Cryptids & Creatures: Appalachian Legends Pub Crawl

Dive into Asheville’s Haunted Legends with the Cryptids & Creatures Pub Crawl

The Cryptids & Creatures: Appalachian Legends Pub Crawl offers a captivating 1.5 to 2-hour journey through Asheville’s South Slope, blending local history with eerie folklore. Priced at $30 per person, this guided experience is perfect for those who enjoy storytelling, local mysteries, and a relaxed pub atmosphere. The tour departs from Green Man Brewery and concludes at Antidote Coffee & Cocktails, with four stops in between, each showcasing a legendary creature or phenomenon from Appalachian lore.

Guided by a theatrical, kilt-wearing storyteller named Angus, the tour promises a theatrical and immersive experience. It’s ideal for visitors with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking between venues, and is best suited for those curious about regional myths or seeking a spooky, entertaining evening. The tour offers free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for planning.

Key Points

• Price of $30 per person for a 1.5 to 2-hour storytelling pub crawl
• Four unique stops in Asheville’s South Slope, each sharing Appalachian legend tales
• Guided by Angus, a charismatic, theatrical storyteller in a kilt
• Legends include the Boojum, Brown Mountain Lights, Mothman, and Moon-Eyed People
• Stops are free to enter, with drinks available for purchase
• Tour operates Fridays through Sundays, with other days available on request

The Unique Asheville Pub Crawl Focuses on Appalachian Cryptids and Legends

This tour sets itself apart by weaving local myths with pub-hopping, creating an experience that’s both entertaining and culturally enriching. Guests explore Asheville’s vibrant South Slope neighborhood, visiting four different venues, each linked to a different legendary creature or phenomenon from Appalachian lore. The stories are rooted in history, myth, and the eerie unknown, making every stop feel like stepping into a small piece of regional mystery.

The tour runs Friday to Sunday, with alternative days available if booked in advance, offering flexibility for different schedules. Because the stops might change due to event availability or other considerations, the experience remains fresh and adaptable for each group. The mobile ticket system makes planning easy, and the tour is capped at 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

Starting Point: Green Man Brewery and the Legend of the Boojum

The tour kicks off at Green Man Brewery, where the legend of the Boojum is introduced. This creature is reputedly one that whispers through the dark Appalachian woods, rarely seen and never caught. The 30-minute stop allows attendees to settle in and get a taste for the eerie tales that will follow. The atmosphere of Green Man Brewery lends itself well to storytelling, making it a fitting first stop.

Because the brewery admission is free, guests can enjoy any drinks they purchase during this time. This initial stop sets a mysterious tone for the entire evening, blending Asheville’s craft beer culture with regional legends.

Exploring the Eerie Brown Mountain Lights at Urban Orchard Cider Co

Next, the crawl moves to Urban Orchard Cider Co, where the legend of the Brown Mountain Lights is brought to life. These flickering, eerie orbs have haunted the region for centuries, with stories explaining their ghostly appearances. This 30-minute stop offers a chance to learn about the phenomenon’s history, with the guide sharing tales of ghostly sightings and mystical happenings tied to the lights.

Guests can purchase drinks at Urban Orchard Cider Co, adding to the relaxed, social atmosphere. The story of the Brown Mountain Lights has fascinated locals and visitors alike, and this stop deepens the sense of mystery enveloping Asheville.

Encounter the Mothman at Wicked Weed Funkatorium

The third stop, Wicked Weed Funkatorium, centers on the legendary Mothman — a terrifying, flying creature with glowing eyes. Known from Appalachian legend and broader pop culture, the Mothman’s story is both chilling and captivating. The guide leads attendees through narratives about encounters with this mysterious entity, adding a sinister twist to the evening.

The 30-minute visit to Wicked Weed offers a chance to enjoy their extensive beer selection, though drinks are paid for separately. The storytelling here emphasizes the creature’s terrifying reputation, making it a highlight for fans of spooky tales and cryptids.

