Denver Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl

When it comes to experiencing a city’s soul, few tours manage to blend history, local culture, and a dash of supernatural mystery quite like the Denver Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl.

Based in Denver’s historic Millionaires Row, this two-hour adventure promises an evening of storytelling, craft drinks, and ghostly tales that feel like stepping into a Denver legend. While we haven’t personally joined the tour, reviews and schedules paint a vivid picture of what to expect.

Two things stand out immediately: first, the tour’s expert guides bring Denver’s haunted tales to life with humor and authenticity, making history memorable. Second, the chance to visit hidden local pubs and bars typically off the tourist radar makes for a more genuine experience.

One possible drawback? The experience involves walking between stops, and some guests note that the first bar, Pub on Penn, might not meet everyone’s expectations. Also, beverages are not included, so you’ll want to budget for drinks along the way.

This tour works best for those interested in a mixture of ghost stories, local history, and lively pub atmospheres—perfect for groups looking for a fun, spooky night out in Denver that’s both entertaining and informative.

This experience made our article of 15 Best Drinking Tours In Denver.

Key Points

• Authentic ghost stories and Denver history are brought to life by knowledgeable guides.
• The tour visits hidden gems that aren’t usually featured in guidebooks.
• It offers value for money with a mix of storytelling and bar hopping.
• The duration is concise (about 2 hours), making it ideal for an evening activity.
• Be prepared for walking and some uneven surfaces during the route.
• Drinks are not included, so budget accordingly for the bar stops.
• The tour’s small size (maximum 20 travelers) ensures a more personal experience.
• Reviews highlight the entertaining guides and well-researched stories as major highlights.

An Introduction to the Experience

This tour aims to combine Denver’s haunted past with the city’s thriving craft spirits scene in a way that feels both authentic and lively. For travelers wanting a night filled with spooky stories, local drinks, and historic sights, this tour offers a compact, well-paced introduction.

What we love about this experience is how it balances history and entertainment—your guide isn’t just reciting facts but weaving engaging tales about Denver’s past residents, their mansions, and the spirits that supposedly still linger. Plus, the visit to hidden local pubs makes this a social night that’s about more than just ghost stories.

On the flip side, some may find the first bar, Pub on Penn, less appealing, based on reviews calling it “awful” and “unpleasant.” It’s a reminder that even curated tours can have inconsistent experiences at individual stops. Planning ahead—such as being prepared for walking or bringing cash for drinks—can help maximize your fun.

This tour suits those interested in history, ghost stories, or simply looking for a unique night out that combines storytelling with a taste of Denver’s nightlife.

Key Points

• Expert-guided storytelling makes history accessible and engaging.
• The small group size enhances interaction and atmosphere.
• Visiting lesser-known pubs offers an authentic local vibe.
• The two-hour duration strikes a good balance for an evening activity.
• Be ready for walking between stops; some streets might be uneven.
• Drinks are not included, so plan your budget accordingly.
• The tour is rated 4.5/5 based on 46 reviews, reflecting mostly positive experiences.
• High praise for guides like Jessica and Kirk, who bring the stories to life.

Detailed Itinerary and What to Expect

Stop 1: Pub on Penn

The tour kicks off in front of Pub on Penn at 6:00 pm, where your guide greets the group. You’ll start by grabbing a drink and hearing initial spooky stories about Millionaires Row—a stretch once home to Denver’s elite. This spot sets the tone, providing a mix of ambiance and history.

Review insight: While the stories and history are appreciated, some guests found the pub itself less than ideal, describing staff as unpleasant. Still, the storytelling makes up for it, and you get a quick taste of the neighborhood’s spirit—both past and present.

Stop 2: Bar Nun Denver

Next, you’ll move to Bar Nun, a cozy spot with heated outdoor seating and inventive cocktails. Here, the focus shifts slightly to enjoying a craft cocktail or local brew while soaking in Denver’s vibrant bar scene. It’s a good chance to relax, chat about the stories, and sample something local.

