Montreal: Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re looking for a lively way to explore Montreal’s darker side, the Haunted Montreal Pub Crawl offers a unique blend of history, ghost stories, and a bit of local pub culture. We’ve reviewed this experience based on the available details and love how it combines storytelling with a social outing—perfect for those who enjoy a good ghost tale with their evening drinks.

What catches our attention most is the opportunity to learn about Montreal’s haunted landmarks from a professional storyteller while enjoying reserved access to three different pubs. Plus, the tour’s reasonable price of just $24 per person makes it accessible for a wide range of travelers. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for that if you plan to sip along during the stories.

This tour suits history buffs, ghost story fans, or anyone curious about Montreal’s more mysterious past. It’s also a fun and informal way to meet other travelers. If you’re after a guided, entertaining, and a bit spooky night out, this experience deserves a spot on your list.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling by a professional actor makes the ghost tales come alive.
• Three haunted pubs provide a mix of atmospheres, from historic taverns to lively Irish pubs.
• Affordable price point at $24, focusing on the experience rather than just the drinks.
• Short, manageable tour at 2 hours, making it easy to fit into an evening.
• Historical insights into Montreal’s past, from Indigenous roots to colonial upheavals.
• Adult-only experience, with drinks at your own expense, ideal for those 18+.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Montreal’s Haunted Pub Crawl

An Introduction to the Experience

This tour promises more than just a casual pub crawl; it’s a theatrical journey into Montreal’s haunted history, led by a professional storyteller who specializes in ghostly tales. The guide’s role isn’t merely to point out bars but to animate them with stories of ghostly apparitions, tragic murders, and legendary figures from Montreal’s past.

We appreciate the fact that the tour starts in downtown at McKibbins Irish Pub, a location known for its own ghost stories. The tour then winds through two other historic pubs, Sir Winston Churchill and Hurleys Irish Pub, each with its own haunted reputation. The fact that you’re in reserved areas elevates the experience, giving a sense of intimacy and exclusivity — no fighting for space or shouting over the crowd.

What we love: The blend of history and entertainment; it’s a friendly, relaxed way to learn about Montreal’s darker stories. The price is reasonable, and the format is flexible enough for most travelers.

A possible consideration: Drinks are not included, so you should factor in additional costs if you plan to sip during the tales. Also, the tour’s 18+ age restriction might exclude some family groups or younger travelers.

Best suited for: Adults who enjoy storytelling, history buffs, fans of ghost stories, and travelers looking for an unconventional night out.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

The Starting Point: McKibbins Irish Pub

The adventure kicks off inside McKibbins Irish Pub, located on Bishop Street in downtown Montreal. Here, the group gathers, and the guide begins sharing the city’s haunted tales, setting a spirited tone for what’s to come. This pub isn’t just a backdrop but a storied venue itself, with ghost stories linked to its long history and prominent patrons.

The guide’s storytelling is described as theatrical, bringing the ghosts to life with vivid descriptions and engaging delivery. From here, you will move between three pubs, each with its own haunted reputation, culminating at Hurley’s Irish Pub.

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The Three Haunted Pubs

1. McKibbins Irish Pub: Known for its own paranormal tales, it acts as the perfect launching pad into Montreal’s ghostly past. The stories here might include local legends or historical figures linked to the inn’s past.

2. Sir Winston Churchill: This pub is famous for its historic ambiance and ghost stories. While specific tales aren’t detailed, the transition from one haunted venue to another keeps the atmosphere lively and chilling.

3. Hurleys Irish Pub: The final stop is home to the Burning Lady, a ghost believed to haunt the bar. According to local lore, her apparition appears every 7 years, searching for her lost head. Guests often find this story particularly memorable and spine-tingling.

The Tales and Legends

Throughout the tour, you will learn about some of Montreal’s most notorious ghosts and historical figures. For example, Simon McTavish, a Scottish fur trader, was known to sled down Mount Royal in his own coffin — quite a vivid image. The ghost of John Easton Mills, a mayor who died tending Irish refugees, also features prominently.

