New York City’s New Year’s Eve is an iconic celebration, and the "NYC: New Years Eve Drinks, History and Ball Drop Tour" offers a unique way to experience it. For $350 per person, this 8-hour adventure takes guests through historic bars and speakeasies, complete with complimentary drinks and engaging stories about Prohibition-era gangsters. The tour culminates in exclusive access to a prime viewing area for the renowned Times Square ball drop at midnight, providing a truly unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a lively celebration, this tour promises to immerse you in the vibrant energy of the city that never sleeps.

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Key Points

A guided tour in New York City that combines Prohibition-era history, visits to historic bars and speakeasies, and exclusive access to a viewing area for the Times Square ball drop.
The tour offers an 8-hour experience, including complimentary drinks at each venue and a 4-hour open bar at an original speakeasy.
Guests can enjoy priority entry to both modern and historic speakeasies, with engaging storytelling about Prohibition-era gangsters and bootleggers.
The tour is priced at $350 per person and includes free cancellation, as well as the option to reserve now and pay later.
The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or those under 21 years of age, and a smart casual dress code is required.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

For those looking to experience the excitement of New Year’s Eve in New York City, a speakeasy tour offers a glimpse into the city’s Prohibition-era past.

Priced from $350 per person, the 8-hour tour takes guests to three historic bars and speakeasies, with complimentary drinks at each. Visitors can enjoy an open bar at an original speakeasy and priority entry to modern and historic speakeasies.

The tour also includes an exclusive viewing area on 54th Street for the iconic Times Square ball drop. With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this immersive experience is a unique way to ring in the new year.

Fascinated by the past? Here are other historical experiences we've covered in New York City

Itinerary and Locations

The tour starts at 825 8th Ave in Hell’s Kitchen, where guests can explore three historic bars and speakeasies.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy complimentary drinks at the first two venues.

The main stop is 205 W 54th St, which provides an exclusive viewing area for the Times Square ball drop.

The main stop provides an exclusive viewing area for the iconic Times Square ball drop.

Over 5 hours, the guided tour includes beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits, as guests learn about Prohibition-era gangsters and bootleggers.

The experience culminates with a four-hour open bar at an original speakeasy, allowing guests to fully enjoy the Prohibition-era atmosphere.

Highlights and Inclusions

One of the highlights of the tour is the four-hour open bar at an original speakeasy, allowing guests to fully enjoy the Prohibition-era atmosphere.

The tour also includes:

Priority entry to modern and historic speakeasies for an exclusive experience.
Complimentary drinks at the first two venues for a taste of the past.
An exclusive viewing area on 54th Street for the iconic Times Square ball drop at midnight.
Captivating storytelling about the infamous gangsters and bootleggers of the Prohibition era.

Important Information

While the tour is open to participants of various ages, it isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or drivers under 21 years.

The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or drivers under 21 years of age.

A smart casual dress code is required, and guests must arrive 15 minutes early. A valid photo ID, such as a passport or ID card, is mandatory.

Prohibited items include shorts, weapons, large bags, sportswear, and bare feet.

The tour emphasizes a safe and enjoyable experience, ensuring participants comply with the rules and regulations to create a memorable Prohibition-era celebration in New York City.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

According to the reviews, guests have consistently given the New Year’s Eve in NYC tour a 5-out-of-5 rating based on 4 reviews.

Positive experiences highlighted by participants include:

Engaging hosts who provide captivating storytelling about Prohibition-era gangsters and bootleggers.
An enjoyable atmosphere across the historic bars and speakeasies.
The open bar, finger food, and opportunity to dance while viewing the iconic Times Square ball drop.
Priority entry to both modern and historic speakeasies.

There's plenty more to explore in New York City

Taking in the Prohibition Era

Stepping back in time, the New Year’s Eve in NYC tour immerses guests in the captivating world of Prohibition-era New York City.

Visitors explore historic speakeasies, sipping on complimentary drinks as they learn about the bootleggers and gangsters who once frequented these clandestine establishments.

The tour highlights the ingenuity and resilience of those who defied the law, creating a thriving underground culture.

From secret entrances to carefully crafted cocktails, the experience transports participants to the roaring 1920s, offering a glimpse into the city’s illicit past.

As the night culminates with the iconic Times Square ball drop, guests feel a sense of connection to the vibrant history of New York.

Navigating the Speakeasy Tour

How does one navigate the immersive speakeasy tour experience in New York City on New Year’s Eve?

The tour begins at 825 8th Ave, where guests visit three historic bars and speakeasies, enjoying complimentary drinks at each. The main stop is 205 W 54th St, providing an exclusive viewing area for the iconic Times Square ball drop.

The tour includes:

Four-hour open bar at an original speakeasy.
Priority entry to modern and historic speakeasies.
Complimentary drinks at the first two venues.
Exclusive viewing area for the midnight ball drop.

Guests must arrive 15 minutes early, dress in smart casual attire, and bring a valid photo ID.

The Exclusive Times Square Experience

The tour’s main highlight is the exclusive viewing area on 54th Street, offering participants an unparalleled vantage point to witness the iconic Times Square ball drop at midnight.

This prime location allows guests to fully enjoy the electric atmosphere of New Year’s Eve celebrations, complete with complimentary drinks and finger foods.

Throughout the evening, the guide will regale attendees with captivating tales of Prohibition-era gangsters and bootleggers, transporting them back in time to the glamour and intrigue of the speakeasies.

This exclusive experience promises an unforgettable way to welcome the new year in the heart of the city that never sleeps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Tour?

No, participants cannot bring their own alcohol on the tour. The tour includes complimentary drinks at the venues, and outside alcohol is not permitted. All alcohol must be consumed on the premises during the guided experience.

Is There a Dress Code for the Times Square Viewing Area?

The tour has a smart casual dress code, and guests must arrive 15 minutes early. Shorts, weapons, large bags, sportswear, and bare feet are not allowed in the exclusive viewing area on 54th Street for the Times Square ball drop.

Can I Bring Children on the Tour?

No, the tour is not suitable for children. It’s an adult-only experience that features alcohol, prohibition-era storytelling, and exclusive access to historic speakeasies not appropriate for minors. Children under 21 are not permitted on this tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as stated in the important information. Guests must be able to navigate the historic venues and walk on the guided tour.

Can I Get a Refund if I’m Late for the Tour?

If you’re late for the tour, you won’t get a refund. The tour has a free cancellation policy, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, being late doesn’t qualify for a refund.

The Sum Up

This New Year’s Eve tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant energy of New York City. Guests will explore historic bars and speakeasies, enjoy complimentary drinks, and learn about the Prohibition era. The tour culminates with exclusive access to a prime viewing area for the iconic Times Square ball drop, making it a must-do for anyone seeking a memorable New Year’s Eve celebration.