Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour

If you’re curious about how a city with a reputation for spirited living navigated the dry years of Prohibition, this tour offers an engaging look into Providence’s unique past. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, the detailed reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you’ll experience — and it sounds like a lot of fun for history buffs, wine lovers, and those wanting a taste of local culture.

What really appeals is the opportunity to sip on local brews and spirits crafted right in Providence. The tour combines fascinating storytelling with actual tastings — a winning combo that promises both education and enjoyment. Plus, the inclusion of famous bootlegger stories, liquor loopholes, and undercover agents makes this more than just a tasting; it’s a lively journey through Rhode Island’s rebellious drinking past.

One potential consideration is the walking element — covering approximately 1.2 miles — so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, if you’re hoping for a visit to secret speakeasies or hidden bars, you might find this aspect slightly limited, as the tour mainly focuses on stops at well-known local establishments.

This experience is best suited for adults interested in history and local culture, especially those who enjoy tasting sessions paired with storytelling. If you’re looking for a relaxed yet informative way to get to know Providence, this tour hits quite a few marks.

This experience made our article of Providence’s 2 Best Drinking Tours: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• Authentic Providence libations: Taste local beers and spirits made in Rhode Island’s capital.
• Historical insights: Learn about Providence’s resistance to Prohibition and its vibrant drinking traditions.
• Engaging storytelling: Discover tales of bootleggers, undercover agents, and liquor loopholes.
• Walking tour: Explore the city on foot, visiting five notable tasting stops.
• Expert guide: Gain insights from a knowledgeable guide bringing history to life.
• Value for price: At $100, includes tastings, snacks, and captivating narratives.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins conveniently in the lobby of Hotel Providence, making it easy for travelers staying nearby or arriving in the city. From there, it’s approximately 1.2 miles of walking through some of Providence’s most interesting neighborhoods, with stops in well-regarded venues such as Malted Barley, Eno Fine Wines, Rouge Island Local Kitchen & Bar, and Moonshine Alley. Each stop offers a chance to sample local products and hear stories behind the drinks — from the city’s stubborn refusal to fully surrender to Prohibition to its thriving craft scene today.

The tasting stops are carefully chosen not only for the quality of the libations but also for their historical significance. For example, a visit to Moonshine Alley might reveal tales of illicit spirits and daring bootleggers, while Eno Fine Wines could provide insights into Rhode Island’s wine culture, which persisted despite the dry laws.

Throughout, the guide weaves a captivating narrative about the coalition that brought Prohibition to Congress and the liquor loopholes that savvy locals exploited. This storytelling aspect turns what might be a simple tasting into a vivid history lesson, full of colorful characters and unexpected twists.

The tour’s duration of 3.5 hours hits a sweet spot — long enough to enjoy several stops and absorb the stories without feeling rushed. It’s designed for those who want a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to savor each sip and ask questions.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

Malted Barley will likely be your first taste of Providence’s brewing scene. Known for its local beers, this stop offers a chance to compare different brews and learn about Rhode Island’s craft beer resurgence. The atmosphere here is casual but lively — perfect for soaking up the local vibe.

Next, at Eno Fine Wines, you might encounter a selection of the state’s best wines, alongside stories about how Rhode Island’s immigrant communities kept their Old World drinking traditions alive during the dry era. The guide’s insights help connect the dots between past and present.

Rouge Island Local Kitchen & Bar provides another flavor — perhaps a cocktail or spirit made with a local twist. The emphasis on local ingredients and artisan spirits underscores how Providence’s drink culture has evolved from clandestine bootlegging to a thriving legal scene.

Moonshine Alley is likely where the stories get spiciest. Expect tales of famous bootleggers, undercover agents, and the zealous coalition that pushed for Prohibition. The ambiance here might evoke the clandestine speakeasies of the past, making it a fun, immersive experience.

Finally, the tour wraps up at Plant City, a local favorite that blends food, drink, and community. Here, you’ll probably sample some snacks that complement the beverages, consolidating your understanding of Providence’s drinking culture.

The Value and Practicalities

For $100 per person, the tour provides a well-rounded experience—tastings at five stops, snacks, a knowledgeable guide, and compelling stories. When you consider the inclusion of alcoholic beverages and the educational component, it offers excellent value, especially for those interested in both history and local flavors.

Since transportation to the starting point isn’t included, you’ll need to plan your arrival at Hotel Providence. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

The duration of 3.5 hours makes it suitable for an afternoon activity, and the flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund) adds peace of mind when planning your trip.

Authenticity and Guest Feedback

Reviewers appreciate the expert guidance and the engaging stories that bring Providence’s Prohibition era to life. One traveler mentioned, “We would have liked to go to some speakeasy bars,” which hints at the tour’s focus on established venues rather than secret bars; this might be a consideration if you’re keen on visiting hidden speakeasies.

Many praise the excellent wine selection and the way the guide balances historical facts with entertaining anecdotes. The social aspect, combined with the tasting experience, makes it a highlight for visitors wanting a relaxed but informative outing.

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Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history fans, wine and spirits enthusiasts, and those curious about Providence’s cultural past. It’s also well-suited for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy walking tours with a purpose — tasting and storytelling.

If you’re looking for a casual, immersive experience that combines local flavors with compelling narratives, this tour checks all the boxes. However, if you’re after exclusive speakeasy visits or a high-energy party vibe, you might find the stops somewhat traditional.

The Sum Up

Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour offers a fantastic way to explore Rhode Island’s capital city through its vibrant drinking culture and intriguing history. With a combination of local tastings, engaging storytelling, and scenic walking, it provides significant value for the price. The tour is ideal for curious travelers who want to learn about Providence’s resistance to Prohibition while enjoying a sip or two of local spirits.

The experience’s highlights, including tales of bootleggers and liquor loopholes, bring a lively and authentic dimension to the city’s past. The stops at well-loved local establishments ensure a comfortable, friendly atmosphere, perfect for making new friends or simply soaking in the local vibe.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of good wine, or just looking for something different to do in Providence, this tour offers a memorable, educational, and tasty journey through the city’s spirited history.

FAQ

Is transportation to the starting point included? No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Hotel Providence where the tour begins.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, covering about 1.2 miles on foot.

Are the tastings included in the price? Yes, the tour includes tastings of local beers and spirits, along with snacks at each stop.

Is the tour suitable for all ages? No, participants must be of legal drinking age (21+). It’s not suitable for pregnant women.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel the reservation? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dress according to the weather forecast.

Are there any hidden speakeasy visits? The tour focuses on well-known establishments; if secret speakeasies are a must, you may want to explore other options.

What makes this tour special? The combination of authentic local libations, engaging historical stories, and the lively atmosphere of Providence’s drinking scene makes it a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: