Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl

A Closer Look at the Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl

If you’re heading to New York City and fascinated by its clandestine past, especially during the Prohibition era, the Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl offers a guided journey through hidden speakeasies and historic theaters. Priced at $64 per person and lasting about 2 hours 30 minutes, this tour promises a blend of storytelling and tasting in the vibrant Theater District. Led by knowledgeable guides, such as Aaron, it’s designed for those eager to see a different side of Manhattan—away from the bright lights and tourist traps.

What we love about this experience is how it combines themed storytelling with the chance to sip vintage-style drinks in intimate, lesser-known venues. You’ll get to walk through the streets that once echoed with gangsters and secret doors, passing by landmarks like the 21 Club, a legendary speakeasy turned upscale restaurant, and admire the outside of Carnegie Hall. Plus, the tour includes a visit to Flûte Champagne Bar, where you’ll learn about its historic speakeasy roots.

However, there are a few things to consider. The cost might seem a touch high for some, especially since alcohol is available for purchase rather than included in the ticket price. Also, some reviews mention that guides can be late or that the overall experience may not fully match the price point. This tour best suits those who appreciate local history, architecture, and authentic drinking experiences rather than those on a tight schedule or budget.

If you’re someone who enjoys small-group tours, storytelling, and discovering NYC’s hidden gems, this crawl could be a perfect fit. It’s ideal for history buffs, nightlife enthusiasts, or anyone eager to enjoy a more personal, textured look at New York’s past.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Walk through the Theater District’s hidden bars and hear stories most travelers never learn.
• Historical Venues: Visit iconic spots like the 21 Club and see famous Broadway theaters.
• Small Group: Enjoy a more personal experience with a limited group size, enhancing interaction.
• Beverages Included: Experience a variety of alcoholic drinks as part of the tour, with options to purchase more.
• Architectural Highlights: Pass by beautiful exteriors of notable buildings like Carnegie Hall.
• Weather-Resilient: Operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point: The Historic 21 Club

Your journey begins at the legendary 21 Club on 52nd Street, an icon of New York’s speakeasy past. Known for its hidden wine cellar door and history of famous diners like Ernest Hemingway and U.S. Presidents, it’s a fitting place to kick off an exploration of Manhattan’s clandestine nightlife. Here, your guide (Aaron, according to some reviews) shares intriguing tales of its evolutions through the decades. While the tour notes that admission isn’t included, just standing outside or peering through the windows offers a glimpse into the glamour and secrets of old New York.

The Theater District: Sights and Stories

Next, you’ll stroll past some of the city’s most famous Broadway theaters, marveling at their stunning architecture and imagining the performances that once drew crowds from around the world. The tour highlights the significance of these venues in NYC’s cultural fabric, all while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Midtown Manhattan.

Carnegie Hall: A Musical Landmark

Passing by Carnegie Hall, you’ll learn how to find your way to this world-renowned concert venue. While the exterior is enough to inspire admiration, the tour’s commentary enriches your appreciation for its role in shaping the city’s musical scene. It’s an excellent moment to snap photos and soak in the grandeur of the architecture.

Hidden Speakeasy: Flûte Champagne Bar

The highlight for many is the visit to Flûte Champagne Bar, where you learn about its roots as a speakeasy during the 1920s. With an included 30-minute stop, you get the chance to taste some bubbly or other beverages (available to purchase) while soaking in the vintage ambiance. The bar’s elegant setting transports you back in time and offers a perfect spot to reflect on the prohibition stories shared earlier.

Authenticity and Value

Based on reviews, guides like Aaron are described as nice and somewhat knowledgeable, which helps keep the atmosphere relaxed and engaging. However, some guests note that the late arrival of the guide impacted the experience slightly, and that the overall value may not fully justify the ticket price for everyone. The price of $64 per person includes some drinks but not all, so be prepared to purchase additional beverages if you wish.

The small group size enhances the experience, making it more intimate and allowing for questions and personalized stories. The two and a half hours duration is ample for a relaxed exploration of a few key venues and sights, but it’s not an extensive tour—so casual history lovers and those with a genuine interest in NYC’s speakeasy past will get the most out of it.

What’s Not Included

• The tour excludes the cost of additional drinks you may want to order at each stop.
• Admission to venues like the 21 Club is not included, so always budget for extra costs if you wish to go inside or purchase tastings.

Weather and Accessibility

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, you should dress accordingly—especially during colder months. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are advised. The tour is accessible to most travelers and is near public transportation, making it convenient to reach the starting point at 52nd Street.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This pub crawl is well-suited for history and architecture enthusiasts who appreciate storytelling about NYC’s past. It’s also great for small groups seeking a more personal experience, and for nightlife lovers interested in vintage drinks and secret New York stories. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more comprehensive tour with included drinks, this might not be the best choice.

It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind paying a bit extra for authentic venues and are interested in the city’s prohibition-era secrets, rather than just ticking off the usual tourist spots. If you’re someone who enjoys guided storytelling with a lively local guide, this tour will add some flavor to your NYC visit.

The Sum Up

The Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl offers a unique glimpse into New York’s clandestine nightlife, blending storytelling, architecture, and a taste of vintage spirits. Its highlights—like walking past iconic theaters, exploring the legendary 21 Club, and visiting a historic champagne bar—make it a memorable experience for those curious about the city’s hidden past.

While the cost may be a consideration—especially since drinks are extra and some reviews mention guide tardiness—the small-group setting and insightful commentary can make it worthwhile for the right traveler. It’s especially appealing for history buffs, architecture admirers, and nightlife fans who want a more personal, behind-the-scenes look at Manhattan’s secret bars.

If you’re prepared for a relaxed paced tour, don’t mind paying for some additional drinks, and love stories about gangsters and speakeasies, you’ll find this experience a charming and engaging way to spend an afternoon in the city.

FAQ

Is there any admission fee included in the tour?
No, admission to venues like the 21 Club is not included. You’ll get a chance to see the outside and learn their history, but if you want to go inside or try specific drinks, you’ll need to pay separately.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, covering several key sights and stops in Midtown Manhattan.

What’s the starting point?
The tour begins at 21 W 52nd St, at the famous 21 Club, which is easy to reach via public transit.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
Some beverages are included, but most are available for purchase during the stops, especially at Flûte Champagne Bar.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it runs in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain, cold, or sun.

What size are the groups?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s great for those interested in New York City’s history, architecture, and hidden bars; perfect if you enjoy storytelling in a small-group setting.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 70 days in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season.

In the end, whether you’re a history lover, a curious traveler, or just eager to explore NYC’s secret spots, this pub crawl offers a taste of the city’s rebellious spirit—just be ready for some stories and a few extra drinks along the way.