Planning a New Year’s Eve celebration in New York City? This tour promises a blend of history, craft cocktails, and a prime spot for the famous Times Square Ball Drop—all wrapped into a 5-hour package. We’ve looked into this experience to give you a clear picture of what to expect, highlighting the pros, cons, and whether it’s worth your investment.
What we love about this tour include its unique focus on NYC’s Prohibition era, the chance to explore three iconic and hidden bars, and having a reserved, exclusive view of the midnight ball drop. It’s an elegant way to celebrate the holiday without the chaos of the crowds, while still soaking up the city’s lively atmosphere.
A possible drawback is the mixed review about organization and service at the bars, with some guests experiencing long waits and limited drink options. Also, at $350 per person, this experience is on the pricier side, which makes a careful look at its value essential before booking.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy a combination of history, craft cocktails, private viewing experiences, and a more relaxed yet festive New Year’s Eve. If you’re looking for an upscale, curated night with a knowledgeable guide, this could be a solid choice.
Good To Know
- Historic NYC Bars: Visit three iconic and speakeasy-style venues, learning about Prohibition and the city’s past.
- Exclusive Viewing: Enjoy a reserved, private spot only 12 blocks from Times Square with a view of the midnight ball drop.
- All-Inclusive Drinks: 5 hours of open bar and appetizers, with a focus on cocktails, beers, and wines.
- Guided Experience: Led by a licensed guide and dedicated host to enhance the evening’s flow.
- Flexibility & Convenience: Skip the lines with a separate entrance and avoid the dense crowds of Times Square.
- Long Duration: A 5-hour experience that allows ample time to explore, socialize, and celebrate.
Detailed Breakdown of the Experience
Meeting Point & Introduction
The adventure kicks off in front of Sir Henry’s Bar on 8th Avenue. Make sure to arrive on time, as the guide emphasizes punctuality and staying with the group for security reasons. The check-in process seems straightforward, and the guide is described as knowledgeable, helping set the tone for the evening.
The First Stop: A Classic Irish Bar
Your journey begins at one of NYC’s beloved Irish pubs. Here, you’ll enjoy a beer or wine while soaking in the atmosphere of an authentic hotel that’s been part of the city’s fabric for years. This initial stop is ideal for warming up and setting a relaxed tone, with some historical context about NYC’s vibrant Irish community.
Learning About Prohibition
Next, the tour moves to a second location, where the focus shifts to the catalysts behind Prohibition. Guests can expect to hear stories about women of the Gilded Age and the movement that fueled the alcohol ban. During this part, you’ll be drinking and snacking, creating a lively, interactive atmosphere that makes history feel engaging rather than dry.
One reviewer noted that guides “talked about the women of the Gilded Age and the movement that gave rise to an oil king,” highlighting how the tour offers more than just bar-hopping—it provides context about the city’s transformative years.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Speakeasy and the Gangsters
The final stop is among New York’s last-standing 1920s speakeasies. Here, the narrative turns to infamous gangsters, bootleggers, and the rise and fall of Prohibition. The ambiance is designed to evoke the roaring ‘20s, with low lighting, vintage decor, and stories of figures like Al Capone. The tour concludes at this speakeasy, where guests can indulge in appetizers and continue enjoying the open bar.
The Big Finish: Times Square Ball Drop Viewing
From 8:00 PM to midnight, the experience shifts to a reserved, exclusive viewing area just 12 blocks from Times Square. This vantage point is a significant perk, offering a less crowded, more comfortable way to witness the iconic ball drop. Included in the package are additional drinks and small plates, making it a celebratory finale.
Guests are advised to keep their IDs handy, arrive early, and stay with the host to pass through security barricades. The guide emphasizes the importance of punctuality given the security measures around Times Square on New Year’s Eve.
What’s Included & What’s Not
Included in the $350 price tag are:
- 5 hours of open bar and appetizers
- Entry to three historic bars and speakeasies
- An exclusive viewing spot of the Times Square Ball Drop
- A licensed guide and dedicated host for the event
Not included is transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point. Given the security around Times Square, arriving early is advisable. Also, the tour is strictly for guests 21 and older, and large bags or backpacks aren’t permitted, which is typical for security reasons.
The Experience from Actual Guests
One reviewer, Bill from the US, shared some candid feedback: he found the start time too early and noted staff shortages at the last two bars, which resulted in long waits for drinks. He was disappointed with the alcohol selection at the final speakeasy and mentioned that the space was crowded, with limited appetizers. “Tour guides were drunk,” he added, which is not ideal but perhaps reflects a casual, festive atmosphere.
He also pointed out that the description of the experience didn’t fully match what was delivered—no champagne toast or pizza, which was disappointing considering the price. Such insights are valuable for understanding potential hiccups, especially regarding organization and service quality.
The Value For Money Consideration
Given the price of $350 per person, this experience leans toward the more upscale end of New Year’s Eve celebrations. It offers a combination of history, private access, and a less chaotic view of the ball drop, which many guests find worth the cost. The inclusion of multiple historic venues and the dedicated guide helps justify the expense, especially if you value a curated, intimate setting over the typical crowded street scene.
However, the mixed reviews about service at the bars suggest that some might find the experience’s organization lacking. If you’re someone who values seamless service and high-quality offerings, it’s worth considering these factors.
Is This Tour Right for You?
This tour is perfect if you want to combine a taste of NYC’s past with a comfortable, exclusive way to ring in the New Year. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate a guided, curated experience over the chaos of general public celebrations. It’s also ideal for those interested in cocktails and history, and who prefer a more relaxed celebration than standing in freezing crowds.
If you’re looking for a lively, loud party with lots of strangers, this might not be your best pick. But if you want a meaningful, engaging evening with a touch of luxury and a memorable view of the famous ball drop, this could be just the right choice.
FAQs
Is transportation included? No, guests need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point on 8th Avenue.
What should I bring? You’ll need your passport or ID card, and a driver’s license. Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas are not allowed for security reasons.
Can I cancel this experience? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What age do I need to be? Participants must be 21 years or older to join.
How long is the tour? The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, typically starting in the late afternoon.
Is there a dress code? The tour doesn’t specify, but smart-casual is advisable considering the historic venues and upscale vibe.
Do I get any drinks or food during the tour? Yes, there’s an open bar with wine, beer, and cocktails, along with appetizers throughout the evening.
Will I be able to see the ball drop clearly? Yes, from the reserved, exclusive viewing area, you’ll have a direct view of the Times Square Ball Drop.
How much walking is involved? Expect about 1.5 to 2 miles of walking during the evening, including moving between venues and security.
Is this experience suitable for non-drinkers? Since the experience is centered around an open bar, it’s best suited for those comfortable with alcohol consumption.
This New Year’s Eve tour in New York offers a balanced mix of history, celebration, and exclusivity. You’ll explore iconic, hidden bars that tell stories of the city’s Prohibition era while enjoying unlimited drinks in a relaxed setting. The highlight is the private, prime spot for the Times Square ball drop, providing a more comfortable and less crowded way to ring in the new year.
While some guests have pointed out organizational hiccups, the overall experience delivers on its promise of a memorable, fun-filled night with a touch of elegance. It’s best suited for those seeking a guided, curated evening that combines culture and celebration, especially if you’re interested in learning about NYC’s vibrant past.
If you’re willing to pay for a more tailored experience and a spectacular view of the ball drop, this tour could be the highlight of your New Year’s Eve in the Big Apple.
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