytelling: We loved the way guides weave credible stories with local history, making the experience both entertaining and informative. The reviews echo this sentiment, with visitors praising guides like Katie, who made the tales memorable.
Iconic Austin venues: The stops include historic and well-loved bars such as The Driskill, where the ambiance is steeped in history. The Casino El Camino is noted for its unique Bloody Mary and lively atmosphere, adding flavor to the evening.
Affordable price: At $30, this tour offers good value considering the two-hour duration and the fascinating stories. Keep in mind drinks are separate, so you can choose to indulge or just soak in the atmosphere.
A lively social experience: With groups averaging around 19 people, this is a chance to meet other travelers while sharing spooky stories and fun bar moments. The reviews mention the guide’s ability to keep things fun and on track, making it suitable even for larger groups.
Limited but focused: The tour visits a handful of bars, each offering different vibes—historic, casual, lively—so you get a good variety without feeling rushed.
Accessibility considerations: It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or minors under 21, as the experience involves walking and alcohol consumption.
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
Starting outside The Driskill Bar at 6:00 PM, the guide—easily recognizable in a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt—sets the tone with eerie stories and historical context. The Driskill is one of Austin’s most historic hotels, famous for its haunted reputation. Here, you can imagine the spirits of bygone days while sipping your own drink or just soaking in the ambiance.
Next, the tour moves to the Paramount Theater, where tales of The Man With The Cigar hauntings are shared. The theater’s long history of performances and movies adds a layer of cultural depth to your ghost stories. The guide will also tell you about the spirits said to linger in the building, giving you a taste of Austin’s ghostly folklore.
The third stop often features Casino El Camino, a lively dive bar known for its unique Bloody Mary—something you might want to try while hearing about local legends. The stories here are more playful but still rooted in the neighborhood’s history of spirits—both living and dead.
Moving on, the group visits Maggie Mae’s and San Jac Saloon, iconic venues with rich histories and vibrant atmospheres. Maggie Mae’s, a fixture on Sixth Street, offers a more energetic vibe, while San Jac Saloon provides a cozy, historic setting with its own ghostly tales.
During each stop, you have time to enjoy your own drinks, chat with fellow adventurers, and soak in the authentic Austin ambiance. The tour is paced with roughly 15-20 minutes at each venue, allowing for both story time and socializing.
What Are the Highlights and Drawbacks?
Highlights:
– The local spirits you’ll sample or at least see enjoyed at each bar—like the signature drink at The Driskill.
– The well-researched tales that are both credible and entertaining, making the haunted stories more engaging.
– The opportunity to visit historic venues that are central to Austin’s character.
– The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge—they’re praised consistently, adding layers of fun and authenticity.
Potential Drawbacks:
– Drinks are not included, so the overall experience costs more if you plan to indulge.
– The tour’s duration is only two hours, which might leave those wanting more feeling a bit shortchanged.
– It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or under 21, limiting accessibility.
– Some reviewers have mentioned uneven experiences with guides, but overall, the positive feedback outweighs the negatives.
The Value of This Experience
At $30, the tour’s pricing is quite reasonable, especially considering the quality of storytelling and the historic venues involved. You’re paying for more than just bar-hopping—you’re getting a guided journey through Austin’s haunted past, told by guides who know their stuff.
The inclusion of credible, well-researched stories adds to the value, giving the experience a sense of authenticity many ghost tours lack. Plus, visiting iconic bars with vibrant atmospheres makes this more than just a spooky walk—it’s a true taste of Austin’s nightlife.
Remember, since drinks aren’t included, you can tailor your experience to your budget and taste. Whether you indulge in the signature cocktails or just enjoy the stories, you’re getting a well-rounded, fun evening that combines history, humor, and a little spookiness.
You can also read our reviews of more drinking tours in Austin
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is perfect for those who love storytelling, historic venues, and a lively social scene. If you’re interested in Austin’s haunted legends or want a different way to explore the city’s bar scene, it’s a solid choice. It’s also ideal for groups who enjoy a guided experience with engaging hosts.
However, it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or those under 21, as well as anyone expecting an inclusive, all-alcoholous experience. If you prefer a more relaxed, unstructured night out, this might not be your best pick.
Final Thoughts
The Austins Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers a fun, reasonably priced way to explore Austin’s historic bars while enjoying chilling tales of ghosts and spirits. Its strength lies in the guides’ storytelling ability, the historic charm of the venues, and the lively group atmosphere.
If you’re curious about Austin’s haunted legends or just looking for a memorable night with a mix of history and humor, this tour delivers. It’s a casual, entertaining way to get a different perspective on the city’s nightlife—and enough spookiness to keep things interesting.
For travelers who appreciate authenticity, good storytelling, and a vibrant bar scene, this tour strikes a nice balance of value and entertainment. Just remember to bring your own water, be prepared for a walk, and go in with an open mind—and perhaps a good sense of humor.
Austins Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl
Frequently Asked Questions
Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll have time at each stop to purchase and enjoy your own beverages.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 6:00 PM and ending around 8:00 PM.
Where do I meet the guide?
Meet outside The Driskill Bar at 604 Brazos Street. The guide wears a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carries a lantern.
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s intended for guests 21 and over, as alcohol is involved, and it’s not suitable for minors.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your ID. It’s also handy to have water and snacks.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments due to walking involved.
In short, if you’re after a spirited way to experience Austin’s haunted side, this pub crawl offers a genuine, fun, and memorable evening. Just come ready for some stories, some laughs, and perhaps a ghost or two.
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