Asheville: Roaring ’20s Walking Tour with Drinks

Asheville: Roaring ’20s Walking Tour with Drinks – A Practical Guide

If you’re curious about Asheville’s vibrant past and want to experience it in a fun, social way, the Roaring ’20s Walking Tour with Drinks might be just what you’re after. Promising a blend of history, craft cocktails, and city strolls, this tour offers a unique peek into the Prohibition era — a period when speakeasies and secret cocktails ruled the night. While some reviewers have encountered hiccups, overall, the experience offers a lively and informative glimpse into Asheville’s past.

What we love about this tour is how it combines storytelling with tasting. You’ll get to visit three well-known venues in Asheville’s historic district, each serving a signature cocktail that ties back to the 1920s. It’s a great way to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife, learn about its history of craft spirit production, and meet fellow travelers. The two-hour format fits easily into a day of exploring, making it a perfect addition to any Asheville itinerary.

One potential consideration is the small risk of cancellations—a review from a traveler noted a no-show incident, which is always frustrating. Also, note that this tour isn’t suitable for everyone: it’s limited to those over 21 and not designed for pregnant visitors. Still, if you’re looking for an engaging way to combine history, local spirits, and a bit of fun, this tour offers solid value.

This experience is ideal for history buffs, cocktail enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the colorful nightlife of the 1920s. It’s perfect if you want a guided, social activity that mixes education with leisure and is accessible in Asheville’s charming downtown.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historical focus: Learn about Asheville’s prohibition era, gangsters, speakeasies, and its craft spirit scene.
• Authentic experiences: Visit three popular venues for signature cocktails crafted in the style of the 1920s.
• Guided storytelling: An experienced guide shares fascinating tales and trivia from the 1920s.
• Compact and convenient: The two-hour tour covers about three city blocks, ideal for fitting into a busy day.
• Cost and value: At $99 per person, it offers a mix of education, flavor, and social fun.
• Caution: Be prepared for potential cancellations or no-shows, and note it’s not suitable for those under 21 or pregnant women.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off in Asheville’s historic district, a lively area full of Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and lively bars. Your guide—whose name isn’t specified but clearly well-versed in local lore—will lead you through a two-hour walk, stopping at three prominent venues. Each stop is carefully chosen to showcase Asheville’s thriving craft spirit scene and its rich history tied to the Prohibition period.

Stop 1: The First Venue – A Historic Drinking Spot

Your journey begins at a renowned hotel that has stood the test of time. Expect a setting that oozes 1920s charm—think vintage decor, dim lighting, and an ambiance reminiscent of speakeasies. Here, you’ll sip on your first signature cocktail, crafted to evoke the flavors and style of the era. The guide shares stories about how illicit drinking was part of everyday life, and how Asheville’s own history of handcrafted spirits played a role in the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Stop 2: An Iconic Asheville Bar

At the second venue, often regarded as one of Asheville’s best bars, you’ll enjoy your second signature cocktail. This stop emphasizes Asheville’s commitment to local spirits and craftsmanship. The guide might tell you about the city’s spirit production history, which is still alive today with numerous distilleries. This venue’s atmosphere is lively and authentic, perfect for soaking in the vintage vibes while learning about the secret world of speakeasies—sometimes hidden behind unassuming storefronts.

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Stop 3: The Final Historic Venue

Your tour concludes at a third hotel that balances modern Asheville with its prohibition roots. Here, you’ll taste your third signature cocktail and hear stories about the influence of gangsters and bootleggers in shaping the city’s illicit nightlife. Expect to learn about Asheville’s efforts to preserve this unique history through its bar and distillery culture. This last stop leaves you with a well-rounded picture of the city’s past and present relationship with spirits.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Storytelling and history are central, providing context that elevates a typical bar crawl into an educational experience. The guide is knowledgeable and passionate about Asheville’s history, which adds depth to each story. The cocktails themselves are thoughtfully created, designed to reflect the flavors and style of the Roaring ’20s. This isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding the culture and history behind each sip.

Visiting multiple venues in a short span is convenient and allows you to sample different atmospheres and styles of cocktails without overwhelming yourself. The tour’s duration makes it a manageable activity, even on a packed day, while still feeling immersive.

The Realities of the Experience

While most reviews are positive, it’s worth mentioning that one traveler experienced a no-show, highlighting that cancellations can happen. This could impact your plans, especially if you’re relying on specific times or venues. The guided tour is limited to those over 21 and is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many guests.

Pricing at $99 per person is reasonable considering you get three signature cocktails, a knowledgeable guide, and visits to three historic venues. When you consider the experience of learning about Asheville’s prohibition past combined with tastings, it offers decent value. However, it’s not a full-day or extensive tour, so if you’re after a deep dive into history, this may be more of a taste than a lecture.

Practical Tips:

• Book in advance as availability varies and popular times fill quickly.
• Bring your ID or passport to prove age.
• Wear comfortable shoes since walking is about three city blocks.
• No food is included, so plan to eat before or after if you need a meal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults over 21 who enjoy history, cocktails, or social outings. It’s particularly appealing if you like guided city tours and want a fun, light-hearted way to learn about Asheville’s past. It’s not ideal for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, but otherwise, it’s a lively, engaging way to see the city.

Final Thoughts

The Asheville Roaring ’20s Walking Tour with Drinks offers a playful yet insightful look into the city’s history of speakeasies, gangsters, and craft spirits. It combines storytelling, local culture, and delicious cocktails, making it a memorable activity for those interested in the city’s lively past. While it’s not without small risks—like potential no-shows—it remains a solid choice for a social, educational, and flavorful experience.

If you’re curious about Asheville’s historic nightlife and want to enjoy it in a guided, relaxed setting, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s best for travelers who appreciate historical context, local craftsmanship, and a bit of vintage fun in their city explorations.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the starting point in Asheville’s historic district.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering about three city blocks, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, it’s only suitable for those over 21 years old, and pregnant women are advised to avoid participation.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket includes a guided tour, stops at three venues, and three signature cocktails. Food is not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it available for a wider range of guests.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you enjoy learning about history while sampling local drinks. However, be aware of the potential for cancellations or no-shows, and plan accordingly.

To sum it up, this tour offers a lively, engaging way to explore Asheville’s prohibition-era past while enjoying some expertly crafted cocktails. It’s perfect for history lovers, cocktail aficionados, and anyone looking to add a spirited story to their Asheville visit. With its balanced mix of storytelling, culture, and tastings, it promises a memorable two hours in one of North Carolina’s most charming cities.

You can check availability for your dates here: