Craft 3 Cocktails with a Pro Bartender: A Practical Guide for Cocktail Enthusiasts in Charleston

If you’re visiting Charleston and looking for a fun, interactive experience beyond just sightseeing, a cocktail-making class might be just what you need. We’ve reviewed the offering from Cocktail CowBoys that promises to turn you into a home bartender in just 2.5 hours. This experience combines professional mixology with a relaxed, social vibe — ideal for groups of friends, couples, or even team outings.
What really caught our eye are two standout features: hands-on instruction with all the tools supplied, and the ability to choose from a variety of themed cocktail packages. Plus, the fact that it’s hosted at your Airbnb or private location means comfort, privacy, and a more personalized feel. The only possible downside? You’ll need to prepare your own alcohol and ice, which might require a quick shopping trip beforehand — but that’s part of the fun.
This experience suits travelers who love a bit of social entertainment, want to learn some bartender tricks, or simply enjoy a good drink in good company. If you’re a total newbie or a seasoned cocktail lover, this class offers a chance to brush up on your skills and try some new recipes.
Key Points

- All-in-one experience: The class includes professional tools, fresh ingredients, recipe cards, and a group photo.
- Customization options: You pick your preferred cocktail theme, allowing for tailored experiences.
- Private setting: Hosted at your location, making it more intimate and flexible.
- Learn practical skills: Shake, stir, and garnish like a pro — no experience needed.
- Cost analysis: At $79.50, it offers solid value for a personalized, interactive activity.
- Additional costs: Alcohol and ice are separate; plan ahead with the provided shopping list.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Charleston.
The Details That Matter

What to Expect from the Experience
This class runs for approximately 2 hours 30 minutes—a comfortable timeframe to learn, mix, and enjoy your creations without feeling rushed. The experience is led by a professional bartender from The Cocktail Crew, who guides your group through making three signature cocktails or mocktails. The setup is straightforward — they bring all the professional bar tools, fresh ingredients, and garnishes — you just need to supply the alcohol and ice.
How the Class Is Structured
You’ll start by choosing a theme from options like “The Locals”, “The Martinis”, “The Spritzes”, “The Classics”, or “The Mocktails”. Each package offers two distinct drinks, with options like Planter’s Punch & Cadillac Margarita or Hazelnut Espresso Martini & Dirty Martini. Once your selection is made, the instructor demonstrates each step — from shaking to garnishing — then guides your group as you make your own drinks.
What You’ll Learn
This isn’t just about following a recipe. You’ll pick up tips and tricks like how to shake cocktails correctly, the importance of garnishes, and a few bartender secrets that elevate your drinks. It’s perfect for beginners, and the relaxed, social vibe encourages plenty of laughs and conversation.
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The Setting and Atmosphere
Since the class is hosted at your chosen location, it offers a personalized and cozy environment. Whether at your Airbnb, a friend’s home, or even a small event space, it creates a more intimate atmosphere than a crowded bar. You’ll love the styling and setup—they take care of cleanup, so you can focus on having fun and enjoying your drinks.
Value for Money
At $79.50 per person, this experience provides a lot of bang for your buck. It includes all professional tools, fresh ingredients, recipe cards, and a group photo—features often missing from casual bar visits. Keep in mind, the alcohol and ice are not included, so you should budget an additional roughly $10-$20 per person, depending on your choices. For a private, social activity that doubles as a skill-building session, it’s a well-priced option.
Considerations Before Booking
You’ll want to review the shopping list sent via email to ensure you have the alcohol and ice ready — that’s part of the experience. Also, note that all guests must be 21+, so this isn’t suitable for younger travelers or those without valid ID. The activity is private, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the experience’s exclusivity and comfort.
What Our Reviewers Say and Why It Matters
While this tour is relatively new and has no formal reviews yet, the detailed description highlights its personalized nature and professional approach. The inclusion of recipe cards and a photo op shows they aim to make the experience memorable beyond just learning. The focus on fresh ingredients and spotless cleanup adds to the quality and convenience.
The options for cocktail themes mean you can tailor the experience to suit your taste—whether you prefer classics like Old Fashioned and Mojito, or trendy spritzes like Strawberry Aperol or Blackberry Hugo. The flexibility extends to mocktail options, making it inclusive for non-drinkers or designated drivers.
Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Cocktail Class

- Plan your shopping: Use the provided list to buy your alcohol and ice ahead of time — this helps avoid delays or missing ingredients.
- Arrive prepared: Have your space clean and ready to host the class, whether at an Airbnb or private home.
- Invite friends or family: The private nature makes it ideal for groups—laughter and camaraderie are practically guaranteed.
- Take notes: The recipe cards are valuable keepsakes and can help you replicate your favorite cocktails later.
- Enjoy the process: Remember, the goal is fun, not perfection. The relaxed vibe means no one’s grading your shake technique.
Who Will Love This Experience

This cocktail class is perfect for groups celebrating a special occasion, travelers looking for a unique activity, or anyone wanting to boost their bartending skills. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a private, at-home experience rather than a crowded bar scene. If you’re keen on learning some mixology tricks and enjoying some quality drinks in a cozy environment, you’ll find this class rewarding.
However, it’s less ideal for those who want a guided tour of Charleston’s nightlife or who aren’t comfortable preparing their own alcohol. Also, since alcohol and ice are not included, it’s best to consider the additional costs involved.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth Your Time and Money?

This craft cocktail experience offers a delightful blend of education and entertainment. The fact that it’s hosted at your preferred location adds a layer of convenience and intimacy that many travelers crave. For $79.50, you get not only professional guidance and tools but also the chance to create memorable drinks with friends or family.
It’s a great choice for those wanting a fun, memorable, and useful activity that doesn’t break the bank. It suits groups, couples, or even solo travelers who enjoy a relaxed social vibe. Plus, the ability to select from different themed packages makes it adaptable to different tastes and preferences.
If you’re a curious traveler, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique night-in activity, this class could be a highlight of your Charleston trip.
FAQ

Do I need to have experience to join this cocktail class?
No experience is required. The class is designed to be fun and accessible for all skill levels.
What’s included in the price?
You get a professional bartender, all the professional bar tools, fresh ingredients, recipe cards, and a group photo.
What do I need to bring?
Just your alcohol, ice, and a good attitude. A shopping list for the alcohol and ice is emailed beforehand.
Can I customize my cocktail choices?
Yes, you select your preferred theme from options like “The Locals”, “The Martinis”, etc., when booking.
Is this experience suitable for non-drinkers?
Absolutely. They offer mocktail options like Cucumber Mint Cooler and Citrus Basil Smash.
How long does the class last?
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including mixing, tasting, and cleanup.
Is there any age limit?
Yes, all guests must be 21 or older with valid ID.
Where is the class held?
It’s hosted at your chosen location in Charleston — at your Airbnb, office, or private space.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund.
Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities of about $15 per person are customary if you enjoy the experience.
Is transportation provided?
No, this is a mobile ticket experience that begins at your location. You need to arrange your own transportation.
This cocktail class from Cocktail CowBoys offers an engaging, practical way to enhance your Charleston visit. Whether you’re a beginner or a cocktail veteran, it’s a great way to add some spirited fun to your trip — all in a relaxed, private setting.
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