New Years Eve Speakeasy Drinks and Ball Drop Tour NYC

A Closer Look at the New Years Eve Speakeasy Drinks and Ball Drop Tour NYC

If you’re planning to ring in the New Year in New York City and want something a bit different from the usual crowded parties, this New Years Eve Speakeasy Drinks and Ball Drop Tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve looked into what it offers and talked to some past participants. It seems to promise a fun, hassle-free way to celebrate, blending history, drinks, and iconic NYC sights into one evening.

What I really like about this experience is its focus on avoiding lines and chaos—something that’s often part of New Year’s Eve in Times Square—and its inclusion of visits to classic 1920s speakeasies, which tap into the city’s rebellious, jazz-era spirit. The exclusive view of the ball drop from 12 blocks away is another highlight that adds a special touch without the madness of being right in the center of Times Square. That said, it’s not without its quirks, and one thing to keep in mind is the price point—$350 per person might seem steep for some, especially if you’re not big on open bars or guided tours.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy history, a lively atmosphere, and a structured way to celebrate without the stress of planning every detail themselves. If you’re someone who appreciates guided experiences, knowledgeable hosts, and a bit of storytelling along the way, this could be a good fit. However, if you’re looking for a highly customizable or low-cost New Year’s celebration, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Includes an open bar at the last stop until midnight, so you can toast the New Year with a drink or two.
• Exclusive viewing area for the ball drop from 12 blocks away provides a good balance of celebration and comfort.
• Visit historic speakeasies with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the Prohibition era.
• Group size is limited to 30 travelers, which keeps things intimate but lively.
• Timing is tight with the tour lasting around 12 hours, so be prepared for a long, festive night.
• Price reflects the experience’s inclusions—premium views, multiple drinks, and guided storytelling.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Starting Point at Times Square
The tour kicks off in the late afternoon at 825 8th Ave. Here, you’ll gather in a designated area, likely feeling the buzz of the New Year’s Eve anticipation. You’ll get a view of the ball drop from a reserved spot, which is a definite perk. No scrambling through crowds, just a good vantage point to count down at midnight. Based on reviews, some guests appreciated the dedicated viewing area, while others noted they’d prefer clearer guidance on when to head out for the drop, as one reviewer mentioned, “no one told us when to exit for the ball drop, so we worked it out ourselves.”

Visit to Flute Bar with Open Bar & Heavy Appetizers
The next part of the evening involves six hours of open bar and heavy appetizers at the Flute Bar, from 6:30pm to 12:30am. This is a major selling point for many, especially since it’s all included in the price, with a complimentary drink at each of the first two venues. The VIP reserved viewing for the ball drop adds a layer of exclusivity. One reviewer mentioned, “Great environment! Tour guides were super nice and knowledgeable,” highlighting the quality of the guiding staff and atmosphere.

Midnight Champagne Toast & Final Celebrations
As the clock strikes twelve, the group will enjoy a champagne toast, a classic way to toast the New Year together. The experience seems to aim for a balance of party and history, with the guides sharing tidbits about the speakeasies and New York’s Prohibition era. The timing is designed to maximize celebration without the chaos of trying to find a spot in the thick of Times Square.

The Highlights and a Few Caveats

Highlights
– The exclusive view of the ball drop from a reserved area, which is quite appealing for those wanting to see the iconic event without battling the masses.
– The knowledgeable guides who apparently add color and context to the speakeasy visits, which helps bring the 1920s era to life.
– The open bar and good selection of drinks, making it easy to enjoy the night without constant worry about ordering or ruining the budget.
– The laid-back yet festive atmosphere at the speakeasies, giving a cozy contrast to the bustling streets outside.

Potential Drawbacks
– The price of $350 per person may seem steep if you’re not a big drinker or if you’re just looking for a simple way to see the ball drop.
– Some guests have expressed frustration over lack of clear timing instructions, meaning you might need to stay attentive to the schedule or figure things out on your own.
– The tour’s duration—around 12 hours—means it’s a long night, so you’ll want to be prepared for a late, possibly tiring evening.
– Limited food options, as some reviews mention not enough food for the price, which could be a downside if you’re expecting a full meal.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point in Times Square

The tour begins at 4:30 pm, in a centrally located spot on 8th Avenue. The advantage here is that you’re already in the heart of NYC’s celebration zone, but instead of fighting the crowds, you’re placed in a reserved area for the ball drop viewing. This might be especially appealing for travelers who want to avoid chaos but still want to experience the iconic moment.

The Speakeasy Stops

The night’s theme is rooted in Prohibition-era history, and the tour takes you inside one of NYC’s last-standing speakeasies. These spots are often characterized by dark, intimate settings, vintage decor, and a sense of stepping back in time. The guides share stories about notorious gangsters and bootleggers—adding a layer of storytelling that makes the experience more memorable.

The Open Bar at Flute Bar

The six hours here include heavy appetizers, which should help balance out the drinks. The VIP reserved viewing for the ball drop means your group gets a good vantage point, away from the crowd crush. Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the friendly and knowledgeable guides, who made the evening more engaging.

Midnight and Beyond

As the clock strikes twelve, you’ll enjoy a champagne toast in the company of fellow revelers. The tour wraps up after the countdown, but guests have noted that timing can be a bit ambiguous—so staying attentive to instructions is a good idea.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a structured, guided way to celebrate New Year’s Eve without the chaos often associated with Times Square. If you enjoy history, appreciate guided storytelling, and want a comfortable view of the ball drop, you’ll find it worthwhile. The inclusion of good drinks, light snacks, and exclusive access makes it a solid choice for those looking for a premium, hassle-free way to ring in the new year.

However, if your priority is a full dinner or a super budget-friendly option, or if you prefer total flexibility over a fixed schedule, this might not be the best fit. The long duration also means it’s better for those prepared for a late night.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This tour is primarily geared toward adults, especially since it involves open bars, alcohol, and late-night timing. It’s not suitable for children or families.

Can I join this tour without a lot of physical activity?
Yes, the tour requires a moderate physical fitness level, but it mostly involves walking and standing. You should be comfortable with being on your feet for several hours.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers access to the speakeasies, the open bar at Flute Bar, heavy appetizers, a reserved viewing spot for the ball drop, and a champagne toast at midnight.

How early should I book?
The tour is usually booked about 10 days in advance, so it’s best to secure your spot early as it tends to fill up quickly.

What if I want to cancel?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so be sure you’re committed before purchasing.

Will I know when to leave for the ball drop?
Some guests have noted the timing isn’t clearly communicated, so you might need to keep an eye on the schedule or ask your guide.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably but in a way that suits the festive atmosphere. Since it involves going inside bars and speakeasies, smart casual is usually suitable.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
The tour includes heavy appetizers, but specific dietary options aren’t detailed. It’s best to ask beforehand if you have particular needs.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour begins at the meeting point, and you’re responsible for getting there. It’s near public transportation, which is convenient.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a memorable way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in NYC, this speakeasy-themed tour offers a mix of history, drinks, and a good view of the iconic ball drop—all wrapped into one long, lively night. The guides’ knowledge and the exclusive viewing experience stand out as major pluses, especially if you want to sidestep the crowds in Times Square.

That said, the cost isn’t cheap, and the experience might not appeal if you’re on a budget or prefer a more flexible, less structured night. Still, for those who want a combination of history, fun, and comfort, it’s worth considering.

In the end, it’s an experience that caters well to those looking for an organized, enjoyable night out with friends or a partner—one that balances tradition, entertainment, and a touch of vintage NYC glamour. Just remember to book early, and be prepared for a long, festive night!