The 2 Best Drinking Tours in Virginia
Virginia offers more than just historic sites and scenic views; it also boasts some memorable drinking tour experiences that capture the local spirit. Whether you’re into ghost stories and haunted pubs or prefer a lively scavenger hunt with friends, Virginia’s diverse options make for fun-filled outings. With a blend of history, local flavors, and interactive activities, these tours provide a genuine taste of what Alexandria has to offer — all in a relaxed, social atmosphere.
To help you decide which adventure suits your style, we’ve selected the top two drinking tours in Virginia. Each offers a different vibe and experience, so read on to find the perfect fit for your trip or weekend.
1. Alexandria Ghosts Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl
Take this Alexandria Ghosts Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl and add some supernatural fun to your evening. For just $27 per person, this 1 hour 45-minute tour visits four of Alexandria’s most atmospheric watering holes, blending local drink culture with tales of apparitions and unexplained phenomena. This tour is short but packed with stories, perfect for a quick break from sightseeing or a fun night out.
The tour starts at the Union Street Public House, renowned for reports of ghostly activity. Here, the guide will share why this historic tavern is considered one of Virginia’s most haunted spots, with stories echoed by staff over the years. Next, you’ll visit a museum that has long been rumored to host some of Virginia’s most active spirits, adding a layer of mystery to your evening. The third stop, the Bayou Room, offers chilling stories that bring Alexandria’s past to life while you sip your drink in a cozy setting. The final visit involves a building that’s also believed to be haunted, wrapping up your spooky adventure.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of haunted history and local bars, with lively storytelling that keeps the atmosphere engaging. The reviews highlight Ryan’s knack for storytelling and the tour’s clear itinerary. “Ryan was awesome! So knowledgeable and made it so I was able to stay engaged with every story,” says one review.
Bottom line: This tour is best suited for those interested in ghost stories and local history with a social twist. It’s a compact experience that offers a good mix of spooky tales and drinks at a reasonable price, making it perfect for a quick, memorable experience.
2. Alexandria Bar Hunt: Ye Olde Pub Crawl through Old Town
For a more interactive, tech-savvy outing, consider the Alexandria Bar Hunt: Ye Olde Pub Crawl. At $12.31 per person, this app-based scavenger hunt takes about two hours, guiding groups of up to ten people through some of Old Town Alexandria’s best watering holes via challenges and puzzles. It’s a flexible, group-friendly activity designed for friends, family, or colleagues looking to combine sightseeing with a little friendly competition.
The concept is simple: download the app, start your adventure, and complete challenges at each pub or bar along the route. The activity doesn’t require reservations, so you can start when it suits you, making it ideal for spontaneous outings or pre-planned trips. While the experience doesn’t explore history or ghost stories, it offers a lively, social way to explore Alexandria’s vibrant bar scene.
This tour excels as a team-building activity or a fun night with friends who enjoy problem-solving and playful challenges. Its affordability and flexibility make it accessible, especially for groups looking for a casual experience. Guests report it’s a great way to explore without feeling rushed or overly structured.
Bottom line: If you’re after a budget-friendly, flexible way to enjoy Alexandria’s bars while testing your puzzle skills, this app-based pub hunt offers a lively and entertaining experience.
How to Choose Between These Drinking Tours
When deciding which tour fits your taste, consider your interests and the kind of experience you want. If you enjoy spooky tales and historical ghost stories, the Alexandria Ghosts Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl provides a fun, themed adventure that combines local legends with drinks. On the other hand, if you’re traveling with friends or colleagues and want a flexible, interactive activity, the Alexandria Bar Hunt: Ye Olde Pub Crawl is perfect for lighthearted competition and discovering new spots.
Budget-wise, the haunted pub crawl is slightly more expensive but includes the experience of ghost stories and historical ambiance. The scavenger hunt, meanwhile, is very affordable and suitable for spontaneous plans, especially if you enjoy solving puzzles and challenges.
Both tours suit different types of travelers: the haunted crawl appeals to history buffs or those intrigued by ghost stories, while the scavenger hunt is ideal for groups seeking a lively, social activity without a set schedule.
Final Thoughts
Virginia’s drinking scene offers more than just beer and wine — it’s filled with stories, history, and fun ways to socialize. The haunted pub crawl offers a memorable, spooky experience for those interested in local legends, while the pub hunt provides an energetic, flexible way to explore Alexandria’s best bars with friends.
If you’re planning your trip or a spontaneous night out, consider your budget, interests, and group size. Both tours can be booked in advance, so it’s wise to reserve early — especially during peak seasons. Virginia’s vibrant drinking culture is waiting to be explored, with options to suit every style. Cheers to discovering local flavors and stories — book your tour now and make your Virginia visit truly memorable.