Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour

Imagine wandering through the streets of Providence, Rhode Island, with a knowledgeable guide revealing stories of secret speakeasies, daring bootleggers, and the passionate immigrants who held onto their drinking traditions despite federal restrictions. For $100, in just 3.5 hours, you’ll visit local spots like Malted Barley, Track 15, Moonshine Alley, and Plant City, sampling craft beers and spirits that bring the past vividly to life. The tour is based in the lobby of Hotel Providence, making it convenient to start if you’re staying downtown.

What we love about this experience is how it balances history and tasting. First, you get to sip on Rhode Island-produced beverages—think craft beers and small-batch spirits—while learning about the state’s unique stance during Prohibition. Second, the stories you hear are filled with colorful characters and surprising twists: from the coalition that pushed Prohibition through Congress to the clever loopholes bootleggers exploited. A potential consideration is that this tour involves walking about 1.2 miles, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, local flavor, and storytelling. If you’re curious about how a city can resist federal mandates with so much character and want to taste some of Rhode Island’s best brews while learning about its rebellious side, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially perfect if you like stories of colorful characters and authentic local spots rather than polished, touristy venues.

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Key Points

Historical insight: Learn how Providence, despite federal laws, kept its Old World drinking cultures alive.
Local tastings: Enjoy beers and spirits crafted right in Rhode Island, adding flavor to the stories.
Character-rich stories: Discover tales of bootleggers, undercover agents, and the coalition that fought Prohibition.
Walking tour: A 1.2-mile stroll through Providence’s historic streets, visiting notable local venues.
Expert guide: Narratives are engaging and educational, making history memorable.
Authentic venues: Stops include popular local spots like Malted Barley and Moonshine Alley.

Planning more time in Providence? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

A Deep Dive into the Providence Prohibition Tour

The Experience and Itinerary

When you join the Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour, you’re stepping into a world where laws tried to curb alcohol consumption but only fueled a lively underground scene. The tour begins in the lobby of Hotel Providence, a central, accessible meeting point. From there, your guide—likely a local historian or enthusiast—leads you on a 1.2-mile walk through the city’s streets, visiting local bars and eateries that serve as windows into the past.

Each stop is carefully curated to give you a taste of history alongside a sip of something local. For example, at Malted Barley, you might sample a craft beer brewed specifically for this tour or learn about how breweries in Providence navigated prohibition-era restrictions. Similarly, Moonshine Alley offers a chance to taste spirits that echo the clandestine drinks of the 1920s.

Between tastings, your guide shares captivating stories of famous bootleggers, like the daring figures who supplied illicit liquor, and undercover agents who tried to bust their operations. You’ll also hear about the coalition that lobbied Congress, revealing how passionate Rhode Islanders were about maintaining their drinking customs despite State and Federal bans. These anecdotes transform what might seem like dry history into a lively and engaging narrative.

The Tastings and Venues

The tour includes 4 tasting stops, with a focus on local beers and spirits produced in Rhode Island. The value here goes beyond just sampling; it’s about connecting the drinks to their history and the people behind them. The beverages are included, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs, and snacks are provided to complement the drinks.

The venues visited—such as Track 15 and Plant City—are not just tourist spots but part of Providence’s ongoing craft beverage scene. They represent the city’s resilience and adaptability, keeping alive a mix of Old World traditions and modern innovation.

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The Guide and Atmosphere

Guests consistently praise the expert guides for their engaging storytelling and depth of knowledge, making history feel alive. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide connected the stories to the places we visited” which enhanced the experience. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and chat with fellow travelers.

Practical Details and Considerations

At $100, the tour offers good value considering the tastings, snacks, and expert narration included. It’s perfect for those interested in history, local culture, or the craft beverage scene. The 3.5-hour duration makes it manageable even for an afternoon activity, and the walking distance is moderate—comfortable shoes are recommended.

However, since the tour involves walking outdoors, be sure to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for mobility needs, but it’s primarily a walking experience through city streets.

What to Expect and Who Should Go

Travelers who enjoy stories of rebellion, clever loopholes, and colorful characters will find this tour fascinating. If you are curious about America’s social history or want to try local brews with a story behind each sip, you’ll find this tour both entertaining and educational.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more luxurious or speakeasy-focused experience, you might find the stops somewhat casual. One reviewer did mention they’d liked to visit some speakeasy bars, which suggests some guests might prefer more clandestine settings. That said, the current venues are well-respected local spots offering authentic experiences.

The Sum Up

The Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour offers a compelling blend of history, local flavor, and storytelling. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to understand how Providence’s drinking culture persisted despite federal prohibition laws, all while sampling Rhode Island-crafted beverages. The guide’s engaging narratives bring the past vividly to life, making it more than just a tasting tour—it’s an educational journey through the city’s rebellious spirit.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, lively storytelling, and a good drink or two. It’s ideal if you enjoy walking through historic neighborhoods while hearing colorful tales and sampling local production. For those interested in American history, local culture, or craft beverages, this tour provides solid value and a memorable way to see Providence through a unique lens.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, you’ll need to make your way to the starting point, which is in the lobby of Hotel Providence. The tour involves a walk, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes about 3.5 hours, including visiting 4 tasting stops and storytelling.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Since the tour includes alcoholic beverages, it’s intended for those of legal drinking age. If you don’t drink, you might want to consider other tours.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be moving outdoors during the walk.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the tastings, snacks, an expert guide, and the engaging stories about Providence’s Prohibition history.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing you flexibility if your plans change.