New York: Guided Walking Tour to Hidden Speakeasies

New York: Guided Walking Tour to Hidden Speakeasies offers a glimpse into the clandestine nightlife of the Prohibition era. For just $39 per person, you’ll spend about three hours wandering through secretive bars and alleys with an expert guide—perfect for those curious about NYC’s hidden side and its history. The tour starts at Tompkins Square Park and takes you through three concealed venues, some featured in TV shows like Boardwalk Empire, while sharing fascinating stories from nearly a century ago.

What we love about this experience is the thrill of discovery—tracking down bars that you’d never find on your own, and feeling as if you’re part of a secret society. The venues are not just hidden but dripping with authentic decor, including drinks served in tea cups—a clever nod to 1920s ingenuity. Another highlight is the skip-the-line access, which prevents long waits and allows you to relax and enjoy your drinks in the best seats available.

However, one consideration is the group size—limited to 7 participants—which ensures a personal experience but might feel crowded during peak times. Also, since food and drinks are not included, you’ll want to budget for those extras. This tour is best suited for adults over 21 who love history, architecture, or simply enjoy a good cocktail in a unique setting.

If you’re looking for a memorable way to explore NYC’s less obvious nightlife and history, this tour offers a mix of mystery, storytelling, and authentic ambiance that few other experiences can match.

Key Points

• Authentic Hidden Venues: Visit three secretive speakeasies with historical accuracy.
• Expert Guide: Led by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating Prohibition-era stories.
• Skip-the-line Access: Avoid long waits with separate entry points.
• Small Group: Limited to just 7 participants for a more intimate experience.
• Cost-Effective: At $39, it offers a value-packed glimpse into NYC’s covert nightlife.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Venues feature period-appropriate decor and serve drinks in unusual ways, like tea cups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience at a Glance

This guided walking tour takes you through some of New York City’s best-kept secrets—hidden bars tucked away in alleys, behind vault doors, or in nondescript buildings. Starting at Tompkins Square Park, your guide—whose educational background and storytelling skills are highly praised—leads you through a series of three clandestine venues that date back to the Prohibition years.

Each stop offers a chance to step back in time while enjoying carefully crafted cocktails, some served in tea cups as a playful homage to a time when drinks had to be concealed. The focus on historically accurate decor and authentic atmosphere means you’re not just visiting bars; you’re experiencing slices of history.

Why We Love It

First, the tour’s thrilling scavenger hunt element—tracking down doors with secret codes, wandering through alleyways—adds a layer of adventure to your night. We loved the way each venue has its own character, from decor to drink presentation, which makes the experience feel genuine, not touristy.

Second, the educational component is well done. The guide shares insights from cross-referenced academic sources, making the history both informative and engaging. As one reviewer, Misuriello from Italy, mentioned, “Alex is a super guide, educated, kind, and helpful—I would do it again,” highlighting the value of a knowledgeable host.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

First Stop: A spot with a vault door requiring a code—this sets the tone for the adventure. You’ll feel like you’re part of a secret society, walking through an unassuming door into a lively room that’s been preserved with period-appropriate decor. You’ll learn about the clandestine nature of speakeasies and see how they operated during Prohibition.

Second Stop: A venue that gained fame from TV shows like Boardwalk Empire. Its design is thrillingly authentic, with low lighting, vintage furniture, and a cozy atmosphere. Here, you’ll be served a drink in a tea cup, a clever way to hide alcohol during raids. The guide will share stories about daily life during Prohibition and how these bars kept the spirit alive.

Third Stop: The final venue offers a relaxed environment for sampling cocktails and soaking in the ambiance. It might be a place where famous gangsters once gathered or a location that played a part in NYC’s underground history.

Throughout the tour, you’ll hear fascinating anecdotes—from police raids to the clever methods bartenders used to dodge authorities. The tour is designed to be both entertaining and educational, giving you a layered understanding of NYC’s secret nightlife.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour lasts about three hours, typically in the afternoon, making it an ideal early-evening activity. Since the tour is walkable, you won’t need to worry about transportation, though comfortable shoes are recommended. The small group size—limited to 7—means you get a more personable experience, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions or linger at your favorite stops.

The price of $39 is quite reasonable considering the exclusive access and the quality of storytelling. It does not include drinks or food, so budget accordingly if you’re planning to buy extra cocktails or snacks at the venues.

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Authenticity and Safety

You might wonder about the authenticity of these venues. The tour’s collaboration with New York City Hall and the Records Office ensures that the locations visited are verified historical sites. The venues are still operational, and their décor and drink presentation are true to the era.

As noted in reviews, the guides’ educational approach and attention to detail make the experience both credible and immersive. The tour takes place “rain or shine,” so dress accordingly—no need for heavy gear, but weather-appropriate clothing is wise.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is suited for history buffs, cocktail lovers, and curious explorers who enjoy uncovering hidden corners of a city. It’s particularly appealing to those who appreciate authentic ambiance and are interested in America’s Prohibition history. Since it’s not suitable for under 21, it’s a mature experience, perfect for adults looking for something different from the usual bar crawl.

Final Thoughts

This Hidden Speakeasies Tour offers a charming, educational, and fun way to see a different side of NYC’s nightlife. For just $39, you gain access to places most travelers never see, enjoy well-crafted cocktails, and learn how the city’s underground bars kept spirits alive during tough times. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a highly personalized experience, rich in stories and surprises.

It’s perfect if you’re after a unique, immersive walk into history with a touch of adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this tour can deepen your understanding of NYC’s hidden character—and leave you with some great stories to tell.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, the tour is only for those over 21 years old, since it involves purchasing and drinking alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, usually scheduled in the afternoon.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the price covers the guide and the tour of three venues, but drinks and food are not included, so plan to buy additional cocktails during the stops.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking, and avoid sleeveless shirts, sportswear, or overly casual attire. Shorts are acceptable; dressing neatly enhances the experience.

Is the tour accessible in rainy weather?
Yes, the experience takes place rain or shine, so come prepared with appropriate clothing.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is permitted, except for flash photography, which is not allowed inside venues.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to small groups of 7 participants for a more personalized experience.

This tour combines history, adventure, and a taste of NYC’s rebellious past—perfect for those who love uncovering secret stories behind iconic city landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here: