New York City: Prohibition Walking Tour – With Drinks

Discover the Secrets of Prohibition-Era New York City

The New York City: Prohibition Walking Tour – With Drinks offers a captivating journey through NYC’s past, focusing on the city’s notorious Prohibition period. Priced at $89 per person and lasting 2 hours, this tour combines history, lively storytelling, and three included drinks at some of the oldest, most iconic saloons. The tour begins at the Great Hall Cooper Union, a historic meeting point, and takes you through neighborhoods rich with tales of gangsters, bootleggers, and political corruption. This experience is ideal for those interested in organized crime history and the colorful personalities who shaped the city’s underground scene.

One of the tour’s strongest points is the inclusion of a beer or Prohibition-style cocktail at each stop, giving a taste of the era while exploring historic venues. A highlight is the final toast at New York’s most legendary saloon, where history and atmosphere blend seamlessly. The tour is designed for adults aged 21 and over, and it’s perfect for anyone wanting an engaging, lively look into NYC’s clandestine past. Keep in mind, it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended, and mobility limitations may restrict participation.

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Key Points

• Price & Duration: $89 per person for 2 hours of guided exploration.
• Historic Stops: Visit three of New York’s oldest saloons, each with its own story.
• Drinks Included: Enjoy a beer or Prohibition-style cocktail at each stop.
• Expert Guide: Guides share stories of gangsters, bootleggers, and political figures tied to Tammany Hall.
• Ending at a Legendary Saloon: Conclude with a final toast at an iconic NYC watering hole.
• Age Restrictions: 21+ only, with ID required.

Starting Point at the Great Hall Cooper Union

The tour departs from the Great Hall Cooper Union, a historic venue with a storied past. This meeting point is easily accessible and signals the beginning of a journey into NYC’s clandestine nightlife of the 1920s and 1930s. The tour is well-suited for those who appreciate historical venues and want a central, recognizable start. It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early to check in and settle before the guide begins sharing tales from the era.

Visiting Three of NYC’s Oldest and Most Famous Saloons

The core of this tour involves visiting three historic saloons, each with a unique backstory connected to organized crime and political corruption. These venues aren’t just places to drink but are living pieces of history where mobsters and politicians once gathered. Each stop offers the opportunity to sample a drink that echoes the drinks of the Prohibition era, giving a tangible flavor of the past.

These saloons have hosted notorious criminals and political figures, making each visit feel like stepping into a crime novel. The guide’s stories explore the rise of speakeasies, bootlegging operations, and the connections to Tammany Hall, adding context to the vibrant underworld activity of the time. Visitors are likely to find these locales brimming with character, history, and stories that continue to fascinate.

The Role of Speakeasies and Organized Crime in NYC

During the tour, the guide explains how speakeasies became the hubs for illegal drinking during Prohibition, transforming the city’s nightlife. These secret bars were often run by organized crime groups and served as places where mobsters could conduct deals away from law enforcement. The saloons visited aren’t just historic bars—they are emblematic of a time when lawlessness and corruption thrived within the city’s social fabric.

The stories include details about notorious figures and their connections to these venues, with anecdotes that bring to life the gritty, underground world of early 20th-century New York. The narrative reveals how these establishments played a key role in shaping the city’s criminal reputation and political landscape.

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Tammany Hall and Its Connection to the Saloon Scene

A notable aspect of the tour is how it sheds light on Tammany Hall, the infamous political machine. The guide discusses Tammany Hall’s influence on the city’s governance and its ties to corrupt politicians who operated within the speakeasy culture. This connection highlights how organized crime and political power often intertwined during Prohibition, influencing law enforcement and public policy.

The tour reveals that many of these historic saloons served as hubs for political and criminal alliances, adding depth to the understanding of NYC’s shadowy past. Visitors learn how corruption and organized crime shaped the city’s development during a tumultuous era.

The Legendary Final Saloon and Final Toast

The tour concludes at a legendary NYC saloon, known for its rich history and association with the Prohibition era. At this iconic bar, participants get to raise a final drink—a symbolic toast to the city’s resilience and colorful past. This ending provides a satisfying conclusion to the journey, reinforcing the stories heard throughout the tour.

The final stop offers an authentic atmosphere where history feels alive, and guests can soak in the ambiance that has persisted for decades. It’s a fitting end that leaves visitors with a lasting impression of how NYC’s past continues to echo in its present-day landmarks.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour starts promptly at the Great Hall Cooper Union, a landmark located at cooper.edu/about/great-hall. The meeting point is easy to reach, and attendees are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes early. The group size is manageable, ensuring a personal experience with the guide.

The walk lasts for 2 hours, covering a reasonable distance through the city’s historic neighborhoods. Participants should wear comfortable shoes, as walking is involved, and bring ID card or a copy for age verification. The tour operates in English and is suitable for adults 21 and over.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Personable

Based on existing reviews, guides like Earl stand out for their knowledge, personable approach, and storytelling skill. Guests mention that guides make the experience feel like visiting old friends’ favorite bars, sharing fascinating stories about gangsters and political figures. Their expertise ensures that the tour is both entertaining and educational.

The guides’ ability to bring history to life is a major highlight, making each stop engaging and memorable. Their stories help deepen the understanding of the city’s Prohibition-era culture, creating an atmosphere that is both fun and informative.

Tour Value and Customer Satisfaction

At $89, this tour offers a compelling mix of history, entertainment, and drinks for a reasonable price. The inclusion of three drinks—one at each saloon—enhances the experience, making it feel immersive rather than just educational. The 5-star rating based on 3 reviews reflects strong satisfaction, particularly praising guide knowledge and overall experience.

The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours and reserve now, pay later options** adds convenience for travelers who want to keep their plans flexible. This makes the tour accessible for those unsure of their schedule or looking for last-minute plans.

Who Would Enjoy This Prohibition Tour?

This experience appeals most to history enthusiasts, lovers of nightlife culture, and those interested in organized crime stories. It’s ideal for adults 21 and over who want a social, lively exploration of NYC’s past. Travelers seeking a fun, informative activity that combines walking, storytelling, and drinks will find this tour a worthwhile choice.

It’s less suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or those under the legal drinking age, as the tour involves walking and alcohol consumption.

Final Thoughts on the Prohibition Walking Tour

The Prohibition Walking Tour with Drinks offers a rich, engaging look into New York City’s clandestine history. Its strength lies in visiting historic saloons with authentic stories and sampling era-specific drinks at each stop. The tour’s expert guides, notably Earl, make the experience lively and memorable.

While it’s a short, 2-hour journey, the combination of history, atmosphere, and drinks creates a satisfying experience that appeals to both history buffs and nightlife lovers. The legendary final saloon and the stories of gangsters and political corruption make it a distinctive way to explore NYC’s past.

This tour is perfect for those who want to combine walking, storytelling, and a taste of history in a fun and relaxed setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $89 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Great Hall Cooper Union.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is for guests aged 21 and over only.

Are drinks included?
Yes, one drink per stop is included—either a beer or a Prohibition-style cocktail.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring ID or a copy for age verification.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of historic saloons, engaging storytelling, and drinks makes this a memorable way to learn about NYC’s Prohibition past.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby