Charleston: Sip History In the “The Sun” Cocktail Class

Travelers seeking a fun, educational experience that combines history with a bit of cocktail crafting will find this Sip History in The Sun class in Charleston a delightful choice. This two-hour session, hosted by Alchemix, LLC, invites you into a genuine speakeasy setting, where you’ll learn about the Prohibition era while making and tasting three craft cocktails. It’s a hands-on way to get a taste of Charleston’s lively spirit — literally and figuratively.

What we love about this experience is its interactive nature and the chance to walk away with new bartending skills. Plus, the setting itself — an authentic speakeasy — transports you back in time, making history feel alive. The inclusion of snacks and the opportunity to make your own drink at the end adds to the value. However, a potential consideration is that the experience is geared toward those aged 21 and up, and it might not suit travelers who prefer more traditional sightseeing or those on tight schedules.

This tour suits visitors who enjoy stories behind the drinks, those eager to learn mixology, or anyone looking for a memorable, fun way to spend an afternoon or evening in Charleston. Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail lover, or simply after a lively social experience, this class offers a genuine taste of the city’s spirited past.

Key Points

• Authentic Speakeasy Setting: Step into a genuinely styled Prohibition-era bar for an immersive experience.
• Hands-On Learning: Make three cocktails yourself, gaining practical skills and confidence behind the bar.
• Educational & Entertaining: Learn about Charleston’s history during Prohibition while enjoying craft cocktails.
• Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable hosts, with reviews praising their engaging teaching style.
• Value for Money: For $70, you get a two-hour session with snacks, three cocktails, and bar tools — a solid deal for a memorable experience.
• Inclusive & Accessible: The experience is in English, wheelchair accessible, with non-alcoholic options available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The experience begins as you enter the Frontier Lounge, where you’ll find the outdoor bar in the back, ready to set the scene for your trip back to the 1920s. It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early, giving you time to settle in and soak up the vintage vibes before the class kicks off.

Once seated, your host, Tommy, guides you through the fascinating history of Prohibition — an era marked by speakeasies, secret laws, and a cultural push for rebellious spirit. This storytelling transforms what could be just another cocktail class into a lively history lesson that feels relevant and fun.

The Cocktail-Making Component

The highlight for many is the opportunity to craft three cocktails during the session. You’ll learn about the art and science of mixology, with expert tips from Tommy along the way. These aren’t just random drinks; they are carefully chosen to reflect the era’s flavors and styles, making each sip a historical experience.

The class is interactive, encouraging participants to get behind the bar, use professional bar tools (which are provided), and mix their own drinks. The reviews rave about how fun and engaging this part is, with one participant noting, “Now I actually feel like I can make a good drink,” which speaks to the practical value of the class.

Tasting & Snacks

As you work through your cocktails, snacks are served, complementing the drinks and adding to the casual, social atmosphere. Sipping on your own creations at the end allows for a sense of accomplishment and personal connection to the drinks.

The Ending & Personal Touch

At the conclusion, you get to enjoy your own crafted cocktail, adding a personal touch to this historical adventure. It’s a small but meaningful moment that makes the experience stand out, especially if you enjoy sharing stories over drinks.

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The Setting & Atmosphere

The location itself is a draw — an authentic speakeasy that captures the essence of the Roaring Twenties. The décor, the outdoor bar, and the intimate environment make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different time. The ambiance is both relaxed and lively, perfect for socializing or simply enjoying a unique experience during your trip.

The Guide & Group Size

From reviews, we see that guides like Tommy are praised for their knowledge and engaging style. The experience is typically in small groups, which enhances interaction and makes it easy to ask questions and get personalized tips. The group size, combined with friendly hosts, creates a warm environment that newcomers and seasoned cocktail enthusiasts alike will appreciate.

The Practical Details & Value

At $70 per person for a two-hour class, this experience offers good value, considering it includes three cocktails, snacks, and bar tools to keep. It’s a chance to not only learn but also to enjoy a memorable social activity in the city.

The class is scheduled mostly in the afternoon or evening, which makes it flexible for different itineraries. It’s also wheelchair accessible and offers non-alcoholic options, making it inclusive for various needs.

Planning Your Visit

Remember to bring your ID, as proof of age is required, and try to eat lunch beforehand to avoid getting too tipsy. The experience offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authenticity & Authentic Experiences

What sets this tour apart is its commitment to authenticity. The setting, the stories, and the cocktails all reflect Charleston’s rich past and vibrant present. It’s a chance to see a side of Charleston that many visitors overlook — the city’s rebellious spirit, humor, and resilience.

The reviews emphasize how knowledgeable guides make the experience memorable, with travelers praising the hosts’ expertise and fun approach. One reviewer even called it “OMG! The most fun I have EVER had in Charleston,” highlighting how well this experience captures the city’s lively, welcoming vibe.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cocktail class is ideal for travelers seeking a more interactive, educational activity that’s both fun and social. It appeals to those interested in history, mixology, or simply looking for a memorable way to spend a few hours. It’s also perfect for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers wanting to meet new people in a relaxed setting.

However, if you prefer traditional sightseeing or are traveling with minors, this experience might not be the best fit. It’s designed for those 21 and over, and the focus is on cocktails and the Prohibition era.

Final Thoughts: The Value Proposition

This class offers a genuine chance to learn about Charleston’s Prohibition past while mastering the art of cocktail making. The setting, a true speakeasy, adds an extra layer of authenticity that elevates the experience beyond just mixing drinks. You’ll walk out with new skills, some fun stories, and memories of a lively, historic part of Charleston.

For the price, it’s a well-rounded package — including drinks, snacks, and a personal cocktail at the end — making it a worthwhile addition to any Charleston itinerary. Whether you’re a history lover, a social butterfly, or a curious traveler, this experience promises a good time with a little bit of educational flair.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-alcoholic options are available, making it accessible for those who prefer not to drink alcohol.

How long does the experience last?
The class runs for about 2 hours, mostly scheduled in the afternoon or evening, providing a relaxed pace.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just your ID to verify age. It’s also recommended to eat lunch beforehand, as the class involves alcohol.

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

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

Will I get to make all three cocktails myself?
Yes, you’ll have the opportunity to make each of the three cocktails during the class, guided by your instructor.

In brief, Charleston’s Sip History in The Sun cocktail class is a lively, authentic, and educational experience that combines history, hands-on mixology, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s perfect for curious travelers wanting to add a taste of the city’s rebellious past to their trip — all while enjoying some excellent drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here: