Halloween bar crawls have become a “major thing” in some of America’s top cities in recent years, but Cleveland’s seasonal Monster Mash events combined with an unbelievably epic Halloween bar crawl experience make a powerful case for it being the best in the Midwest, if not the nation.
Some people call this northern Ohio city on the shores of Lake Erie “The Cleve” while others call it “The Big Plum.” But those who opt to take the Cleveland Bar Halloween Bar Crawl challenge are likely to choose the nickname: “That Place Where I Had the Greatest Halloween Night of Fun Ever City.”
More Than Just Bar-to-Bar Drinking
You all know what a bar crawl is. A group of friends gather for some nightlife fun and hop from bar to bar for a drink in each one, along with maybe some dancing, socializing, whatever hijinks, etc.
But the Cleveland Halloween Bar Crawl experience is like barhopping in some colorful, bizarre alternate dimension or another planet. (Think of the famous “bar scene” in Star Wars).
Cleveland crawlers are known for pulling out all the stops with fabulous costumes and getting into a fun and friendly party mood that is often less about imbibing alcohol than it is just having a carefree adventure in a hip urban setting on Halloween night.
A Multifaceted Fun Time
Schlepping from bar to bar is only the base experience. Along the way, Cleveland Halloween bar crawlers enjoy an array of antics that include:
• Sampling delicious foods
• Tasting wines and specialty brews
• Costume contests
• Haunted houses
• Themed house parties to crash
• Live bands & DJs
• Dancing
• Street vendors/performers
• Historic food, wine & beer establishments
• Premium venues
… and more!
Getting Hooked Up
Certainly, one can simply travel to Cleveland and walk the streets where all the action is going down, but the best way to get a maximum Cleveland bar crawl experience is to buy a ticket from a professional tour guide provider and host.
This streamlines the experience and ensures that the partygoer will see and experience all the best stuff and be guided to the “must-see” locations. Consider that many locations, as do other events, have a cover charge at the door.
A ticket purchased from a tour provider will include everything in one package. The bar crawler is fitted with an access wristband that will give access to bars, concerts, shows and other events. Some tour package deals include a certain amount of drinks and food along the way.
Furthermore, a tour guide or host will make sure his or her guests stay safe, find where to go without getting lost and just facilitate the whole experience in a way that lets people have fun without worrying about logistics.
Cleveland Crawler Tips
Dress for Spooky Success
For maximum fun, first-time crawlers are encouraged to don their sexiest, spookiest, weirdest or creative costumes. One might even win a costume contest along the way. However, if a costume is not your thing, that’s okay! Dress however you feel comfortable and enjoy the nutty people around you!
More is Merrier
Halloween bar crawls are tailor-made for groups. The experience is more memorable when shared with friends. Don’t be surprised if the group you start with grows in number as the night goes on. The festive atmosphere of Cleveland’s bar crawl is all about friends and making new friends along the way.
Get Going Early
If you’re purchasing a guided tour, show up early to check in, pick up your wristband, and enter the registration line. This also allows guests to ask questions, get details on specific venues and get familiar with the tour map.
Travel Light
Participants should bring a valid ID – but little else is necessary! If your costume has props, such as a pirate’s sword or a witch’s broom, it is recommended that items like these be plastic to avoid accidents or injuries. As always, be mindful and respectful of others.
Just Have a Good Time
The Cleveland Halloween Bar Crawl allows adults to recapture the magic they felt as children when they went trick-or-treating in their home neighborhoods. The key is to enjoy in moderation, have fun, stay safe — and maybe allow for just a certain level of “cutting loose.”
