New York: Pizza, Speakeasies, and Bars Tour

Explore Greenwich Village’s Best Pizza and Secret Bars in Just 3 Hours

The New York: Pizza, Speakeasies, and Bars Tour offers an engaging way to experience Greenwich Village in a compact 3-hour walking adventure. For $35 per person, this tour combines iconic food stops with visits to some of the neighborhood’s most intriguing hidden speakeasies and bars. Perfect for those eager to explore New York’s culinary and cultural scene without a long day commitment, this tour appeals especially to curious foodies, history buffs, and nightlife enthusiasts.

The tour starts outside Ben’s Pizza on MacDougal Street, where a friendly guide leads you through a lively, walkable neighborhood. Along the way, you’ll sample slices from renowned pizza joints, learn about the neighborhood’s secret bar history, and enjoy drink deals at local pubs. If you choose, you can continue the night with an optional comedy show for an extra $10. While the tour offers a fantastic mix of food, culture, and nightlife, keep in mind that transportation is not included, and there’s a two-drink minimum for the comedy option, which requires cash.

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Key Points

• Affordable price at $35 for a 3-hour guided tour
• Includes pizza tastings at famous New York pizzerias
• Explores hidden speakeasies and bars of Greenwich Village
• Optional comedy show available for $10, with a two-drink minimum
• Happy hour deals at local bars include $5 beers and $6 margaritas
• Meeting point outside Ben’s Pizza on Mac Dougal Street

Meeting Point Outside Ben’s Pizza on Mac Dougal Street

The tour begins outside Ben’s Pizza, a well-known spot on MacDougal Street, famous for its classic New York slices. The guide is there to welcome the group and provide an overview of the upcoming experiences. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, and cash and ID are necessary, especially if participants choose to join the comedy show at the end.

This meeting point is central and easy to find, making it a convenient start for anyone exploring Greenwich Village. The tour typically runs in the evening, providing a vibrant backdrop of the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere as you start your exploration.

Sampling the Iconic Pizza Scene in Greenwich Village

The tour’s first stop is at some of the top pizza joints in the city. These renowned spots serve slices of New York’s best pizza, giving you a taste of the city’s iconic comfort food. Expect to enjoy authentic slices that showcase the city’s legendary pizza craftsmanship, likely featuring thin crust, flavorful toppings, and signature styles unique to each hotel.

This part of the tour is a highlight for pizza lovers, offering a quick yet satisfying introduction to New York’s pizza culture. The guide explains what makes each pizzeria special, enriching the tasting experience with local insights. Since the stops are at famous pizza spots, the slices are generous, and the atmosphere is lively. Note that the tour covers multiple locations in a relatively short time, so packing comfortable shoes is advised.

Uncovering the Secrets of Greenwich Village’s Hidden Speakeasies

After satisfying the pizza cravings, the tour shifts focus to the neighborhood’s hidden bars and speakeasies. Greenwich Village is known for its secretive nightlife venues, many of which once operated during Prohibition. The guide points out some of the best-kept secrets that serve up excellent cocktails and drinks.

Guests learn about the history behind these clandestine spots, many of which remain accessible only through discreet entrances or special knowledge. These bars offer a chance to experience authentic New York nightlife in a setting that feels both historic and exclusive. Many of the bars serve top-quality drinks, making the experience enjoyable for cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

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Enjoying Happy Hour Deals at Local Bars

The tour includes access to some of Greenwich Village’s most popular bars, where happy hour deals are available. Visitors can take advantage of $5 beers or $6 margaritas, adding value to the experience. If the tour happens on a Wednesday, guests might even enjoy 50% off drinks at the last stop, making it a cost-effective way to indulge in local nightlife.

These bars are lively but not overly crowded, allowing for relaxed conversations and camaraderie among participants. The combination of history, drinks, and atmosphere makes this part of the tour a favorite for many.

Optional Comedy Show at the End of the Night

For those wanting to keep the evening lively, an optional comedy show is available at the end of the tour. Priced at $10 per person (cash only), the show lasts about 1.5 hours and requires a two-drink minimum. The comedy venues are in close proximity to the bars visited during the tour, offering a seamless transition from drinking to entertainment.

While the comedy show is optional, many find it a fun way to cap off the evening. The show typically features talented performers and adds a humorous twist to the neighborhood’s vibrant nightlife scene.

The Atmosphere and Vibe of Greenwich Village at Night

This tour captures the spirit of Greenwich Village after sunset. The neighborhood’s cafes, bars, and historic streets come alive with energy. The guide provides commentary on the neighborhood’s cultural significance, helping guests appreciate the area’s artistic and rebellious roots.

The combination of food, drinks, and storytelling creates an engaging atmosphere suitable for both casual explorers and more dedicated nightlife fans. The tour’s pacing ensures you see enough without feeling rushed, allowing for spontaneous moments at each stop.

Practical Tips for Participants

Participants should bring comfortable shoes for walking, as the tour involves a fair amount of strolling through Greenwich Village. Cash is necessary, especially to pay for the comedy show and drinks during happy hour, which often require cash payments. ID cards are also needed, as speakeasies and bars have a 21+ age restriction.

While this tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals under 21, it offers a relaxed yet lively way to explore the area’s food and drink scene. Arriving promptly at Ben’s Pizza ensures a smooth start, and dressing comfortably helps maximize enjoyment during the walk.

Comparing This Tour to Other NYC Experiences

This tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Greenwich Village’s culinary and nightlife scenes at a competitive price. Unlike many sightseeing tickets that focus solely on attractions, this experience combines food, history, and drinks in one package.

While other NYC activities like observation decks or museum visits might require higher budgets or longer time commitments, this 3-hour tour offers a quick yet immersive taste of the neighborhood’s culture. The option to continue with the comedy show adds an extra layer of entertainment, making it flexible for different preferences.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this experience apart is the blend of pizza tasting, hidden bar exploration, and optional comedy — all within a compact 3-hour window. It’s an ideal choice for visitors who want an authentic, local feel without spending an entire day. The affordable price combined with happy hour deals makes this a cost-effective way to get a snapshot of Greenwich Village’s lively scene.

The guide’s local knowledge and the chance to discover secret bars add an exclusive touch that many standard tours lack. It’s particularly suited for those interested in the neighborhood’s history, food, and nightlife.

The Sum Up: A Fun, Flavorful, and Cultural Snapshot of Greenwich Village

This Pizza, Speakeasies, and Bars Tour offers a dynamic way to experience Greenwich Village in a short timeframe. With pizza tastings, visits to hidden bars, and the option to enjoy a comedy show, it balances food, culture, and entertainment perfectly.

While it’s not a comprehensive deep dive into every aspect of the neighborhood, it provides a fun introduction suitable for first-time visitors or locals looking for a quick night out. The affordable price, happy hour deals, and engaging guides make it a solid choice for anyone wanting to see a lively side of New York’s iconic West Village.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
No, speakeasies and bars require 21+ IDs, and the tour involves alcohol-related stops, so it’s not suitable for minors.

What should I bring on the tour?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, cash for drinks and the comedy show, and a photo ID to verify age.

Can I join the comedy show if I don’t want to do the tour?
The comedy show is an optional add-on at the end of the tour, costing $10 (cash only). It’s separate from the main experience, so you can choose to skip it.

How long does the comedy show last?
The comedy performance lasts about 1.5 hours, and guests need to meet the two-drink minimum.

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation to and from the starting point and between stops is not included.

What makes this tour a good value?
The combination of pizza tasting, hidden bar visits, happy hour deals, and an optional comedy show for just $35 makes it a cost-effective way to explore Greenwich Village’s nightlife and food scene.

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