Boos and Brews Walking Ghost Tour of Boothbay Harbor

If you’re curious about the ghostly legends that haunt Maine’s picturesque seaside town, the Boos and Brews Walking Ghost Tour offers an intriguing blend of spooky stories, history, and local flavor. This 1.5-hour adventure takes you through some of Boothbay Harbor’s most haunted spots, from old sea captains’ homes to mysterious islands, all narrated by a knowledgeable local guide.

What we love about this tour is its balance of storytelling and scenic beauty. The tales are delivered with warmth and authenticity, often backed by firsthand accounts. Plus, wrapping up at the Footbridge Brewery with a locally brewed craft beer and barbecue adds a satisfying social element after the spooky walk. One minor consideration is that some visitors found the stories less “spine-chilling” than expected, especially if they’re hoping for inside visits or more interactive horror. Still, this tour suits travelers who enjoy ghost stories with a side of history and scenic charm—perfect for those seeking an engaging, casual evening in Boothbay Harbor.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from a local guide with a knack for lore
• Beautiful harbor views along America’s longest wooden footbridge
• Visit to haunted spots, including historic inns, libraries, and islands
• Relaxing end at the Footbridge Brewery with craft beers and barbecue
• Family-friendly and accessible, with most travelers able to participate
• Great value at $30, with added perks like discounts on future tours

An In-Depth Look at the Boos and Brews Walking Ghost Tour

What’s the Tour All About?

The Boos and Brews Walking Ghost Tour is designed as an atmospheric peek into Boothbay Harbor’s mysterious past. It’s not a full-on haunted house experience, but rather a leisurely stroll through the town’s most evocative locations, with stories that are often rooted in local lore and historical accounts. The tour is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes long, perfect for an evening activity that balances storytelling with scenic walking.

Tickets are $30 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the mix of history, storytelling, and the opportunity to sample Maine-made craft beer at the end. Booking typically opens about a month in advance, indicating a steady, full-bodied demand for this experience. The tour is capped at 20 participants, making for an intimate, engaging atmosphere where questions and local insights are encouraged.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Journey into the Haunted

Stop 1: Boothbay Harbor Footbridge

The tour kicks off at Boothbay Harbor’s Footbridge, which is America’s longest wooden footbridge. Walking along this iconic structure grants panoramic views of the harbor while setting the mood. Here, your guide will discuss theories about why Boothbay Harbor has earned a reputation for ghostly activity, from its maritime history to local legends. The 10-minute stop is a great chance to snap photos and get a sense of the harbor’s timeless beauty.

Stop 2: Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library

Next, the group moves to the Memorial Library, where a story about a mysterious woman dressed in black checks into the Hotel Fullerton and then disappears into the surf. The unresolved nature of her story adds a layer of mystery, and you might find yourself pondering whether there’s more to her tale than meets the eye. This stop highlights how small-town legends can persist for generations.

Stop 3: Captain Sawyer’s Bed and Breakfast

A walk down Ghost Row takes you to Captain Sawyer’s Inn, famed for ghostly encounters such as the “ghost of Minnie” and the disembodied torso of a sailor. This stretch of historic homes has a well-earned reputation for paranormal activity, and the stories are delivered with genuine enthusiasm. Guest reviews praise the guide’s ability to make these legends feel tangible and real.

Stop 4: Tugboat Restaurant

Continuing along Commercial Street, the tour shares stories about Mr. Duffy at the Admiral’s Quarters Inn, and tales of a captain who is said to still haunt the premises. This part of the walk emphasizes Boothbay’s maritime roots and how these stories have become woven into the town’s fabric.

Stop 5: Boothbay Harbor

This visit dives into personal tales—one local tour owner’s haunted vacation rental, with stories of a basement ghost and a mysterious portal in the attic. Several reviews mention how engaging and personable the guide is, making the stories feel authentic and close to home.

Stop 6: Whale Park

Here, the focus shifts to sea monsters and sea serpent sightings. Descriptions of creatures seen by multiple credible witnesses make this segment especially captivating, especially for those interested in maritime mysteries and seabound superstitions.

