Savannah: American Prohibition Museum Ticket

Explore the American Prohibition Museum in Savannah for $18

The American Prohibition Museum in Savannah offers a fascinating look into the tumultuous era of Prohibition with a ticket price of just $18 per person. This 1-hour to 80-minute attraction is located in Georgia, right next to Ellis Square in the vibrant City Market area. Its focus on immersive exhibits and a genuine speakeasy setup makes it an appealing option for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone interested in the colorful stories of the 1920s.

While the museum covers more than 200 years of American alcohol regulation history, it also delivers lively activities such as craft cocktails, moonshine making, and 1920s dance. The tour is especially praised for knowledgeable guides, engaging displays, and the chance to see authentic period pieces like a Model T touring car. For a reasonable price, this tour balances education and entertainment, though it’s worth noting that the speakeasy service is not available on Sundays.

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Key Points

• Affordable entry at $18, with options for guided tours and cocktail experiences
• Location in Savannah’s City Market, easily accessible and near Ellis Square
• Duration ranges from 1 hour to 80 minutes, fitting into a busy schedule
• Includes immersive exhibits, a real speakeasy, and interactive activities
• Guided tours feature expert guides and cocktail-making sessions
• Age restrictions apply for the speakeasy, and ID is required for alcohol service

The Only Museum in the U.S. Dedicated to Prohibition

The American Prohibition Museum is unique as the first and only museum in the United States focused solely on the history of Prohibition. It vividly recreates the early 1900s, a period marked by anti-alcohol rallies, temperance movements, and national debates over alcohol legality. The setting brings to life the passing of the 18th Amendment, its profound impact, and the long-lasting effects on American society.

Visitors encounter state-of-the-art displays like a recreated 1918 street scene and an immersive tent revival featuring a fire-and-brimstone preacher. The exhibits also include Hatchetations by Carry Nation and a demolished bar, offering a vivid look at the clashes and controversies of the era. These engaging visuals make the history approachable and lively.

Highlights of the Exhibits and Displays

This museum features more than just static displays. It offers interactive dioramas and recreated scenes that ignite curiosity. Visitors will see a dimly lit moonshine scene tucked into the wilderness, illustrating the clandestine nature of illicit alcohol production. The Hatchetations display shows Carry Nation’s signature method of tearing down saloons with her hatchet, which underscores the passionate conflicts surrounding alcohol.

A special tent revival exhibit recreates the fiery ambiance of religious rallies that promoted temperance. The museum also showcases famous figures like Lillian M.N. Stephens and Adolphus Busch, illustrating the heated debates over alcohol’s place in America. These detailed recreations deepen understanding and spark conversations about this pivotal era.

Making Your Own Moonshine and Cocktails

One of the most engaging aspects is the opportunity to learn how to make moonshine while exploring the largest collection of moonshine stills. This hands-on activity, included in certain tour options, offers a practical taste of the clandestine alcohol production that thrived during Prohibition.

Plus, the museum hosts a hidden speakeasy where visitors can enjoy craft cocktails served with a side of history. The speakeasy maintains the authentic atmosphere of the 1920s, with period-appropriate decor and drinks. For those opting for the guided tour with cocktail experience, there is the fun chance to make two cocktails—a lively way to connect with the era’s social scene.

Note: Due to Georgia law, there is no speakeasy service on Sundays, but mocktails are available for all visitors.

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The Authentic 1920s Speakeasy Experience

The speakeasy, located within the museum, stands out as a major highlight. It captures the secretive and lively atmosphere of 1920s underground bars. Visitors receive craft cocktails in a setting that echoes the Prohibition era’s clandestine drinking spots.

The design and ambiance evoke the original speakeasies, with dim lighting and period decor. The cocktail service enhances the experience, especially when combined with a guided tour that explains this hidden part of history. The mocktail options ensure that all ages and those abstaining from alcohol can enjoy the experience.

Learning about Infamous Prohibition Trouble Makers

The museum doesn’t shy away from the sensational stories of notorious figures of the era. Visitors hear about Troublemakers such as Carry Nation, known for her hatchet tactics, and other key personalities involved in the alcohol conflicts of the 1920s. These stories make history engaging and help clarify the heated debates and social upheaval caused by Prohibition.

The exhibits include eyewitness accounts and visual displays about the violent clashes and political struggles that defined this period. It’s a vivid reminder of how deeply alcohol policies affected American culture.

The Classic 1920s Car and Model T Exhibit

A 1921 touring Model T is among the standout artifacts at the museum. Visitors get the chance to see this iconic vehicle, which was a symbol of progress and mobility in the early 20th century. The Model T exhibit emphasizes the technological advances of the era and how cars like this impacted social life and commerce.

This exhibit adds a tangible, visual element to the history and highlights the connection between automotive innovation and the broader changes happening in America during Prohibition.

Location, Accessibility, and Practical Details

The museum’s location is just blocks from Robinson Parking Garage and right next to Ellis Square in Savannah’s City Market district. The site’s central position makes it easy for visitors to combine with other city sights.

The facility is wheelchair accessible, and luggage or large bags are not permitted inside. The museum operates 364 days a year from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last admittance at 4:15 PM. Pets and smoking are not allowed, maintaining the historic ambiance.

Visitors of all ages are welcome, but the speakeasy is restricted to those 21 and older with valid ID. Children aged 3 years and younger enter free, making this a family-friendly option for those with younger children wanting a cultural outing.

Guided Tours and Optional Cocktail Experiences

The guided tour enhances the visit by providing expert storytelling and additional insights into the exhibits. Guides like Alex, Emi, or Tierney are praised for their knowledgeable, engaging delivery.

For those seeking a more interactive experience, the guided tour with cocktail making includes preparing two cocktails in the speakeasy. This hands-on activity offers a fun way to connect with the era’s social customs. Participants must be 21 or over to consume alcohol but can enjoy mocktails if preferred.

Cost, Cancellation Policy, and Booking Flexibility

The standard admission fee is $18, which covers museum entry, with options to reserve and pay later for greater flexibility. Free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that plans can change without penalty.

Visitors can reserve now and pay later, making it easy to plan around their travel schedule. The museum is open 364 days, excluding St. Patrick’s Day.

Final Thoughts on the Savannah Prohibition Experience

The American Prohibition Museum in Savannah offers an engaging look into a complex and pivotal period in American history. Its combination of interactive exhibits, authentic period artifacts, and a speakeasy creates a lively and educational experience.

The guided tours and cocktail-making sessions are especially valued, providing a deeper understanding and fun activity that appeals to adults. The price of $18 makes it accessible, although the lack of speakeasy service on Sundays is a consideration for weekend visitors.

This museum is an excellent choice for anyone interested in history, prohibition, or cocktail culture. Its central Savannah location and accessible design make it a convenient and worthwhile stop for a memorable journey into the 1920s.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the American Prohibition Museum suitable for children?
Children aged 3 years and younger receive free admission, but the speakeasy area is only accessible to adults 21 and over with valid ID. The museum itself is open to all ages during operating hours.

Can I make cocktails during my visit?
Yes, if you choose the guided tour with cocktail experience, you will make two cocktails in the speakeasy. Without this option, you can still enjoy craft cocktails or mocktails available for purchase.

How accessible is the museum?
The museum is wheelchair accessible and located near parking facilities like Robinson Parking Garage. Large bags or luggage are not permitted inside.

When is the museum open?
The museum operates almost every day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission at 4:15 PM. It is closed only on St. Patrick’s Day.

What is included in the ticket price?
The $18 ticket includes museum entrance fees. Guided tours and drinks are optional add-ons, with cocktail or mocktail options available depending on the chosen package.

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