Mystic is a seaside town with a rich maritime history, charming streets, and a vibrant local scene. But beyond its famous aquarium and picturesque harbor, Mystic offers some surprisingly spirited ways to explore after dark. Whether you’re into ghost stories, haunted pubs, or craft beers, Mystic’s drinking tours combine local lore with flavorful drinks—making for memorable evenings. These tours aren’t just about tasting; they’re about enjoying the town’s intriguing past, all while enjoying a drink or two. If you’re curious about Mystic’s haunted past or craft beer scene, these guided experiences will give you a taste of both.
Remember, Mystic’s drinking tours are quite popular, so booking early is wise. Each one offers a different experience, from spooky ghost stories with cocktails to beer tastings at local breweries, providing a range of options suitable for different interests and budgets.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find two top-rated Mystic drinking tours: one combines ghost stories with cocktails on a Spirits of Mystic: Cocktail Pub Crawl, while the other features ghostly tales paired with local beers during a Paranormal Pub Crawl: Beer Tour. Both tours are rated 5.0/5, offer around 2.5 hours of fun, and include three complimentary drinks—either cocktails or beers—making them excellent value for your evening out.
1. Spirits of Mystic: Cocktail Pub Crawl
This cocktail pub crawl stands out for blending ghost stories, haunted locations, and spirited drinks into a lively 2.5-hour walk through Mystic’s downtown. Starting on West Main Street, you’ll visit three historic pubs and taverns, each with its own haunted history, including tales of massacres, scandals, and lingering spirits. Your guide shares spooky stories at each stop, creating a sense of eerie anticipation as you sip your complimentary cocktails.
The tour’s key highlights include visiting the Mystic Massacre site, hearing about the haunted history of Friar Tuck’s Tavern, and learning about Revolutionary ghosts at Captain Daniel Packer Inne. The inclusion of three drinks—one at each location—adds to the experience, making it a perfect choice for those who want a bit more than just storytelling. The reviews praise Sierra’s storytelling skills, with one reviewer noting, “She kept the history alive and guests were interested to hear more!” The tour’s intimate size and storytelling focus make it ideal for history buffs who enjoy a spooky twist.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an engaging mix of ghostly tales and cocktails, perfect for those interested in Mystic’s darker side. The $100 price includes three drinks, making it a good value for a fun, guided night out.
2. Paranormal Pub Crawl: Beer Tour
For those who prefer craft beers with a spooky edge, the Paranormal Pub Crawl: Beer Tour is an excellent choice. Also lasting about 2.5 hours, this tour takes you to three local pubs and breweries in Mystic, where you’ll sample different beers from Barley Head Brewing and others. The focus here is on Mystic’s haunted history combined with the local beer scene, offering a different flavor profile compared to the cocktail crawl.
You’ll start by visiting historic spots like the Mystic Massacre site and the Harp and Hound. During the tour, you’ll learn about Mystic’s ghost stories, massacres, and scandals while tasting three pints of craft beer, which are included in the $75 price. The guide’s engaging storytelling keeps the mood lively, and reviewers note Sierra’s friendliness and knowledge, describing the experience as “fun and very informative.” This tour suits those who appreciate beer and folklore equally and want a relaxed, social evening.
Bottom Line: For craft beer lovers wanting a spooky twist, this tour delivers three local brews alongside ghost stories, all at an affordable price. It’s especially suitable if you’re more into beer than cocktails.
How to Choose Your Mystic Drinking Tour
When deciding between these two tours, consider your interests and what kind of experience you’re seeking. If you love classic cocktails and ghost stories, the Spirits of Mystic: Cocktail Pub Crawl offers a more atmospheric, storytelling-focused night with three complimentary drinks. On the other hand, if craft beer is your preference and you enjoy hearing about Mystic’s haunted past over a cold pint, the Paranormal Pub Crawl: Beer Tour provides a relaxed, beer-focused experience with local brews.
Both tours operate starting at 7:30 pm from the same meeting point, making it easy to choose based on your drink of choice. Book early as these popular tours tend to fill up, especially in peak season. For those with a tighter budget, the beer tour at $75 offers great value, while the cocktail crawl at $100 provides a more immersive storytelling experience.
Final Thoughts
Mystic’s drinking tours offer a fun way to explore the town’s haunted past while enjoying a drink. The Spirits of Mystic: Cocktail Pub Crawl is perfect for history and cocktail lovers who want a spooky, lively evening. Meanwhile, the Paranormal Pub Crawl: Beer Tour suits those who prefer craft beers and ghost stories combined in a laid-back atmosphere.
For travelers interested in combining local history with a spirited night out, either tour provides a memorable experience. Just remember to book early, especially in the busy season, and choose the one that best fits your taste for cocktails or craft beers. Either way, you’ll leave Mystic with more than just photos—you’ll have stories to tell.