NYC: Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour

If you’re looking to combine history, culture, and a little bit of fun during a night out in New York City, the NYC Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour might just be a perfect fit. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on countless reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems to hit the sweet spot for those interested in the city’s spirited past and vibrant nightlife.

One thing we love about this tour is how it balances educational content with lively socializing. You get to visit three different historic bars and speakeasies, each with its own unique vibe, and learn about the tumultuous Prohibition years while enjoying some quality drinks. Plus, with skip-the-line access, you can dive straight into the experience without wasting time in queues.

However, keep in mind that this is a walking tour, so it requires a moderate level of mobility and a taste for walking in classy attire. It’s not ideal for those with mobility impairments or anyone who prefers a more relaxed, seated experience.

All in all, this tour seems best suited for history buffs, cocktail lovers, and curious travelers who want a fun, engaging way to explore NYC’s past while enjoying some of the city’s best bars.

Key Points

• Educational and Entertaining: Combines history lessons with a night out at iconic NYC speakeasies.
• Skip-the-line Access: Saves you time, letting you focus on the experience and drinks.
• Variety of Venues: Visits three distinct bars with different atmospheres and stories.
• Price and Value: At $36 per person, it offers a solid experience considering the guided tour and exclusive access.
• Guides Rated Highly: Tour guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, energy, and storytelling.
• Ideal for Social Travelers: Great for those who enjoy meeting new people and sharing an authentic NYC experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Prohibition Drinks and History Tour

What’s the Tour All About?

This three-hour walking adventure invites you to explore some of New York City’s most historic bars and speakeasies. It’s designed to be social, fun, and educational, encouraging participants to learn about the city’s Prohibition-era history while soaking up the lively atmosphere of its nightlife. This tour isn’t just about tasting drinks; it’s also about understanding the story behind them.

Starting from a meeting point on 8th Avenue, you’ll be led by a knowledgeable guide—most of whom are praised for their energy and storytelling skills. The tour involves visiting three venues, all with skip-the-line access, which means you won’t be held up waiting to get in.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is how it offers a visual journey through NYC’s immigrant past and the era when alcohol was illegal, but the nightlife thrived in secret. You’ll hear stories of notorious gangsters, bootleggers, and the women who fought for their place during the Gilded Age.

What Do You Get for the Price?

At $36 per person, the tour provides quality value, especially considering the guided insights and exclusive access to historic venues. Drinks are not included in the ticket price, but you’ll have opportunities to purchase cocktails and enjoy the ambiance at each stop. Expect to pay between $10-$25 for drinks, which is typical for NYC bars.

The ticket price is reasonable for a three-hour social experience that combines history, culture, and good company. The tour is especially attractive for those who want to avoid the hassle of planning individual bar visits or navigating NYC’s nightlife alone.

Who Will Enjoy This Most?

This tour is best suited for adults who appreciate history and cocktails, and those who enjoy socializing in a lively setting. It’s ideal if you’re visiting NYC and want to get a taste of the local culture beyond the usual sights. It’s also a good pick for travelers interested in learning about the city’s immigrant story and the rise and fall of Prohibition.

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What About the Guides?

Based on reviews, the guides are often highlighted as the real stars of the tour. They’re described as knowledgeable, energetic, and engaging, often making the experience feel personal and fun. Several reviews have praised guides like Katherine, Ariel, Ryan, and Sawyer for their storytelling and friendly approach, which enhances the overall experience.

The Venues: What Makes Each Stop Special?

Each of the three bars is carefully selected to reflect different facets of NYC’s Prohibition history and nightlife.

• The first venue is typically an iconic bar dating back to the gangster days, giving you a glimpse into the era when bootleggers and rum-runners ruled the city. You might find this place steeped in history and nostalgia, with vintage decor and stories that transport you back in time.

• The second location often explores the catalysts of Prohibition—places that highlight social movements, women’s roles, or the rise of influential figures like oil magnates. The ambiance here may be more intimate, with stories that connect the city’s social upheaval to the larger American story.

• The final stop tends to be one of NYC’s most unique cocktail lounges, where you might learn about the resurgence of nightlife after Prohibition ended. The setting is often stylish and lively, perfect for raising a glass while hearing tales of the city’s comeback.

The Experience: What’s It Like?

Expect a moderate pace walking tour—comfortable for most, but you’ll need to be able to walk in classy attire and stay on your feet for a few hours. The tour usually takes place in the evening, making it a great night-time activity.

Participants repeatedly mention the engaging stories, the atmospheric venues, and the quality of the drinks (or at least the recommendations). Many reviews say they felt like part of a social club, meeting people from around the world and sharing stories over expertly crafted cocktails.

The Downsides

While many rave about the guides and venues, some reviewers mention that drinks are not included in the ticket price and can be pricey, with cocktails costing between $18-$25. If you’re on a tight budget, that could add up quickly. Also, since it’s a walking tour, those with limited mobility might find it challenging or uncomfortable.

Another consideration is the dress code—participants are advised to wear classy attire, so it might not be suitable if you prefer a casual night out. Lastly, the tour is not suitable for minors or anyone under 21, and participants need to bring valid ID.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re someone who loves history, good conversation, and cocktails, this tour is hard to beat for a fun night out. The combination of skipping long lines, engaging guides, and visiting iconic venues makes it a worthwhile investment in your NYC experience. The reviews show that many feel it’s an authentic and memorable way to discover the city’s past.

However, if you’re after a relaxed, seated experience or are on a tight budget, this might not be your best option. The price point reflects the guided nature and exclusive access, but be prepared for additional costs for drinks.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, drinks are available for purchase at each venue, and the experience centers around cocktails and alcohol-related stories. If you don’t drink, you might still enjoy the history, but the main focus is on alcohol consumption.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about three hours, usually in the evening, making it a good option for a night activity.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included. You will need to buy your own at each venue, with prices typically ranging from $10 to $25.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking in moderate pace and standing for periods, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What should I wear?
Participants are advised to wear classy attire — think smart-casual or dressy—since the venues are often stylish and somewhat upscale.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to bring any ID?
Yes, you must bring a valid photo ID, especially if you’re a non-U.S. citizen, to verify your age.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the tour is not suitable for anyone under 21 due to the nature of the activities and alcohol consumption.

What’s the meeting point?
You meet outside the office building on 8th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets, near the Carnegie Diner and One Worldwide Plaza.

Is it a large group?
Group sizes are typically manageable, and guides are praised for their personable approach, but the exact size can vary.

Final Verdict

This NYC Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour offers an entertaining, visually appealing way to learn about the city’s past while enjoying some of its best drinks and atmospheres. It’s perfect if you’re a traveler who appreciates storytelling and social experiences. The guides’ energy and knowledge combined with well-chosen venues make it a standout activity for those wanting to explore NYC’s secret history behind a glass.

While not the cheapest or most relaxed option, the tour’s authentic vibe, engaging guides, and the chance to see hidden corners of the city make it a worthwhile addition to your trip — especially if you’re eager to combine education with fun. Just plan for the extra costs of drinks and dress codes, and you’ll have a memorable night in the Big Apple.

You can check availability for your dates here: