Ladies, if you’ve been dreaming of a night where the laughs don’t stop, the photos are epic, and the memories are nothing short of legendary – this is your moment. Planning a pub crawl isn’t just easy, it’s pure fun when you know how to set it up. You don’t need to be a party-planning pro. All you need is this guide, a crew of amazing women, and a few hours to let loose!
So let’s dive in! From killer themes to smart planning tips, you’ll have everything you need to make this a night you’ll never forget.
Step 1: Map Out Your Route and Set the Stage
Don’t worry about memorizing an elaborate schedule; just create a simple plan for where you’ll be, so the night stays stress-free and everyone knows where to go.
Choose the Perfect Route: Pick 3-5 bars that are close enough for easy walking, so you’re always within steps of your next stop. Drop the list of stops in your group chat and pin it to the top. This way, anyone joining later knows exactly where to find you.
Set Up a Central Meet-Up Spot: Start with a low-key spot where everyone can gather and settle in. It’s perfect for those moments of hugging and giggling when everyone arrives, and it’s the perfect start to a seamless night.
Allow Some Flexibility: Planning out the night helps, but don’t worry about sticking to it like glue. Some of the best moments happen when you leave room for spontaneity. Have everyone on board with the plan but be ready to go with the flow if the night takes you somewhere amazing.
Step 2: Make Reservations & Prepare for Crowds
It’s all about making things easy on yourself. A little prep work here means you’ll spend more time having fun and less time stressing about logistics.
Reservations Are Your Friend: If any of your stops are popular spots, it’s worth calling ahead. A quick call to let them know a group of fabulous women are coming through can mean reserved tables, VIP treatment, or even a welcome drink. Plus, everyone feels like a queen when you walk in and have your own spot waiting!
Know the Cover Fees: Some places have cover charges, especially if it’s a weekend or holiday. Make sure everyone in the group is prepared – a quick “FYI” in the group chat will keep surprises at bay.
Holiday and Event Planning: If you’re hosting near a holiday or big event, plan ahead for crowds. Some venues offer pre-booking options or special event tickets. Check for “skip the line” options to keep your night moving without the hassle of long waits.
Step 3: Choose a Theme That Turns Heads (See more theme ideas at the end of the blog)
Now for the fun part! The right theme takes your pub crawl to a whole new level. Whether you want to get cozy in PJs, go glam, or show off your quirky side, these themes have got you covered. Choose one that makes everyone laugh, go all-out with it, and let the memories roll.
Pajama Party Pub Crawl
Imagine hitting the town in matching pajama sets, fluffy slippers, and eye masks. You’ll be comfy, cozy, and stealing the spotlight. This theme is perfect if you’re all about relaxed vibes with a side of cheeky fun.
Dress Code: Go for luxurious silk PJs, cartoon onesies, or classic plaid sets. Add some fluffy slippers, headbands, or even mini stuffed animals for an extra dose of cuteness.
Perfect Stops: Start at a chill lounge where you can get cozy on a couch with cocktails, then hit a bar where you can let loose. Posing in PJs with a drink in hand is the ultimate “not your average girls’ night” vibe.
Extra Touch: Bring sleep masks or face masks as props for a playful group photo. Nothing says “night to remember” like a squad rocking their PJs in style!
The Sober Crawl
Who says you need alcohol to have fun? Opt for a sober crawl and explore the best mocktails in town. It’s all about the laughs, the dance moves, and, of course, those delicious non-alcoholic concoctions. Your liver will thank you in the morning! Try a coffee crawl, sampling unique blends and cozy cafes. Or, how about a dessert crawl, hopping from one sweet spot to another?
Begin at a trendy juice bar, then hit a hip mocktail lounge. Each place should have a signature non-alcoholic drink – the more exotic, the better. Imagine toasting with lavender lemonades and spicy virgin Marys!
Granny Chic Crawl: Get Ready for Golden Girl Glam
Picture this: your entire group decked out in floral prints, pearls, oversized glasses, and maybe a cane or two. You’ll be the most fabulous group of “grandmas” the town has ever seen!
Outfit Ideas: Try wigs, gray hair spray, or classic cardigans. Add big brooches, knit shawls, and “old lady” bags to complete the look. Don’t forget to tuck a crossword puzzle or a “grandchild’s photo” in your bag for laughs!
Where to Go: Start at a cozy pub where you can sit, chat, and get into your characters. Move to a karaoke bar where you can belt out a classic like Dancing Queen and have the whole place cheering. Bonus points if someone brings a crochet project or knitting needles as a prop!
Signature Move: Strike “grandma” poses for the camera! Think “gossiping about Mildred” or “knitting by the fireplace.” You’ll capture priceless memories and hilarious photos.
90s Pop Stars: Spice Up Your Life with Iconic Looks
Calling all 90s kids! This theme lets everyone pick an iconic 90s pop star, so your group can rock the night like the true legends you are. It’s nostalgic, hilarious, and gives everyone the chance to shine.
Outfit Inspo: Go as Britney with a crop top and low-rise jeans, channel Spice Girls vibes (Posh, Sporty, Baby, Scary, and Ginger!), or dress up like NSYNC or Backstreet Boys. Chokers, mini skirts, and platform shoes are all fair game.
Venue Picks: Look for bars with 90s playlists or retro decor to complete the vibe. A place with a dance floor is a must – you’re going to need to show off those iconic 90s moves!
Photo Fun: Pose like a true diva with your “crew” of pop stars. Whether it’s serious group shots or silly poses, you’ll look like you’re on a throwback album cover. Bring a portable speaker for quick sing-alongs to your favorite 90s hits between stops!
Fantasy & Fairytales: Bring on the Magic
If your group loves all things whimsical, this theme will make for a magical night. Think wizards, fairies, queens, and mythical creatures galore – it’s the ultimate mix of playful and enchanting.
Costume Ideas: Let everyone choose a fantasy-inspired character, from wizards and elves to fairytale queens. Fairy wings, magic wands, flower crowns, and cloaks all add to the fantasy feel.
Perfect Stops: Seek out spots with moody lighting or themed decor for a fairytale vibe. Even a bar with low lighting and candles works well for creating a magical atmosphere.
Photos to Enchant: Pose with wands, cast “spells” together, or do group shots that show off everyone’s magical costumes. You’ll have photos that look straight out of a storybook!
Netflix Characters: TV & Movie Characters Unite!
Love binge-watching with your besties? This theme lets everyone dress as a character from a favorite Netflix series or movie. It’s perfect if your crew has shared obsessions and wants to bring them to life.
Dress the Part: From Stranger Things (think Eleven with a nosebleed) to Tiger King (bring on the animal print) or Squid Game (green tracksuits!), each person can pick a character that’s recognizable and fun.
Stops to Try: Go to bars with fun, cozy decor that feel a little “Netflix and chill.” Look for a variety of places that let each character stand out in photos, from a retro dive for Stranger Things to an urban spot for Emily in Paris.
Photo Opps: Each friend can pose in character (like Eleven’s psychic stare or Joe Exotic’s wild grin) for fun shots. Create “scenes” as a group to make it feel like a full cast lineup!
80s Flashback: Big Hair, Neon, and Totally Radical Vibes
Bring on the scrunchies, neon colors, and leg warmers – it’s time to go back to one of the most iconic (and outrageously fun) decades ever! This theme is perfect if your crew loves bold looks, classic jams, and all things retro.
Outfit Essentials: Think leggings, oversized T-shirts tied at the waist, denim jackets, and neon everything. Add crimped hair, headbands, and statement accessories like big hoops or fingerless gloves. Basically, the louder the look, the better!
Route Ideas: Find bars with 80s vibes or jukeboxes where you can play the hits. Even better, head to a spot with a retro arcade or an 80s-inspired decor if your city has one – you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time.
Poses for the Gram: Do “power stances” in your neon glory, strike a Michael Jackson or Madonna-inspired pose, or gather in a circle with your scrunchies on display. Bonus points if someone brings a mini boombox as a prop!
Meme Theme: Dress as Your Favorite Internet Sensation
If your group loves a good laugh and is up-to-date on internet culture, this theme is pure gold. Each person comes dressed as their favorite meme – from viral images to iconic internet jokes, anything goes!
Costume Ideas: You can go as classic memes like “Distracted Boyfriend” (with a friend as the boyfriend and girlfriend) or newer hits like “Karen” with big sunglasses and a dramatic haircut. Other fun options include “Salt Bae,” “Woman Yelling at Cat,” “Grumpy Cat,” or even “Kermit Sipping Tea” with a green outfit and a cup of tea.
Route Suggestions: Start somewhere with fun, quirky vibes – maybe a spot that has photobooths or props. You’ll get tons of laughs and questions from people around you, and it’s a great conversation starter!
Epic Photo Ops: Recreate your favorite meme poses, like Woman Yelling at Cat, Side-Eye Chloe, or Roll Safe. The more dramatic, the better! Each stop, you can capture a new meme-inspired shot for hilarious memories.
Step 4: Fuel Up with Food Stops
Food is key to keeping the fun going, so plan in some stops to keep everyone fueled and ready to go.
Quick Bites Along the Way: Look for spots that serve snacks or small plates. Think nachos, sliders, or fries – easy to share and a great way to recharge between drinks.
Bring Snack Bags: Prepare mini snack packs with things like trail mix, popcorn, or chocolate. They’re cute, fit right in a purse, and perfect for a quick bite between stops.
End with a Foodie Finale: After a night of dancing and fun, wrap it up with a late-night diner stop or food truck. A big plate of fries or a slice of pizza never tasted so good!
Step 5: Keep It Safe and Simple
A few small details will keep your night carefree and ensure everyone feels comfortable:
Stay Together: Set up a buddy system and make sure everyone knows the meet-up point for each stop. It’s all about keeping the fun going without anyone feeling left behind.
Arrange Rides Home: Book a car service or arrange a designated driver. Or consider renting a party bus if you want the celebration to keep rolling between stops!
Hydration Breaks: Make water part of the fun. Order rounds of “water shots” between drinks – they’re surprisingly fun and keep everyone feeling great.
Drinking Scavenger Hunt
Mix up your pub crawl with a drinking scavenger hunt. Prepare a list of hilarious and achievable tasks for each pub (like serenading a stranger or getting a selfie with the bartender). The more creative, the better. Just remember, it's all in good fun! Make it themed – like finding items related to movie titles, or a "bachelorette-style" hunt with challenges like "get a guy to serenade you."
Tasks could include "convince the DJ to play a 90s hit" or "find someone with the same shoe size and swap shoes for a dance." Each completed task earns points, and the winner gets a prize at the end of the night!
Drunk Trivia Night
Combine your love for trivia with your pub crawl. Each pub is a new round, and every drink gets you a "lifeline." Test your knowledge while sipping on your favorite brew. May the smartest (and tipsiest) team win! Tailor trivia topics to your group's interests – from pop culture and history to local trivia or even personal questions about members of your group. (Check out Game Nights Galore's Trivia Section for a ton of free trivia questions/answers on many topics.)
Each pub represents a different round of trivia, perhaps with themes like "movie quotes" or "name that tune." Enjoy a cocktail at each venue and put those tipsy brains to the test!
Holiday-Themed Pub Crawls
Christmas in July: Beat the heat with a cool Yuletide twist! Deck yourselves in Santa hats, elf ears, or even summer-friendly Christmas attire. Visit pubs with festive decorations and enjoy seasonal drinks like frozen eggnog or peppermint mojitos.
Ugly Sweater Night: Time to raid the closet for those gloriously hideous sweaters! Each pub can have its own mini-contest for the ugliest sweater, with holiday-themed drinks to match.
Single Gal Valentine's: Who needs Cupid when you've got your besties? Don your most fabulous reds and pinks, and hit the town. Celebrate your friendship with love-themed cocktails, like "Single and Loving It" martinis or "Galentine's" margaritas.
