Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures

This experience made our article of The 2 Best Drinking Tours In Salem.

Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: A Detailed Review

If you’re visiting Salem and craving a mix of spirited drinks and ghostly tales, this Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl might just be your next perfect night out. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the countless reviews and detailed itinerary reveal an experience that promises a good dose of history, scares, and fun—at a reasonable price point.

What we really love about this pub crawl is how it combines Salem’s lively nightlife with its infamous haunted reputation, giving you stories rooted in real ghost sightings and eerie happenings. The guides seem engaging, knowledgeable, and able to keep the mood fun and spooky without crossing into cheesy territory. Plus, the stops at historic landmarks such as the Joshua Ward House add an authentic touch that elevates the tour beyond just bar hopping.

One consideration is the duration—at only 1 hour 30 minutes, it’s a relatively short experience. While this keeps the pace lively, some might find it doesn’t allow enough time for a full exploration of each location or for savoring drinks at leisure. Still, this tour is perfect for those who want a quick, entertaining glimpse into Salem’s nocturnal side.

This experience suits travelers looking for a light-hearted, spooky night that mixes storytelling with socializing. If you enjoy ghost stories, lively pubs, and historic tales, you’ll find this pub crawl both entertaining and memorable.

Key Points

• Authentic Haunted Stories: Guides share real accounts of hauntings and paranormal experiences.
• Wide Variety of Venues: From cozy taverns to trendy bars, each stop offers a different vibe.
• Engaging Guides: Several reviews highlight guides like Bella and Mason for their humor, knowledge, and storytelling flair.
• Value for Money: At $27, it’s an affordable way to combine nightlife with local lore.
• Limited Length: The 1.5-hour tour is quick, so don’t expect a prolonged exploration.
• Group Size: Usually small (max 20), creating a more intimate experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

First Stop: 87 Washington St

This bar is more than just your average pub. Rumors from staff and patrons paint it as a place haunted by past spirits, with stories of glasses shattering unexpectedly and kitchen staff feeling sadness when alone. Some reviews note that the eerie stories make this stop especially atmospheric, setting the tone for your ghostly adventure. The guide recounts local legends that give real weight to the haunted reputation, making this a memorable start.

Second Stop: The Joshua Ward House

A true highlight for lovers of Salem’s spooky lore. Known as one of the most paranormal hotspots in Salem, its history is intertwined with tales of ghost sightings and unseen presences. According to reviews, guides like Mason are particularly skilled at sharing chilling firsthand accounts of hauntings observed by staff and visitors. This stop feels authentic, offering a glimpse into Salem’s darker side, with some visitors experiencing the hairs stand up on their arms during storytelling.

Third Stop: Rockafellas Restaurant

While it’s a lively, party-friendly spot, the ghost stories here are anything but mundane. Staff members have reported unexplained happenings—objects moving on their own, and even leaving early after eerie incidents, like cleaning alone late at night. The guide’s storytelling here is lively, blending fun with fear, and adds an extra thrill knowing these stories are rooted in real experiences.

Final Stop: Village Tavern | Bar & Grill

Sitting on ground believed to be the site of many deaths, this tavern’s ghostly reputation adds depth to your pub crawl. The stories about spirits that can still be heard begging for mercy make this a fitting end to an evening filled with scares and libations. Guests find the tales compelling and often comment that the stories make the atmosphere more intense and immersive.

What You Can Expect from This Experience

Guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and humor. Reviewers mention Bella, Mason, and Kristen as engaging storytellers who blend historical facts with folklore, making the stories both informative and entertaining. Expect the guide to share firsthand accounts and historical anecdotes, often with a humorous twist to keep the mood lively.

The venues are carefully selected to offer a mix of atmospheres—from cozy, haunted taverns to energetic party spots. Each location provides enough time for a drink and a story, although some reviews note that early bar closures or weather conditions might affect the flow. The tour is designed to maximize the storytelling and eerie ambiance within a short window, making it ideal for those who prefer a fast-paced, engaging experience.

The social aspect is also important. With small group sizes, usually capped at 20 travelers, you’ll find it easier to ask questions, interact with guides, and share the chills with like-minded enthusiasts. Many reviews emphasize how the guides kept everyone engaged and made the experience memorable.

Price-wise, at $27 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It includes the storytelling, the guided experience, and the ambiance—all without the hassle of planning individual pub visits. However, alcoholic drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for beverages at each stop.

Timing is straightforward: the tour starts in the evening at East India Square, and most travelers find the 1.5-hour duration fits well into an evening itinerary. The tour’s mobile ticketing makes check-in simple, and the meeting point is near public transportation, easing logistics for visitors.

The Authenticity and Atmosphere

What sets this pub crawl apart is the combination of Salem’s haunted reputation with lively nightlife. Guides like Bella and Mason seem genuinely passionate, sharing tales that resonate with history buffs and scare enthusiasts alike. Several reviewers mention how stories are not only fun but also rooted in true paranormal reports, which adds to the authenticity.

The venues themselves contribute to the atmosphere—dim lighting, historic architecture, and sometimes a sense of silence when stories get serious. Even if weather conditions are less than ideal (rain, wind), the stories and the company help keep the mood alive.

A Note on the Experience’s Pace and Duration

While the quick pace keeps the energy up, some might feel it’s a bit rushed, especially if you want to linger over drinks or explore more landmarks. The tour is designed to be a snapshot of Salem’s haunted nightlife rather than an exhaustive exploration, but for most, that’s part of its charm.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For history lovers, ghost enthusiasts, or nightlife seekers, this tour offers a compact, fun, and spooky evening. The stories are compelling, the guides are engaging, and the venues offer a good mix of Salem’s historic and lively sides.

If you’re visiting Salem during a busy season or want a quick taste of its haunted scene, this pub crawl provides excellent value and memorable moments. It’s also perfect for groups or couples looking for a fun, social evening with a touch of the supernatural.

However, if you’re craving a more immersive, lengthy experience, you might find this a bit brief. It’s best suited for those who enjoy quick, story-driven outings rather than long, leisurely nights.

The Sum Up

This Salem haunted pub crawl strikes a good balance between entertainment, history, and socializing. It’s an affordable way to explore Salem’s nightlife while soaking in its notorious ghost stories, making it ideal for travelers who want a lively, spooky evening without a hefty price tag.

The guides’ storytelling skills and the historic venues make for an authentic experience, adding depth to Salem’s reputation as America’s most haunted town. Whether you’re a paranormal enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, this tour delivers a good dose of thrills, laughs, and local lore.

While it isn’t an exhaustive ghost tour, it’s a fun and spirited way to see Salem by night—especially if you’re short on time but want to get a taste of its haunted charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but it’s geared more towards adults due to the adult-themed stories and pub stops.

Are alcoholic beverages included? No, drinks are not included, but the venues offer craft-made beverages for purchase.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a quick but engaging experience.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins at East India Square, 158 Essex St, Salem, MA, and ends back at the same location.

Is the tour conducted rain or shine? Yes, the tour operates regardless of weather, so dress accordingly.

What about group size? The maximum group size is 20, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are service animals allowed? Yes, service animals are permitted.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I get my tickets? Tickets are mobile, making check-in quick and easy.

What makes this tour stand out? The combination of knowledgeable guides, real paranormal stories, and Salem’s historic landmarks creates a genuinely entertaining night that feels authentic and fun.

This pub crawl offers a spirited look into Salem’s spooky side, perfect for those wanting quick thrills, engaging storytelling, and a taste of local nightlife—all at a very reasonable price point.