Sip History In a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class

A Fun and Informative Cocktail Experience in Charleston

If you’ve ever found yourself wandering the charming streets of Charleston and wishing you could peek behind the curtain of a true speakeasy, this Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class might just be your ticket. While I haven’t tried it myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and details that make it clear this is a lively, engaging experience that combines learning, tasting, and a bit of playful history.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s hosted at Charleston’s legendary Frontier Lounge—a spot known for its cool vibe and historic feel. Second, the hosts, especially Skylar, are praised for their mix of humor and expertise, making the class both educational and a whole lot of fun. On the flip side, it’s a shorter, lighter take on cocktail making, which might leave some wanting more in-depth mixology skills or a full dinner experience.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy good drinks, casual learning, and a laid-back atmosphere. If you’re a fan of social experiences where you get to stand behind the bar and shake up your own drinks, you’ll likely find this a highlight of your Charleston trip.

Key Points

• Highly Rated: With a perfect 5.0 rating from 28 reviews, it’s clear this experience hits the mark for many visitors.
• Well-Priced: At $117 per person, you get three cocktails, snacks, and a lively host, making it a good value for a fun, guided activity.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 10 travelers, it offers an intimate setting that’s perfect for socializing and personalized attention.
• Expert Hosts: Guides like Skylar and others are described as knowledgeable, funny, and engaging—key for an enjoyable class.
• Perfect for Casual Drinkers: This isn’t a deep dive into bartending but more of a lively, educational tasting experience.
• Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before makes it a low-risk option if your plans change.

What to Expect: A Closer Look at the Experience

This two-hour class takes place right in downtown Charleston at the historic Frontier Lounge, a setting that promises a relaxed, fun atmosphere. The meeting point is at 135 Calhoun St, a location that’s convenient for most visitors staying centrally. The tour begins at 1:00 pm, so it fits well into a midday activity, whether you’re planning a nice lunch afterward or just want to enjoy some afternoon entertainment.

The Cocktail-Making

You’ll get to make three different cocktails during the session. The emphasis is on enjoyable, approachable drinks, ideal for those who want to learn some mixology tips without feeling overwhelmed. The class includes bar tools for use, so you’ll get hands-on experience, not just watching a demonstration. This makes the activity interactive and memorable, especially for those who like a bit of practical learning.

Snacks and Hydration

Alongside the drinks, there are basic bar snacks and water, which help keep the mood light and social. These are simple but thoughtful inclusions, making sure you’re not just drinking on an empty stomach.

The Hosts

Guests consistently mention the hosts’ personality and knowledge. Skylar, in particular, earns praise for being both fun and informative, sharing interesting facts about cocktails while keeping the atmosphere lively. Gavin and Jack are also highlighted for their professionalism and friendliness. This kind of friendly, skilled guidance really enhances the experience—it’s not just about the drinks but the stories and laughs along the way.

The Setting

The Frontier Lounge itself adds an extra layer of charm. As a legendary Charleston spot, it offers a nostalgic feel that transports you back to the era of speakeasies, with cozy lighting and a welcoming vibe. With only 10 participants max, it feels personalized and intimate, perfect for a group of friends or a small party looking for a relaxed, social activity.

The Value of This Cocktail Class

At first glance, $117 might seem like a decent chunk of change for a short class. But considering you’re getting three cocktails, snacks, and expert guidance, it’s quite reasonable. Guests consistently mention how much they enjoyed the drinks and how the class was packed with laughs, learning, and good times—qualities that add up to good value.

Several reviews highlight the knowledgeable and entertaining nature of the hosts, which elevates this experience from just a casual drink to a memorable moment. Plus, the fact that it’s a small group means you get more interaction and attention—rare in larger tours or classes.

Who Would Love This?

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy casual, social activities. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a taste of Charleston’s nightlife without the commitment of a full bar crawl or a formal class. If you’re into learning a little about cocktails, having fun with friends or a partner, and tasting some good drinks, you’ll find this a delightful way to spend a couple of hours.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Let’s break down the journey into what you might experience at each step. Although the tour doesn’t include dinner, the snacks provided help balance the drinking and keep you comfortable.

Arrival and Introduction

You’ll meet at the designated spot on Calhoun Street, where the atmosphere already hints at Charleston’s historic charm. The tour starts promptly at 1:00 pm, so arriving a little early is a good idea to settle in and get acquainted with your fellow participants.

Getting Behind the Bar

Once everyone arrives, the hosts—like Skylar or Gavin—introduce themselves and set the tone for a fun, relaxed class. They’ll explain the basics of cocktail tools and ingredients, making sure each participant feels confident to shake and stir.

Making the Cocktails

The core part of the class involves actually making each of the three cocktails. The guides provide step-by-step instructions, demonstrating techniques and sharing insider tips. Some reviewers loved the hands-on experience, with one saying, “I learned a lot, laughed a lot and shook my A. S. S. a lot!!” This kind of lively, participatory approach makes the class feel less like a lecture and more like a fun gathering.

Tasting and Snacking

After mixing, you’ll enjoy tasting your creations, complemented by simple bar snacks. The snacks are basic but appreciated, and they help keep your palate refreshed between sips.

Learning and Laughter

Throughout, your hosts share fun facts and stories about the history of cocktails and the Charleston scene, adding an educational element without making it feel heavy. Laughter is common, as many guests mention the humorous, approachable attitude of the guides.

Wrapping Up

As the session concludes, everyone can relax and chat, often sharing compliments on the drinks and the hosts’ humor. The experience ends back at the meeting point, with plenty of memories and new skills to take home.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 2 hours, making it a manageable activity without feeling rushed.
• Price: $117 per person, which includes all drinks, snacks, and bar tools.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 travelers, fostering interaction.
• Booking in Advance: Most book around 35 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.
• Cancellation: Fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
• Accessibility: Near public transportation, making it easy to reach.
• Who It’s Best For: Adults who enjoy socializing, learning about cocktails, and having fun with drinks in a historic setting.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a relaxed, engaging way to spend a couple of hours in Charleston, this Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class really delivers. It’s well-reviewed, offers good value, and puts the focus on fun, hands-on learning rather than just tasting. The intimate setting and personable guides make it ideal for small groups or anyone wanting a memorable, social experience.

Whether you’re a total novice or someone who just enjoys sipping and learning, you’ll likely find this activity a highlight of your trip. Plus, walking away with a few new cocktail skills and amusing stories makes it well worth the price.

In short, this tour is best suited for curious travelers who love a lively atmosphere, good drinks, and a little history. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable experience that will leave you with happy memories—and maybe a new favorite cocktail or two.

FAQs

Do I need to be a cocktail expert to enjoy this class?
Not at all. It’s designed to be approachable for all skill levels, especially with guides helping you every step of the way.

Is this activity suitable for a group of friends?
Yes, with a maximum of 10 people, it’s perfect for small gatherings, couples, or even solo travelers who want to meet others.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours beforehand, making it low risk if your schedule shifts.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, the price covers three cocktails and basic bar snacks. No dinner is included, but snacks help balance the drinks.

What type of setting is the Frontier Lounge?
It’s a legendary Charleston spot that offers a cozy, historic vibe, ideal for a relaxed social experience.

How much time should I allocate for this?
Expect around 2 hours, which fits well into a packed day of sightseeing or other activities.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Since it involves alcohol and is designed for adults, it’s best suited for travelers 21 and over.

If you’re after a fun, engaging way to enjoy Charleston’s nightlife with a bit of history and a lot of laughter, this cocktail class hits the spot. It’s an experience you’ll remember—and maybe even replicate at home afterward.