New Years Eve Drinking History and Live Ball Drop Bash

If you’re considering ringing in the New Year in New York City, this New Years Eve Drinking History and Live Ball Drop Bash offers a unique blend of lively drinks, historic tales, and a front-row seat to the iconic Times Square celebration. We haven’t done this tour ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it seems like an experience tailored for those who want more than just the fireworks – an opportunity to learn some history while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its focus on history and storytelling, giving a bit more depth to the usual New Year’s Eve party. Plus, the included specialty drinks and snacks could help keep spirits high throughout the night. On the flip side, it’s a full-day commitment, and if you’re not a big fan of group tours or paying for a package, that might be a consideration. This tour seems best suited for travelers who enjoy a combination of culture, history, and celebration, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of securing your own spot for the ball drop.

Key Points

• Historical insights: Learn about the US’s prohibition era, gangsters, and women of the Gilded Age.
• Prime views: Get an exclusive spot 12 blocks away from the Times Square ball drop.
• All-inclusive drinks: Enjoy alcoholic beverages and snacks leading up to midnight.
• Group size: Limited to 40 travelers, which helps keep things personal.
• Duration: An 8-hour experience that covers quite a bit of New York’s festive highlights.
• Cost: $350 per person, which factors in drinks, snacks, and exclusive viewing but not dinner.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off at 4:30 pm at 825 8th Ave, right in the heart of Manhattan. From the start, you’re in the thick of NYC’s theater district, a lively area that hints at the excitement to come. The meeting point near public transportation makes it easy to join if you’re already exploring the city.

Exploring Times Square and the Theater District

The first part of the tour takes you within the security barriers of Times Square, the epicenter of New Year’s Eve celebrations. Walking through Broadway, you’ll get a feel for the area’s historic charm—the kind of vibe you want before the midnight countdown. You won’t need to worry about tickets for Times Square itself, as your tour provides admission within the barriers, securing your spot in the action.

Learning the US Prohibition Era and Gilded Age

One of the unique aspects of this tour is the focus on drinking history. You’ll hear about the Prohibition era, the famous gangsters who operated under the radar, and the women of the Gilded Age who influenced the country’s social scene. This historical perspective adds substance to what might otherwise feel like a typical party night, and it’s especially appealing if you enjoy stories behind the scenes.

Visiting a Former Speakeasy and Oldest Bars

While the tour mentions visiting a former speakeasy and one of NYC’s oldest bars, details about the locations aren’t overly specific. Still, the experience likely involves a chance to soak in the atmosphere of the Prohibition days and enjoy specialty drinks. Keep in mind that the drinks are included until midnight, so you’ll have plenty of time to toast the New Year.

The Midtown View of the Ball Drop

One of the most coveted moments is the street-side view of the midnight ball drop from 54th Street—about 12 blocks away from the main event in Times Square. While you won’t be right beneath the ball, this vantage point offers a clear, less crowded perspective of the iconic countdown. The experience promises an exclusive view, which many travelers find worthwhile given the usual chaos in Times Square on New Year’s.

The Final Hours and Midnight Festivities

As midnight approaches, you’ll gather at a venue with an open bar and good views of the celebration. Drinks are included until the ball drop, so you can ring in the New Year with a toast, enjoying the festive atmosphere without worrying about the crowds. Afterward, most participants likely head back into the city’s lively streets or continue their celebration elsewhere.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s value is centered around the drinks, snacks, and prime viewing. For $350, you get an exclusive view of the ball drop from a good distance, along with entry within the barriers at Times Square—no small feat on NYE. The drinks and snacks keep you energized without extra cost, which is a bonus considering NYC’s high prices for alcohol and food during celebrations.

However, food is not included for dinner, so if you’re expecting a full meal, you’ll need to purchase this separately. The tour covers the main highlights, but don’t expect a sit-down dinner or a luxury transportation experience; it’s more about the combination of history, drinks, and good views.

Passenger Experience and Group Dynamics

With a maximum group size of 40 travelers, the experience balances intimacy with the lively energy of a larger outing. This size allows for easier interaction with guides and fellow travelers, which can make the evening more enjoyable. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved and standing outside during the countdown.

Analyzing the Price and Overall Value

At $350 per person, this isn’t a bargain, but it does include a lot—access to secure viewing, drinks, snacks, and a guided historical narrative. For travelers who want an organized way to enjoy the festivities without the stress of planning, it can be worth the price, especially if the idea of knowing the history behind the celebrations appeals to you.

Pros

• Secure access within Times Square barriers
• Interesting mix of history and celebration
• Open bar leading up to midnight
• Less crowded vantage point for the ball drop
• Guided tour with storytelling

Cons

• No dinner included
• Price might be steep for some, considering it’s a full-day experience but no luxury perks
• The view from 12 blocks away isn’t as immersive as being in Times Square itself
• Cancellation policy is strict—non-refundable and non-changeable

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone interested in combining history with your New Year’s plans, this tour offers a compelling mix. It’s suitable for those who enjoy learning about the cultural backdrop of celebrations and prefer a guided, organized experience rather than winging it on your own. Travelers who don’t mind standing outside for a while and want to avoid the chaos of Times Square’s crowds might find this a perfect compromise.

This tour probably isn’t ideal for those looking for a luxury experience or a sit-down dinner. Nor is it the best choice if you want to be right in the middle of the action in Times Square; instead, you get a well-placed, less hectic view.

Final Thoughts

This New Years Eve Drinking History and Live Ball Drop Bash offers a solid option for travelers who enjoy a mix of education and celebration. It adds extra layers to the typical Times Square experience, making the night both memorable and meaningful. For $350, you’re paying for a combination of secure access, drinks, and a chance to learn a little about America’s spirited past.

It’s most appealing to those who can appreciate a guided tour, are okay with a full-day commitment, and want to avoid the crush of Times Square’s crowds right at midnight. If you’re seeking a more relaxed yet festive way to see the ball drop, and are interested in a touch of history along the way, this tour might just fit the bill.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
This experience is generally geared towards adults, mainly because of the focus on drinking history and the open bar. It might not be ideal for young children or families.

Does the tour include dinner?
No, dinner is not included. Food is available for purchase at the venues, so you can plan to eat separately.

What is the meeting point and time?
The tour starts at 4:30 pm at 825 8th Ave, New York City.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, covering the evening’s festivities and ending near the midnight ball drop.

Can I get a view of the ball drop?
Yes, you’ll have an exclusive street-side view from 54th Street, about 12 blocks from Times Square.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
Yes, drinks are included until midnight, along with snacks, to help you enjoy the celebration.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to reach.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 40 travelers, which balances a lively atmosphere with some personal attention from guides.

What’s the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

If you’re after a history-rich, organized way to enjoy New Year’s in NYC with a view and some good drinks, this tour offers a pretty balanced package. Just keep in mind the price and what’s included, and plan accordingly to make the most of it.