NYC: Speakeasy Drinks Tour & Prohibition History Bars

Summary

Speakeasy cocktails and true tales from New York’s hidden bars

You’ll slip through unmarked doors into three legendary New York speakeasies, tasting premium cocktails while your local guide shares stories of Prohibition’s gangsters and dreamers. Alongside new friends from around the world, you’ll walk historic neighborhoods and end up seeing NYC nightlife in a way you probably never expected.

What’s the experience like?

The first door looked like nothing — just an old black awning, no sign, barely a glow. Our guide, Marcus, grinned and tapped out a rhythm on the frame. I felt this weird little thrill when the bouncer sized us up and waved us in. Inside, it was all low ceilings and that spicy-sweet smell of rye whiskey. Someone was playing Billie Holiday on vinyl. Marcus started telling us about how this spot survived raids back in the day — apparently the owner used to bribe cops with free drinks. I tried to picture it; couldn’t quite manage, but the idea stuck with me while I sipped my first cocktail (smoky, sharp, a little citrus — wish I’d written down the name).

We wandered through Times Square after that — not my favorite part of Manhattan honestly, too many lights and elbows — but Marcus kept tossing out these wild facts about Broadway theaters doubling as secret clubs during Prohibition. At one point he pointed out a brick wall where you could still see old faded graffiti from 1920s union protests. The city felt different for a second; quieter under all that noise. Then we ducked into bar number two, which had velvet booths and a bartender who looked like he’d stepped out of Boardwalk Empire. He made me a gin thing with fresh basil and told us about bootleggers hiding bottles in piano cases. Li from our group tried to order in perfect English but her accent tripped her up — everyone laughed, including her.

The last place was uptown, tucked between two brownstones so narrow I almost missed it. The bartender slid us something called “The Oil King” (Marcus explained the name but honestly I was more focused on the taste — dark rum and something floral?). We talked about women who ran their own bars back then, which I didn’t expect at all. By then we were all swapping stories like old friends. My jacket still smelled faintly of smoke when I got home later; I still think about that night sometimes, just the way those hidden rooms felt bigger than they looked.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Prohibition era bars and history

• Visit NYC's famous nightclub
• Walk through Times Square area
• Pass historic and cultural neighborhood
• Pass Broadway theater district
• Pass area north of Times Square

Top questions

How many speakeasies do we visit on this NYC tour?

The tour includes visits to three different speakeasies or iconic bars in New York City.

Are drinks included during the Prohibition history tour?

Premium cocktails are served at each venue as part of the experience.

Is there a dress code for the NYC speakeasy drinks tour?

Yes, upscale casual is required—no sportswear or ripped clothing allowed.

What is the minimum age for joining this NYC bar tour?

You must be at least 21 years old with valid photo ID or passport for non-U.S. citizens.

Does this Prohibition history tour include skip-the-line entry?

Yes, preferred entry is included at all venues visited during the tour.

Is public transportation nearby for this NYC speakeasy tour?

Yes, there are public transportation options available near the meeting point.

Will we have a local guide on this New York City bar tour?

A licensed local guide with expertise in NYC history leads every group.

Is lunch or food included on this NYC speakeasy drinks tour?

No meals are included—only premium cocktails at each bar are provided.

What’s included

Your night includes preferred entry to three unique New York speakeasies ranging from modern to historic styles, premium cocktails crafted by expert mixologists at each stop, and immersive storytelling led by a licensed local guide who brings Prohibition-era history to life along every step of your walk through iconic neighborhoods.