Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

The Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively mix of history, spirits, and ghost stories, all wrapped into a 2-hour tour for $27.75 per person. This tour is perfect for those interested in Richmond’s haunted past and looking to sample local drinks at notable historic venues. With a mobile ticket and a maximum group size of 15, it maintains an intimate, engaging atmosphere. The tour departs from JewFro at 6:00 pm, making it an ideal evening activity for anyone curious about Richmond’s ghostly legends and its vibrant pub scene.

While reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and interesting locations, some mention the tour’s limitations, particularly the inability to access certain venues like Richbrau Brewing. This experience suits those who enjoy storytelling, history, and a fun night out, but visitors should be aware that some stops may be less interactive than expected.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $27.75, the tour offers a cost-effective way to explore Richmond’s haunted pubs.
• Duration and Schedule: It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 6:00 pm from JewFro.
• Historic Venues: Stops include renowned locations like Rosie Connolly’s Pub, the Edgar Allan Poe Museum, and Patrick Henry’s Pub.
• Ghost Stories & Legends: The tour features tales of ghosts haunting buildings like St. John’s Church and the old Masonic lodge.
• Limited Access: Some venues, such as Richbrau Brewing, may not be accessible during the tour, which can be disappointing.
• Engaging Guides: The best reviews praise guides like Mars for their knowledge and entertainment.

Richmond’s Historic Pubs in the Shockoe Bottom Neighborhood

The tour primarily focuses on pubs housed in historic structures, giving participants a taste of Richmond’s past through its architecture and stories. The first stop at Rosie Connolly’s Pub is set in a building that once served as a Railroad YMCA and was part of the city’s red light district. Here, visitors are invited to sip a drink and consider that ghostly hands might have poured it, setting the tone for a spooky evening.

Exploring Richmond’s Oldest Commercial Building and Its Haunted Rumors

Next, the tour visits JewFro, located in Richmond’s oldest commercial building. This site is rumored to be cursed due to its history of failed businesses and is believed to be haunted by Daniel Denoon. The building also hosts Smith and Foundry, where tasting African wines adds a unique touch to the experience. Some guests note that access to this building is free, making it a significant point of interest without additional cost.

The Old Masonic Lodge and Civil War Hospital History

One of the standout stops is the world’s oldest operational Masonic lodge. Originally used as a hospital during the War of 1812, this building has seen its share of tragedies and is believed to haunt visitors with paranormal activity. Guests learn about its storied past while sensing the echoes of its turbulent history, which adds a layer of intrigue to its ghost stories.

Richmond’s Edgar Allan Poe Museum and His Ghostly Presence

Located near Poe’s former residence and place of work, the Edgar Allan Poe Museum is housed in the city’s oldest standing structure. Tales of Poe’s ghost sightings are common, with some stories suggesting his spirit remains attached to personal items in the house. This stop combines literary history with supernatural tales, appealing to both literature lovers and ghost enthusiasts.

The Civil War and Colonial Ghost Stories at Historic Churches and Hospitals

The tour also visits the first church built in Richmond, which has witnessed numerous disasters over the years. It is believed to be haunted by four ghosts roaming the cemetery and church grounds. Nearby, an old hospital used during the Civil War and once a tobacco store is said to host ghostly apparitions of Civil War casualties. These sites add depth to Richmond’s dark history and its lingering spirits.

Sampling Local Drinks at Richbrau Brewing and Patrick Henry’s Pub

The Richbrau Brewing stop offers a chance to try the house brew and learn about the history of beer in the U.S. It’s a favorite for those wanting to pair ghost stories with local beer. While some reviews express disappointment over missing access to the brewery, the Farmhouse Dry Cider at Patrick Henry’s Pub compensates with a taste of colonial drinking customs. Guests are advised to be alert, as ghostly activity might not be limited to the drinks alone.

Logistics, Group Size, and Tour Experience

The meeting point at JewFro makes the tour easy to find, and the small group size ensures a more personal experience. Guides are described as knowledgeable and entertaining, with Mars frequently praised for her storytelling. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking between stops, but service animals are allowed. Notably, the tour is not suitable for guests under 21.

Limitations and Considerations

While many enjoy the stories and historic venues, some reviews point out the absence of access to certain venues like Richbrau Brewing, which diminishes the overall experience. Plus, a handful of reviews mention the pace being slow or the stories feeling sparse, especially when the group size exceeds expectations. The no drinking or smoking rules during the tour can also be a surprise for some, especially when expecting a lively pub crawl.

Final Thoughts on the Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Tour

This haunted pub crawl offers a compelling way to explore Richmond’s historical pubs and ghostly legends within a 2-hour window. The affordable price point, combined with insightful guides and a selection of historic venues, makes it appealing for history buffs and ghost fans alike. However, potential attendees should be aware that not all venues may be accessible, and the pace and content may vary depending on the guide and group size.

This tour is a fun, moderately spooky experience suited for adults interested in Richmond’s dark past and local drinks. For those who appreciate storytelling, historic architecture, and ghost tales, it can be a memorable evening, especially if guided by someone like Mars.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at JewFro, 1721 E Franklin St, Richmond, at 6:00 pm.

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes a professional, knowledgeable guide, accurate history, and local legends and ghost stories, but food and drinks are not included.

Are drinks available during the tour?
While the tour features stops at pubs offering local drinks like Farmhouse Dry Cider and house brews, purchases are separate from the tour fee.

Can I bring a service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed during the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not for travelers under 21.

What if I want to cancel?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Will I get to visit Richbrau Brewing?
Not necessarily, as some reviews mention missing this stop, possibly due to scheduling or access restrictions.

What should I expect from the guides?
Guides are generally knowledgeable and entertaining, with Mars receiving particular praise for her storytelling skills.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It involves walking between stops, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Can I join the tour if I don’t drink?
Absolutely; non-drinkers can still enjoy the stories and explore the historic sites.

Is this tour a good value?
With a mid-range price and interesting locations, it offers good value for those interested in ghost stories and Richmond’s history, but visitors should temper expectations regarding venue access.