Speakeasy and Hidden Bar Night Tour NYC

A Night in the Hidden Corners of New York City: The Speakeasy and Hidden Bar Night Tour

If you’re craving a taste of 1920s New York with a modern twist, this Speakeasy and Hidden Bar Night Tour in Midtown Manhattan is a delightful way to spend an evening. For around $36 per person, you get to explore three carefully selected historical bars and speakeasies, each with its own story, vibe, and craft cocktails. The tour runs about three hours, making it a perfect introduction to some of the city’s lesser-known gems while soaking up the atmosphere of the Prohibition era.

What we love most is how this tour combines history, culture, and social fun — you get to learn about Prohibition and NYC’s immigrant stories through the drinks and spaces, all while meeting fellow travelers in a friendly, lively setting. Plus, skip-the-line entry ensures you’re not wasting time waiting, so you can focus on enjoying each unique venue. The downside? Drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to indulge at each stop.

Ideal for those curious about NYC’s vibrant past, history buffs, or anyone who loves discovering offbeat spots with a friendly guide, this experience suits travelers who enjoy social atmospheres and authentic, crowd-free venues. If you’re after a fun, insightful night that feels both educational and relaxed, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit three historic bars and speakeasies in Midtown Manhattan, each with its own story.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable about NYC and Prohibition, enriching the tour with stories and context.
• Skip-the-Line: Fast entry to each venue saves time and maximizes your experience.
• Social Atmosphere: Meet fellow travelers, making it ideal for solo visitors or groups.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about immigration and Prohibition through the history of NYC’s drinking spots.
• Value for Money: For just $36, you get a well-organized, fun, and informative evening with memorable venues.

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Atmosphere

The tour begins at 825 8th Ave, right in the bustling heart of Manhattan’s Theater District. From the moment we gathered, the energy was lively, and our guide—whose enthusiasm and depth of knowledge made all the difference—set a welcoming tone. The location is accessible via public transportation, a bonus for city travelers.

First Stop: Flute Bar

Our first visit was to Flute Bar, a historic speakeasy nestled in Midtown. The reviews mention how this venue is steeped in Prohibition-era ambiance, offering a glimpse into what nightlife was like when alcohol was illegal. The venue is described as a self-styled speakeasy, not just a tourist trap, which makes the experience feel more genuine.

We loved the stories about women entrepreneurs like Lillie, who thrived during difficult times, and hearing about the “secret” nature of such bars. The 45-minute stop allows plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy some drinks, and snap photos of the Majestic Empire State Building views from nearby locations. The fact that admission is free with your ticket means the cost is primarily for the guided experience and the drinks you choose to order.

Second Stop: Lillie’s Victorian Establishment

Next, we moved to Lillie’s Victorian Establishment, a venue that transports you back in time with its Victorian theme. Located on the West Side near Times Square, it offers a different vibe from the first—more refined, with elegant decor that reflects the 19th-century style.

This stop is also 45 minutes long, giving you ample time to enjoy the drinks and learn about the immigration stories intertwined with NYC’s drinking history. Many reviews highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are, making each visit both educational and fun. One reviewer noted how this stop was particularly beautiful and unique, mentioning the Victorian decor and the delicious cocktails.

Third Stop: Hidden Gems and Unique Bars

The third venue often varies, but the focus remains on hidden, trendy, non-touristy spots that showcase NYC’s true local culture. These venues tend to be less formal, allowing for more relaxed conversations and exploring creative drink menus. The guide’s role here is to share stories and ensure everyone gets a chance to order their favorite drinks.

The Guides and Their Stories

From reviews, it’s clear guides like Ariel, Ryan, Walter, and Kate are the heart of this experience. They are praised for their friendly, professional demeanor and their ability to weave history with humor. One review quotes a guide as “fantastic,” and another calls a guide “very friendly and knowledgeable.” Their local insights and storytelling make the experience more memorable and help you understand the city’s layered history through the lens of its drinking culture.

The Social Aspect and Group Size

With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate vibe, making it easy to chat, ask questions, and connect with others. Several reviews mention how fun it was to meet people from all over the world, and some kept the night going after the tour ended. The small group size really helps in creating a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Dress upscale casual — no sportswear or ripped clothing, to match the vibe of the venues.
• Bring ID — you must be at least 21 years old to participate.
• Budget for drinks — since alcohol isn’t included, plan accordingly.
• Walking — expect some light walking, and possibly some standing, as venues are in busy Midtown.
• Timing — the 3-hour experience is paced well, but it’s best to be prepared for a lively night with some stairs or close spaces.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a genuine look at NYC’s hidden bar scene. The fact that it visits non-touristy, trendy spots means you get an authentic experience, unlike heavily commercialized bar crawls. The skip-the-line entry and knowledgeable guides make this a great value — especially given the price point—since you’re paying primarily for the insider access, stories, and company.

Many reviews emphasize how guides like Kate, Ariel, or Ryan elevate the experience through storytelling and friendliness. The tour not only entertains but also educates, a perfect combo for those interested in local history or seeking a fun, social night out.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a fun, social, and educational way to explore Midtown Manhattan’s hidden bar scene, this Speakeasy and Hidden Bar Night Tour is a prime choice. It’s best suited for history enthusiasts, solo travelers eager to meet new people, or couples seeking a unique evening experience. The blend of storytelling, friendly guides, and authentic venues makes it a memorable way to spend an evening in the city.

While drinks are extra, the skip-the-line access and impressive selection of venues make the price well worth it. The small group size and personable guides mean you get personal attention and plenty of opportunities for questions and conversation. Plus, the tour’s focus on Prohibition-era tales and immigrant stories adds layers of meaning to your night out, turning just a simple bar crawl into a cultural adventure.

Ultimately, this tour is about finding hidden corners of NYC that you might never discover on your own, combined with lively storytelling and friendly company. It’s a great way to get a taste of the city’s vibrant past and lively present—all wrapped in a friendly, relaxed package.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
No, you must be at least 21 years old with valid ID to participate.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are purchased separately at each venue. Budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately three hours, visiting three different venues.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 825 8th Ave in Midtown Manhattan and ends near Times Square.

Is the guide knowledgeable about the history?
Yes, reviews consistently mention guides like Ariel, Ryan, Walter, and Kate as friendly, professional, and full of stories that bring the history alive.

Can I join if I’m not from NYC?
Absolutely. This experience is designed for visitors and locals alike who want to explore NYC’s historic bar scene in a social setting.

This guided bar crawl offers a memorable blend of history, culture, and fun—an enriching addition to your NYC adventures. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a lively night out, this tour is a clever way to discover the city’s hidden stories one drink at a time.