Richmond, Virginia, is a city that offers much more than its historic streets and vibrant arts scene. It’s also a hotspot for craft beer lovers and those interested in spooky stories and local tavern history. Rather than just sample a brew here and there, why not dive into a structured tour that enhances your understanding and appreciation of Richmond’s unique drinking experiences? These tours not only introduce you to the city’s best breweries and pubs but often include behind-the-scenes access or ghostly tales that make your visit memorable. If you’re a fan of craft beer or curious about ghost stories in historic settings, Richmond’s drinking tours are a perfect way to explore the city with a spirited twist.
Among the options, one stands out for beer aficionados seeking a personalized experience, while another offers a spooky, ghostly adventure through historic pubs. Both provide an engaging way to see parts of Richmond that you might miss on your own. For detailed itineraries and reviews, see the Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA and Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl. Below, we’ll explore each tour to help you decide which fits your style.
1. Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA
Richmond’s craft beer scene has grown rapidly in recent years, making it a great city for beer enthusiasts. This private, approximately 2.5-hour tour offers an intimate and flexible way to explore three of Richmond’s top breweries. You’ll meet your guide in the city center and hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus for a relaxed journey. The tour includes generous tastings at each brewery and a behind-the-scenes look at one location, providing insight into the brewing process and local craft beer industry.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach. It’s ideal for those who want to learn about beer styles directly from experts and enjoy a curated experience. The first stop, The Veil Brewing Co., is a pioneer in Richmond’s brewing scene, known for using innovative techniques like spontaneous fermentation and a koelship. You’ll get to taste three beers from a brewery that’s been pushing boundaries since 2018. The second stop, Vasen Brewing, emphasizes Scandinavian heritage, and you’ll sample up to three distinct beers that reflect their unique approach to brewing.
With a 5-star rating based on 3 reviews, visitors praise the guide’s knowledge and the pace of the tour. The cost of $90 per person covers everything, including tastings and behind-the-scenes access. This tour works well for those who want a deep dive into beer making without sacrificing comfort or personal attention.
Bottom line: If craft beer is your passion and you want a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at Richmond breweries, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
2. Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
For travelers intrigued by local legends and ghost stories, the Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a spooky spin on Richmond’s nightlife. Priced at $27.75 and lasting about 2 hours, this tour takes you through the historic Shockoe Bottom neighborhood, where many bars and pubs are housed in buildings with stories to tell. You’ll visit places like Rosie Connolly’s Pub, housed in a former YMCA and known for ghostly tales, and JewFro, located in an old commercial building with rumored hauntings.
This tour combines history, local lore, and a lively pub atmosphere. The guide shares stories of the four ghosts rumored to haunt sites like St. John’s Church and the old Masonic lodge, adding a layer of intrigue to your drinking experience. Visitors mention the knowledgeable and personable guides, with some reviewing the tour as “fun and spooky,” especially when combined with trying local drinks like Farmhouse hard cider or African wines.
While some locations are free to enter, the real value lies in the stories and atmosphere. The tour is perfect for those interested in history paired with a spirited evening, and it’s easy to fit into a casual night out. The reviews highlight its entertaining and engaging nature, making it a great choice for small groups or couples looking for a different way to experience Richmond.
Bottom line: For a fun, spooky, and informative evening, this haunted pub crawl blends Richmond’s historic ambiance with ghostly tales and a good dose of local drinks.
How to Choose Between Richmond Drinking Tours
When selecting the best tour for you, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re passionate about craft beer and want a more detailed, private experience, the Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA offers a personalized look at the city’s top breweries. It’s ideal for beer lovers wanting to learn about brewing techniques and industry insights.
On the other hand, if your curiosity leans toward local stories and haunted history, the Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl provides a more casual, fun evening filled with spooky tales and historic taverns. Both tours are easy to book and best enjoyed with friends or a small group.
If you’re tight on time, the ghost tour offers a quick but engaging experience, while the brewery tour provides a longer, more in-depth look at Richmond’s craft beer scene. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Richmond offers a variety of drinking experiences that go beyond just ordering a pint. Whether you prefer exploring the city’s innovative craft breweries or uncovering its haunted tavern stories, these tours deliver memorable ways to enjoy the city’s lively drinking culture. For beer aficionados, the Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA provides a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at local breweries. Meanwhile, those interested in ghostly tales should consider the Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl, which combines history and spirits in a fun, spooky evening.
Both tours represent a great way to see different facets of Richmond’s drinking scene and are suitable for a range of interests and budgets. Be sure to book early, especially if you’re visiting during busy times, and get ready for some spirited adventures in Virginia’s capital city.