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Spirited Tales Pub Tour Overview
Includes Complimentary Christmas City Spirits Tasting at the Sun Inn and Tasting Glass.
Raise a glass to Historic Bethlehem’s brewing history!
Hidden in the unique historic sites of Bethlehem are fascinating stories of eerie paranormal activities, unsolved murders and mysterious experiences. Hear those tales on this guided tour starting at the 1810 Goundie House, home of Bethlehem’s first commercial brewer, Johann Sebastian Goundie.
You’ll discover the importance of beer in Colonial America and explore Bethlehem’s history as you visit Historic Hotel Bethlehem, Lost Tavern, the Red Stag Pub and more.
The tour culminates at the Historic Sun Inn, where participants receive a special Sun Inn tasting glass and enjoy a complimentary tasting of the award-winning Christmas City Spirits, which are available for purchase at the inn. Samples might include Cherry Bounce, a cherry-infused cordial reportedly enjoyed by George Washington; Cider House Blend, a delicious blend of locally sourced apple cider and whiskey; and other intriguing options.
This bubbly tour shares stories of unsolved mysteries, murders and paranormal activity including sightings of visitors from historic Bethlehem’s past.
Please allow for up to 2 hours for this tour.
Note: The Sun Inn will be closed on 9/12. Visitors will receive their tasting and glass at the Goundie House and will visit outside of the Inn.
Suggested Itineraries Which Include the Spirited Tales Pub Tour
For the History-by-Day, Spirits-by-Night Traveler – Offered Saturdays
Explore the same streets Bethlehem’s first settlers did in the afternoon, then trade the history lecture for a pub tour once the sun goes down – complete with stories of mysteries and paranormal activity plus free tastings and a commemorative glass at the 1758 Sun Inn. Perfect for filling a full day downtown!
Suggested itinerary offered Saturdays:
- 1:00 PM: Old Bethlehem Walking Tour – 90 minutes
- 2:30-3:00 PM: Free time on Main Street
- 3:00 PM: Spirited Tales Pub Tour – 90-120 minutes
Walking Tour Accessiblity
Historic Bethlehem’s guided walking tours take you through the heart of Bethlehem’s National Historic Landmark District – the same grounds where history actually happened. Tours typically runs about 90 minutes at a comfortable walking pace, moving along brick and paved sidewalks, a few gentle hills, and some sloped or possibly grassy stretches between stops. It’s part of what makes the experience feel real rather than staged.
If you have questions about a specific tour, or want help planning your visit, call the Historic Bethlehem Heritage Concierge Service at 1-800-360-TOUR (8687). We’re happy to walk through the details with you and find the right fit.
What is the typical pace of the tours?
Tours are typically around 90 minutes. This is around 90 minutes of walking and standing, with stops along the way to take in the sights and stories. Seating is available at only a few points along the route.
What is the terrain?
The terrain is a mix of brick and paved sidewalks, with some uneven, sloped, or grassy sections. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
Are there inclines or slopes on these tours?
Most routes are gently sloped. The Bethlehem and the Revolution, Birthplace of Industry, and Mystery & History Tours include a steeper paved incline between the Historic District and the Colonial Industrial Quarter. It’s a great chance to see the landscape that shaped the city’s industry.
Are there stairs on the tours?
The Grist Miller’s House, 1741 Gemeinhaus, and the Single Sisters’ House are original 18th-century buildings without elevators, so there is a flight or two of steeper historic stairs. Guests on the Branching Out Tour, which includes the Gemeinhaus and the Single Sisters’ House, and the Birthplace of Industry Tour, which includes the Grist Miller’s House, are welcome to remain on the main floor. Our guides are happy to describe what is on the other floors, and Branching Out Tour attendees can watch a video at the Gemeinhaus showing what they would see on the second floor of the building.
Are the tours wheelchair and mobility device friendly?
Many outdoor sections of our tour routes are navigable with a manual or power wheelchair. Some brick and sloped areas may be more challenging for certain devices, and we’re glad to help you find the route that works best.
