NYC: Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour

Exploring New York City’s nightlife history becomes a vivid experience with the NYC: Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour. This 3-hour tour offers a fascinating journey through the city’s past, starting at 825 8th Ave and ending at Times Square. It combines walking through Midtown Manhattan with visits to three carefully selected historic bars, lounges, and speakeasies, each rich in stories from the Prohibition era. The tour is led by engaging guides who bring the stories alive, complemented by skip-the-line access to each venue and premium cocktails crafted by top mixologists.

Priced to include the authentic experience of NYC’s underground nightlife, the tour’s drinks are not included in the ticket price and typically range from $10 to $25 per drink. This makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate good drinks and engaging history without feeling rushed. While the tour is well-loved for its knowledgeable guides and lively atmosphere, it involves moderate walking and is best suited for guests comfortable in classy attire who can walk at a moderate pace.

Key Points

• Duration of 3 hours combines walking and drinks at three historic speakeasies.
• Skip-the-line entry makes access quick, allowing more time to enjoy cocktails.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, energy, and storytelling skills.
• Three different venues each offer unique vibes, from classic to modern interpretations.
• Drinks are purchased separately, with cocktails costing $18 to $25.
• The tour ends in Times Square, making it easy to continue exploring afterward.

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Starting at 825 8th Ave in Midtown Manhattan

The tour departs from 825 8th Avenue, outside the office building entrance of One Worldwide Plaza. The meeting point is marked by a bike rack and a large American flag hanging from the building. The Carnegie Diner is visible nearby, confirming the location. Participants are advised to arrive on 8th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets. It’s recommended to bring a passport or ID card for verification purposes. The meeting spot is straightforward to find, and the guide’s friendly demeanor helps set a welcoming tone.

Visiting Three Historic Bars and Speakeasies

The core of this tour involves visiting three different venues in Midtown Manhattan. Each location is selected for its historical significance and unique ambiance. Guests will learn about the era of gangsters and bootleggers at one stop, gaining insight into New York’s colorful past. The second venue highlights the catalysts of Prohibition, including stories about influential women and the rise of oil magnates during the Gilded Age. The third stop focuses on the demise of Prohibition and the revival of nightlife in the city, offering a glimpse into how NYC’s bar scene transformed afterward.

Skip-the-Line Access to Iconic Bars

Thanks to skip-the-line entry, guests avoid waiting times and maximize their experience. This is especially beneficial in Manhattan, where popular bars often have long queues. The venues visited are known for their distinct personalities, from classic clandestine speakeasies to modern lounges with historical themes. Each stop offers its own story, making the tour more than just a bar crawl but a deep dive into the city’s underground history.

Premium Cocktails and Drinking Experience

At each venue, guests are treated to premium cocktails, crafted by some of New York’s best mixologists. While drinks are not included in the ticket price, reviews highlight the quality and creativity of the beverages. Expect to pay around $18 to $25 for cocktails, with some venues offering beer and mocktail options priced at $10 to $14. Guests often find the drinks well worth the cost, especially considering the historic ambiance and expert recommendations from guides.

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Guide Personalities and Storytelling

The tour is renowned for its engaging guides, who bring enthusiasm and deep knowledge to the storytelling. Multiple reviews praise guides like Ariel, Katherine, Ryan, and Walter for their energy, friendliness, and expertise. They share stories about Prohibition’s origins, its impact on New York, and notable figures in the city’s underground scene. Their ability to connect with guests creates a lively, social atmosphere, making the experience feel like a night out with friends rather than just a tour.

The Venue Atmospheres and Vibes

Each speakeasy offers a different vibe, from authentic 1920s ambiance to contemporary interpretations. Guests enjoy the variety, with some venues featuring distinct decorations, intimate settings, and lively music. These different atmospheres keep the experience fresh and engaging. Many reviews mention the unique decor and ambiance as highlights, creating memorable moments at each stop.

Accessibility and Physical Requirements

Participants are advised that moderate walking is involved during the tour. Guests should be prepared to walk at a comfortable pace throughout Midtown Manhattan. The activity is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or anyone who cannot walk comfortably in classy attire. The tour emphasizes dress code requirements, such as avoiding ripped clothing, sleeveless shirts, and oversize luggage, to maintain the upscale vibe of the venues.

The End Location and Post-Tour Options

The tour concludes in Times Square, a central hub bustling with restaurants, bars, and entertainment. This makes it convenient for guests to continue exploring or to enjoy more drinks after the tour. The ending in a lively area ensures the experience extends beyond the tour itself, offering opportunities for spontaneous fun in the heart of Manhattan.

Value and Practical Tips

While the ticket price covers the guided walk and venue entry, drinks are purchased separately, with prices reflecting NYC standards. The tour offers good value for those interested in history, culture, and quality cocktails. To optimize the experience, guests should budget for drinks and be prepared for moderate walking. The guides are praised for making the experience engaging and personal, often tailoring stories to the group’s interests.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals to history enthusiasts, cocktail lovers, and those seeking a lively social experience in NYC. It’s particularly suitable for adults over 21 who enjoy storytelling, unique venues, and premium drinks. Guests who appreciate well-informed guides and small-group settings will find this especially enjoyable. The tour is not recommended for anyone with mobility issues or those looking for a casual, less structured experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for 3 hours, combining walking and bar visits.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are purchased separately, with cocktails typically costing $18 to $25 each.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 825 8th Avenue outside the office building of One Worldwide Plaza.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, the tour involves moderate walking and is best suited for guests able to walk comfortably.

What should I wear?
Smart, classy attire is recommended, avoiding ripped clothing, sleeveless shirts, and oversize luggage.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour different from other NYC bar tours?
It emphasizes historical significance, skip-the-line access, and visits to three distinct venues, each with its own story and atmosphere.

Are guides friendly and knowledgeable?
Yes, numerous reviews highlight the enthusiasm, expertise, and personable nature of guides like Ariel, Katherine, Ryan, and Walter.

Is this a good activity for special occasions?
Absolutely, the tour’s lively atmosphere and historic themes make it a fun choice for celebrations or memorable nights out.

What’s the ending point of the tour?
The tour finishes in Times Square, providing easy access to continue enjoying NYC’s nightlife.

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