Pittsburgh: Downtown Whiskey Rebellion & Prohibition Tour

Pittsburgh’s whiskey history is a captivating tale of rebellion, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the city’s distillers. From the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794 to the comeback of craft distilleries, this 2-hour downtown tour promises an immersive journey through the city’s spirited past. Explore significant landmarks, savor expertly crafted cocktails, and discover how Pittsburgh’s whiskey legacy continues to shape its vibrant culture. Ready to uncover the hidden stories behind these iconic spirits?

Key Points

• Explore the history of Pittsburgh’s whiskey industry, from the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794 to the resilience of bootleggers during Prohibition.
• Discover the city’s architectural landmarks that witnessed the rise and fall of the whiskey trade.
• Enjoy two expertly crafted whiskey cocktails, including a Prohibition-era drink, and a complimentary chilled water bottle or hot beverage.
• Receive a 15% off coupon for Wigle Whiskey distillery, encouraging further exploration of the city’s thriving craft whiskey scene.
• The 2-hour tour covers approximately one mile and is accessible for ages 21 and older, priced at $45 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Pittsburgh: Downtown Whiskey Rebellion & Prohibition Tour" offers a 2-hour exploration of the city’s whiskey history, from the Whiskey Rebellion to the Prohibition era.

Priced at $45 per person, the tour is accessible to those 21 and older. Participants can expect to cover about a mile, with the meeting point at the David Lawrence Convention Center.

The tour includes two whiskey cocktails, a water bottle, and a hot beverage, plus coupons for a local distillery and restaurants.

Guides are knowledgeable about whiskey and provide a fun, small-group experience for exploring Pittsburgh’s notable architecture and hidden speakeasies.

Booking Information

Reservations for the "Pittsburgh: Downtown Whiskey Rebellion & Prohibition Tour" can be made online without any upfront payment.

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

A flexible cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The ticket includes:

1. Two handcrafted whiskey cocktails – one full and one half size.

2. A chilled water bottle on hot days or a hot beverage on cold days.

3. A 15% off coupon for the local Wigle Whiskey distillery.

4. Coupons from local restaurant partners.

No payment is required until the day of the tour.

Leave a contact number to receive any weather-related updates.

Whiskey History: From Prohibition to Present

Although Prohibition dealt a devastating blow to the whiskey industry in Pittsburgh, the city’s rich distilling heritage never truly faded away. The Whiskey Rebellion of the 1790s had cemented the region’s reputation as a whiskey powerhouse.

During Prohibition, resilient bootleggers kept the spirit alive through underground speakeasies.

Post-Prohibition, Wigle Whiskey emerged as a pioneer, reviving local distilling in the 1980s. Today, Pittsburgh boasts a thriving craft whiskey scene, with several award-winning distilleries.

Visitors can explore this storied legacy, learning how the city’s whiskey culture weathered the storm and reclaimed its place on the national stage.

Exploring Pittsburgh’s Whiskey Rebellion

Steeped in the rich history of the Whiskey Rebellion, this guided tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the heart of downtown Pittsburgh.

The tour highlights:

1. The origins of the Whiskey Rebellion, a 1794 protest against federal excise tax on whiskey.

2. Hidden speakeasies and the illicit trade that flourished during Prohibition.

3. Noteworthy architecture and landmarks that witnessed the city’s tumultuous whiskey-fueled past.

4. The resurgence of Pittsburgh’s whiskey distilleries and the modern interpretation of this storied history.

Sipping on custom cocktails, participants uncover the fascinating tales that give this city its rebellious spirit.

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Speakeasies and Hidden Gems

Where do the secrets of Pittsburgh’s whiskey past lie? Down winding alleyways and behind unassuming doors.

The Whiskey Rebellion Tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s hidden speakeasies and underground watering holes. Visitors sip Prohibition-era cocktails while learning about the illicit activities that transpired during those dry years.

From a secret tavern tucked beneath a barbershop to a former brothel-turned-bar, the tour uncovers the city’s clandestine drinking culture. Along the way, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity of Pittsburgh’s whiskey enthusiasts who refused to let the law dampen their spirits.

Cocktail Tasting Experience

The Whiskey Rebellion Tour doesn’t just take guests on a journey through Pittsburgh’s hidden speakeasies – it also offers a captivating cocktail tasting experience.

Participants will enjoy:

1. Two expertly crafted whiskey cocktails, including a Prohibition-era drink and a classic Old Fashioned.

2. A half-size cocktail to ensure guests can fully engage with the tour.

3. A complimentary chilled water bottle on hot days and a hot beverage on cold days to keep them refreshed.

4. A 15% off coupon for the local Wigle Whiskey distillery, encouraging further exploration of the city’s whiskey scene.

Architectural Highlights

While exploring Pittsburgh’s downtown during the Whiskey Rebellion Tour, you will encounter notable architectural gems that showcase the city’s rich history.

The grand David L. Lawrence Convention Center, with its sleek, modern design, stands in stark contrast to the ornate Flemish Renaissance-style Allegheny County Courthouse nearby.

Strolling through the streets, visitors will admire the intricate facades of early 20th-century bank buildings and marvel at the art deco flourishes of the iconic Union Trust Building.

These architectural highlights provide a tangible link to Pittsburgh’s storied past, complementing the tour’s immersive exploration of the city’s whiskey heritage.

Customer Testimonials

Customers consistently rave about the immersive and informative nature of the Pittsburgh Whiskey Rebellion Tour.

The tour guides, described as "fun characters" with expertise in whiskey history, captivate guests throughout the experience. The small group size allows for interactive engagement, fostering a more personalized adventure.

Positive reviews highlight:

1. Knowledgeable guides who bring the history to life.

2. Engaging content that delves into the city’s whiskey legacy.

3. The enjoyment of handcrafted cocktails, including a Prohibition-era specialty.

4. The opportunity to explore notable architecture while learning about the past.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes This Tour Different From Other Whiskey Tours?

What sets this tour apart is its focus on Pittsburgh’s unique whiskey history, from the Whiskey Rebellion to Prohibition. Participants can sip handcrafted cocktails while exploring the city’s architecture and hidden speakeasies, providing an immersive experience beyond a typical bar crawl.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food or Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can’t bring their own food or drinks on the tour. The tour provides two handcrafted whiskey cocktails, a chilled water bottle, and a hot beverage, which are included in the ticket price. Bringing outside items is not permitted.

Is the Tour Suitable for Non-Drinkers or Designated Drivers?

The tour may not be the best option for non-drinkers or designated drivers, as it focuses on tasting whiskey cocktails. However, the tour does provide chilled water and a hot beverage for those who don’t wish to consume alcohol.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Whiskey Cocktails Served?

The tour includes two whiskey cocktails, but participants must be 21 or older to partake. While non-drinkers can join the tour, they won’t receive the cocktails. Designated drivers should avoid consuming the alcoholic beverages.

How Much Walking Is Involved, and Is the Tour Wheelchair-Friendly?

The tour covers approximately 1 mile and is wheelchair accessible. Guests should call ahead to discuss any additional mobility needs. The tour provides a chilled water bottle on hot days to help with the walking.

The Sum Up

The Pittsburgh: Downtown Whiskey Rebellion & Prohibition Tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich whiskey history. Guests will discover the resilience of local distilleries, from the Whiskey Rebellion to the modern craft scene, while enjoying expertly crafted cocktails and visiting significant landmarks. With complimentary refreshments and coupons, this tour is a must-visit for whiskey enthusiasts eager to explore Pittsburgh’s spirited past.

You can check availability for your dates here: