Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl

Our look at the Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl provides a glimpse into a fun, historical way to explore one of NYC’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Promising visits to historic speakeasies, secret bars, and stories of gangsters and wild parties, this tour aims to transport you back to the Roaring Twenties. It’s designed for those curious about NYC’s clandestine drinking past and eager to experience the neighborhood’s lively nightlife in a themed way.

One thing we love about this tour is its focus on authentic venues like the legendary Back Room, which retains its 1920s charm, and the modern-hidden Fig. 19, accessed with a secret password. The inclusion of a complimentary glass of Champagne adds a touch of elegance to the adventure. However, a notable drawback is the mixed reviews regarding organization, with reports of no guide showing up at the scheduled time, which could put a damper on your plans.

This experience suits travelers interested in history, hidden bars, and unique NYC stories. It’s a good pick for those wanting an overview of the neighborhood’s gangster past with some fun bar hopping, especially if your expectations are flexible and you’re comfortable with small group sizes.

Key Points

• Historical immersion with visits to original 1920s speakeasies and modern hidden bars.
• Authentic venues like the Back Room and Attaboy enhance the experience.
• Storytelling about gangsters and Prohibition-era parties adds context and entertainment.
• Potential issues with tour organization, including the possibility of no guide presence.
• Price point offers access to unique venues and a glass of Champagne for $74.
• Duration and pace of 2.5 hours make it a quick but interesting glimpse into NYC’s past.

An In-Depth Look at the Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl

Introducing the Experience

This tour promises a half-day journey into the Prohibition era of Manhattan’s Lower East Side, with visits to original speakeasies, secret bars, and stories of gangsters that ruled the scene. While it’s marketed as a lively, historical pub crawl, reviews suggest that there’s a chance of organization hiccups—most notably, one reviewer mentioned waiting for an hour with no tour guide in sight. That’s an important consideration for anyone thinking about booking.

What we do like about this experience is its focus on both historic authenticity and modern bar culture. The mix of seeing a genuine speakeasy behind a pawnshop, enjoying a classic cocktail, and hearing stories about notorious gangsters makes it an engaging way to learn and indulge. Plus, the inclusion of a complimentary glass of Champagne adds a special touch.

A key thing to remember is that this tour is suited best for history buffs and fans of secret bars, but it’s not a full-fledged guided tour—more of a bar hop with some storytelling. If you’re expecting a meticulously organized experience with guides narrating every step, you might want to read the reviews carefully.

Why You Might Love It

The stops at iconic venues like the Back Room, a true 1920s speakeasy, and Attaboy, crowned the best bar in the world in 2017, are definite highlights. These spots are authentic and steeped in history, giving you a real sense of what drinking during Prohibition might have been like. The secret entrance at Fig. 19, behind an art gallery, adds an element of fun and intrigue.

What’s Not So Great

But, with reviews indicating some logistical issues—such as no guide being present at the start—this tour’s value depends heavily on how well it’s organized that day. The tour’s price of $74 is reasonable given the venues and included Champagne, but if the guide isn’t there, that could diminish the experience significantly.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Lower East Side:
This is an ideal introduction to the neighborhood’s gangster history and key hot spots. You’ll learn about the notorious figures who once ruled this area and see where people historically went to drink and party. The tour includes a peek at the famous market where streetcars entered during the 1930s, adding a visual element to the neighborhood’s past.

Tenement Museum:
A quick 10-minute visit offers a taste of what tenement life was like for immigrants in the 19th century. While the museum isn’t included in the ticket price, it’s a worthwhile stop for context about the area’s cultural history.

Attaboy:
Known as the best bar in the world (2017), it’s a must-see for cocktail lovers. The staff’s craftsmanship and nostalgic atmosphere make it worth a quick stop, even if just for a drink or two.

The Back Room:
Step into a true Prohibition-era speakeasy. This venue’s history is palpable, and you’ll learn about how patrons gained entry, often through secret passwords or hidden doors. It’s a tangible link to the past.

