Cocktail City Tours Prohibition & True Crime Tours

Introducing the Cocktail City Tours Prohibition & True Crime Experience

If you’re a fan of stories that mix a bit of history with a splash of local flavor, the Prohibition & True Crime Tour in Charleston could be just your thing. This 2-hour adventure is designed to give you a taste of Charleston’s secretive past—think Prohibition-era speakeasies, hidden bars, and some wild true crime tales—all paired with a couple of well-chosen cocktails.

What we really like about this tour is the way it combines entertaining storytelling with a lively bar crawl, all led by local guides who clearly know their stuff. It’s a fun way to get a behind-the-scenes look at Charleston’s notorious past, especially if you’re into history with a little edge. Plus, drinks are included in the ticket price, which makes for a more relaxed experience—no need to worry about tipping back your own wallet for drinks.

On the downside, the tour’s pretty short—just around two hours—and that means it’s a quick hit rather than a deep dive. If you’re looking for a comprehensive historical or nightlife tour, this might feel a bit light. Also, since the reviews are still limited, the overall vibe can vary depending on your guide and the group you’re with.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy lively stories, local culture, and a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s especially great if you want to learn about Charleston’s prohibition era in a fun, informal setting without committing to a full night out. Perfect for small groups or anyone curious about the city’s secret side.

Key Points

• Short but engaging: Just two hours of fun stories and cocktails make it a quick highlight.
• Led by local experts: Guides are seasoned and know Charleston’s history well.
• Drinks included: The ticket price covers at least three cocktails at different spots.
• Private tour: Only your group participates, making it more personalized.
• Ideal for casual drinkers: If you love stories and cocktails but aren’t looking for a heavy historical lesson, this fits well.
• Free cancellation: Flexibility to cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What to Expect from the Tour

The itinerary kicks off at 188 Market St, right in downtown Charleston—a central location that’s easy to find. Starting at 3:00 pm, the tour takes you downhill through some of Charleston’s most notable spots, each with a story that ties into the city’s prohibition past or its speakeasy culture.

You’ll visit at least three distinct venues, each offering a cocktail included in your ticket. These are not just ordinary bars—they’re carefully selected to give you a sense of the city’s hidden drinking scene during the 1920s and beyond. It’s a chance to sip on crafted cocktails while listening to tales of secret bars, smuggling, and the colorful characters involved in Charleston’s nightlife history.

The guides seem to be a highlight, with many reviews praising their knowledge and storytelling skills. Expect them to share thrilling, sometimes scandalous, stories that keep the atmosphere lively and engaging.

The end point is back at the starting location, so no need to worry about logistics. The tour lasts around two hours, making it a manageable activity even if you’ve got a packed schedule.

The Stops and Stories

While the exact venues aren’t specified, expect the tour to include a mix of historic bars, secret hideouts, and possibly some modern venues that pay homage to the city’s speakeasy roots. The stories you’ll hear range from tales of Prohibition-era bootlegging to true crime stories that keep the history gripping.

We loved the way the guide’s storytelling adds context to each location—these aren’t just bars with good drinks, but places tied to Charleston’s colorful past. If the reviews are any indication, guides are quite knowledgeable, making sure you’re entertained and informed without feeling like you’re in a lecture.

Some reviewers have noted the tour as a good introduction, especially if you’re new to Charleston or interested in stories that aren’t your typical tourist fare. However, since it’s a short tour, don’t expect an exhaustive history lesson—think of it more as a lively, story-driven introduction.

The Experience of the Tour

Expect a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and soak in the atmosphere. The venues are conveniently located near public transportation, and service animals are allowed if you’re traveling with someone who needs them.

Group size is private, which means your party gets the full attention of the guide—an advantage if you want a more personalized experience. The included cocktails are likely to be well-crafted, and the overall vibe is friendly and informal.

Because this tour is designed to be a bit of both history and fun, it’s perfect for those who enjoy lively storytelling, local culture, and a drink or two. It’s not a heavy historical lecture, so if you’re looking for that, you might want to combine this with a more detailed walking or museum tour.

Value for Money

At $115 per person, the tour isn’t cheap, but when you consider that drinks are included, it’s a decent deal for a two-hour social experience. You’re paying for guided storytelling, access to unique venues, and the convenience of a curated experience—all of which add value. However, if your main goal is to learn deep historical facts or explore Charleston’s bar scene independently, it might not be the best fit.

Keep in mind, this isn’t a large group tour; it’s private, which keeps the atmosphere intimate and allows the guide to tailor their stories. That little extra personal touch can make the experience more memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is a good pick for history buffs who enjoy stories about the past and are curious about Charleston’s prohibition era. It’s also ideal if you like social experiences—hopping between bars while hearing fascinating tales makes for a lively, relaxed afternoon.

If you’re traveling with a group of friends who enjoy good storytelling and cocktails, you’ll likely have a great time. It’s less suited for travelers looking for a deep dive into Charleston’s entire history or those wanting a full night out. Given the short duration, it’s better as a quick highlight rather than a comprehensive experience.

Final Thoughts

The Prohibition & True Crime Tour from Charleston’s Cocktail City Tours offers a solid way to combine history, local lore, and casual drinking in a fun, informal setting. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a guided experience that’s both educational and entertaining, with cocktails included to keep the mood light.

The knowledgeable guides and carefully curated venues seem to be the highlight, making this a good choice for anyone curious about Charleston’s secret past without committing to a longer or more intense tour. While it’s a brief encounter, that keeps it relaxed and easy to fit into a busy itinerary.

Overall, if you love stories, cocktails, and a bit of local flavor, this tour is worth considering—just remember it’s more of a fun snapshot than an in-depth exploration.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since it’s centered around alcohol and stories about speakeasies and crime, this tour is mainly geared towards adults. Service animals are allowed, but children might not find it engaging or appropriate.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes about 2 hours, starting at 3:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, your ticket includes a minimum of three cocktails, which are enjoyed at different venues along the route.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience for your group only, making it more personalized.

What’s the starting point?
The tour begins at 188 Market St, Charleston, SC.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting location and venues are near public transit options, making it easy to reach.

If you’re after a lively, story-driven way to experience Charleston’s hidden past with some drinks on the side, this tour offers a tasteful blend of history, fun, and local charm.