NYC: Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour

Experience Overview

If you’re in New York City and curious about its secretive drinking past, the NYC: Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour is a compelling way to spend a few hours. For just $36 per person, you get to visit three historic bars—each with their own stories—and hear about the drama, crime, and cultural shifts that shaped NYC’s nightlife during Prohibition. The tour lasts about three hours and offers a lively mix of history, culture, and cocktails, led by knowledgeable guides like Rori, Katherine, or Ariel, depending on your day.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines entertaining storytelling with tastings at unique venues. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the city’s most iconic and hidden spots, many with a multi-layered past involving gangsters and bootleggers. Plus, the skip-the-line entry means no wasting precious time waiting in queues—just straight into the ambiance.

However, a few considerations are worth noting. The tour involves moderate walking and requires participants to be comfortable in smart casual attire. Drinks are not included in the ticket price, so expect to purchase cocktails that range from $10 to $25, which adds to the overall experience. This tour is best suited for those interested in history and cocktails, who enjoy storytelling and socializing in vibrant, authentic venues.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates local culture, history, and a lively night out, this tour offers a memorable way to connect with NYC’s rebellious spirit. It’s especially ideal if you love learning through stories and want to discover places you wouldn’t find on your own.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Historic Venues: Visit three carefully selected bars with deep roots in NYC’s Prohibition era.
• Engaging Guides: Led by passionate storytellers who bring history to life with humor and insight.
• Skip-the-Line Access: No wasting time waiting; go straight into some of the city’s most storied drink spots.
• Tasty Cocktails: Enjoy expertly recommended drinks, with prices from $10 to $25.
• Moderate Walking: Be prepared for a three-hour walk at a comfortable pace, suitable for most able-bodied travelers.
• Educational & Social: Ideal for those who enjoy history, culture, and meeting new people in a lively setting.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins outside the iconic One Worldwide Plaza on 8th Avenue, a location marked by a large American flag and a familiar sight for locals and visitors alike. From here, your guide—often described as energetic, knowledgeable, and engaging—leads you on a three-hour journey through NYC’s alcohol history.

The first stop is typically a bar with roots going back to NYC’s Gilded Age, where infamous gangsters like Al Capone once had influence. We loved the way guides like Katherine or Ryan weave tales of organized crime, law evasion, and social change, making each drink and venue part of a larger story.

Next, the tour takes you to a second venue that illuminates the catalysts of Prohibition—such as the role women played in social movements or key political shifts. Here, you’ll learn how the temperance movement and societal attitudes led to the 18th Amendment. The ambiance often reflects this history, with some venues featuring vintage decor and hidden entrances that evoke the clandestine spirit of speakeasies.

Finally, the last stop is a modern cocktail lounge that echoes the recovery and revival of NYC’s nightlife post-Prohibition. This spot often has a distinctive vibe, blending historical elements with contemporary mixology. Here, stories of the dampening and resurgence of nightlife are brought to life, often with some great stories about the city’s dramatic legal and social shifts.

The Venues: Hidden Gems and Historic Landmarks

Throughout the tour, you’ll visit bars that are either legendary or discreetly tucked away, each with its own personality. Many have skip-the-line entry, which is a real boon, especially during busy hours or in popular areas. The venues are carefully chosen to reflect different aspects of the Prohibition era—from gangster-run speakeasies to elegant lounges that catered to the city’s elite.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Enthusiastic

Reviews consistently praise guides like Rori, Katherine, or Ariel for their energy, storytelling ability, and extensive knowledge. They bring history alive with engaging anecdotes about notorious gangsters, women’s roles, and the rapid demise of Prohibition laws. Guests appreciate how guides tailor the experience, making it both fun and educational.

The Drinks: Quality and Variety

While drinks are not included in the ticket price, the cocktail recommendations are spot-on. Expect to pay roughly $10 to $14 for beers and $18 to $25 for wine or cocktails. The quality of drinks, along with the stories behind each concoction, turns this into a delicious learning experience. Several reviews highlight how the drinks are memorable, with some describing the cocktails as “incredible” and “delightfully crafted.”

Practical Details

The tour is designed for adults over 21 and requires a valid photo ID. Participants should be able to walk comfortably at a moderate pace and come dressed in smart casual attire. Be mindful that sandals, flip-flops, or large bags are not allowed, and the focus is on maintaining a certain level of decorum. It’s a social experience, so expect a lively group environment with people from around the world.

Authentic Insights from Participants

Many reviewers comment on the high level of entertainment and education. One enthusiastic guest said, “Rori, our tour guide was full of energy and very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend her!” Another noted, “Ariel, our guide, was fantastic; super knowledgeable, energetic, and fun,” emphasizing the importance of a charismatic guide to the overall experience.

The venues’ ambiance, as described by many, contributes significantly to the appeal. Guests often mention the unique decorations and atmospheres, which evoke the era and add to the feeling of stepping back in time.

The Value for Money

At $36, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the skip-the-line access and the depth of storytelling. Guests frequently mention that this experience is a great way to spend an evening, combining education, socializing, and sampling some of NYC’s best cocktails.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and nightlife fans. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning through storytelling and want to explore some of the city’s hidden gems. It’s also suitable for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers looking for a lively, social outing.

It’s worth noting that it’s not ideal for people with mobility issues or under 21, due to the walking and drinking restrictions. Also, if you’re seeking a more relaxed or private experience, this lively group tour might feel a bit bustling.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For a reasonable price, you get a well-curated journey back in time to NYC’s Prohibition era, complete with stories, historic venues, and tasty drinks. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise shine through, making each stop both educational and fun. The venues—each with their own character—offer a glimpse into the city’s spirited past, and the skip-the-line access means you won’t miss a beat.

This tour is an excellent choice if you want to combine history with a lively social experience. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded travelers and enjoy some of NYC’s iconic nightlife spots without the hassle of figuring out where to go on your own.

If you enjoy learning about local culture, exploring hidden places, and tasting expertly crafted cocktails, this tour will serve you well. Just be ready for a little walking, some purchasing, and plenty of stories to take home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on cocktails and drinking, non-drinkers can still enjoy the history and ambiance of the venues. However, since drinks are not included and purchases are encouraged, it may not be ideal if you prefer to skip alcohol entirely.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3 hours, usually in the evening, making it a perfect after-dinner activity or early nightcap adventure.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included. Expect to purchase your own cocktails, with prices ranging from $10 to $25.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, large bags, or ripped clothing to comply with venue policies.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking at a moderate pace, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Is this tour family-friendly?
No, it’s intended for adults over 21 due to alcohol consumption and the mature themes discussed.

What is the meeting point?
Outside the office building of One Worldwide Plaza, on 8th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets, marked by a large American flag.

How can I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Words

If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and social way to explore NYC’s hidden past, this Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour delivers. It offers a fantastic mix of history, local culture, and great cocktails, guided by experts who make it all engaging. Perfect for those who enjoy storytelling, discovering secret spots, and sampling quality drinks, this tour is a standout option that balances value and authentic experience.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to understand New York’s rebellious spirit or a local looking to see the city through a different lens, this tour is sure to leave you with stories to tell—and maybe a new favorite cocktail or two.

You can check availability for your dates here: