Guided Speakeasy Walking Tour of New York City

Exploring New York City’s underground bar scene becomes an unforgettable experience with the Guided Speakeasy Walking Tour. For only $30.60 per person, this 3-hour adventure in Lower Manhattan takes you inside up to seven hidden speakeasies. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour combines history, mystery, and craft cocktails in a small-group setting, making it a perfect choice for those curious about the jazz-age era or seeking a unique night out.

The tour departs from 67 Clinton Street at 6:00 pm and ends at 131 Chrystie Street. Booking is generally made 27 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. While the tour includes skip-the-line access and reserved tables, the cost of drinks is not included. This tour suits visitors who enjoy history, nightlife, and discovering secret spots but should be aware that some stops may vary, and not all venues are traditional speakeasies.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Just $30.60 per person, offering great value for a curated underground bar experience.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to 10 travelers ensure personal attention and an intimate atmosphere.
• Skip-the-Line Access: Get reserved tables at popular speakeasies, saving time and avoiding long waits.
• Expert Guides: Guides are multi-lingual and knowledgeable, providing detailed stories about Prohibition and the underground scene.
• Flexible Ending Options: After the tour, participants can stay at the final venue or explore nearby bars, live music, or comedy clubs.
• Highly Rated: Achieves a 4.5/5 rating based on 322 reviews highlighting engaging storytelling and fascinating venues.

Discovering Hidden Entrances in Lower Manhattan

The tour begins at a park in Lower Manhattan, where the guide greets the group amid shaded seating. Here, brief colonial history and fun facts about New York City set the tone. From this starting point, the guide explains the structure of the tour—visiting six or seven speakeasies, each with its own style and secrets. Hidden entrances, such as through a psychic shop or a bank vault door, are part of the adventure, making the venues hard to find without insider knowledge.

The first stop usually introduces the group to the secretive underground culture that flourished during Prohibition. This initial location often sets the stage for the mystery and exclusivity that define speakeasies today, with some venues having burlesque shows or vintage decor. The guide’s insights make each stop more than just a bar visit—they tell stories of organized crime, jazz, and rebellion that characterized the era.

Visiting Up to Seven Speakeasies in One Night

Throughout the walk, the guide leads the group into up to seven different establishments, with some venues being actual speakeasies and others modern reinterpretations inspired by vintage recipes. Each location offers a distinct atmosphere, from cozy, dimly lit rooms to lively bars with live entertainment.

At each spot, guests can order cocktails (own expense), with some guides sharing recommendations based on vintage recipes. The tour emphasizes craft cocktails, often inspired by the Prohibition era, which means you’ll have the chance to taste unique, well-made drinks that reflect the historical theme. Notably, drink prices are not included, so expect to pay for your favorites.

Some venues might feature special shows or secret entrances, adding a playful element to the experience. For example, one bar may be accessed through a psychic shop, while another might have a bank vault door as an entrance. These details highlight the fun and mystique that make this tour stand out.

The Guide’s Style and Knowledge

The tour is praised for guides who are enthusiastic, engaging, and well-informed. Guides are multi-lingual and provide accurate, documented history about Prohibition, the rise of organized crime, and the evolution of New York’s underground bars. Reviewers often mention guides like Alexander, Lyonel, Darius, Jett, and Lily, noting their storytelling skills, humor, and ability to connect with the group.

One review highlights the guide’s use of visual aids, including pictures on an iPad, to bring stories to life. Another appreciates a guide who mixes historical facts with fun trivia, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The small group size ensures personal interaction and plenty of room for questions.

Logistics: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Duration

The tour begins at 67 Clinton Street in Lower Manhattan, conveniently near public transportation. It is designed as a small-group experience, with a maximum of 10 travelers, promoting personalized attention. The tour starts promptly at 6:00 pm, and the entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

Participants should have moderate physical fitness as the walk involves some standing and moving between venues. The tour is suitable for those over 21 years old, and ID is required to enter the speakeasies. The tour concludes at 131 Chrystie Street, where guests can choose to stay or explore the vibrant neighborhood, known for its bars, comedy clubs, and live music venues.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Since the tour involves walking through Lower Manhattan, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. The venues visited often have stairs or narrow entrances, and no specific accessibility features are mentioned. Comfortable shoes, like sneakers and jeans, are recommended, and no gym wear or fur is permitted.

Travelers should be prepared for some standing and short walks but can enjoy a relaxed pace with ample time to order drinks and listen to stories. The guide ensures a safe and manageable experience for all participants.

The Historic and Modern Mix of Speakeasies

While the tour is rooted in the history of Prohibition, it also showcases modern reinterpretations of vintage bars. Some venues are authentic speakeasies, while others are contemporary bars inspired by the era’s style and recipes. The mix of historic architecture, secret entrances, and lively atmospheres creates a balanced experience that appeals to history buffs and nightlife enthusiasts alike.

Certain stops might include burlesque shows or hidden doorways, enhancing the interactive and immersive nature of the tour. The experience offers a glimpse into both the past and present of New York’s clandestine drinking culture.

Final Thoughts on the Speakeasy Walking Tour

This guided speakeasy tour in New York City offers a fun, informative, and authentic look into the city’s clandestine drinking history. The small group size, expert guides, and skip-the-line access make it a cost-effective way to explore some of Manhattan’s most secretive bars. The 3-hour duration ensures a well-paced experience, balancing historical storytelling with cocktail tasting.

While drink prices are not included, the unique venues and engaging guides provide a memorable night that combines history, mystery, and nightlife. This tour is particularly suited for adults over 21 who appreciate a story-rich atmosphere and hidden gems. Keep in mind that venue availability can vary, and some stops may not be true speakeasies, but the overall experience remains delightful and insightful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is alcohol included in the tour price?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included. Guests can purchase cocktails at each venue, often inspired by vintage recipes.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 6:00 pm and ending around 9:00 pm.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It begins at 67 Clinton Street and ends at 131 Chrystie Street in Lower Manhattan.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personal experience and ample interaction with the guide.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Participants should have moderate physical fitness due to walking and standing involved. The route may include stairs and narrow entrances.

Can I stay at the last venue after the tour?
Yes, after the tour concludes, guests can stay at the final bar or explore the neighborhood’s other nightlife options.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes like sneakers and casual attire such as jeans are recommended. No gym wear or fur is permitted.

Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers?
The tour is offered in multiple languages, including French, Italian, German, Spanish, and English.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

Is this tour accessible for everyone?
Accessibility details are not specified, but the tour involves walking through historic venues that may have stairs and narrow entrances.

This guided speakeasy walking tour combines history, intrigue, and high-quality cocktails, making it a distinctive way to experience New York’s nightlife. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a fun night out, this tour offers insights into a bygone era with a lively, modern twist.