Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour

If you love history mixed with a bit of fun and plenty of local flavor, then the Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour might just be your next memorable outing. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-crafted experience that combines tasty local libations with stories about a time when Providence refused to fully surrender to Prohibition.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances educational storytelling with delicious tastings — perfect for those who enjoy learning about a city’s hidden past while sampling its contemporary craft beverages. Another plus? It’s a manageable length of just under four hours, making it accessible even on a busy afternoon. That said, one consideration is that it’s designed for those 21 and over, so it’s not suitable for families or travelers with younger companions.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, craft beverage enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to explore Providence’s vibrant food and drink scene through a lens of its spirited history.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling about Providence’s unique approach to Prohibition
• Multiple tasting stops featuring local beers, spirits, and cocktails
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Visiting notable venues with friendly, accommodating staff
• Educational yet relaxed pace ideal for a leisurely afternoon
• Perfect for adults who enjoy history, food, and drinks

Introduction to the Providence Prohibition Tour

This walking tour offers an engaging way to spend almost four hours exploring Providence’s lively drinking culture and its resistance to Prohibition. The experience promises a mix of local history and tastings at some well-chosen venues, making it ideal for anyone interested in how Providence kept its spirited traditions alive despite federal restrictions.

What we love about this tour is its blend of storytelling and sampling. The guide’s knowledge about Providence’s history, especially its resistance to Prohibition, makes the experience both fun and educational. Plus, the carefully curated stops—ranging from a brewery to a moonshine alley—offer a variety of flavors and atmospheres, ensuring there’s something to excite every palate.

A potential drawback? The tour is entirely focused on adults, with alcohol served only to those 21 and up. For travelers looking for a family-friendly activity, this one might not fit. But if you’re after an afternoon of history, good company, and local drinks, it’s hard to beat.

This tour is especially perfect for visitors who enjoy small group experiences and want to discover Providence’s hidden stories beyond the usual sightseeing spots. It’s equally suited for locals curious to learn more about their city’s past or visitors wanting to combine history with a casual tasting adventure.

What You’ll Experience: A Detailed Breakdown

The Malted Barley: Beer and Pretzels

Your journey begins at The Malted Barley, a cozy spot with a reputation for local beers and friendly vibes. Here, you’ll sample a selection of beers brewed right in Rhode Island and enjoy a housemade pretzel—a true nod to Providence’s heritage of hearty, Old World pub fare. This first stop sets the tone with approachable, well-crafted beers and a touch of local flavor.

Guests consistently praise the venue for its welcoming atmosphere. One reviewer called it “a great way to start, with friendly staff and tasty brews,” which truly captures the spirit of this first stop.

Track 15: Coffee and Spirits

Next, the tour moves to Track 15, a venue that combines locally roasted coffee with locally made spirits. Here, you’ll taste an espresso martini crafted with Rhode Island’s own coffee beans and spirits, blending two local specialties into one smooth cocktail. It’s a clever way to highlight Providence’s craft beverage scene.

Expect the guide to share insights into how Providence’s brewing and coffee traditions intertwine with its history of resisting alcohol restrictions. Reviewers mention the “delicious espresso martini” and the “informative commentary,” indicating this stop’s appeal for both taste buds and curiosity.

Moonshine Alley: Bootlegger’s Legacy

Then, the tour ventures into Moonshine Alley, a place that evokes the clandestine spirit of Providence’s bootleggers. Here, you’ll sample two moonshines—small-batch, potent spirits—and enjoy a hot chicken sandwich slider that pairs beautifully with the drinks.

Guests tell us this stop offers “great moonshine tastings” and a chance to learn about Providence’s underground liquor trade. The atmosphere is lively while the guide shares stories of characters who made moonshine during Prohibition, making this a highlight for history lovers.

Plant City: A Fresh Finish

The final tasting stop is at Plant City, a vibrant venue known for its creative cocktails and vegan pizzas. Guests sample a “drink of the day,” which usually is a refreshing cocktail reflecting the season or local ingredients, along with a shared vegan pizza.

Visitors praise the “delicious drinks” and “friendly staff,” and some mention how this relaxed setting allowed ample time to chat and soak in the city’s lively atmosphere. With comfortable seating and a welcoming vibe, it’s a fitting end to the tasting journey.

The Heart of Providence: Prohibition Stories

The tour’s final segment is a two-hour stroll through Providence, where the guide recounts fascinating stories about the city’s resistance to Prohibition, including tales of bootleggers, corrupt officials, and clever loopholes. This part is free of charge and gives a well-rounded context for everything you’ve tasted and seen.

Guests consistently appreciate the depth of knowledge and storytelling ability of the guide, with comments like “the history was fascinating and added a lot to the experience.” It’s a wonderful way to connect all the stops and understand Providence’s unique attitude toward alcohol during the early 20th century.

The Practical Aspects: What to Expect

This tour is priced at $100 per person, which, considering the multiple tastings, expert guidance, and visits to well-rated venues, offers good value. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 45 minutes, making it a leisurely afternoon activity. It’s designed for small groups—up to 20 travelers—ensuring personalized attention and friendly interactions.

Starting at the Hotel Providence at 2:00 pm, the walk covers about a mile over easy terrain, with plenty of stops to sit, sip, and learn. The mobile ticket system makes check-in straightforward, and the tour ends at Plant City, conveniently located near public transportation.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, provided they’re comfortable walking and are of legal drinking age. It’s a group experience, so expect a lively, communal atmosphere that encourages sharing stories and opinions.

Authenticity and Guest Feedback

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Dillon make the tour memorable. One reviewer says, “Dillon was a fantastic guide! The tour was a lot of fun and it was interesting learning about prohibition and its history,” highlighting how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are.

Guests also love the variety of venues and the delicious food and drink offerings, with some calling it a “fun and informative tour” and “a perfect mix of history and flavors.” The stops are described as accommodating and friendly, with venues that foster a relaxed, welcoming vibe.

Several reviewers emphasize the small group size and comfortable pace, making it easy to follow along and ask questions. The overall sentiment is one of satisfaction, with many noting they’d recommend the experience to friends and family.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This walking tour is ideal for adults interested in history with a taste for local craft beverages. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy casual, guided experiences that combine storytelling with tastings, rather than a hectic bar crawl.

It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who appreciate authentic, locally driven experiences. If you’re curious about how Providence’s past shaped its present-day drinking culture, this tour will give you both insights and delicious memories.

However, if you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or don’t drink alcohol, this tour might not be the best fit. Also, remember that all tastings are for guests 21 and over, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

The Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour offers a compelling blend of history, local culture, and craft drinks in an accessible, engaging format. With knowledgeable guides and well-selected venues, it provides a unique window into a city that refused to fully surrender to the federal alcohol ban.

Travelers who enjoy learning something new while enjoying quality local beverages will find plenty to love in this experience. It’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon wandering through Providence’s vibrant neighborhoods, uncovering stories of bootleggers, corrupt officials, and resilient communities—all while savoring some of the best drinks Rhode Island has to offer.

For those seeking a relaxed, informative, and flavorful adventure, this tour delivers on every front. Whether you’re a history buff, a craft beverage lover, or simply curious about Providence’s spirited past, it’s a memorable way to discover the city’s true character.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No. The tour only serves alcoholic drinks to travelers 21 years old and above, making it unsuitable for children or minors.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy tastings and stories without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Hotel Providence at 2:00 pm and ends at Plant City, located at 334 S Water St, Providence.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers alcoholic beverages, snacks, and an expert guide. The tour’s fee is $100 per person.

Is transportation provided?
No. The tour is a walking experience, so travelers should be comfortable strolling about a mile across easy terrain.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are provided if canceled within this window.

Are the venues accessible?
Most stops are accessible via public transportation and are within easy walking distance, but specific accessibility details aren’t provided.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers, ensuring a manageable, intimate atmosphere.

Would I enjoy this tour if I’m not a big drinker?
While the main focus is on tastings, the stories and history make it engaging even for those who prefer minimal alcohol consumption, provided they’re of legal drinking age.

Is advice provided for those with dietary restrictions?
The tour includes snacks and vegan pizza at the last stop, but specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed. It’s best to contact the provider if you have special needs.

Ready to explore Providence’s spirited past? This tour offers a lively, educational, and tasty journey into a city that defied Prohibition with flair and flavor.