Exploring the Haunted Mansions and Historic Homes

The heart of the tour lies in visiting some of Denver’s most haunted mansions and historic homes, each with a compelling story:

• Dunning Benedict House: Once owned by Walter Scott Cheesman, this house is famed for its haunting reputation. Guests learn why Cheesman’s mansion is considered one of Denver’s most haunted sites.
• Croke-Patterson-Campbell House: Known for unsettling encounters, this house hits a nerve with visitors who enjoy ghost stories rooted in real experiences.
• Sheedy Mansion: Tales of disgruntled ghostly workers add a spooky dimension, with stories of paranormal encounters that seem to linger in the building’s history.
• The Cottage House: An outlier in Millionaires Row, this cottage is haunted by a woman named Madge, whose story adds a personal touch to the area’s supernatural allure.

Stop 3: City O’ City

This beloved neighborhood spot offers a craft beer or cocktail—a perfect breather and social hub. With its reputation for good drinks and a welcoming vibe, it’s a highlight for those wanting a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Stop 4: Bang Up To The Elephant

The final stop is a lively bar and restaurant known for its quirky drinks and modern atmosphere, making it a great closing point. The guide wraps up the tour here, and guests leave with tales to tell and perhaps a new favorite cocktail.

Review insight: Many guests commend the guide’s storytelling skills, noting Jessica and Kirk as particularly engaging and humorous. Some mention the tour might be a bit rushed, with not all stops fully explored, but overall, the experience remains positive.

Costs and Value

At $27 per person, the tour offers real value for those interested in Denver’s haunted history combined with social drinking. Remember, alcoholic beverages are not included, so you should budget extra for drinks at each stop—something that many reviews point out as a minor inconvenience but not a dealbreaker.

Given the small group size (up to 20 travelers), you’ll get a more intimate experience, allowing better interaction with the guide and fellow travelers. The research and authenticity of the ghost stories, alongside visits to unlisted pubs, elevate this beyond a typical pub crawl.

Practical Considerations

• The tour starts promptly at 6:00 pm from Pub on Penn, so arriving on time is crucial.
• It lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable evening activity.
• Walking between stops involves some street walking, and the route might include uneven surfaces—good to keep in mind if mobility is a concern.
• The tour is rated 4.5/5 based on 46 reviews, with many highlighting guide expertise and the engaging storytelling.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This cauldron of history, ghost stories, and craft drinks appeals to a variety of travelers. History buffs will appreciate the well-researched stories, while those interested in ghost lore find plenty of spine-tingling tales. Social travelers will enjoy the lively pub atmosphere and the chance to meet fellow adventurers.

It’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a balanced mix of entertainment, education, and nightlife. If you’re seeking a more authentic Denver experience away from crowded tourist spots, this tour offers a genuine taste of the city’s mysterious and lively side.

The Denver Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl provides a well-rounded evening filled with ghost stories, local spirits, and hidden historic sites. It’s a fantastic way to explore Denver’s past in a relaxed, social setting, especially if you enjoy a bit of supernatural intrigue. With knowledgeable guides, a small group atmosphere, and visits to less-touristy pubs, it offers genuine value for a modest price.

While some stops might not meet every guest’s expectations, the overall experience is lively, informative, and fun. It suits travelers who want to combine history, storytelling, and nightlife into one memorable night out. Perfect for those curious about Denver’s haunted side or just looking for a unique way to spend an evening.

If you’re after a story-rich, social experience that taps into Denver’s intriguing past, this pub crawl is worth considering. Just remember to bring some extra cash for drinks and a sense of adventure.

Is there transportation included?
No, the tour involves walking between stops, so be prepared for some street walking.

Are drinks included?
No, beverages are not included, so you should budget extra for drinks at each pub.

What is the tour’s duration?
It lasts about 2 hours, making it a perfect evening activity without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Pub on Penn and finishes back at the same location.

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, but be aware of walking involved; travelers should have a moderate fitness level.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The tour is designed for adults, especially since it involves alcohol and late evening hours.

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

What is the group size?
The maximum is 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

This tour offers a fun, authentic way to experience Denver’s haunted past and lively nightlife—a memorable evening for those curious about the city’s mysterious stories and vibrant bar scene.