Stop 7: Wharf Street & Outer Heron Island

The tour then ventures to Outer Heron Island, which boasts tales of ghostly buried treasure, legend involving Queen Elizabeth I, and a nearby island with a rich history of legends. This segment adds a sense of adventure and mythic lore to the evening.

Stop 8: Footbridge Brewery

The final stop is at Footbridge Brewery, set in a historic home with a dark past—it was once run as the Kenniston Hill Inn and is supposedly haunted. After hearing the chilling tales, guests are invited to enjoy a local craft beer flight brewed with Maine ingredients, along with barbecue from Bridge House. Many reviews highlight how the brewery’s cozy ambiance and harbor views make for a perfect ending.

What Travelers Say

Reviews echo the overall positive tone of the tour. Many mention that Lisa, the guide, is knowledgeable and personable, with a talent for storytelling that makes the legends come alive. One reviewer notes, “Lisa is a history buff with a gift for storytelling,” adding that the tour is “full of lore and mystery.” Several travelers appreciate the local insights and firsthand accounts, which lend authenticity to the stories.

However, not everyone was blown away. One guest found the stories “not as spine-chilling as advertised” and wished for inside visits to the haunted locations. This feedback suggests that the tour’s strength lies in storytelling rather than interactive exploration—something to keep in mind if you’re expecting a haunted house or inside access.

Why the Price is Right for Most

At $30, the tour offers great value, especially when you consider the included walking map, snacks, and discounts for future tours. The end visit to the brewery also adds a social dimension, making this a fun, relaxed evening activity rather than a formal ghost-hunting expedition.

Practical Details

• The tour begins at 4:00 pm at the Boothbay Harbor Footbridge. Arriving a few minutes early ensures you’re ready for the walk.
• It concludes at the Footbridge Brewery, where public paid parking is available at 12 Granary Way.
• The tour is accessible, with most travelers able to participate, and service animals are allowed.
• It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during the busy season, as it’s popular and fills up about a month ahead.

Who Will Love This Ghost Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy mildly spooky stories with a historical twist. It’s perfect if you appreciate a relaxed walking pace, scenic harbor views, and a chance to mingle while hearing local legends. It’s also a good pick for those who want a fun, inexpensive activity at sunset or early evening, ending with craft beer and a good sense of local flavor.

If you’re hoping for a highly interactive or inside look at haunted locations, this tour might fall short. But for anyone curious about the town’s haunted reputation, and who enjoys a good story with their scenic stroll, it’s a cozy, entertaining choice.

The Sum Up

The Boos and Brews Walking Ghost Tour offers a relaxed yet engaging way to discover Boothbay Harbor’s ghostly past. With knowledgeable guides, charming harbor views, and a convivial ending at a local brewery, it combines storytelling with scenery and local flavor. It’s especially suited for those who love lore, maritime history, and a little spooky fun without the intensity of a haunted house.

While some may wish for more interactive elements or inside access, the authenticity of the stories and the beautiful setting make this tour a solid value at $30. It’s ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends looking for a memorable, laid-back evening activity that showcases the charm and mystery of this seaside town.

Ideal for: History buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, casual travelers, those seeking a fun evening with scenic views, and craft beer lovers.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the stories are suited for older children and teens. The relaxed pace makes it accessible for families, but parents should decide if their kids enjoy spooky stories.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing enough time for storytelling and walking without feeling rushed.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, drinks are not included in the ticket price. Guests can purchase craft beers and barbecue at the Footbridge Brewery after the tour.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time. You can also reschedule if needed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Boothbay Harbor Footbridge and concludes at the Footbridge Brewery, with parking available nearby.

Is the tour physically demanding?
No, it involves walking through town streets and scenic areas at a gentle pace, suitable for most fitness levels.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
The tour starts at 4:00 pm, making it a great early evening activity that ends with sunset views and evening drinks.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, since the tour is popular and bookings typically open a month ahead, it’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.