Discovering the Historic Prohibition Bars of East Village New York City on a Walking Tour

Historians and travelers alike are fascinated with exploring the seedy and bohemian pasts of New York City, which is why a Prohibition Bar walking tour in NYC’s East Village is such a popular attraction. Just like the darkly lit and romantic speakeasies of the 1920s and 1930s, these bars provide the perfect area to explore and discover a hidden history. Although it has been nearly a century since alcohol was outlawed, the vestiges of the Prohibition era in East Village remain. A walking tour from GetYourGuide is the best way to experience some of the most beloved local prohibition bars.

A Brief History of Prohibition in NYC

In 1919, the 18th Amendment was passed, which prohibited the production, importation, transportation, and sale of intoxicating liquors. While some areas fully embraced and embraced this law, others pushed back in defiance. New York City experienced both sides of the coin. Across the five boroughs, certain areas were more strict with their enforcements while others were laxer, often resulting in unlicensed bars running amok.

The East Village was one particular area of NYC that was known for its “speakeasies” and unregulated beer gardens – just two examples of many hidden speakeasies at that time all around the United States. While some flourished aboveground, as if they were completely legal, others operated more discreetly belowground, tucked away and often requiring a secret password for entrance. The hidden bars contributed to the many stories of glamour and excitement that came out of NYC during that era – something that you can still see the remnants of today on a tour throughout East Village.

Walking Tour Stops

Any trip to East Village for a Prohibition bar adventure should begin at McSorley’s Old Ale House. This iconic local favorite has been slinging suds since 1854 and it has quite a history too. During Prohibition it simply closed up shop, putting signs in its window that read “We’re CLOSED: For Keeps.” However, they did manage to keep two barrels in their basement just in case – though interestingly enough those barrels were last tapped in 1956! A certificate proudly displays on its side that McSorley’s was spared by Mayor La Guardia during Prohibition as “an oasis in a desert” – making it the last man standing before it was again allowed to freely serve.

After leaving McSorley’s, make sure to venture down 8th Street towards the Angel Orensanz Foundation which was founded in 1981 by Spanish-born artist Angel Orensanz. Before Orensanz acquired this space it was known as the Great Synagogue or The Dutch Reformed Church and during Prohibition it had a dark identity. Its lower level was used as a speakeasy and facilitated some of the most notorious illegal activities during the time. Visiting this space is sure to make any historian’s heart skip a beat given its incredible contributions to the city’s rich past.

Next up, head further down 8th Street until you reach Death & Co,which is referred to as one of New York City’s original craft cocktail bars. It opened its doors way back in 2006 but this space also has a bit of Prohibition-era lore behind it. Long before Death & Co was ever established, this area was home to several speakeasies which even included an opium den located in the oldest building on 8th Street. Now travelers can sip on some of the finest concoctions in New York City while envisioning a seedy past beneath each step taken through this area of East Village – it just adds to the allure behind each sip!

For many people, no visit to East Village is complete without a stop at Pianos. This live music establishment is notorious for showcasing some of the best local talent as they perform on their two stages at any given time! During Prohibition it operated as Tipsy McStaggers before closing down and reopened again as Pianos in 1997. Nowadays its signature acts include sporadic punk rock impromptu performances and ear-shattering live jazz jams that will keep you on your toes until late night.

End your prohibition walking tour with a stop at The Beagle which is one of East Village’s most beloved drinking dens even post Prohibition. It is known for its cozy atmosphere and selection of craft beer but that isn’t where The Beagle’s character begins and ends. Although it has been open for over five years, this corner footprint had been blank since Prohibition back in 1920! These days its charm lies in a mix of dark wood furnishings, an old-school vibe felt through stone walls and big windows that let in plenty of natural light – making it one helluva memorable hangout spot especially after hours exploring Historic East Village on a walking tour!

Book your Prohibition Bar Walking Tour Today

A guided walking tour provides an excellent opportunity for travelers to discover true New York City history while sampling some delicious drinks along the way! Learn all about the exciting stories of speakeasies, dive into exploring areas of influence still visible today, and sample some of the best craft spirits NYC has to offer while visiting local favorites such as McSorley’s Old Ale House, Death & Co., Pianos, and The Beagle – all within beautiful East Village with an experienced tour guide!

To book your own Prohibition Bar walking tour, check out GetYourGuide’s Prohibition Bar Experience. What better way to explore East Village than with an expert guide exposing stories from prohibition that can never be found online or read in a book? Don’t forget to bring your cameras for some incredible photo opportunities! Book your tour today!