Ghost Bus Pub Crawl

The Ghost Bus Pub Crawl in San Antonio, USA, offers a unique way to discover the city’s haunted past without the tired feet. For $62 per person, this 2 to 3-hour tour takes you in a fully air-conditioned bus to three of the most historic and supposedly haunted bars. With admission included for each stop, the tour balances spooky stories with cold drinks and a comfortable ride, making it ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed ghost tour experience. The tour departs at 8:00 pm from the Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours & Oddities Parlor and ends behind the Menger Hotel outside of Morton’s Steakhouse.

While this tour primarily focuses on the haunted tales of San Antonio’s most historic bars, it also features some unexpected fun elements, like friendly guides and a lively atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for visitors who want to combine local history with some ghostly intrigue, all while avoiding long walks or strenuous activity. However, it’s worth noting that alcoholic beverages are not included, so plan to bring your own drinks if you wish.

Key Points

• Price of $62 per person covers about 2 to 3 hours of guided fun
• Includes admission to three haunted stops: Menger Bar, Southtown House of Spirits, and Hotel Havana
• Transport is in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus
• Guides are praised for their entertaining storytelling and care
• Suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to enjoy the experience
• No alcoholic beverages included, so bring your own if desired

The Origins and Unique Features of the Ghost Bus Tour

The Ghost Bus Pub Crawl is created by Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours, a renowned name with five consecutive years ranked among the Top 3 Best Ghost Tours in the Nation by USA Today. This tour is their newest offering, shifting away from walking explorations to a bus-based experience. This means no sweating or sore feet, just a laid-back evening of haunted stories and drinks.

The tour is designed to be both eerie and fun, perfect for those seeking an entertaining night out with a spooky twist. It’s a limited-ticket experience, emphasizing an intimate, guided environment where stories of spirits and legends are shared comfortably during the ride.

Starting Point and End Location in San Antonio

The tour begins at the Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours & Oddities Parlor located at 204 Alamo Plaza, a central area close to public transportation. From there, the bus makes its way through San Antonio’s historic district, stopping at three iconic haunted venues before concluding behind the Menger Hotel outside Morton’s Steakhouse. This convenient drop-off point makes it easy for guests to continue their night in downtown San Antonio.

The Three Haunted Stops: Menger, Southtown, and Hotel Havana

Menger Bar: Texas’ Oldest Bar

The journey starts with a visit to the Menger Bar, the oldest bar in Texas. This historic spot has been serving patrons for many years and is known for its rich past and ghostly legends. The admission to this stop is included, and visitors can explore its vintage ambiance while hearing tales of spirits that are said to linger in its walls.

Southtown House of Spirits: Victorian Séance Vibe

Next, the Southtown House of Spirits offers a Victorian-era séance-themed experience. Located at 727 S. Alamo St. in San Antonio’s Southtown neighborhood, this bar opened on Halloween 2024. Its second-floor setting adds to its mysterious charm. The bar’s themed environment sets the scene for ghost stories and legends, making it a highlight of the night.

Hotel Havana: A Vintage Boutique with Ghostly Tales

The final stop is at Hotel Havana, built in 1914 along the River Walk. This hotel’s old-world charm and vintage furnishings create an eerie atmosphere, especially with stories of ghostly guests who are said to still linger in the halls. The admission is included, allowing guests to soak in the ambiance and hear about the legends associated with this historic hotel.

Guides and Their Role in the Experience

The guides, Lady Lex and Robert, receive praise for their entertaining and engaging storytelling. They take care to share local legends and haunted tales in an approachable manner, adding a personal touch to each stop. Their knowledge contributes greatly to the enjoyment of the tour, making the experience both fun and atmospheric.

Transport and Group Size

The air-conditioned bus provides a comfortable environment, especially ideal during warmer months or after a day of sightseeing. The tour group is limited to 33 travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the stories and stops without feeling crowded.

Booking, Cancellation, and Weather Policies

Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received at the time of booking. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for changing plans. The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is provided. Since most travelers can participate, the tour is accessible to a wide audience.

Value for Money: What You Get

For $62, guests receive admission to three haunted venues, guided storytelling, and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Since alcoholic beverages are not included, travelers can decide whether to bring their own drinks or enjoy the experience primarily for its stories and atmosphere. The value lies in the combination of historic venues, engaging guides, and the convenience of a chauffeured tour.

What Sets It Apart from Other Tours in San Antonio

Unlike traditional walking ghost tours, the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl offers a relaxed, vehicle-based experience. This is especially suitable for those who prefer not to walk long distances or who want a more social, bar-focused experience. The focus on haunted bars and legends makes it a fun mix of history, spirits, and entertainment in a single evening.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour caters well to adults who love ghost stories, historical tales, and a relaxed night out. It’s perfect for those seeking a fun, spooky experience without too much physical activity. The added benefit of entertaining guides ensures that even skeptics will find the stories engaging.

Final Thoughts on the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl

The Ghost Bus Pub Crawl combines San Antonio’s haunted past with a lively, comfortable tour format. It provides a unique nighttime activity, especially for those interested in history, legends, and ghostly tales. The limited ticketing and small group size ensure a personalized experience, while the admission to historic venues offers a genuine glimpse into the city’s haunted legacy.

While it lacks alcoholic drinks included, it makes up for it with entertaining storytelling and a cozy bus ride. This tour suits adventure seekers, history buffs, and those wanting a spooky night with minimal effort. If you enjoy ghost stories and historic bars, this tour offers a memorable, fun-filled evening in San Antonio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ghost Bus Pub Crawl suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s primarily designed for adults due to the bar stops and themes.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included; guests should bring their own if they want drinks during the stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from 204 Alamo Plaza at 8:00 pm and ends behind Morton’s Steakhouse outside the Menger Hotel.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this tour open during bad weather?
If canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternate date is offered.

Are guide names and their style known?
Yes, guides Lady Lex and Robert are known for their entertaining and caring approach.

What makes this tour different from other ghost tours?
It’s bus-based, focusing on historic haunted bars with stories shared in a relaxed environment.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 33 travelers, ensuring an intimate setting.

Is transportation included?
Yes, air-conditioned transportation is part of the experience.