East Village Speakeasy (secret bars) Experience

Exploring New York City’s hidden bar scene becomes an unforgettable experience with the East Village Speakeasy Experience. Priced at $35 per person and lasting approximately 3 hours, this tour takes you into some of the city’s most elusive and authentic speakeasies. The tour departs from East 9th Street & Avenue A at 4:45 pm, guiding small groups of up to 7 travelers through secret entrances like phone booths, barber shops, and hidden alleyways.

The tour is designed for those curious about the offbeat side of NYC nightlife. While it does not include alcoholic beverages, it guarantees priority entry and special access to the bars, making it especially appealing for anyone eager to experience the city’s clandestine cocktail culture in a relaxed, small-group setting. This tour is ideal for solo travelers or small groups seeking a more intimate, behind-the-scenes look at New York’s secret bars.

Key Points

• Access to some of New York City’s most elusive speakeasies through secret entrances
• Small group size of up to 7 travelers enhances the personal experience
• No alcohol included, but entry guarantees and priority service are provided
• The tour lasts approximately 3 hours starting at 4:45 pm
• The tour departs from East 9th Street & Avenue A and ends near Norfolk Street and Essex Street
• Guided by knowledgeable hosts who navigate through hidden doors and alleyways

Discovering the Hidden Entrances in East Village

This tour begins at East 9th Street & Avenue A, where the guide leads the group into secret bars through various concealed pathways such as phone booths and barber shops. These entrances are not straightforward, adding an exciting element of discovery as you follow the guide’s lead into locations most travelers never find on their own.

The focus is on authentic speakeasies that maintain the secrecy and atmosphere of Prohibition-era bars. Each entrance is carefully chosen to ensure guaranteed entry, so there’s no need to worry about long waits or being turned away—something that can happen in the most popular spots if visited independently.

Exclusive Access to Some of New York’s Most Hard-to-Find Speakeasies

The core appeal of this experience lies in access to bars that are normally hidden from public view. The tour guarantees entry and priority service, allowing guests to step into exclusive spaces that usually require insider knowledge or special connections.

You’ll visit three different speakeasies during the tour, each with its own unique ambiance and character. The guide’s local expertise ensures that visitors see parts of New York most travelers miss, making this tour a true insider’s journey into the city’s secret nightlife.

The Guide and Company: Knowledgeable and Multilingual

Alex’s tours are led by guides who are friendly and well-informed. One review highlights how guides like Alex seamlessly switch between Spanish, German, and English, making the experience accessible to international visitors. They also share interesting insights about New York’s history and the speakeasies themselves, adding context to the experience.

While some reviews mention negative experiences, they are exceptions. The majority praise guides for their know-how and personable approach, which makes navigating through hidden doors and uncovering secret bars both fun and educational.

The Tour Experience: From Phone Booths to Rooftop Bars

The journey takes you through several different types of secret entrances—not just alleyways, but also phone booths and barber shops—creating a sense of adventure. One memorable moment from the tour involves a guide taking guests to a rooftop bar to see the sunset, blending the underground speakeasy vibe with spectacular city views.

The tour also offers a relaxed and fun atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers or small groups who prefer a more intimate experience. The maximum of 7 travelers ensures that everyone gets personalized attention and the chance to connect with like-minded people.

Pacing and Duration of the Tour

Spanning about 3 hours, the tour is paced to allow enough time to explore each location without feeling rushed. Starting at 4:45 pm, it’s an ideal late afternoon or early evening activity, fitting well into an evening plan of dining or other nightlife exploration.

Since alcoholic beverages are not included, guests are encouraged to purchase drinks at each speakeasy, where they can enjoy trendsetting cocktails crafted by skilled bartenders. The focus remains on the experience of entering and exploring these hidden venues.

Logistics: Meeting Point, Ending Location, and Accessibility

The tour begins at East 9th Street & Avenue A and concludes at 102 Norfolk Street, right next to the Essex Street subway station served by the J, M, F, and Z lines. This makes it easy to access via public transportation.

Confirmation of booking is received immediately after reservation, and service animals are allowed. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join, though the focus on navigating secret entrances means some mobility considerations may apply.

Value and Considerations for Booking

At $35 per person, this experience offers excellent value for access to exclusive bars and a memorable adventure in New York’s underground nightlife. The small group size and priority entry make it stand out from more generic bar crawls.

However, the tour does not include alcoholic drinks, so visitors should budget accordingly if they wish to purchase cocktails at each stop. Plus, most reviews are positive, but a few mention cancellations or unsafe experiences, so it’s wise to confirm the tour details and check recent reviews before booking.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits adventurous spirits eager to explore NYC’s secret bar scene in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of history, mystery, and cocktails, especially if they appreciate guided expertise and small-group atmospheres.

While not ideal for those seeking all-inclusive drinks or a more traditional bar crawl, it offers a unique glimpse into the city’s hidden nightlife that few visitors get to experience on their own. If you’re looking for an exciting, behind-the-scenes journey into New York’s speakeasy culture, this tour delivers a fun and exclusive experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the East Village Speakeasy Experience?
The tour costs $35 per person, excluding drinks.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours, starting at 4:45 pm.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at East 9th Street & Avenue A and ends at 102 Norfolk Street, near the Essex Street subway station.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, drinks are not included, but priority entry and guaranteed access to the bars are provided.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, guides can switch between Spanish, German, and English, making it accessible for international guests.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Is this tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the ending point is near multiple subway lines, making it easy to reach.

Do I need to cancel in advance?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the start time.

Are there any safety concerns or recent issues?
While most reviews are positive, some mention cancellations or safety issues in past experiences. It’s advisable to check the latest reviews before booking.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those interested in secret bars and unique nightlife experiences, as long as they’re comfortable with the adventure of secret entrances and modest group sizes.