Consider other holidays too! How about a spooky Halloween pub crawl, complete with costumes and themed drinks, or a New Year’s-themed crawl in June, where every pub rings in a ‘half-year’ at midnight?
Cosplay Night
Unleash the fun with a cosplay-themed pub crawl. Whether you’re comic book fans, anime enthusiasts, or fantasy lovers, this is your chance to shine.
Choose a specific theme like superheroes, video game characters, or famous movie icons. Or, go wild with a mix-and-match approach where each friend chooses a character from a different genre.
Tips for an Unforgettable Night
Stay Hydrated: Alternate those cocktails with water. Your head will thank you the next day.
Safety in Numbers: Stick together. A buddy system is a must for any night out.
Transportation: Plan your ride home in advance. Nobody's driving, ladies – keep each other safe!
Eat Up: Make sure to fuel up with some good food before and during the crawl. Pub snacks, anyone?
Dress for Comfort and Theme: Whether it's PJs or granny gear, make sure you're comfy and in character.
Check-In Regularly: Have a group chat where you can keep tabs on each other throughout the night if you get separated.
For the Ultimate Pub Crawl Experience...
Head over to Game Nights Galore for more tips and ideas on ladies' nights and other amazing game nights/nights out/nights in. We've got the lowdown on everything from pub crawl themes to fun games you can incorporate into your night. Trust me, you don't want to miss their genius ideas for making your night truly epic!
So there you have it, gals. Whether it's in PJs, as a tribute to our future selves, or proving our sobriety can be just as fun, a ladies' night pub crawl is the perfect way to let loose, laugh, and create memories that'll last a lifetime. Let's make it a night to remember!
For more theme ideas: Mermaids & Pirates: Under the Sea Adventure
It’s all about the nautical vibes! Whether you go for glamorous mermaid scales or rugged pirate looks, this theme lets everyone dive into the fun. It’s quirky, creative, and perfect for ladies who love a little costume magic.
Dress the Part: For mermaids, go with sparkly tops, “scales” leggings, and shimmering makeup. Pirates can rock bandanas, eye patches, and stripes. Everyone can add seashell necklaces or nautical tattoos for a fun finishing touch.
Best Stops: Look for bars with beachy decor or anything that reminds you of the ocean. If you’re near a waterfront, try a beachside pub or tiki bar!
Pose Ideas: Mermaid and pirate poses, of course! Strike poses with “fish faces” or do your best “Arrr!” for some pirate-themed fun. Add props like seashells, treasure maps, or fake swords for silly photos.
Cosmic Queens: Out of This World Glam
Take your ladies' night into the galaxy with an outer-space-inspired theme! Cosmic Queens is all about metallics, galaxy colors, and anything that sparkles like the stars.
Outfit Inspiration: Shimmery dresses, iridescent tops, and metallic makeup are perfect for this theme. Add glittery highlighter, bold lip colors, and a few alien-inspired headbands for an “out of this world” look.
Stops to Shine: Find bars with colorful lights or glow-in-the-dark decor to match your cosmic vibe. Choose a dance spot where the lights make you shine like stars!
Pose Like a Star: Go for hands-in-the-air “star” poses, circle up and do galaxy-themed selfies, or get creative with glow sticks or mini LED lights. You’ll look like queens of the galaxy in every shot!
Rockstars & Divas: Live Like a Legend
Whether you’re channeling rock royalty or pop icons, this theme lets everyone pick their favorite rockstar style – and go as over-the-top as they want. Each of you can be a different legend, from punk rocker to pop diva.
Outfit Vibes: Leather jackets, band tees, wild hairstyles, and anything with studs or sparkles. Bold makeup, bright lipstick, and big accessories are a must!
Best Bar Choices: Start at a bar with live music, if you can. Then hit up a spot with a killer playlist where you can rock out to your favorite hits. Bonus points if there’s a karaoke bar to let your inner diva shine.
Rockstar Moves: Strike a “rocker pose” for every photo – peace signs, air guitar, and power stances. Maybe even have a “microphone” prop or let someone play the manager with a clipboard – the options are endless!
School Spirit Throwback: Relive the Glory Days
For a little nostalgia, go back to school days! Each friend can dress up in school colors, spirit wear, or even a fun twist on a high school stereotype (cheerleader, jock, nerd – you name it!).
Outfit Ideas: Try a classic letterman jacket, team T-shirts, or even a “retro” high school look from the 80s or 90s. Add pom-poms, temporary tattoos, or class rings to go all-out.
Route Plan: Start somewhere easygoing, like a sports bar or a pub with games like pool or darts. It’ll bring out the school spirit, and it’s perfect for channeling those throwback vibes.
Team Chant: Come up with a “team chant” or fun saying for your crew and shout it at each stop. It’s silly but brings everyone together – and people around you might even join in!
Bad & Boujee: Because Tonight You’re Living Like a Queen
This theme is all about glam, confidence, and maybe a little extra attitude. Think luxe dresses, fur stoles, big sunglasses, and anything that screams high maintenance and fabulous.
Outfit Ideas: Faux fur coats, glittering jewelry, and over-the-top sunglasses are essential. Go big with heels (if you dare) and maybe even a tiara or two.
Boujee Bars: Start somewhere upscale where you can feel like VIPs, then head to places that know how to make a fancy cocktail. Make each entrance as dramatic as your outfits – you’re the queens tonight!
Pose for the Paparazzi: Each stop, take photos like you’re on the red carpet – hand-on-hip, shades on, and maybe even an “I woke up like this” attitude.Bad & Boujee: Because Tonight You’re Living Like a Queen
Festival Fever: Get Ready to Dance Like It’s Coachella
Bring the festival vibes to the pub crawl! This theme lets everyone show off their free-spirited side, perfect for groups who love to let loose, dance, and live in the moment.
Outfit Inspo: Think fringe, flowy tops, floral crowns, and face glitter. Mix and match boho vibes with colorful accessories and flash tattoos.
Best Venues: Head to bars with outdoor patios, string lights, or dance floors that let you move freely. Find places with live music or DJs to really capture that festival vibe.
Capture the Festival Vibes: Have everyone do a “festival pose” – arms up, peace signs, and all smiles. Bonus points if someone brings mini glow sticks or a few “festival-style” photo props.
Glam & Glitter: Shine Like the Stars You Are
If you’re in the mood for a night of pure glam, this theme is everything. Imagine a group of dazzling women in glittery dresses, sequins, and sparkly accessories – you’ll own every entrance.
Outfit Tips: Think sequins, shimmery tops, and metallic dresses. Go big with statement earrings, bold makeup, and maybe even a glittery clutch. Glow sticks or mini LED lights are great props for fun night photos.
Stops for Glitz: Pick spots with mood lighting or neon signs that make your glitter pop in photos. End at a lounge with a dance floor where you can strut your stuff.
Best Photo Op: Line up in front of neon signs or colorful backdrops to let the shimmer and sparkle take center stage. You’ll have the most fabulous photos to look back on!
Hollywood Red Carpet: Channel Your Inner Movie Star
It’s your time to walk the “red carpet.” Pick your favorite iconic looks or rock some Hollywood glam. Imagine an entire group looking like stars at every stop!
How to Rock It: Glam dresses, sunglasses, and feather boas are must-haves. Or go bold with Marilyn curls or Audrey Hepburn-inspired accessories. This is your night to be a star!
Where to Go: Start somewhere that feels VIP (even if it’s just for the vibes) and give everyone the full “paparazzi” treatment with photos galore. Make your grand entrance at each spot, and let everyone know the stars have arrived!
Signature Pose: “Red carpet” shots with hand-on-hip poses. You’ll feel like Hollywood royalty in every photo.
End the Night on a High Note
Finish your crawl at a relaxed, comfy spot where everyone can wind down, chat about the night, and get that final group photo. Share all the photos in a group chat, and spend the next few days reminiscing about the unforgettable moments. For more ideas to make your ladies' night even more epic, check out Game Nights Galore – with our themes, games, and planning tips, you’ll have everything you need to make every girls' night the ultimate event!
Good idea thank you