Cocktail City Tours Prohibition & True Crime Tours

Experience Charleston’s Prohibition and Cocktail Scene in just 2 hours with Cocktail City Tours. For $115 per person, you’ll visit at least three historic downtown locations, discovering the lively spirit of the Roaring Twenties, speakeasies, and secret bars. Led by seasoned guides who are Charleston locals, this tour offers a fun, quick look into the city’s hidden drinking history, topped with complimentary cocktails at each stop.

Two things we love about this tour are the engaging storytelling—the guides share thrilling tales of Prohibition-era Charleston—and the quality of the included drinks, which give you a real taste of the city’s cocktail culture. The tour’s just the right length for an afternoon adventure—short, sweet, and packed with surprises.

One potential consideration is that the tour is limited to a minimum of three stops, which might not be enough for those seeking a more extensive bar crawl. Also, since the tour is only around two hours, it’s ideal for those with tight schedules or new visitors wanting a quick overview.

This experience suits history buffs, foodies, or anyone interested in learning about Charleston’s secret past while enjoying a few good drinks. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic stories and don’t mind a small group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic stories of Prohibition and speakeasies told by local guides
• Includes multiple cocktails at historic downtown locations
• Short and manageable 2-hour experience, ideal for a quick taste of Charleston
• Private tour option means your group gets personalized attention
• Accessible with public transportation nearby and service animals allowed
• Book 9 days in advance on average, so plan ahead for this popular experience

A Closer Look at the Charleston Prohibition & True Crime Tour

When considering a tour centered around Charleston’s Prohibition era and cocktail scene, you want a blend of engaging storytelling, genuine local insights, and quality drinks—this tour delivers on all fronts.

What’s Included and How It Works

For $115, you are buying a roughly two-hour experience that combines history, local flavor, and cocktails. It begins at 188 Market Street, right in the heart of downtown Charleston, and ends back at the starting point, making it easy to incorporate into your day. The tour is conducted with a mobile ticket, adding convenience, and only your group participates, which means more personalized attention.

Guides are experienced locals who know the ins and outs of Charleston’s bar scene and its secret past. They weave stories of speakeasies, bootlegging, and the rise of cocktail culture with visits to at least three distinguished locations, each offering a different vibe and history.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

First, the stories. Guides like those involved in similar tours have been praised for their knowledge and storytelling skill—a crucial ingredient for a fun history-themed experience. You’ll hear about Charleston’s underground drinking culture and how it survived through clever concealment and secret locations.

Second, the cocktails. Included drinks add a layer of enjoyment, especially for those who appreciate a well-made cocktail with a story behind it. Being able to sample drinks at different historic spots transforms the experience from a simple walk into a multi-sensory journey.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Downtown Charleston
The tour kicks off at the meeting point with an introduction to Charleston’s Prohibition history. From there, you’ll visit a historic bar where you might find a secret door or hidden behind a facade that looks ordinary today. The guide shares stories of illegal bars and the daring bootleggers who kept the city’s nightlife alive during the dry years.

Stop 2 and 3: Additional Venues
These are carefully chosen to reflect different facets of Charleston’s cocktail scene. One might be a classic bar that survived Prohibition, offering a taste of how Charleston’s drinkers kept the spirit alive. Others could be newer establishments paying homage to the era. Each stop offers your included cocktail, with narration about the cocktail’s origin and its significance to Charleston’s history.

Authentic Stories and Local Flavor

According to reviews, guides make the history lively and accessible. One review mentions, “The stories shared were thrilling, and the guide really knew their stuff,” emphasizing that the guides’ local knowledge and storytelling skills make this tour a cut above other quick history walks.

The Experience and Atmosphere

Expect a casual, convivial atmosphere—perfect for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers looking to connect over shared stories and drinks. The locations are chosen not only for their history but also for their ambiance, which adds to the overall charm.

Value and Practicality

At $115, the price covers at least three cocktails and a guided experience, which for many is a good deal considering the quality of stories and drinks. It’s a great way to combine history, local culture, and entertainment in a short window—ideal for travelers with busy schedules or those who want a fun, relaxed way to learn about Charleston’s past.

Accessibility and Booking

The tour begins at a central location, accessible via public transportation or walking. Since it’s a private tour, your group can enjoy a more intimate experience. Booking in advance—about nine days on average—helps secure your spot, especially during busy travel seasons.

Who Should Choose This Tour?

If you love stories about hidden bars, speakeasies, and the Roaring Twenties, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for history enthusiasts and cocktail lovers who want an engaging, compact experience. Travelers on a tight schedule will appreciate how much history and flavor you get in just two hours.

It’s also perfect for those who prefer local guides who can tell authentic stories and share behind-the-scenes details. If you’re traveling with friends or a small group, the private aspect makes it more personalized and relaxed.

Final Thoughts

This cocktail and Prohibition tour offers a balanced blend of storytelling, history, and tasting that makes it a standout experience in Charleston. You’ll learn about the city’s secret past while enjoying locally crafted cocktails in historic settings—making it both educational and delicious.

The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm shine through, making each stop more than just a drink stop; it’s a story, a piece of Charleston’s soul. The compact length makes it perfect for a mid-afternoon activity or as a lively break from more traditional sightseeing.

While it may not be a deep-dive into every bar or era, it’s a fun, engaging introduction to Charleston’s cocktail heritage. If you’re keen on authentic stories, local flavor, and a taste of history, this tour is a smart choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is designed for most travelers who can enjoy drinking and listening to stories. Service animals are allowed, but the tour involves alcohol, so minors should be accompanied by adults and may have restrictions.

How many locations will we visit?
You’ll visit a minimum of three distinguished downtown Charleston venues, each offering an included cocktail and a story related to Prohibition or the city’s bar scene.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you’ll be moving between locations. No strict dress code is mentioned, but Charleston’s historic downtown has a relaxed yet stylish vibe.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing for flexibility if your plans shift.

Are the drinks included in the price?
Yes, your ticket includes multiple cocktails at the different stops.

Is this a group tour or private?
It is a private experience for your group only, which means more personalized interaction with your guide.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 9 days ahead is typical, as this tour is popular and books quickly, especially during peak season.

In summary, the Cocktail City Tours Prohibition & True Crime in Charleston offers a perfect mix of history, local flavor, and fun. Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail enthusiast, or just looking for a lively way to learn about Charleston’s past, this tour will likely leave you feeling both informed and well-sipped.