Charleston: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl

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

Contents show

Charleston: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl Review

Taking a ghostly stroll through Charleston’s historic watering holes sounds like a fun twist on a city tour — and that’s exactly what the Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers. Led by knowledgeable guides, this 2-hour adventure promises a mix of creepy stories, historic tales, and the chance to sip local drinks in some of Charleston’s most iconic pubs. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of ghost stories, or just looking for a lively night out, this tour aims to deliver a memorable experience.

What sets this tour apart? First, you get to explore four very different venues, each with its own vibe — from the historic charm of The Blind Tiger Pub to the sleek elegance of Bar Vaute. Second, the storytelling is a highlight, with guides like MJ and Bruce offering credible, well-researched ghost tales that bring Charleston’s haunted reputation to life. Lastly, the combination of spooky stories with the fun of lively drinking games makes this an interactive, engaging experience.

One thing to keep in mind: drinks are not included in the tour price, so you’ll be paying for your own beverages at each stop. This means you can tailor your drink choices to your taste and budget, but it also requires some planning if you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience. The tour is best suited for those comfortable walking between venues and eager for a mix of history, mystery, and social fun.

This pub crawl is perfect for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy storytelling, a bit of spooky fun, and discovering local Charleston spots with a lively crowd. If you’re after a night that combines history with a good dose of ghostly intrigue, this tour might just be your perfect evening in the Holy City.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic stories: Guides deliver credible, well-researched ghost tales of Charleston’s haunted spots.
Varied venues: Four different pubs, each with its own unique atmosphere and charm.
Flexible timing: Spend between 15 to 60 minutes at each location, based on the day and season.
No drinks included: You’ll purchase your own beverages, offering flexibility and choice.
Knowledgeable guides: Guides like MJ and Bruce bring history alive with engaging storytelling.
Great for social groups: Ideal for those who enjoy lively, interactive experiences with fellow adventurers.

Up for more after-dark fun? We've reviewed these other nightlife options in Charleston

The Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins at 6:00 PM on the West side of the Exchange building, next to the Slavers Marker on East Bay Street. Your guide, identifiable by a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and a lantern, will lead the way. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth check-in and a chance to meet your guide, setting the scene for an evening of fun and spooky stories.

Visit four unique pubs throughout the evening — The Blind Tiger Pub, Bar Vaute, The Griffon, and Tommy Condon’s. Each venue offers a distinct atmosphere, ranging from historic charm to modern elegance. These stops are more than just drinking spots; they are steeped in stories of Charleston’s past, from prohibition-era speakeasies to haunted legends.

The first venue is often The Blind Tiger Pub, known for its historic ambiance and local character. Here, your guide may share tales of Charleston’s Prohibition history, how secret speakeasies operated, and some of the ghost stories linked to this clandestine past. At each pub, you’ll have 15 to 60 minutes to enjoy your drink, socialize, and soak in the setting.

The storytelling part is where guides like MJ shine. Based on reviews, MJ doesn’t just recite stories—he offers background details and credible history, making the experience both fun and educational. One reviewer even mentioned, “MJ had a wealth of knowledge,” making the storytelling feel authentic and engaging.

The second stop, Bar Vaute, is a modern yet cozy setting where ghostly tales may blend with Charleston’s contemporary vibe. From there, the tour moves on to The Griffon, known for its historic roots and spirits (both alcohol and spirits of the past). The final venue, Tommy Condon’s, offers a lively, welcoming atmosphere for wrapping up the evening.

Throughout the tour, you’ll hear stories of cryptids, demons, and local legends like the Boo Hag and Angel Oak. The guide’s storytelling is lively, with reviews praising their ability to entertain and educate simultaneously.

In between stops, your guide will share spooky anecdotes and chat about Charleston’s haunted reputation. The tours are tailored to seasonal and day-of factors, meaning you might spend less or more time at each pub depending on the circumstances. This flexibility ensures that each group gets a personalized experience.

End of the tour is back at the meeting point around 8:00 PM, giving you ample time afterward to continue exploring Charleston or relax after a night of ghostly tales and drinks.

The Value of the Experience

At $29 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the depth of storytelling and the chance to explore four historic venues. While drinks cost extra, the ability to choose your beverages is a plus for many travelers who prefer to pick their preferred drinks and budgets. The tour provides a fantastic way to combine entertainment, history, and socializing — perfect for a night out in Charleston.

The guides are clearly knowledgeable and passionate. As one reviewer noted, MJ’s background and storytelling skills make the experience both credible and entertaining. Bruce also received praise for his storytelling and local knowledge, adding layers of authenticity to the tales shared.

The tour’s duration of two hours makes it a manageable yet immersive experience. It’s long enough to enjoy multiple venues and stories without feeling rushed, and the chance to spend more or less time at each stop depending on your interest adds a personalized touch.

Accessibility-wise, the tour involves walking between venues and assumes some mobility. Reviewers mentioned it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, and the pace involves walking about a mile in total. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised since the tour takes place rain or shine.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This haunted pub crawl is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic stories, historic venues, and lively social atmospheres. It appeals to those curious about Charleston’s haunted reputation, history buffs, and anyone looking for a fun night with new friends or a unique date night experience. It’s especially suited for groups who enjoy spirited storytelling and a bit of spooky fun.

While it’s not a traditional historical tour, the focus on credible, well-researched ghost tales makes it stand out from typical pub crawls. If you’re seeking a blend of history and humor, seasoned with supernatural tales, this is a perfect fit.

Travelers who prefer fully inclusive experiences might find the additional cost of drinks a consideration, but the flexibility can also be a plus. If you’re on a budget, just keep in mind that drinks are extra, but the overall experience packs in a lot for its price.

More Great Tours Nearby

FAQ

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll purchase your own beverages at each of the four pubs.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins on the West side of the Exchange building, next to the Slavers Marker on East Bay Street. The guide wears a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and carries a lantern.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, beginning at 6:00 PM and ending around 8:00 PM.

Do I need to be able to walk a lot?
Yes, the tour involves walking between venues, totaling about a mile. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is geared toward adults, especially since it involves alcohol consumption and spooky stories.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a valid ID to purchase alcohol. No smoking or video recording allowed.

Bar hopping sounds good? These other pub crawls in Charleston might be your thing

Final Thoughts

The Charleston: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively, authentic look at Charleston’s haunted reputation with entertaining guides, atmospheric venues, and compelling stories. The combination of credible storytelling and diverse pubs makes it a standout experience for those interested in history, ghosts, and good drinks.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local legends while having fun in a social setting, this tour hits the right notes. The flexible pacing and variety of venues ensure you’ll leave with both spooky memories and a few new favorite local spots.

While not a full-blown historic tour, it’s a great way to spend an evening in Charleston, especially if you’re seeking a blend of entertainment and authentic storytelling. Just remember to bring your own drinks, dress comfortably, and prepare for a night of ghostly tales and lively conversation.

Explore More Similar Experiences

Looking for other ways to enjoy Charleston’s charm? Check out options like the Historic Charleston Harbor Tour, Luxury Dinner Cruises, or Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours for daytime adventures. These experiences complement the spooky night out perfectly, helping you get a well-rounded taste of the city’s history and scenic beauty.

By blending local legends with lively venues and expert storytelling, the Charleston Haunted Pub Crawl offers a genuinely engaging way to experience the city’s haunted side. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a group, or on a romantic getaway, this tour provides a fun, memorable evening that captures Charleston’s ghostly allure.