One of the most captivating stories is Headless Mary, a Griffintown prostitute murdered in 1879, believed to return periodically in search of her head. These stories aren’t just ghostly legends but echo the city’s often brutal and complicated history, adding depth to the chills.

The Atmosphere

The guide’s storytelling style is lively and theatrical, making the ghost stories feel immediate and real. The reserved sections of each pub help maintain an intimate vibe, so you can focus on the tales without noise interference. The 2-hour length feels just right — enough to enjoy the stories and atmosphere without dragging on.

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, starting in the afternoon and ending at Hurleys Irish Pub. You’ll need to purchase your own drinks, as they are not included, so budget accordingly. The tour is suitable for those 18 and older, and although most of the experience is indoors, there will be a brief walk between the pubs.

Group size isn’t explicitly mentioned, but the format suggests small to medium groups, which enhances the storytelling experience. The tour’s cost at $24 per person offers fair value, especially considering the private reserved areas and the quality of narration.

The Reviewer’s Perspective

Based on reviews, guests find the guides to be exceptionally knowledgeable and engaging, which is crucial for a storytelling-focused tour. One reviewer mentioned, “Loads of fun!” and appreciated the history connected to the ghost stories. Others noted that the experience was well-paced and not overly long.

The price point, combined with the intimate setting and authentic tales, makes this tour a solid choice for anyone interested in Montreal’s spooky side without breaking the bank.

The Value of Combining History with Haunted Tales

What makes this tour stand out is not just the ghost stories but how they’re woven into Montreal’s complex history. From Indigenous roots to colonial upheavals and modern urban legends, the stories give a layered understanding of the city’s past.

You won’t just be told ghost stories for their own sake; you’ll learn about the brutal, sometimes sordid, past that gave rise to these legends. Such stories help visitors connect with the city on a more personal level—understanding that Montreal’s haunted reputation is rooted in history, violence, and cultural change.

Why It’s Worth the Price

At $24, you’re paying for not just three bar visits but a guided journey into Montreal’s haunted soul. The private reserved areas add comfort and a sense of exclusivity. Plus, the storytelling quality, as noted by reviewers, elevates this beyond a typical pub crawl.

Who Should Book This?

This experience works best for adult travelers, especially those interested in history, ghost stories, or simply looking for a fun, slightly spooky night out. It’s perfect for friends, couples, or solo travelers eager to meet others and share a memorable experience. Since drinks aren’t included, it’s about the stories and atmosphere rather than a bar-hopping spree.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

The Montreal Haunted Pub Crawl offers a distinctive way to explore the city’s darker side while enjoying some drinks and good storytelling. It’s a well-balanced mix of entertainment, history, and social interaction that’s ideal for adults who enjoy a bit of mystery with their evening. The special touch of a professional storyteller makes the tales come alive, adding depth and entertainment value.

For those who appreciate authentic local legends, appreciate engaging guides, or want to add a spooky twist to their Montreal visit, this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect for travelers on a budget seeking a memorable experience without a hefty price tag.

If you’re after a fun, atmospheric, and informative night where history meets ghostly legend, this experience is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, the tour is reserved for people 18 years and older, primarily because drinks are involved and some content might be more suited for adults.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included. The tour provides access to reserved areas of three pubs, but you will need to purchase your own beverages.

How long does the tour last?
The Haunted Montreal Pub Crawl lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable outing that won’t overly disrupt your evening plans.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins inside McKibbins Irish Pub on Bishop Street in downtown Montreal; you meet the guide there.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
The pubs are not wheelchair accessible due to stairs, so accessibility might be limited.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

In all, the Montreal Haunted Pub Crawl offers an engaging, reasonably priced way to learn about the city’s haunted legends while enjoying some of Montreal’s classic pubs. It’s best for those who like their history served with a side of ghostly tales and a good dose of theatrical storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here: