East Village Speakeasy (secret bars) Experience

If you’re craving a different side of New York City—one that whispers of the city’s Prohibition-era mysteries—then a speakeasy tour might be exactly what you need. We’ve looked into the East Village Speakeasy (secret bars) Experience, and while it’s not perfect, it offers a fascinating peek into some of NYC’s most elusive watering holes. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a history buff, or just someone eager to explore the city’s underground scene, this tour has some compelling elements worth considering.

What really stands out are the access to hard-to-find bars and the small group setting, which makes for a more personal experience. Plus, the guide’s knowledge about the bars and the city adds a layer of depth that many casual bar-hoppers might miss. On the flip side, the tour’s price point of $35 per person seems reasonable, but the absence of included drinks means you’ll need to budget extra for cocktails. One thing to be mindful of is how some reviews mention inconsistent experiences—so it’s a bit of a gamble. Still, if you’re interested in uncovering NYC’s secret nightlife, this tour could be right for you.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: The tour grants entry to some of the city’s most elusive speakeasies, often through secret entrances like phone booths and barber shops.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of seven travelers, it offers an intimate vibe, ideal for meaningful interactions and personalized attention.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides come across as well-informed, with some reviews highlighting their language skills and storytelling ability.
• Cost Consideration: The $35 ticket covers the tour itself but does not include alcohol, so be prepared for extra expenses on drinks.
• Location & Timing: Starts around 4:45 pm on East 9th Street and ends near the Delancey Street subway, making it accessible via public transportation.
• Mixed Reviews: While some rave about the guide and experience, others report cancellations and safety concerns, so it’s a tour with some variability.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Overview

This isn’t a typical bar crawl—it’s a curated experience that takes you behind the scenes of NYC’s clandestine drinking spots. The tour lasts about three hours, and you’re led through the East Village into some of the city’s most secretive, trendy speakeasies. The experience is designed for those who want more than just a drink—it’s about the thrill of discovery and the stories behind these hidden bars.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point: The adventure kicks off on East 9th Street & Avenue A. Here, you meet your guide and prepare for a journey into NYC’s underground bar scene. The starting time is around 4:45 pm, which is perfect for those who want to hit the bars just as the city begins to buzz in the evening.

How You Go In: The journey into these secret bars involves fun and quirky methods—think phone booths, barber shops, and narrow alleyways. This element of surprise is part of the charm, making you feel like an insider rather than just another tourist.

The Bars: Once inside, you’ll get guaranteed entry and priority service, avoiding the hassle of waiting in line. Although the tour itself doesn’t include drinks, you’ll have the chance to sample trendy cocktails at each stop, with the guide often sharing stories or tips about the drinks and the history of each bar.

The End Point: The tour concludes on Norfolk Street, right next to the Essex Street subway station, making it easy to continue your night or head back to your accommodations.

The Experience

Many who’ve taken this tour mention that the guides are particularly knowledgeable about the history and culture of NYC’s speakeasies. One reviewer even highlights how the guide switched effortlessly between multiple languages, adding a layer of professionalism and friendliness that enhances the experience. You’re likely to learn fun facts and fascinating tidbits that you wouldn’t stumble upon on your own.

However, the experience can vary. Some reviews mention cancellations or safety issues—one reviewer recounted waiting outside a derelict burger joint in an unsafe part of town, which was unnerving. It’s important to note that this sort of inconsistency might be a concern, especially if safety or reliability is a priority for you.

The Value of the Price

At $35 per person, this tour offers a reasonably priced glimpse into NYC’s secret nightlife. Since alcohol is not included, you should plan for additional spending if you want to enjoy the cocktails at each bar. For those interested in a fun, guided experience that balances storytelling with socializing, this price point is fair, especially considering the guaranteed access and personalized service.

What the Reviews Say

The reviews are a mixed bag but lean toward the positive when it comes to the guides and the experience of discovering hidden bars. For example, one reviewer said, “Alex and his girlfriend were great company. Super friendly and knowledgeable,” highlighting how the guide’s personality adds to the enjoyment. Another reviewer raved about a different guide’s storytelling and even the rooftop bar stop, which provided a stunning sunset view.

On the flip side, a few reviews mention cancellations without notice and safety concerns, which is something to keep in mind. If you’re planning this tour, it’s worth checking the latest reviews and possibly confirming safety measures beforehand.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who love discovering hidden corners of the city and enjoy storytelling. If you’re interested in the history and culture behind New York’s underground bars, this experience offers a nice balance of adventure and education. It’s suited for those who don’t mind paying extra for drinks and are okay with some unpredictability in the experience.

It’s probably not the best choice if you’re traveling with young children, as the focus is on late-evening bars and alcohol. Similarly, if you’re expecting a highly polished, flawless experience, be prepared for some reviews mentioning cancellations or safety issues.

The Bottom Line

The East Village Speakeasy experience offers a window into NYC’s secret nightlife. It’s a fun, intimate way to explore some of the city’s most elusive bars with a knowledgeable guide who adds personality and context. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, making it a good pick for travelers who enjoy personalized experiences.

However, the variability in reviews suggests it might not be perfect every time. It’s best suited for adventurous spirits, lovers of history, or anyone curious about the city’s underground drinking culture. Remember, drinks are extra, and safety is always important—so check recent reviews and plan accordingly. Overall, it’s a worthwhile option for those looking to add a touch of mystery to their NYC nights.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour focuses on secret bars and sampling cocktails, it’s generally not designed for children. It’s best for adults who are of legal drinking age.

Does the tour include drinks?
No, the $35 price covers the tour and guaranteed entry, but alcoholic beverages are not included. You’ll need to purchase drinks separately at each bar.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at East 9th Street & Avenue A, near the intersection on the Lower East Side.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

Are the bars guaranteed to be open?
The tour promises guaranteed entry and priority service, but like any venue, bar hours and availability can sometimes change unexpectedly.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size makes it perfect for solo travelers looking to meet like-minded people in a relaxed setting.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice means no refund.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is a safe bet, but there are no strict dress codes. Just keep in mind you’ll be walking and entering possibly tight spaces.

If exploring NYC’s hidden drinking spots sounds intriguing and you’re comfortable with some unpredictability, this speakeasy tour could be a memorable way to spend an evening. Just keep an eye on recent reviews and make sure you’re prepared to enjoy the mystery and stories behind these clandestine bars.