Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour NYC

Discover the Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour NYC

If you’re curious about what nightlife was like during the Prohibition era, this Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour in NYC offers a fun and engaging way to step back in time. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, plenty of travelers rave about its mix of history, hidden bars, and lively guides. It’s perfect for those who want to combine a little history lesson with a lively night out without it feeling like a typical bar crawl.

Two things stand out about this experience. First, the guides—whether it’s Ariel, Walter, or Katherine—are praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly nature, making the whole journey feel personal and genuine. Second, the tour’s stops are carefully selected to give you a real sense of the city’s clandestine past, with some venues featuring unique atmospheres you might miss on your own.

However, a point to consider is the cost of drinks at each venue. While this is expected, reviews do mention that some drinks can be pricey, and not all locations hit the mark taste-wise. Still, if you’re into learning about history and exploring NYC’s hidden spots, this tour offers good value, especially given the exclusive access and storytelling.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and a bit of nightlife. It’s ideal if you like guided experiences that reveal lesser-known sides of the city or are simply looking for a fun, social way to spend an evening in Midtown Manhattan.

Key Points

• In-Depth History: Guides share engaging stories about Prohibition and Gilded Age NYC.
• Exclusive Venues: Visit three carefully chosen bars, some with hidden or private rooms.
• Flexible Starts: Multiple start times to fit your schedule.
• Cost & Value: The price includes preferred entry and storytelling, but drinks are purchased separately.
• Group Size: Small groups (max 16), making it more personal.
• Durability: Around 3 hours, perfect for an evening out.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The tour begins at 825 8th Ave, right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, near public transportation. From there, your guide—whether it’s Ariel, Walter, Katherine, or Ryan—sets the tone with friendly chatter and a wealth of knowledge about the city’s Prohibition past. The first stop is often one of NYC’s most famous nightclubs, which sets a lively pace for the evening.

Expect about three stops over the course of three hours. These aren’t just any bars—they’re carefully selected for their historical significance and authentic atmosphere. One might be a private room, hidden behind a spiral staircase, where you’ll get a real sense of what a speakeasy was like. Others are more traditional but still packed with vintage charm, like the Civilian or the Woo Woo. Some reviews highlight the ambiance, noting the red velvet curtains and memorabilia, which add to the feeling of stepping into a different era.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to buy your own drinks—be it cocktails, beers, or other beverages. The tour and entry are included in your fee, but drinks are purchased separately, so it’s up to you how much to indulge. Several reviewers noted that the drinks at some venues can be pricey, but they also said that the experience and ambiance more than make up for it.

The storytelling aspect is a major draw. Guides share tales of bootleggers, the Gilded Age, and the clever ruses used to evade law enforcement. One reviewer mentioned that the stories about prohibition kept everyone engaged, making it more than just a bar visit. The guides’ friendly, knowledgeable style ensures that even history skeptics will find the tales interesting.

Exploring the Stops

• The First Venue: Often a well-known NYC nightclub or hidden bar, with a lively, vintage feel. Guests might be led into a hidden room, reminiscent of the secret bars of the 1920s.

• Walking through Times Square: The tour takes a brief stroll through Times Square, giving travelers a glimpse of the city’s ever-buzzing heart. It’s a great photo op and a moment to appreciate the city’s vibrancy even during a historic theme.

• Historic Neighborhoods: You’ll pass through a culturally rich area, with some stops in the Broadway district—places that once thrived during the Gilded Age.

• Last Venue: Expect a more relaxed bar setting, sometimes with memorabilia from shows like Phantom of the Opera, adding a theatrical flair that ties into NYC’s entertainment history.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers emphasize the quality of the guides. Ariel, Katherine, Walter, and Ryan are praised for their engaging storytelling and friendliness. One reviewer called Katherine “an amazing guide,” highlighting her ability to blend fun and facts seamlessly. Others appreciated guides’ flexibility and their knack for making everyone feel included, regardless of whether they’re traveling solo or with friends.

The atmosphere at each bar is usually described as cozy, vintage, or exclusive, with some venues featuring private sections. Visitors love discovering hidden rooms and secret doors—a real highlight that makes the tour feel special. One guest remarked that the last stop, although more like a regular bar, still had a great ambiance and was worth the visit.

The cost of drinks has been a mixed bag. While some found the prices high—especially when taxes and tips are included—most agree that the experience of visiting these historic spots justifies the expense. Several reviews mention that the drinks could be hit or miss, with some guests finding the last stop’s cocktails less than stellar.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour is about 3 hours long, which is a nice length for an evening activity. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as there is some walking involved, including navigating stairs and entering private rooms. The group size caps at 16, fostering a more intimate experience, and the tour is perfect if you prefer guided insights over wandering on your own.

You can choose from several start times, making it adaptable whether you’re arriving in NYC for a few days or looking to fill an evening. The meeting point is centrally located, and the tour ends in Times Square, so you’re well-placed to continue exploring or grab a late-night snack afterward.

Pricing at $36 per person might seem on the higher side, but considering the exclusive access, storytelling, and small-group vibe, many see it as fair value. This isn’t a cheap bar crawl—it’s a curated experience that combines history, entertainment, and a taste of NYC’s clandestine past.

Final Thoughts

This Prohibition-themed walking tour offers a lively, educational dive into NYC’s clandestine past. The combination of well-chosen venues, engaging guides, and fascinating stories makes it a memorable night out. If you’re into history, enjoy discovering hidden spots, or just want to add some local flavor to your NYC trip, it’s a solid choice.

The experience excels in its storytelling and atmosphere. The guides’ ability to weave history into a fun night is a real plus. The small group size keeps things personal, and the variety of venues ensures you get a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s Prohibition nightlife.

On the downside, drinks are purchased separately and can feel pricey, especially if you’re not planning to indulge heavily. Also, the last stops are sometimes less like secret speakeasies and more like regular bars, but the overall ambiance still makes it worth the visit.

In essence, this tour is best for those who love history with a dash of nightlife, are comfortable walking, and enjoy guided experiences that reveal New York’s lesser-known stories. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to meet new people and explore a different side of the city.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, the minimum age is 21, and you’ll need a valid photo ID to participate.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 3 hours, making it a good evening activity.

Do I need to buy drinks during the tour?
Yes, drinks are available for purchase at each venue; the tour includes preferred entry but not drinks.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are the venues accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the starting point is near public transit, making it easy to reach.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Several reviews mention solo travelers bonding with the group and having a great time.

What should I wear?
Dress code is upscale casual—no sportswear or ripped clothing—so plan for a neat, stylish look.

Will I learn a lot about Prohibition?
Yes, the guides share stories about bootleggers, the Gilded Age, and NYC’s secret nightlife, making it both fun and educational.

This tour offers a unique lens into New York City’s past, combined with lively venues and engaging storytelling. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a memorable night out, it’s worth considering on your next visit to NYC.