Virginia offers more than just history and scenic beauty; it’s a prime state for drinking tours that combine local spirits, lively bars, and unique stories. Among the options, the Alexandria Ghosts Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl stands out for blending local lore with a fun pub experience, making it a favorite for those interested in tales of the supernatural.
Meanwhile, the Alexandria Bar Hunt: Ye Olde Pub Crawl through Old Town brings a playful, interactive twist, perfect for groups looking for a relaxed, team-building activity.
Both tours show Virginia’s diverse approach to drinking tours—one steeped in haunted history, the other in modern scavenger fun.
For travelers curious about exploring Alexandria’s nightlife with a dash of ghostly intrigue, these experiences offer memorable ways to enjoy local bars and stories. Whether you want to hear about Virginia’s most haunted taverns or solve challenges while hopping between historic watering holes, Virginia’s drinking tours provide a mix of history, humor, and good spirits.
Quick Overview
Virginia hosts a variety of drinking tours that cater to different interests. From haunted pub crawls that explore ghost stories and eerie legends to scavenger hunts that combine bar-hopping with problem-solving, there’s something for all.
The two options we highlight here are particularly popular: one offers a haunted pub crawl in Alexandria (Alexandria Ghosts Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl), and the other is an app-based pub hunt (Alexandria Bar Hunt: Ye Olde Pub Crawl). Keep reading for detailed reviews to help you decide which fits your group best.
1. Alexandria Ghosts Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl
At number 1, this haunted pub crawl in Alexandria is a true gem for those who love a good story alongside their drinks. For around $27 per person, you’ll spend approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes exploring four stops, each with its own ghostly tale.
The tour highlights some of Alexandria’s most notorious bars, including the historic Union Street Public House, which is said to be haunted by unseen spirits. The guides share chilling stories of unexplained happenings, adding a spooky layer to your night out.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on local haunted history combined with visits to well-known watering holes. The tour also includes a visit to a museum reputed for ghost sightings, and the Bayou Room, where ghost stories are told in a cozy setting. While tastings aren’t included, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to enjoy your favorite drinks and soak in the atmosphere.
The tour is ideal for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or anyone looking for an entertaining way to experience Alexandria’s nightlife.
Bottom line: A lively mix of history, hauntings, and pub crawling makes this tour a memorable choice—especially if you enjoy stories from the supernatural world.
2. Alexandria Bar Hunt: Ye Olde Pub Crawl through Old Town
Coming in at number 2, the Alexandria Bar Hunt offers a different kind of experience. For just about $12.31 per person, this app-based scavenger hunt turns your pub crawl into a playful challenge that lasts roughly two hours. Perfect for groups of up to ten, this tour combines fun challenges with visits to some of Alexandria’s best bars and pubs.
It’s especially suited for friends, families, or colleagues who want a relaxed social activity without the need for a guided narrative.
What sets this tour apart is its flexibility and interactive nature. No reservations are required, so you can start whenever you like, and your group will solve puzzles and complete challenges as you hop from pub to pub. It’s a great way to explore the city’s nightlife while engaging in friendly competition.
While it doesn’t include guided storytelling or ghost tales, the focus on teamwork and discovery makes it a lively, engaging experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for groups seeking a casual, flexible pub experience with a fun twist—no ghost stories, but plenty of camaraderie.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two Virginia drinking tours, think about what kind of experience you want. If you’re drawn to spooky stories and historic taverns with ghostly legends, the Alexandria Ghosts Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers a unique mix of history and hauntings.
For a more laid-back, interactive experience that emphasizes group fun and exploration, the Alexandria Bar Hunt provides an easygoing, app-guided pub adventure.
Consider your budget and the group’s interests—if you’re traveling with kids or a smaller budget, the pub hunt is more affordable and flexible. Conversely, if you want a storytelling-focused night with a dash of mystery, the haunted pub crawl will deliver a richer narrative. Both tours can be booked in advance, so plan ahead to secure your spot, especially in peak seasons like summer or fall.
Final Thoughts
Virginia’s drinking tours blend local history, lively bar scenes, and fun activities in a way that appeals to a variety of travelers. For lovers of ghost stories and historic pubs, the Alexandria Ghosts Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers a spooky, story-filled evening.
If you prefer a more interactive, social outing, the Alexandria Bar Hunt provides a low-pressure, engaging way to explore Alexandria’s bars with friends or family.
No matter which you choose, both tours promise an enjoyable way to experience Alexandria’s vibrant nightlife and rich stories. Be sure to book early, especially during busy seasons, and remember to bring your sense of adventure — and perhaps a little courage for the ghost stories.