Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour

Imagine walking through a city where the past whispers from every alley and corner, especially when it comes to its secret speakeasies and outlawed drinks. That’s what you get with the Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour. This 3-hour and 45-minute journey weaves together Providence’s boozy past with its current vibrant craft scene — a perfect mix for history buffs, food lovers, and curious travelers alike.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guides who bring Providence’s prohibition stories to life with wit and detailed knowledge. Second, the delicious local tastings at every stop, from craft beers to cocktails that showcase Rhode Island’s spirited offerings. The main consideration? It’s a walking tour, so good footwear is a must, and you’ll want to pace yourself with the drinks. This experience is best suited for those who enjoy storytelling, sampling local flavors, and exploring on foot.

If you’re visiting Providence and have an interest in American drink culture, history, or just seeking a fun afternoon with plenty of bites and sips, this tour will hit the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic local experiences: Tastes of craft beers, spirits, and cocktails brewed or distilled in Rhode Island.
• History come alive: Insightful stories about Providence’s unique stance during Prohibition and its colorful characters.
• Quality guide: Knowledgeable hosts who keep the energy lively and informative.
• Comfortable pace: Multiple stops with enough time to enjoy each tasting without feeling rushed.
• Great value: Includes all tastings, snacks, and a guide — tips are extra.
• Ideal for adults: Serves drinks only to those 21 and older.

An In-Depth Look at the Drinking History Tour

The tour kicks off at Hotel Providence around 2:00 pm, setting a relaxed tone for your adventure. The well-placed starting point is near public transportation, which makes it easy to reach without a car. Your guide greets you, and from there, the stroll begins, winding through the lively streets of downtown Providence.

First Stop: The Malted Barley

We loved this introductory stop, where you’re handed a local beer sample paired with a housemade pretzel. The venue’s cozy atmosphere makes it feel like you’re visiting a friend’s cellar. The guide shares a quick overview of Providence’s beer scene, emphasizing how local brewers are reviving the craft beer movement. This stop lasts about 20 minutes and serves as a perfect warm-up for the journey ahead. Multiple reviews mention how friendly and accommodating the staff are, setting the tone for a fun, educational afternoon.

Second Stop: Track 15

Here, the spotlight is on a rich espresso martini made with locally roasted coffee beans and spirits crafted nearby. This pairing of coffee and spirits is a nod to Providence’s reputation for inventive flavors. Expect a lively discussion about the city’s coffee scene and its influence on local cocktails. Reviewers rave about the quality of the drinks and the guide’s engaging storytelling. You’ll spend about 20 minutes soaking in the vibes and learning how Providence’s prohibition-era underground bars influenced modern mixology.

Third Stop: Moonshine Alley

This stop introduces you to two moonshines, highlighting Providence’s history of bootlegging and illicit spirits. Alongside tasting, you’ll enjoy a hot chicken slider, adding a savory contrast to the spirits. The tour here emphasizes Providence’s resistance to federal alcohol bans, emphasizing the city’s independent streak. Reviewers mention how fascinating it is to learn about the characters and underground networks that made moonshine a local legend. This stop also lasts about 20 minutes, offering enough time to savor the flavors and snap some photos.

Fourth Stop: Plant City

The mood shifts to vibrant and refreshing at Plant City, where you’ll sample the drink of the day, often a creatively crafted cocktail, paired with a vegan pizza to share. This venue’s lively atmosphere and focus on local ingredients showcase Providence’s current culinary creativity. Here, the guide shares stories of how the city’s drink culture evolved post-Prohibition, blending old traditions with new trends. Reviewers mention enjoying the casual, friendly vibe and how the food complements the drinks perfectly.

Final Stop: Providence

The last phase of the tour isn’t about tasting but about storytelling. For about two hours, your guide will take you through the historic streets, recounting stories of bootleggers, corrupt officials, and the daring characters who defied Prohibition laws. Many reviews praise how the guide’s storytelling keeps everyone engaged, making history feel alive. This segment provides context for the earlier tastings, tying together Providence’s rebellious spirit and its love for good drinks.

The Value of the Experience

At $100 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package of drinks, snacks, and insightful commentary. The inclusion of all tastings and snacks makes it a cost-effective way to enjoy Providence’s culinary scene while learning about its historic defiance of Prohibition. The small group size (up to 20 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, allowing for questions and personalized interaction.

The tour’s duration of nearly four hours balances in-depth storytelling with ample tasting opportunities. The pace is leisurely, with enough stops to relax and socialize without feeling overwhelmed. The only potential downside is that it involves a fair amount of walking — good shoes and comfortable attire are advisable.

What You’ll Love

You’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides who make history approachable and fun. The local venues chosen for tastings are authentic, giving you a taste of Providence’s current and past drinking culture. The combination of stories and tastings creates an immersive experience that appeals to a wide range of interests.

Considerations

Since drinks are served only to those 21 and over, this tour isn’t suitable for children or teenagers. Also, as a walking tour, it’s best suited for those in good health who enjoy exploring on foot. Weather can influence the experience — a rainy day might dampen the outdoor parts, but the venues themselves are cozy and inviting.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to see Providence’s rebellious side, foodies looking for local flavors, and bartenders or cocktail aficionados interested in the craft behind the drinks. It’s a fantastic way for visitors to connect with Providence’s culture through stories and tastes that aren’t found in typical city tours.

If you enjoy small-group experiences with a relaxed vibe, this tour offers a memorable afternoon. It’s especially good for those who like stories behind the drinks and appreciate authentic local venues, rather than touristy hotspots.

The Sum Up

The Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour offers a rich, flavorful way to explore the city’s past and present. Its combination of tasty local beverages, engaging storytelling, and historic insights makes it a standout experience for adults wanting to understand Providence’s defiant spirit during one of America’s most fascinating periods.

The tour’s well-curated stops and knowledgeable guides ensure you won’t just sample drinks but also gain a genuine sense of the city’s independent streak. The moderate price, inclusive tastings, and intimate group size make it a great value for a unique, behind-the-scenes look at Providence’s drinking culture.

While it’s primarily suited for those who enjoy walking, learning, and tasting, it’s a perfect choice for travelers who want a fun, authentic, and educational experience that combines history with excellent local spirits and bites.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, at least one stop features vegan pizza, and snacks are included, so dietary preferences can probably be accommodated with advance notice.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, only travelers 21 and older can be served alcohol, so minors are not permitted to partake in tastings.

How long is each tasting stop?
Each of the first four stops lasts about 20 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the drinks and food without rushing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking over easy terrain through downtown Providence.

Is this tour available year-round?
The provided info emphasizes good weather, so it’s best suited for clear days. Check with the provider for seasonal availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $100 per person, which includes all tastings, snacks, and the guide.

Are tips included?
No, tips are extra and appreciated for guides who make the experience memorable.

Is transportation provided?
No, private transportation is not included. You’ll walk between stops, so comfortable shoes are a must.

What do I need to bring?
Just your curiosity, comfortable shoes, and a good appetite for local drinks and bites. An ID is necessary for alcohol consumption.

The Prohibition in Providence tour offers a lively, educational, and flavorful window into a city that refused to give up its drinks—making it a highly recommended experience for those eager to see Providence from a uniquely spirited perspective.