DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures

Our review of the DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a glimpse of what you can expect from this popular 2-hour experience. Though we haven’t done it ourselves, the tour promises a spirited mix of DC’s historic sites and ghostly tales, perfect for those who love history with a side of supernatural intrigue.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small-group setting—capped at just 15 participants—ensures a personal, engaging experience. Second, the well-researched stories about haunted locations add a layer of authenticity and fun to the night.

One potential consideration is that drinks are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for additional costs, especially at historic bars that often serve premium cocktails. This tour suits history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a lively, cultural night out with a spooky twist.

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 12 Best Drinking Tours In Washington DC.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Tours are limited to 15 people, ensuring personalized storytelling and interaction.
• Historic and Haunted: Visit some of DC’s most treasured and ghost-ridden landmarks with stories rooted in documented accounts.
• Multiple Bar Stops: Enjoy a drink at historic pubs, including the Old Ebbitt Grill and the Round Robin Bar—some of the city’s oldest and most storied taverns.
• Guides and Stories: Guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the history come alive with ghostly tales.
• Cost and Value: At $36, the tour offers good value given the historic insight and lively atmosphere, though drinks are extra.
• Limited Duration: The two-hour walk makes it a manageable, fun evening activity, but some reviews suggest it might feel a bit short or light on ghost stories.

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Pub Crawl

Starting Point: Old Ebbitt Grill

The tour kicks off at Old Ebbitt Grill, DC’s oldest restaurant, dating back over 170 years. It’s a fitting place to begin, as many presidents and notable figures have sipped here. While the admission isn’t included, just standing inside promises a taste of history. According to reviews, this is one of the highlights—the chance to enjoy a drink in a place steeped in Washington’s political and social life.

Travelers can expect a lively atmosphere, and many appreciate the mix of history and ambiance. A reviewer noted, “We learned a lot of history on this tour. There maybe wasn’t as much ghost stories as we’d hoped, but it was an enjoyable time,” highlighting that the focus is as much on the lively setting as it is on spooky tales.

Historic Haunts on 15th Street

Next, the group moves to the reported location of Rhodes Tavern, believed to be haunted by Mark Twain. Though the tale might sound fanciful, stories like these add flavor and intrigue to the walk. The storytelling here is generally well-researched, with guides weaving in documented hauntings and local lore.

Travelers should prepare for a brief stop—around 10 minutes—focused on sharing spooky stories and historical anecdotes. Some guests, like one who said, “The ghost stories were thin, and not particularly interesting,” found the tales less gripping, but still enjoyed the overall vibe and historic context.

The Occidental Grill and the Willard Hotel’s Round Robin Bar

The tour then visits the Occidental Grill, a place where many political deals have been struck. It’s also said to be haunted by lingering spirits. Then, a highlight for many is the Round Robin Bar inside the Willard Hotel—a venue that President Grant reportedly frequented.

This bar is an ideal spot to soak in the history of DC’s political elite while imagining the ghostly presence of past patrons. Some guests have described the experience as “spooky but fun,” appreciating the atmosphere and the stories behind the spirits—both the living and the dead.

The John Wilson Building and the Spirit of a Jealous Actor

Next, the tour visits the John A. Wilson Building, built on the site of a former streetcar power station. The building’s haunted reputation involves tales of two workers killed in a fire. While the stories are grim, they are supported by documented accounts, adding credibility.

The group then moves to the National Theatre, where the ghost of a jealous actor is said to still haunt the stage. This stop combines theater history with spectral stories, making it especially appealing for lovers of performance arts.

The Final Stops: F Street and The Hamilton

The last two stops are lively bars with historic connections. At Proper 21 on F Street, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a classic Gin Rickey—the drink reportedly developed here—adding a flavorful local twist.

Then, at The Hamilton, guests might catch a glimpse of the Man in the Green Hat, a ghostly figure associated with Prohibition-era smuggling of alcohol to Congress. The stories at this point are more colorful and atmospheric, wrapping up the night with a sense of DC’s hidden past.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

A Guided, Entertainment-Focused Tour

The guides are often praised for their knowledge and personable manner. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Megan and John as being highly engaging, with “great stories” and a “courteous” attitude. This personal touch helps bring the haunted tales to life, making history accessible and memorable.

A Night of Historic Bars and Ghost Stories

While the focus is on haunted locations, the tour also provides the opportunity to enjoy some of DC’s historic pubs. Though drinks are not included in the $36 price, the venues are part of the experience, and you’ll likely want to buy a drink or two to enhance the atmosphere. Be aware, some reviews mention that drinks can be pricey, and not included, so plan accordingly.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 15 participants, the tour maintains an intimate, friendly vibe. This is especially valuable if you prefer small groups for better interaction and storytelling. The tour’s duration—about two hours—is perfect for an evening activity, though some found it slightly short or wished for more ghost stories.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The tour is designed for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level, and it’s convenient that it’s near public transportation. Service animals are allowed, making it accessible for many guests. However, remember that this is a walking tour—comfortable shoes are recommended.

Analyzing the Value and Overall Experience

At $36, this ghost pub crawl offers a reasonable price for the blend of history, haunted tales, and bar hopping. The experience is especially valuable for those who appreciate well-researched stories, friendly guides, and a small-group setting.

However, since drinks are not included, it’s worth budgeting extra for beverages, especially at historic venues where prices may be higher than average. Several reviews mention that some stops felt a bit pricey, but most agree that the overall experience is enjoyable, especially for the social aspect and local ambiance.

The two-hour format makes it a flexible evening activity, suitable for travelers who want a mix of entertainment and history without committing to a full night out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history lovers, ghost enthusiasts, and nightlife explorers. If you enjoy storytelling and are interested in the spooky side of Washington DC’s past, you’ll find the guide’s narratives engaging and the venues atmospheric.

It’s a good choice for small groups, couples, or solo travelers wanting a personal experience with lively, historical venues. However, those expecting a deep dive into ghost lore or extensive ghost-hunting may find the stories on the lighter side.

Travelers who enjoy a mix of history, socializing, and a fun, slightly spooky atmosphere will get the most out of this experience.

The DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively way to explore Washington DC’s historic bars and ghostly legends in a compact, engaging format. The small group size and knowledgeable guides help create a relaxed, personable atmosphere, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those simply looking for a different way to see the city after dark.

While drinks are extra and some storytelling may feel a bit light for true ghost aficionados, most guests will appreciate the combination of historic venues and ghostly tales. At a reasonable price, it provides a solid value for those interested in a fun, social, and slightly spooky evening.

For travelers craving an authentic, entertaining night of history and haunted tales, this tour hits the mark—especially if you enjoy a good story delivered with humor and local flavor.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll have the chance to purchase beverages at the pub stops, which may be pricey.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 participants for a more personal experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Old Ebbitt Grill and ends at The Hamilton, both centrally located in DC.

Is the tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should be comfortable walking and standing for periods.

Can I bring a service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

Are the stories heavily ghost-focused?
The tour mixes historic sites with ghost stories, but some reviews indicate the ghost stories are light or brief.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size makes it easy to meet others.

Can I do this tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, the tour is mainly about stories and sights; drinks are optional.

Do I need to book well in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book at least 16 days in advance, as it tends to fill up quickly.

Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost story lover, or just looking for a fun way to spend an evening in Washington DC, this haunted pub crawl offers a spirited blend of storytelling, history, and good company.