Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour

This engaging 3.5-hour tour offers a fascinating look at Providence’s unique relationship with alcohol during Prohibition. For $100 per person, you’ll walk through the city’s historic streets, taste local beers and spirits, and hear stories about bootleggers, undercover agents, and the city’s resistance to Prohibition laws. The experience is led by an expert guide and takes you through some of Providence’s most notable spots, making it an ideal way for history buffs and beverage lovers alike to enjoy Rhode Island’s clandestine drinking culture.

What caught our attention is how this tour combines tasting local libations with rich storytelling—it’s like a curated history lesson served with a side of craft drinks. But, keep in mind, it’s a walking tour that involves multiple stops, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since the tour involves alcohol, it’s best suited for those of legal drinking age and who enjoy a lively, storytelling approach to history. If you’re curious about the city’s defiant spirit and love good drinks, this tour could be a highlight of your Providence visit.

Key Points

• Historic storytelling meets tasting: Learn about Rhode Island’s resistance to Prohibition while sipping local beers and spirits.
• Walking through Providence: The tour covers about 1.2 miles across several historic spots, making it both informative and physically engaging.
• Authentic local libations: Enjoy beverages from Providence’s own breweries and distilleries, highlighting the city’s Old World drinking traditions.
• Insight into Prohibition characters: Discover the stories of bootleggers, undercover agents, and the coalition that defied federal laws.
• Family-friendly and accessible: The tour is wheelchair accessible, and all participants must be of legal drinking age.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off from the lobby of Hotel Providence, a central and convenient meeting point. It lasts about 3.5 hours, a balance of engaging storytelling and leisurely tastings. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes since the route covers approximately 1.2 miles—walking between stops, enjoying the city’s historic ambiance, and sampling drinks.

What’s Included

For $100, the tour offers a surprising amount of value: five curated tasting stops, a variety of local beers and spirits, some snacks to complement the drinks, and an expert guide who breathes life into Providence’s Prohibition past. You’ll also get captivating narratives about the city’s defiance against federal laws, the liquor loopholes exploited, and the infamous bootleggers and undercover agents that made Providence’s Prohibition era so colorful.

The Stops and Their Significance

You’ll visit a handful of well-chosen local venues, such as Malted Barley, Eno Fine Wines, Rouge Island Local Kitchen & Bar, Moonshine Alley, and Plant City. Each venue offers a different perspective, whether it’s showcasing Providence’s craft brewing scene or its historic connection to spirits production.

• Malted Barley: A craft beer hotspot, where you’ll sample local brews that tie into Providence’s brewing traditions.
• Eno Fine Wines: Here, you can learn about Rhode Island’s wine culture and possibly try some intriguing selections.
• Rouge Island Local Kitchen & Bar: Known for its connection to local ingredients and authentic flavors, this stop emphasizes the city’s Old World drinking roots.
• Moonshine Alley & Plant City: These venues highlight Providence’s underground, rebellious spirit, with stories of bootleggers and secret speakeasies.

The Narrative and Historical Insights

The stories you’ll hear are lively and well-researched. You’ll learn that Rhode Island was one of the few states that never ratified the 18th Amendment, meaning Prohibition technically never officially took hold here. This nuance is fascinating and adds depth to the tour—Providence’s residents found ways to keep their old drinking habits alive despite federal restrictions.

The guide, provided by Providence Tour Company, is praised for captivating storytelling—one reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide brought the history to life with humor and detail.” The narrative weaves tales of zealous coalitions, liquor loopholes, and infamous bootleggers who operated in the shadows. You’ll also hear about the daring undercover agents and corrupt officials that kept the city’s underground booze trade thriving.

The Drinking Experience

The focus on local libations is one of the tour’s highlights. Participants often comment on the high quality of the beverages, especially the local beers, which showcase Providence’s brewing ingenuity. An essential aspect is the excellent wine selection—a detail that stood out for many, offering a taste of Rhode Island’s sophisticated palate.

Several reviews expressed a desire for more clandestine speakeasy stops, noting that “We would have liked to go to some speakeasy bars.” While this isn’t a speakeasy crawl per se, the venues visited evoke that secretive, rebellious atmosphere, making the experience feel immersive.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Price and Value: At $100, the tour offers a comprehensive look into Providence’s Prohibition era with enough tastings and stories to justify the cost, especially compared to the cost of drinks on your own.
• Timing and Flexibility: Check the schedule for available start times, as it’s a flexible option for a late morning or afternoon activity.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the group size remains manageable, ensuring personalized attention.
• Weather: Since it’s an outdoor-focused walk, dress appropriately for the forecast, and bring water to stay hydrated.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re intrigued by American history, specifically Prohibition, or if you love discovering local craft drinks. It’s suited for adults of legal drinking age who appreciate storytelling and city exploration. The inclusion of local beers and spirits makes it especially appealing to those who enjoy tasting their way through a city’s past and present. It’s not just a drinking tour but a cultural journey into Providence’s spirited defiance.

Travelers who prefer private or more speakeasy-style adventures might find this tour slightly more conventional, but the educational component enhances its value. It’s ideal for those who like a relaxed pace, meaningful stories, and a taste of Providence’s rebellious side.

The Sum Up

This Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and craft drinks. For just $100, you get five tastings, engaging storytelling, and a chance to explore Providence’s unique stance during Prohibition—a period when the city’s Old World drinking traditions refused to die quietly. The tour’s focus on local libations and fascinating characters makes it a standout experience for those curious about the city’s underground drinking culture and history.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a wine or beer lover, or simply looking for a fun way to see Providence, this tour delivers a memorable glimpse into a rebellious chapter of American history. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy stories laced with humor, authentic local flavors, and a leisurely walk through charming streets.

FAQ

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, you’ll need to make your way to the lobby of Hotel Providence on your own. The tour begins there and ends back at the same location.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the route covers about 1.2 miles. Dress weather-appropriate, and consider bringing water to stay hydrated.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, participants must be of legal drinking age, so this tour isn’t suitable for minors or pregnant women.

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

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers five tastings of local beers and spirits, snacks, an expert guide, and captivating stories about Providence’s Prohibition history.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

This tour offers a compelling way to explore Providence’s defiant spirit and enjoy some of Rhode Island’s best local drinks—all wrapped into an entertaining, educational walk. It promises an authentic encounter with the city’s unique alcohol history, making it a worthwhile addition to your Providence itinerary.