New Years Eve Speakeasy Drinks and Ball Drop Tour NYC

Planning a memorable New Year’s Eve in New York City can be overwhelming with options, crowds, and long lines. That’s where this New Years Eve Speakeasy Drinks and Ball Drop Tour offers a refreshing alternative. For around $350 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours exploring some of NYC’s last-standing 1920s-style speakeasies, enjoying open bars, and ending the night with a close-up view of the famous ball drop from 12 blocks away.

This tour is designed to combine history, fun, and a bit of VIP treatment — perfect if you want a lively, guided experience that skips the chaos of Times Square crowds. We loved the way it balances entertainment with practical safety and the opportunity to learn about the roaring twenties while ringing in the new year. Two standout features are the exclusive viewing areas for the ball drop and the knowledgeable guides who keep the energy lively.

One possible drawback is that the price tag may seem steep for some, especially considering limited food options and some uncertainty about the timing at the final stop. If you’re after a structured, informative, and more intimate way to celebrate, this tour could be worth it. It appeals especially to those who appreciate history, good drinks, and guided experiences—and travelers who prefer to avoid the hassle of navigating Times Square on their own.

Key Points

• Historic Atmosphere: Experience some of NYC’s last-standing 1920s speakeasies with stories about gangsters and bootleggers.
• VIP Viewing: Enjoy reserved access to see the ball drop from 12 blocks away—a prime vantage point.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Benefit from complimentary drinks at the first two venues and an open bar at the final stop until midnight.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Rory are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly manner.
• Structured Schedule: The itinerary is tightly planned, with clear timings for each stop, but some travelers noted confusion about when to leave for the ball drop.
• Limited Food: Heavy appetizers are included, but some reviews mention that food options may be insufficient for longer stays.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Times Square

The adventure kicks off in Times Square around 4:30 pm, with the promise of a dedicated viewing area for the ball drop. This initial stop sets a lively tone, with the tour guiding you through a more controlled environment than battling the masses on your own. We loved the way the organizers secure a specific spot, giving you a front-row view that can be hard to find when just showing up solo.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention a slight lack of clarity about when to leave for the final countdown, which could cause some nervousness among those unfamiliar with NYC’s timeline. The admission ticket is included, so you don’t need to worry about tickets for the ball drop itself.

The Speakeasies and the History

The tour then takes you through two different speakeasy-style venues, where you get a complimentary drink at each. These locales are not just bars; they are authentic hints of the Prohibition era, with period décor and stories about gangsters like Al Capone and bootleggers.

The guides, such as Rory, are frequently praised for their wealth of knowledge and ability to bring this history to life. One reviewer raved, “The guides were super nice and knowledgeable,” highlighting how much this adds to the overall experience. We appreciated the chance to enjoy heavy appetizers during this time, although some felt the amount of food could be more generous, especially considering the lengthy evening.

The Final Stop: Flute Bar

The tour’s last stop is the Flute Champagne Bar, where open bar service continues until 12:30 am, just past midnight. This is a significant highlight, as it allows guests to mingle and relax without rushing. During this time, you’ll also get an exclusive view of the ball drop and a midnight champagne toast — classic NYC celebration touches that many find memorable.

This part of the tour is praised for its friendly staff and comfortable setting, making the late-night hours more enjoyable. Still, some reviews mention that timing could be better coordinated, especially regarding when to head out for the ball drop, as participants are left to figure out the schedule on their own.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation and Meeting Points

The tour starts at 825 8th Ave, close to major subway lines and public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. The ending point at 205 W 54th St is also well-located, allowing easy access back to hotels or further festivities.

Duration and Group Size

Spanning roughly 12 hours, the tour is designed for a moderate-sized group of up to 30 travelers. This helps keep things intimate enough for personal interaction but lively enough for a festive atmosphere. Expect the schedule to include plenty of stories, drinks, and socializing.

Price and Value

At $350 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it includes multiple venues, drinks, and exclusive views — offering a package that could be more cost-effective than trying to do it all independently. The key is to weigh the convenience and guided experience against the cost—those who value organized, informative, and fun environments will likely find it worthwhile.

Possible Drawbacks

Some reviews point out that food options might be limited, and the timing of the final departure for the ball drop isn’t always crystal clear. Plus, the cost might be a barrier for budget travelers. It’s also worth noting that cancellation is non-refundable, so make sure your plans are firm before booking.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a guided, historic, and lively way to ring in the New Year. If you enjoy learning about the Prohibition era, sipping cocktails in vintage-style bars, and avoiding the chaos of Times Square on New Year’s Eve, you’ll find this tour offers a comfortable, informative, and festive alternative. It also suits those who appreciate good guides and structured schedules.

However, if you prefer more food and less focus on drinks, or are on a tighter budget, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re someone who prefers to explore independently or at your own pace, this guided tour might feel a bit too structured for your taste.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Since it involves alcohol and lively bars, it’s primarily intended for adults. The age restrictions are not specified, but expect it to be for those 21 and over.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 12 hours, starting in the late afternoon and ending after midnight.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Just wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking between venues, and bring your enthusiasm for history and cocktails.

Can I buy additional drinks or food?
The tour includes complimentary drinks at the first two venues and open bar at the last. Extra drinks or food might be available but are not included.

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly stated, dressing smart-casual or vintage-inspired could enhance the experience, especially in speakeasy venues.

What if I don’t want to participate in the bar at the last stop?
Most of the experience revolves around the drinks and the view of the ball drop, so opting out could diminish the overall experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is geared towards adults; minors are not likely permitted due to alcohol consumption.

What is the cancellation policy?
The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so confirm your plans before booking.

Final Thoughts

This New Years Eve Speakeasy Drinks and Ball Drop Tour combines history, celebration, and expert guidance into one memorable night. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to experience the glamour and lore of the 1920s while enjoying a festive and well-organized celebration.

If you value VIP access, engaging guides, and a more relaxed, less crowded environment than Times Square, this tour offers a compelling way to ring in the new year. Its focus on authentic venues and lively storytelling makes it more than just an evening out—it’s an immersive look into New York’s spirited past, with the bonus of a prime view of the iconic ball drop.

Just be prepared for the price, have your timing down, and keep in mind that the experience leans heavily on drinks and guided storytelling, rather than a full-fledged dinner or extensive sightseeing. For those looking for a fun, historical, and well-managed NYE celebration, this tour could be just the ticket.