NYC: Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour

Thinking about taking a walk through New York City’s more clandestine past? This Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour offers a carefully curated journey into the hidden bars, secretive backrooms, and lively nightlife that thrived during the Prohibition era. Whether you’re a history buff, cocktail enthusiast, or just someone curious about the city’s rebellious spirit, this 3-hour experience promises an engaging mix of stories, sips, and sights.

We love how this tour blends educational storytelling with authentic cocktail tasting, allowing you to connect with NYC’s vibrant past while enjoying some of the city’s finest drinks. Plus, the skip-the-line access at three different venues means you won’t waste time waiting in queues for the fun to begin. That said, it’s worth noting that drinks are purchased separately and can be quite pricey, so budget accordingly—expect cocktails in the $18-$25 range.

This tour is best suited for adults who enjoy history and cocktails and are comfortable walking moderate distances in casual or dressy attire. If you’re looking for a lively, social evening with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this experience checks all those boxes. But if mobility is a concern or you’re travelling with young children, this might not be the best fit.

Key Points

• Historical immersion: Learn about the rise and fall of Prohibition through the stories of iconic bars.
• Skip-the-line access: Visit three different venues without waiting.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable storytellers who enrich the experience.
• Quality cocktails: Premium drinks served by top NYC mixologists.
• Authentic ambiance: Each venue has its own distinct character, from vintage lounges to modern speakeasies.
• Social atmosphere: Meet fellow travelers and enjoy a lively, friendly group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This guided tour offers a well-rounded look at NYC’s Prohibition-era nightlife. Over three hours, you’ll walk through Midtown Manhattan, visiting historic and modern bars that each tell a different part of the story. The walk itself is not strenuous but involves moderate pace walking around the city streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

The meeting point is outside 825 8th Avenue, a recognizable spot with a large American flag and a nearby Carnegie Diner. The tour then snakes through Midtown, a prime location for historic bars with stories that span the city’s turbulent alcohol ban to its post-Prohibition rebirth.

The Itinerary

1. Starting Location:
Meet outside the office building entrance of One Worldwide Plaza on 8th Avenue, between 49th and 50th Streets. The location is easy to find, with a bike rack and a conspicuous American flag.

2. First Stop – An Iconic Historic Bar:
Here, you’ll find yourself in a place that traces its roots back to the gangsters and bootleggers of the 1920s. This venue offers a glimpse into the racy, rebellious spirit of the Gilded Age and the early days of Prohibition. Expect a cozy, vintage vibe that transports you back in time.

3. Second Stop – Catalyst of Prohibition:
This spot is tied to the societal shifts of the era—highlighting the women of the Gilded Age and the social movements that led to the 18th Amendment. The guide shares stories about how these influential women and powerful figures like oil tycoons helped shape the anti-liquor movement. The ambiance here is likely more refined yet still retains that clandestine feel.

4. Final Stop – A Modern Take on a Speakeasy:
This venue is a recent creation but pays homage to the secret bars of the past. You’ll hear about the dramatic end of Prohibition and how NYC nightlife has come roaring back. The atmosphere is lively, with an impressive cocktail menu crafted by some of the city’s best mixologists.

What You’ll Experience

Throughout your walk, your guide will share tales of gangsters, bootleggers, reformers, and social climbers—all intertwined with NYC’s history. The storytelling is engaging and well-researched, ensuring you get more than just a list of bars but a narrative that brings the city’s past alive.

The skip-the-line entry is a major plus, especially in busy areas like Midtown. This means more time savoring your cocktails and less waiting around. Each venue has its own character—some vintage and cozy, others sleek and modern—giving variety to your night.

The Cocktail Component

Once inside each bar, you’ll be served premium cocktails made by some of the best mixologists in New York. While drinks are not included in the tour price, they are a notable part of the experience, with prices ranging roughly from $18 to $25. Reviewers consistently mention the high quality and inventive nature of the drinks, making the expense worth it for many.

Many travelers appreciated the personalized recommendations from guides, who often shared stories about the drinks they served and the history behind certain cocktails. It’s a chance to enjoy expertly crafted drinks in atmospheres that echo the city’s secretive past.

Several reviews mention the value of the tour—offering a mixture of history, social interaction, and good drinks—all wrapped in a manageable three-hour package.

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Guides and Group Atmosphere

Reviewers universally praise the guides for their energy, knowledge, and storytelling skills. Whether it’s Ariel, Katherine, Rori, or Ryan, the guides seem to make the experience lively and engaging. They go beyond just reciting facts, often sharing personal stories or local tips, which helps you feel like you’re on a night out with friends rather than just on a tour.

The groups tend to be small enough to foster a friendly vibe, making it easy to ask questions and chat with fellow travelers. Some mention that the social aspect is a highlight, often extending conversations over drinks even after the tour ends.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

• Duration: 3 hours, walking through Midtown Manhattan with visits to three bars.
• Meeting Point: Outside 825 8th Avenue, on 8th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets.
• Price: Tour costs do not include drinks; budget for cocktails ($18-$25) at each venue.
• Age Restrictions: You must be 21 or older to participate, and valid ID is required.
• Dress Code: Classy attire is recommended, but comfortable shoes are a must.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Language: Guided in English.
• Tip: Bring your ID, and be prepared for some walking and standing.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

When you consider the price of three high-quality cocktails, the guided storytelling, and skipping lines at popular venues, many reviewers agree this tour offers good value. It’s a chance to visit some hidden gems you might never stumble upon alone, all while learning about a pivotal time in NYC’s development.

While drinks are pricey, the overall experience—combining socializing, history, and expertly crafted cocktails—can make it feel like a worthwhile splurge. Plus, guides often go above and beyond by sharing behind-the-scenes stories, personal recommendations, and local insights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history lovers who enjoy a good story with their drinks, as well as fans of the city’s nightlife looking for a more authentic, less touristy experience. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine learning with a fun social activity, and who don’t mind walking moderate distances in stylish attire.

If you’re traveling solo and want to meet like-minded people, many reviews mention how friendly and welcoming the groups tend to be. It’s also a fantastic way for couples or friends to add a memorable, themed night out to their NYC itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You will need to purchase cocktails at each venue, with prices typically ranging from $18 to $25.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins on 8th Avenue, outside the office building entrance of One Worldwide Plaza, between 49th and 50th Streets.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking at a moderate pace and may not be accessible for those with mobility impairments.

Do I need to bring ID?
Yes, a valid photo ID (passport or driver’s license) is required to participate, as you must be 21 or older.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 3 hours, including walking and visits to three different bars.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, participants must be 21 or older, so children are not permitted.

This NYC Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour offers an engaging look at the city’s less-visible past, paired with top-tier cocktails and lively guides. It’s a great way to spend an evening if you enjoy history, socializing, and well-made drinks in atmospheric venues. The combination of educational storytelling, skip-the-line access, and the chance to discover hidden bars makes it a worthwhile addition to any NYC itinerary.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to see the city’s nightlife from a new perspective or a seasoned local interested in a fresh take on NYC’s history, this tour can deliver a memorable night out. Just be prepared for some spending on drinks, and ensure your shoes are comfy enough for a moderate walk. Cheers to uncovering the city’s secret past—one cocktail at a time.

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