Fig. 19:
A hidden gem behind an art gallery. You need a secret password to get in, which adds to the allure of the experience. This is the kind of place you’d stumble upon if you knew where to look—perfect for those craving mystery and exclusivity.

Practical Details: What It Means for You

The experience lasts roughly 2.5 hours, which means you can expect a brisk but enjoyable pace. The tour starts at 7:00 pm at Pitt Street, within walking distance of public transportation, making it accessible.

Group size is limited to 15 travelers, fostering a more intimate environment—ideal if you want to meet fellow history buffs or casual travelers. The dress code is smart casual, so dressing up a little adds to the vibe.

Given the unknowns about guide presence, it’s advisable to arrive early and be prepared for the possibility of a self-guided experience. The tour’s emphasis on venue visits and storytelling means you’ll want to pay attention to the history and take your time at each stop.

What Reviews Reveal

One reviewer, Patrick S., had a pretty negative experience, noting that “no one turned up to take the tour,” making it a complete waste of time. This highlights the importance of checking recent reviews or confirming arrangements before booking. On the other hand, some travelers appreciated the value for money and the chance to visit iconic, historic bars with knowledgeable staff.

Costs and Value

At $74 per person, the tour offers a compelling mix of historic venue visits, storytelling, and a complimentary glass of Champagne. For fans of NYC history and speakeasy culture, this price could be justified, especially if the venues are as authentic as promised. However, the value can be compromised if the tour isn’t well-organized or if no guide is present.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers looking for a fun, themed way to explore the Lower East Side. If you love discovering hidden spots with a dash of storytelling, it will likely appeal to you. The inclusion of premium venues like Attaboy and the Back Room makes it a worthwhile adventure for cocktail lovers too.

However, travelers who prefer highly structured, guided tours with guaranteed narration might find this experience lacking, especially if organizational issues occur. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with small group settings and potential surprises along the way.

Final Thoughts

The Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl offers a playful glimpse into New York’s past, especially if you’re eager to visit iconic speakeasies and hear stories of gangsters and bootlegging. The combination of historic venues and secret bars provides an engaging way to spend an evening, particularly if the tour runs smoothly.

While the experience is billed as a lively, informative journey, recent reviews suggest that organization can be hit or miss. If you’re flexible, open-minded, and eager to enjoy NYC’s clandestine drinking history, you’ll find plenty to like here. Just be sure to confirm arrangements beforehand and arrive early to avoid disappointment.

This tour is best suited for those who want a light-hearted, culturally rich experience rather than a rigorous guided tour. It’s a good value for the venues you visit, especially with the added bonus of a Champagne toast. But if you’re after a more certainty-driven experience, consider other options or read recent reviews carefully.

FAQ

Is this tour guided or self-guided?
It’s intended to be guided, with a tour guide leading the stops. However, some reviews mention that no guide showed up, so organization can vary.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, making it a quick yet immersive experience.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 135 Pitt St, New York, NY 10002, close to public transportation.

What’s included in the price?
You get visits to historic venues, a glass of Champagne, and bottled water. Drinks and food are available for purchase at the venues.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, drinks are not included but can be bought during the stops.

What’s the dress code?
Smart casual is recommended to match the vibe of the venues.

Can I participate in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

How many people are on each tour?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s designed for adults who enjoy history and nightlife.

What should I know before booking?
Check recent reviews and confirm whether the guide will be present. Arrive early to ensure you don’t miss the start.

In summary, the Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl offers a lively, historically flavored night out in NYC’s famed neighborhood. While it excels at visiting iconic venues and sharing stories of the Prohibition era, potential organizational issues mean it’s best for flexible travelers who are prepared for surprises. For those craving an authentic, fun way to explore NYC’s hidden drinking history, it’s worth considering—just keep expectations realistic.