Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy with Drinks Included

A Hidden Drinkery with a Story: Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy

Nashville is famous for its live music, but if you’re looking for a different kind of cultural experience, this 2-hour cocktail class in a retro-inspired speakeasy offers a delightful blend of history, hands-on fun, and well-crafted drinks. For $57 a person, you’ll step into the Golden Sound in the Gulch, a former recording studio transformed into a lively, intimate bar where moonshine, flappers, and bootlegging tales come alive.

What immediately grabs our attention is the informal, engaging atmosphere crafted by the charismatic guide, Tommy. His storytelling, complete with local anecdotes like Al Capone’s bootlegging through Printers Alley, makes the experience both educational and entertaining. Two things we really appreciate are the opportunity to participate directly in making the cocktails—not just watching—and the personalized insights into Nashville’s unique drinking history.

One potential consideration is that this experience is set in an intimate venue with a maximum of 20 guests, which means it may feel cozy but could also be crowded if you’re used to larger tours. Plus, it’s a tip-based experience, so while the value is high, budget-conscious travelers should plan to tip accordingly for the guide’s efforts.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, cocktail lovers, solo travelers, or groups celebrating special occasions. Whether you’re a couple wanting to learn some mixology skills, a bachelorette party looking for a lively outing, or someone curious about Nashville’s clandestine past, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Authentic Setting: A vintage recording studio turned speakeasy transports you back in time.
• Interactive Experience: Hands-on cocktail making makes this more memorable than a simple tasting.
• Rich Local History: Tales of Prohibition, bootlegging, and Nashville’s alcohol scene elevate the experience.
• Knowledgeable Host: Tommy’s engaging storytelling and clear instructions keep the mood lively.
• Value for Money: Three cocktails and snacks included at $57 make this an affordable, fun outing.
• Small Group: Up to 20 guests ensure a personalized touch and plenty of interaction.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

When we arrive at 610 Magazine St in Nashville’s Gulch neighborhood, the first thing that strikes us is the retro vibe of the Golden Sound. Imagine stepping into a recording studio from the 1950s, complete with vintage equipment, and discovering it’s now a lively speakeasy where secrets of Nashville’s drink scene are shared.

The guide, Tommy, welcomes us with warmth and humor. His approach to storytelling is natural—he weaves in fascinating facts about Nashville’s alcohol and cocktail history, including stories about Al Capone and Prohibition. As he explains, the speakeasy setting isn’t just for show — it’s a nod to an era when alcohol was clandestine, and secrets were kept behind closed doors.

Part of the appeal is the hands-on cocktail-making. We get to go behind the bar and make three different drinks. This isn’t a “watch and learn” scenario—you’re actively involved, which makes the learning stick. The pro tips Tommy shares about making better drinks are worth noting, even if you’re a seasoned bartender. Plus, the basic bar snacks provided are just enough to keep you satisfied without detracting from the main event.

The performative history lesson stands out as a highlight. Instead of a dry lecture, Tommy’s lively narration and humor help paint a vivid picture of Nashville’s drinking past. You’ll learn how moonshine, bootlegging, and the Prohibition era shaped the city’s reputation. Many reviews rave about how educational and fun this part is, with one guest noting, “Learning about spirits is one of the most intriguing things in my opinion.”

The cocktails themselves — three in total — are crafted with care, and the experience is designed to be inclusive whether you’re celebrating a special event or just in the mood for a fun night out. The small group size ensures everyone gets attention, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Post-class, you’ll leave with new skills, some Nashville stories to share, and a better understanding of the city’s hidden drinking history. As one reviewer said, “I walked away feeling like a bartender,” which is a pretty nice souvenir from a short experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $57, the ticket covers three cocktails and basic snacks, which makes it an excellent value for an interactive, memorable experience. The drinks are carefully prepared, and the snacks complement the beverages without overwhelming the senses.

Tips are not included, so it’s wise to bring some cash if you want to tip your guide for extra friendly service and engaging storytelling. The meeting point is centrally located and accessible via public transportation, adding to the convenience.

The Atmosphere and Setting

The Golden Sound speakeasy is the star of this tour. Its vintage recording studio aesthetic transports visitors to an era when secret bars flourished in Nashville. The intimate setting fosters a relaxed yet lively environment, ideal for small groups or solo adventurers. Many reviews mention the cozy atmosphere paired with the entertaining narration as key to the experience’s charm.

The venue’s design, combined with Tommy’s humor and knowledge, makes this more than just a cocktail class — it’s a taste of Nashville’s clandestine past, told through stories and drinks.

Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after an educational experience that combines history, local lore, and hands-on fun, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy learning through storytelling and participation, rather than passive tasting. Couples, singles, and groups celebrating a special occasion will find it especially enjoyable.

However, if you prefer large-group tours or are strictly interested in a traditional bar crawl, this might feel a little too intimate or focused on storytelling. Still, the small size and interactive nature make it a memorable, personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This Nashville cocktail tour offers an authentic taste of the city’s secret past in a relaxed, engaging setting. The mix of history and hands-on cocktail making provides real value, especially given the inclusion of three drinks and snacks for just $57. It’s a great fit for anyone curious about the local lore, eager to improve their home bartending skills, or simply looking for a fun, unique night out.

While it’s not the place for those seeking a high-energy party atmosphere, it excels at creating a warm, informative, and lively environment where you can learn, laugh, and leave with new skills—and some great stories.

FAQs

What is the meeting point for this tour?
It starts at 610 Magazine St in Nashville’s Gulch neighborhood, at the Golden Sound speakeasy.

How long does the experience last?
The class runs for approximately 2 hours, giving you enough time to learn, make drinks, and enjoy the stories without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, you get three cocktails included as part of your ticket price, along with some basic snacks.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how perfect it is for solo visitors who want to meet new people while enjoying a unique activity.

Can I expect a large group?
No, the maximum group size is 20 travelers, which ensures a more personalized and interactive experience.

Do I need to tip the guide?
Tips are not included in the price, so if you enjoyed the experience, tipping is appreciated and customary for guides.

To sum it up, this Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy offers a compelling mix of Nashville’s underground drinking culture, engaging storytelling, and practical cocktail skills. It’s ideal for curious travelers, history lovers, and anyone looking for a memorable, hands-on night out in Music City.