The Moon-Eyed People at Antidote Coffee & Cocktails

The final stop at Antidote Coffee & Cocktails introduces the legend of the Moon-Eyed People, strange night walkers said to have haunted early Appalachian mountains. This stop concludes the tour with stories of these mysterious beings, whose origins and appearances have fueled local legends for generations.

Attendees can unwind in the cozy atmosphere of Antidote, enjoying cocktails or coffee (not included in the ticket price). The 30-minute segment wraps up the storytelling, leaving guests with a lingering sense of Appalachian mystique.

Logistics and Practical Tips for the Pub Crawl

The meeting point is at Green Man Brewery on Buxton Avenue, a popular Asheville spot with ample parking — though arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot. The tour ends at Antidote at Coxe Avenue, within walking distance of public transit options, making transportation accessible.

Because drinks are available for purchase at each venue, guests should plan to eat beforehand or budget for drinks during the crawl. The group size is limited to 20, ensuring a more personal storytelling experience. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking between four stops.

Theatrical Storytelling and a Themed Atmosphere

A key strength of this tour is the theatrical presentation by Angus, the kilted storyteller. His flair and knowledge bring the legends alive, making the tales feel genuine and immersive. His performance style and detailed storytelling elevate the experience beyond just pub-hopping, making it a memorable journey into regional folklore.

The pace of the tour is well-paced, with each stop lasting about 30 minutes, allowing enough time to absorb the stories without feeling rushed. The storytelling is engaging and educational, suitable for adults, and those interested in Appalachian culture or ghost stories.

Value and Booking Considerations

At $30 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to experience Asheville’s local legends within a lively pub environment. Since cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, visitors have flexibility in planning. The tour’s bookings are made in advance, typically 25 days ahead, which helps secure a spot during busy weekends.

While the legendary content is the main focus, some might find the stops’ variety of drinks and pub atmosphere appealing, making it both an entertaining and cultural outing. The small group size enhances interaction and storytelling intimacy.

The Asheville Ales & Tales Experience

Operated by Asheville Ales & Tales, this tour combines storytelling with Asheville’s vibrant craft beer scene. The guide’s theatrical style and regional legends create a distinctive, themed experience that both entertains and educates. The focus on Appalachian folklore offers a different perspective on Asheville’s lively nightlife.

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy spooky stories, local myths, or exploring Asheville’s underground cultural side. The availability of other tours—like ghost walks or trolley tours—makes this pub crawl a unique addition to a broader exploration of Asheville.

Final Words on the Appalachian Legends Pub Crawl

The Cryptids & Creatures pub crawl delivers a blend of storytelling, local history, and pub culture, making it a standout evening activity. The four stops, each linked to a different Appalachian legend, provide a well-rounded glimpse into regional myths, brought vividly to life by Angus’s theatrical narration.

While it is primarily a storytelling tour with pub-hopping, the experience’s charm lies in its authentic stories and engaging guide. It suits visitors who appreciate a mix of folklore and socializing, and it’s a creative way to experience Asheville’s vibrant neighborhood and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the pub crawl last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, with four stops of about 30 minutes each.

What is the cost of the tour?
The experience costs $30 per person, with drinks available for purchase separately at each venue.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Green Man Brewery on Buxton Avenue and ends at Antidote Coffee & Cocktails on Coxe Avenue.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included but can be bought at each stop.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
The tour is designed for adults with moderate physical activity; children or non-drinkers may not find it suitable.

What is the guide like?
The guide, Angus, is a theatrical storyteller in a kilt, who brings enthusiasm and detailed knowledge to each legend.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour involves walking between venues, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

Are group sizes small?
Yes, with a maximum of 20 travelers, the experience maintains an intimate atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring cash or card for drinks, and arrive early for parking and check-in.

Can I request a different day?
Yes, other days are available by request, but the tour runs Friday through Sunday regularly.

Is weather a concern?
The experience requires good weather, and refunds or rescheduling are offered if canceled due to poor conditions.