The NYC Speakeasy Adventure: A Tipsy Trip Through History

Discover the Hidden World of NYC Speakeasies for Just $30

The NYC Speakeasy Adventure offers a captivating 3-hour journey through the city’s clandestine bar scene, all for only $30 per person. This tour takes participants to three historic secret speakeasies located in Midtown Manhattan, Hell’s Kitchen, and the Theatre District. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, the experience combines entertainment, history, and socializing, making it a perfect choice for anyone interested in NYC’s Prohibition era. The tour includes express entry to each venue, which means you skip long lines and gain preferred treatment—an especially valued feature in busy NYC nightlife.

While the tour does not include drinks or food, guests have the option to purchase beverages priced between $18 and $28 at each stop. The tour is best suited for those 21 and older with a smart, classy attire, and it’s not wheelchair accessible. With rave reviews praising the guides’ storytelling and the unique venues, this tour promises an engaging, friendly, and informative experience, ideal for history buffs and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

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Key Points

• Affordable price at just $30 for a 3-hour adventure
• Visit 3 historic speakeasies in Midtown Manhattan, Hell’s Kitchen, and the Theatre District
• Skip lines with express entry and enjoy preferred treatment at each bar
• Learn about Prohibition and NYC’s immigrant past through captivating stories
• Flexible booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Suitable for guests 21+ with elegant attire, not wheelchair accessible

Starting Point Outside One Worldwide Plaza

The tour begins outside the business entrance to One Worldwide Plaza on 8th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets. The meeting spot is easy to locate, with the Carnegie Diner across the street and a bike rack on the curb. This lineup makes the start straightforward, and the guide leads the group on a 1.5-mile walk through prominent parts of Midtown Manhattan. Arriving on time ensures you begin the adventure smoothly, and the location’s central setting makes it convenient for most travelers.

Exploring Midtown Manhattan’s Secret Bar Scene

The first stop on this tipsy journey immerses guests in the historic ambiance of Midtown Manhattan’s clandestine bars. These venues are carefully chosen for their authentic Prohibition-era vibe and fascinating backstories. Expect to step into atmospheres that have preserved the secrecy and charm of a bygone era, with hidden doors and vintage decor that evoke the 1920s and 1930s.

Each bar features quaint lighting and period-appropriate furnishings, creating an ambiance that transports visitors back in time. The venues are known for great cocktails and fabulous vibes, but as drinks are not included, guests can decide whether to indulge in a beverage at their own expense. The guide shares stories about the immigrant past of NYC and the Prohibition laws that shaped this clandestine drinking culture.

Follow the Guide Through Hell’s Kitchen and the Theatre District

The second and third stops take the group further into Hell’s Kitchen and the Theatre District, areas steeped in history and character. These venues are distinguished by their distinct personalities — one might be more intimate and cozy, another more glamorous and lively. The guide’s storytelling enhances each visit, revealing lesser-known facts about the bars’ origins and their role in NYC’s social fabric.

Guests enjoy priority access to each venue, avoiding long lines, and benefit from the hosts’ expertise and engaging narration. The bars’ unique atmospheres and fabulous cocktails make for memorable stops that stand out compared to typical nightlife options. The tour ensures participants have ample time to socialize and soak up the 1950s nostalgia and immigrant stories intertwined with NYC’s history.

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The Guide’s Engaging and Knowledgeable Style

The success of this tour hinges on the guide’s storytelling skills. Guides like Katherine and Rory receive high praise for their engaging, informative narratives and friendly demeanors. They make the history of Prohibition accessible and entertaining, peppering their tales with humor and local insights. Their ability to blend history and culture keeps the group captivated during the 1.5-mile walk and at each venue.

Guests appreciate the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere created by the guides, making it easier to socialize and ask questions. The guides’ deep knowledge of NYC’s immigrant past and the Prohibition era helps bring the venues’ stories alive, enriching the overall experience.

The Unique Venues and Atmospheres of the Bars

Each of the three secret speakeasies offers something distinct. Expect great cocktails crafted with attention to detail, and an ambiance that reflects the hidden nature of the bars. The venues’ vintage decor and authentic music contribute to an immersive environment. While specific drink options are not detailed, prices range from $18 to $28, giving guests flexibility to indulge if they wish.

The bars are praised for their fabulous vibes, fascinating history, and culture of secrecy. These venues are not just places to drink; they are portals to NYC’s past, offering a glimpse into the prohibition underground that still lingers today.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The 3-hour tour usually takes place in the evening, fitting well into a night out in NYC. The meeting point is outside One Worldwide Plaza, ensuring easy access and clear instructions. The tour includes skip-the-line security, so guests spend more time enjoying the venues and less time waiting.

Guests should bring passport or driver’s license for verification, and wear comfortable shoes for the 1.5-mile walk through Manhattan. The tour is designed for travelers 21 and over, with classy attire recommended to match the sophisticated vibe of the venues. Unfortunately, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Book with Confidence and Flexibility

Guests can reserve their spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans. Payment is made later, ensuring convenience and peace of mind. The live English-speaking guides make the experience accessible and engaging for most visitors.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This tipsy journey through NYC’s Prohibition history appeals most to history enthusiasts, cocktail lovers, and fans of hidden venues. The tour’s affordable price and preferential entry make it a great value, especially for those eager to explore NYC’s lesser-known bars and stories. It’s ideal for adults 21+ who enjoy social outings with a historical twist, and those looking for an evening activity that combines education with entertainment.

The Sum Up: A Fun, Informative Night in NYC’s Historic Bars

The NYC Speakeasy Adventure provides a well-rounded experience of three historic, secret bars with engaging storytelling and priority access. The 3-hour tour offers good value for $30, especially given the quality of venues and guides. Guests benefit from skip-the-line entry and the chance to learn about Prohibition and NYC’s immigrant past in a lively and friendly setting.

While drinks are not included, the fabulous atmospheres, great cocktails on offer, and dynamic guides make this a memorable night out. This tour suits history lovers, social butterflies, and adventurous visitors looking to experience a less conventional side of NYC’s nightlife. The limited physical accessibility is a consideration, but for most, the immersive stories and hidden venues make it a highly recommended option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for someone under 21?
No, guests must be 21 and older with classy attire to participate.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included but can be purchased at each venue, with prices between $18 and $28.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for 3 hours, typically in the evening.

Where does the tour start?
It starts outside the business entrance to One Worldwide Plaza on 8th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it is not wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

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