Nashville’s Speakeasy Secrets: Murder and True Crime Bar Crawl

Planning a visit to Nashville and craving something beyond the usual country tunes and vibrant nightlife? This Nashville Speakeasy Secrets: Murder and True Crime Bar Crawl offers a fresh perspective — a chance to explore the city’s secretive past and shadowy stories from the Prohibition era, all while visiting historic bars and speakeasies. Far from a typical pub crawl, this experience combines history, storytelling, and a dash of thrill in about two hours of guided fun.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour is how it transforms Nashville’s nightlife into a narrative journey. First, the expert guide’s storytelling expertise brings the city’s darker tales vividly to life. Second, the visit to multiple iconic and hidden venues in such a short time makes it both efficient and immersive. Yet, a potential consideration is that alcohol isn’t included in the base price, which means additional costs depending on your drink choices — something to keep in mind if you’re budget-conscious. This tour is ideal for history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a memorable, story-rich night out with a bit of edge.

Who will love this? If you enjoy tales of gangsters, murder mysteries, or historic bars with a story to tell, this tour offers a compelling way to see Nashville from a different angle. It’s perfect for small groups seeking a blend of entertainment and education, and for visitors curious about the city’s less-glamorous, more stories-than-songs side.

Key Points

• A 2-hour guided bar crawl exploring Nashville’s Prohibition-era secrets and dark stories.
• Visit iconic historic venues, including Printer’s Alley, Nashville Barrel Company, and The Ariston.
• Guided by knowledgeable storytellers with expertise in Prohibition history and cocktails.
• No need to navigate or follow a map; your guide handles all logistics.
• Cost is $49.95 per person, excluding drinks, which allows flexibility in spending.
• Reviewers praise the guides’ storytelling and the tour’s engaging, authentic vibe.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This experience is designed to give you a glimpse into Nashville’s clandestine past, a side of the city many visitors overlook. Instead of the usual honky-tonks, you’ll step into historic bars that have survived decades of change, each with stories of gangsters, murder, and mayhem. The guide’s role is central — their depth of knowledge makes the stories come alive, making history accessible and entertaining.

The tour’s itinerary is well-curated to maximize storytelling without feeling rushed. You start in Printer’s Alley, Nashville’s hub for illegal nightlife during Prohibition, then move on to a whiskey distillery where you might even get a chance to learn about Tennessee’s whiskey craftsmanship, and finish in a private lounge with a curated selection of cigars, beers, and wines. Each stop is designed to give a different flavor of Nashville’s hidden history.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Printer’s Alley

This alley alone is worth the tour. Known historically as the heart of Nashville’s underground nightlife, Printer’s Alley was a hotbed for bootlegging and speakeasies during Prohibition. Today, it retains a mystique that captures the imagination. Expect stories of illicit activities, mobsters, and perhaps a few ghostly tales from the past. The guide will fill you in on why this alley is a must-see for crime and history buffs alike.

Reviewers note: Elizabeth_N found her guide Shayla “great,” appreciating the vivid stories about Nashville’s past. The alley offers a sense of stepping into a different time, with an authentic feel that’s hard to replicate.

Stop 2: Nashville Barrel Company Downtown Whiskey Distillery

Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes peek into Tennessee’s renowned whiskey scene. The highlight is the chance to “thief your own whiskey,” which sounds like a fun, interactive experience. This stop combines history, craftsmanship, and a bit of fun — a chance to understand why Tennessee is famous for its bourbon and how it ties into Nashville’s own history of secret bars and illicit spirits.

Review highlight: Kerry_N mentioned the importance of reading instructions carefully at this stop and recommended comfy shoes — not a bad tip since you’ll be on your feet exploring.

Stop 3: The Ariston

Concluding your tour in style, The Ariston offers a VIP vibe. This private second-story lounge, sponsored by Byron Cigars, feels like an exclusive club. Depending on your preferences, the lounge can be stocked with cigars, beers, wines, or specialty cocktails. It’s a fitting end to an evening of dark tales and clandestine stories, with a relaxed atmosphere to unwind and reflect on what you’ve learned.

Review highlights: Multiple reviewers praised the guide Jasmine, calling her “great” and saying they had the “best time.” It’s clear that the personalized touch and storytelling skills greatly enhance the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $49.95, you get the 2-hour murder and true crime crawl with an expert guide. The guide’s knowledge about prohibition, gangsters, and Nashville’s hidden history is a major plus, making the experience informative as well as entertaining. You’ll also learn about local drinks to try, although alcoholic beverages are not included — so be prepared for additional costs if you wish to buy drinks at each stop.

The VIP upgrade, available at checkout, promises an added layer of exclusivity — escort to a secret location and a password for entry, perfect if you want a taste of Nashville’s secret side.

Note: Gratuities are not included, so consider tipping your guide if you enjoy the experience.

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.
• Group size: Up to 100 travelers, but real reviews suggest smaller groups, which tend to be more engaging.
• Meeting point: 209 Printers Alley, close to public transit options.
• Age restrictions: Must be 21+ to purchase alcohol.
• Accessibility: While most travelers can participate, it’s wise to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for walking and standing.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ideal for spontaneous plans or weather concerns, though the experience relies on good weather.

Authentic Voices from Reviewers

Many participants highlight how guides elevate the experience. Kerry_N noted that “Tour guide Matt was great,” while others praised Jasmine and Ryan for their energy and storytelling. Elizabeth_N summed her experience up as “a fun experience,” capturing the essence of what this tour offers: a lively, engaging glimpse into Nashville’s darker legends.

Some mention the importance of punctuality and dress code, ensuring that the experience runs smoothly and feels special. Overall, reviews suggest that this is a hit for anyone who appreciates storytelling, history, and a little thrill.

Final Thoughts: Who’s This Tour Perfect For?

This bar crawl offers more than just a night out — it’s a chance to connect with Nashville’s secretive, sometimes sinister past. It’s best suited for history aficionados, true crime fans, and curious travelers who enjoy stories with a bit of edge. If you’re looking for a lively, educational experience that’s different from the usual Nashville fare, this tour hits the mark.

While the cost is modest for what you receive — a guided, story-driven adventure — be prepared to spend on drinks if you want to fully participate. The group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a safe, social, and engaging way to spend part of an evening.

In short, if you’re after an authentic, story-rich look at Nashville’s underbelly, this tour offers excellent value and plenty of memorable moments. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, you’ll leave with a new perspective on the city’s often-overlooked past.

FAQ — Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, because alcohol consumption is restricted to those 21 and over, and the stories involve mature themes.

How long is each stop?
Each stop lasts about 30 minutes, allowing enough time for stories, exploration, and maybe a drink or two.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included in the base price. You’ll have the option to purchase drinks at each venue.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at 209 Printers Alley, Nashville, making it easy to find and close to public transit.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. This offers flexibility if weather or schedules change.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
While most travelers can participate, accessibility isn’t specifically detailed — it’s best to contact the provider if you have special needs.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation between venues is part of the tour’s walking component and guide navigation. You won’t need to arrange separate transport.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 100 travelers, but reviews indicate a more intimate, engaging experience is likely with smaller groups.

In all, this Nashville speakeasy bar crawl offers an engaging, story-driven glimpse into the city’s clandestine past. It’s a well-paced, entertaining, and informative experience perfect for those with a curiosity for Nashville’s darker, lesser-known stories.