Cocktail Class in Congress Street Up

Engaging Your Senses with a Cocktail Class in Savannah’s Congress Street Up

Imagine stepping into a 1920s-style speakeasy in the heart of Savannah, where the charm of the Prohibition era is alive through dim lighting, vintage decor, and the promise of mixing history with fun. This 2-hour cocktail class costs around $80.25 per person, booked on average 25 days in advance, making it a well-planned treat for anyone curious about the craft of cocktail making. Led by skilled bartenders, this experience takes place inside the American Prohibition Museum, in a dedicated space called Congress Street Up, which is both a bar and a theatrical homage to the Roaring Twenties.

What really makes this class shine are two specific features. First, the chance to learn hands-on techniques using authentic bar equipment, giving you practical skills to impress friends back home. Second, the rich storytelling about Prohibition-era cocktails and the history behind them that adds a layer of authenticity and fun.

A potential consideration? Since the class is intimate with a maximum of 16 travelers, it’s popular, so booking in advance is a good idea. Also, be prepared to eat beforehand, as Georgia law restricts serving alcohol to already intoxicated guests.

This experience is ideal for history buffs, cocktail enthusiasts, or travelers who enjoy interactive, memorable activities that blend learning with tasting. Whether you’re a seasoned home bartender or just looking for a unique night out in Savannah, this class offers plenty of value.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn to make classic Prohibition cocktails in a vintage-style speakeasy.
• Educational & Fun: Discover the history behind each drink while practicing your mixology skills.
• Tastings Included: Sample multiple cocktails and snacks for a full sensory experience.
• Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable bartenders who make the process accessible and engaging.
• Ideal for All Levels: Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned drinker, you’ll walk away with new skills.
• Limited Group Size: An intimate setting that encourages interaction and personalized tips.

A Deep Dive into the Savannah Cocktail Class

The Setting: Step into a 1920s Speakeasy

As you arrive at 220 W Congress St, you’re transported back in time. The venue, Congress Street Up, is styled to evoke the swagger and clandestine charm of a Prohibition-era speakeasy. The dim lighting, vintage decor, and theatrical ambiance make it more than just a bar — it’s a portal to a bygone era. The experience is designed to be immersive, with an atmosphere that’s lively yet intimate.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The class begins promptly at 7:00 pm, with you meeting your instructor, who will guide you through the process of cocktail creation. The session lasts approximately two hours, during which you’ll:

• Learn about historic ratios and techniques used in authentic cocktail recipes.
• Use real bar tools to concoct your own drinks, which typically include two classic Prohibition cocktails.
• Taste several cocktails crafted by your group, sampling different styles to appreciate the diversity of flavors.
• Hear stories about the Prohibition era, the evolution of cocktail recipes, and the significance of each drink in American history.

The Learning Experience: Skills and Stories

Many reviews mention the knowledgeable and engaging instructors. One review highlights “Val, a professional bartender,” who made the class both fun and educational. Guests learn not just how to make cocktails, but why certain ratios and ingredients matter. Blake, another teacher noted in reviews, is described as “engaging, animated, and very informative.”

What’s especially appreciated is the focus on authentic techniques—using real equipment and proportions during the hands-on part—and the storytelling about how these drinks fit into the Prohibition story. It’s a true blend of history and mixology.

Tasting and Snacks: Satisfying the Senses

Tastings are a major highlight. Expect to sample several styles of cocktails, maybe four or more depending on the class, along with snacks that help balance the alcohol. One review describes the cocktails as “delicious,” and the opportunity to taste your own creations makes the experience feel more rewarding.

Guests often remark on the generous pours and the variety of drink options, including mocktail choices if notified in advance. The class is designed to ensure everyone leaves with a greater appreciation for the art of cocktail making, regardless of their prior experience or taste preferences.

Group Dynamics: Social and Fun

With a maximum group size of 16, the class strikes a good balance—small enough for personalized attention, yet lively enough for social interaction. Many reviews underscore how fun and interactive the class is, with guests making new friends and sharing laughs.

Practical Details: Reservation, Price, and Location

Booking is recommended about a month in advance due to its popularity. The $80.25 price includes all materials, tastings, and snacks. The experience is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. Guests must be 21 or older with valid ID, and the class can accommodate service animals.

Considerations and Tips

• Eat prior to the class, as alcohol cannot be served to guests who are overly intoxicated.
• If you prefer non-alcoholic options, notify the provider in advance to request a mocktail.
• The experience ends back at the starting point, so plan your evening accordingly.
• Reading through reviews, many guests found it “worth every penny” and rated it 5 stars for its mix of history, skill, and fun.

Why This Experience is Worth It

For travelers interested in history, culture, or cocktails, this class offers an educational yet entertaining glimpse into a pivotal era in American drinking history. The authentic setting makes the experience more memorable, and the expert guidance ensures you gain practical skills. The tasting component adds a layer of satisfaction that simple sightseeing can’t match, and many reviews praise the generous drinks and engaging instructors.

While the price might seem on the higher side for a small group activity, the value is clear when considering the skills learned, stories shared, and the fun of creating your own drinks. It’s also a fantastic way to break the ice on an evening out, especially if you’re traveling with friends or fellow solo travelers.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This?

This cocktail class is best suited for adventure-seeking travelers who enjoy learning new skills in a lively environment. It’s a perfect activity for history buffs, cocktail lovers, or those looking for a unique night out in Savannah. The class strikes a healthy balance of educational content and social fun, making it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

If you appreciate authentic experiences that combine storytelling, skill-building, and tasting, you’ll find this class both enjoyable and rewarding. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a local, immersive activity rather than a generic bar crawl.

It’s also a great choice if you want to bring home new cocktail-making skills that will impress friends back home. Just remember to book early, arrive ready to learn and taste, and enjoy a lively step back into the Roaring Twenties.

FAQ

Is this cocktail class suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed to be accessible for all levels, whether you’ve never made a cocktail before or you’re a seasoned home bartender.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers all ingredients, use of authentic bar equipment, multiple cocktail tastings, and snacks. It’s a comprehensive experience.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, mocktail options are available if you notify the provider beforehand. Just mention your preference when booking.

What should I do before the class?
It’s recommended to eat beforehand, as alcohol cannot be served to guests who are overly intoxicated, in accordance with Georgia law.

How long is the experience?
The class lasts around 2 hours, including learning, making drinks, tasting, and storytelling.

How many people will be in the class?
The maximum group size is 16, providing an intimate environment for interaction and personalized tips.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

This Savannah cocktail class offers a blend of history, craft, and fun, making it a memorable highlight for your trip. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or just someone eager to learn how to shake and stir in style, this experience is a smart choice.