Charleston: Speakeasy Sagas Prohibition Pub Crawl

If you’re curious about Charleston’s past and want to experience its vibrant nightlife, this Prohibition-era pub crawl might be just the ticket. We’ve looked into this tour to see what makes it tick and whether it’s worth your time. And honestly, it offers quite a bit for those interested in a mix of history, good drinks, and a lively group atmosphere.

What immediately caught our eye is how well it balances education with entertainment. It’s not just a bar-hopping session; you’ll learn about Charleston during the 1920s, discovering stories you probably haven’t heard before. Plus, the tour visits some of the best bars and cocktail lounges—perfect for anyone who loves a good drink and some local flavor. On the flip side, keep in mind it’s a guided walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must, and there’s no included drinks, which means you’ll be paying for your cocktails separately.

This tour is especially suitable for adults who enjoy history and social outings. If you’re traveling with friends who love a good story and a fun night out, or even if you’re a history buff looking to see Charleston from a different angle, this tour can hit the right notes. But if you’re expecting a highly structured, sit-down experience or are traveling with very young children, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Learn about Charleston’s Prohibition history with a lively, guided walk.
• Visit top local bars known for their unique cocktails and atmosphere.
• Enjoy a social night out with a small group for a more intimate experience.
• Hear wild, lesser-known stories of characters from the 1920s.
• Price at $35 per person offers good value for a combined history and nightlife experience.
• Tour duration is 2 hours, usually in the afternoon—perfect for an early evening activity.
• Guides are knowledgeable and personable, creating an engaging vibe.
• No drinks are included, so budget for cocktails at each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Charleston Speakeasy Sagas Tour

What’s the Concept?

This tour is a mix of history lesson and lively bar crawl. It’s designed for those who want to explore Charleston’s underground past while enjoying some of its best modern-day cocktail spots. Starting from the steps of the U.S. Custom House on East Bay Street, your guide will take you on a two-hour journey through the city’s Prohibition-era secrets, characters, and legends.

What to Expect?

From the outset, the tour promises to be an energetic and informative experience. You’ll learn about how Prohibition started in Charleston during the 1920s, uncovering stories of local figures and hidden scandals that are not part of the usual tourist chatter. Guides are praised for their depth of knowledge—many reviewers repeatedly mention guides like Jamie, Dawn, and Mike as being both fun and very well-informed.

As you walk from bar to bar, you’ll sip on delicious cocktails at some of Charleston’s top venues. While drinks aren’t included, reviews mention that the cocktails at these bars are some of the best in town, making each stop worth the extra expense. Expect to visit places like The Griffin, The Blind Tiger, and Bar Vaute—each with its own vibe and history.

The Experience at Each Stop

Each bar offers a different flavor, whether that’s a classic speakeasy-style setting or a modern cocktail lounge. You’ll hear stories about characters who made a splash during the Prohibition era, giving the experience a sense of stepping back in time. Reviewers highlight guides’ ability to blend humor and storytelling—”Jamie was a fabulous guide!! We learned so much,” one reviewer notes.

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Group Size, Duration, and Atmosphere

With a small group limit of 6 people, the tour maintains an intimate feel. This allows for more personal interactions with the guide and a more relaxed social setting. The tour runs typically in the afternoon, making it an ideal early evening activity to kick off a night out or wind down after a day of sightseeing.

Cost and Value

At $35 per person, the price seems reasonable given the expert insights and access to some of Charleston’s most interesting bars. Remember, drinks aren’t included, so budget accordingly. But reviews consistently mention that the guides’ storytelling adds value far beyond just the drinks.

Accessibility and Practicalities

This tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus, and involves walking between stops—so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s rain or shine, so be prepared for weather changes. Also, since drinks cannot be carried between bars due to local laws, plan your purchases at each stop.

What Reviewers Say

Many reviews are glowing, emphasizing the knowledge, humor, and enthusiasm of the guides. For example, Heather shared, “Had a wonderful tour and went to places we wouldn’t normally go to,” while another reviewer, Tammie, said, “The tour was amazing! We learned so much and saw hidden spots.” Guide personalities like Jamie and Dawn are repeatedly praised for their entertaining storytelling and deep historical insights.

One reviewer summed it up perfectly: “Jamie is The Philosopher of Charleston,” highlighting the blend of wit and education that makes the tour stand out. Others appreciated the unique venues and stories they wouldn’t discover on their own, making it a memorable and worthwhile experience.

Are there any downsides?

The main critique is that not all locations provide ample private space for the guide to speak, which can make it harder to catch every story. Plus, since drinks aren’t included, the overall cost can add up if you indulge at multiple bars. But for most, the value of the stories and atmosphere outweighs these minor inconveniences.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Charleston Speakeasy Sagas tour offers a unique combination of history, socializing, and local flavor. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy learning about the city’s past while having fun in a relaxed, small-group setting. The knowledgeable guides and stunning bar venues make it a memorable way to explore Charleston’s nightlife with a historical twist.

If you’re after a fun, engaging experience that’s more than just a bar crawl, this tour hits the right balance. It’s particularly appealing if you want to get a sense of Charleston’s Prohibition days while enjoying some of the city’s best cocktails in a lively atmosphere. The value for money and personalized guide ensure it remains a popular choice among visitors.

However, if you prefer a more structured tour with included drinks or are looking for a family-friendly activity, you might want to look elsewhere. But for an adults-only trip that mixes history with nightlife, it’s definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll be paying for cocktails separately at each bar, but reviews suggest the drinks are worth it, and the venues are top-notch.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, usually in the afternoon, making it perfect as an early evening activity.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, although some walking between stops is involved.

Where do I meet the guide?
Your guide will be waiting on the steps of the U.S. Custom House, on the East Bay Street side—note, it’s the back entrance.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just bring your ID or passport, comfortable shoes, and an open mind for fun stories and good drinks.

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

Is this tour suitable for families or minors?
No, the tour is strictly for those 21 and over, owing to the alcohol-focused nature.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour guides speak English, and the small group setting makes it easy to follow along.

If history, lively storytelling, and a taste of Charleston’s nightlife sound appealing, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Expect good stories, fun venues, and a memorable way to explore the city’s Prohibition past.

You can check availability for your dates here: