The West Village Speakeasy Walking Tour in New York City invites visitors on a captivating journey through the clandestine drinking culture of the Prohibition era. Over three hours, guests explore the hidden history of this notorious time, exploring three covert speakeasies and historic bars while savoring expertly crafted cocktails. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the intimate experience offers a unique blend of culture, storytelling, and ambiance that transports participants back to the 1920s. From the cozy atmospheres to the fascinating tales, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the city’s speakeasy past – and a reason to return for more.
Key Points
- This 3-hour walking tour explores three top speakeasies and historic bars in Manhattan’s charming West Village neighborhood.
- Participants will enjoy craft cocktails and learn about the vibrant history of Prohibition-era Greenwich Village from a knowledgeable local guide.
- The tour includes a short subway ride, all required tickets, and tips, providing a hassle-free experience.
- Participants must be 21 years or older and provide valid ID for entry into the speakeasies.
- The tour starts at the Dr. Gertrude B. Kelly Playground in Chelsea and is easily accessible via public transportation.
Tour Overview
The West Village Speakeasy Walking Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore three of Manhattan’s top speakeasies and historic bars while seeing the captivating history of the Prohibition era.
Priced from $34 per person, this 3-hour guided tour is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Across the course of the tour, guests will travel by subway to the iconic Greenwich Village neighborhood, sipping craft cocktails in cozy, charming venues as they learn about the illicit underground world of Prohibition-era drinking establishments.
With inclusions like a local guide, subway ticket, and tips, this immersive experience promises to transport visitors back in time for an unforgettable afternoon in New York City.
Highlights of the Experience
Guests on the West Village Speakeasy Walking Tour can expect to explore three top speakeasies and historic bars in Manhattan, sipping craft cocktails while learning about the captivating history of the Prohibition era.
After taking the subway to the W4th Street station in Greenwich Village, you will enjoy the cozy and charming atmosphere of these hidden gems.
The tour includes a 50-minute stop at a speakeasy in Chelsea, where guests will explore Prohibition history. This is followed by a visit to a speakeasy in the Meatpacking District and a final stop in Greenwich Village, where they’ll relax with high-quality cocktails as they learn more about the era’s law enforcement.
With a local guide and exclusive access, this unique experience promises an engaging and immersive journey into New York’s speakeasy culture.
Itinerary Breakdown
The tour kicks off at the Dr. Gertrude B. Kelly Playground in Chelsea, where participants explore the history of Prohibition and savor their first craft cocktail at a covert speakeasy.
After the 50-minute stop, the group hops on the subway for an 8-minute ride to the Meatpacking District, where they stroll through the neighborhood, learning about Prohibition enforcement along the way.
The final destination is a speakeasy in Greenwich Village, where guests can relax with another high-quality cocktail and explore the venue’s hidden charm.
Throughout the 3-hour experience, the knowledgeable guide shares captivating tales of the illicit world that flourished during the Roaring Twenties.
Stops Along the Way
Throughout the 3-hour walking tour, guests explore three top speakeasies and historic bars across Manhattan’s West Village neighborhood.
The first stop immerses them in Prohibition-era history as they savor a craft cocktail within the covert confines of a Chelsea speakeasy.
Next, they’ll take a short subway ride to the Meatpacking District, where they’ll stroll through the historic area and learn about its speakeasy past.
The final stop is a charming Greenwich Village speakeasy, where they’ll relax with another high-quality cocktail while delving deeper into the fascinating story of Prohibition enforcement.
Each venue offers a unique atmosphere and insight into New York’s clandestine drinking culture during the 1920s.
Included in the Tour
This tour consistently includes a walking tour with exclusive access to three speakeasies, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the captivating history of Prohibition-era drinking culture in Manhattan’s West Village. A local guide accompanies participants, sharing insights into the neighborhood’s clandestine past, and a single-ride subway ticket is provided for the journey between venues. Tips are also included in the tour price, ensuring a seamless and carefree experience.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Walking Tour | Exclusive access to 3 speakeasies |
| Local Guide | Shares insights on Prohibition history |
| Subway Ticket | One-stop ride between venues |
| Tips | Included in the tour price |
| Carefree Experience | No need to worry about additional costs |
Important Information
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund should plans change.
Participants must be 21 years or older to join, as alcohol is a key component of the experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended given the light walking involved, and subway cards aren’t necessary for the one-stop ride between venues.
Attendees should come prepared with a valid passport or ID card, as they’ll be entering private, members-only speakeasies. No alcohol, drugs, or bare feet are permitted.
The tour focuses on immersing guests in the rich history and ambiance of these hidden gems, so participants can expect to spend most of the time relaxing and savoring craft cocktails while learning about Prohibition enforcement in the West Village.
Getting to the Meeting Point
The meeting point for the West Village Speakeasy Walking Tour is the Dr. Gertrude B. Kelly Playground in Chelsea, New York City.
Participants can easily access this location via the subway, with the nearest station being W4th Street in Greenwich Village, just a short ride away. From there, it’s just a quick walk to the playground, where your local guide will be waiting to kick off the three-hour tour.
The meeting spot offers a convenient and central starting point, allowing you to dive right into the Prohibition-era history and cocktail culture of the West Village.
With the subway ticket included, getting to the tour couldn’t be simpler.
What to Expect
Participants can expect a delightful exploration of three top speakeasies and historic bars nestled within Manhattan’s charming West Village neighborhood during this captivating 3-hour walking tour.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, guests will uncover the vibrant history of Prohibition-era Greenwich Village, sipping on expertly crafted cocktails as they go.
The tour begins in the Chelsea district, where you will learn about the speakeasy culture and enjoy their first craft cocktail.
Next, they’ll hop on the subway to the Meatpacking District, exploring the neighborhood before arriving at their second speakeasy stop.
The final destination is a cozy Greenwich Village speakeasy, where guests will savor a high-quality cocktail and delve deeper into the enforcement of Prohibition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos Inside the Speakeasies?
The tour’s policy generally prohibits photography inside the speakeasy venues to preserve their cozy, intimate atmosphere. However, guests are welcome to take photos outside the establishments before or after the experience.
What Should I Wear to Blend in With the Prohibition Era?
To blend in with the Prohibition era, one should wear smart, casual attire. Think 1920s-inspired styles like suspenders, newsboy caps, flapper dresses, or tailored suits. Avoid modern, flashy clothing to fully learn about the speakeasy experience.
Will the Tour Be Held in Inclement Weather?
The tour will likely proceed as scheduled, even in inclement weather. Guests are advised to dress appropriately for the conditions and bring rain gear if necessary, as the walking portion of the experience will continue regardless of the weather.
Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages?
No, bringing your own alcoholic beverages is not allowed on this tour. The tour provides exclusive access to speakeasies where you can enjoy craft cocktails as part of the experience. Outside alcohol is prohibited to maintain the authentic atmosphere.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for those with significant mobility issues, as it involves moderate walking and navigating public transportation. However, the operator may be able to provide accommodations for guests with specific needs – it’s best to inquire directly.
Recap
The West Village Speakeasy Walking Tour in New York City offers a captivating journey through the city’s clandestine drinking culture during the Prohibition era.
With a knowledgeable guide, guests explore hidden speakeasies and historic bars, savoring expertly crafted cocktails while seeing the intriguing history and atmosphere of this iconic era.
It’s a unique blend of culture, history, and adventure not to be missed.
