Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour

Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour offers a captivating journey through Rhode Island’s rebellious past, combined with sampling some of the city’s best local spirits and bites. With a perfect 5.0 rating from recent travelers, this tour stands out for its engaging storytelling, high-quality venues, and relaxed pace. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just in search of a fun way to explore Providence, this experience packs plenty of value into a manageable 3 hours and 45 minutes.

What really draws us in are the knowledgeable guides, the authentic local flavors, and the historic tales of bootlegging and speakeasies. The tour’s intimate group size, mostly around 20 participants, ensures a personal experience—plus, the walking nature of the tour allows for a genuine feel of Providence’s vibrant downtown. One thing to keep in mind is the price point—$100 per person—though considering the four tastings, snacks, and stories, it offers a solid experience for those interested in both history and hospitality.

The only potential consideration? It’s primarily designed for those 21 and older, with alcohol served only to guests meeting that age requirement. If you’re looking for a quick, immersive dive into Providence’s spirited past with a focus on local drinks and stories, this tour is a great fit. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors, history lovers, and anyone eager to combine a walk with a drink and some fun facts.

Good To Know

• Authentic local tastings: Enjoy Providence’s craft beers, spirits, and innovative cocktails.
• Historical storytelling: Learn about how Providence defied Prohibition and the characters involved.
• Intimate group size: Small groups create a relaxed, engaging atmosphere.
• Quality venues: Each stop offers carefully curated food and beverage experiences.
• Walking tour: Covers about a mile, making it accessible and easygoing.
• Expert guide: Guides like Dillon bring enthusiasm and deep knowledge to the experience.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

What to Expect at the Start: The Malted Barley

The tour kicks off at The Hotel Providence, a welcoming spot where you’ll sample a local beer paired with a housemade pretzel. This first stop is not just about the drink but sets a tone for the rest of the tour—friendly, relaxed, and focused on quality. Reviewers particularly appreciated the variety of beers served and the friendly atmosphere, with one noting that all stops were accommodating and enjoyable.

Track 15: Coffee, Spirits, and a Little Caffeine Kick

Next, at Track 15, the tour shifts gears towards a refined, caffeine-infused cocktail: an Espresso Martini crafted with locally roasted coffee beans and Rhode Island spirits. The pairing of fresh coffee with craft spirits offers a sophisticated taste, and the venue’s ambiance elevates the experience. A guest mentioned that each stop had “fun food and beverages,” and this one was no exception—highlighting how the tour balances drinks with engaging surroundings.

Moonshine Alley: Bootlegging Vibes

As you wander into Moonshine Alley, the narrative of illicit liquor production during Prohibition comes alive. Here, you’ll taste two types of moonshine, along with a hot chicken slider—a hearty, flavorful snack that complements the spirits. Multiple reviews praised the venues’ atmosphere and the diversity of tastings, with one guest calling the tour “a lot of fun” and funnily noting the interesting stories behind the moonshine’s history.

Plant City: Refreshing Drinks & Vegan Bites

The final tasting stop at Plant City features a refreshing cocktail of the day and a shareable vegan pizza. This spot’s modern vibe and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients wrap up the tasting segment beautifully. Guests appreciated the variety, citing “great food and drinks” and a lively, welcoming environment, perfect for relaxing after the walking portion of the tour.

The Heart of the Tour: Providence’s Prohibition Past

The highlight for many is the two-hour segment where your guide shares stories of bootleggers, corrupt officials, and Providence’s resistance to Prohibition. This historical narration is woven into the walk between venues, giving context to each tasting and making the experience more immersive. Reviewers like one who said, “great tour guide” and called the history “interesting,” found this part educational yet fun, with a strong emphasis on Providence’s unique role during the 1920s and ’30s.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Tour Details and Logistics

The tour begins at Hotel Providence at 2:00pm, making it a perfect afternoon activity—especially if you’re exploring downtown Providence. It ends at Plant City, giving you the flexibility to continue your exploration or enjoy dinner nearby.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, with four scheduled tasting stops, each lasting about 20 minutes. The walking distance is manageable—around a mile—with comfortable, easy terrain. This pace allows enough time to savor each drink and snack, absorb the stories, and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 20 travelers, the small-group setting fosters interaction and allows guides like Dillon to give personalized attention. Several reviews highlighted how the guides brought enthusiasm and deep knowledge, making the stories of Providence’s liquor laws and underground trade more accessible and interesting.

Cost and Value

At $100 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with four tasting experiences, snacks, and expert narration. When you consider the quality of the venues, the local craft spirits, and the historical insights, it offers good value—especially for those interested in local culture, history, and food.

Accessibility and Considerations

Most travelers can participate, but remember that alcohol is served only to those 21 and older. The tour’s emphasis on walking and standing means it’s suitable for most, but those with difficulty walking might want to plan accordingly.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Guests consistently praised the guides, with comments like “Dillon was a fantastic guide,” and appreciated the friendly, inviting venues. One reviewer mentioned their guide was “very, very knowledgeable,” which helped make the history come alive. The tour also received praise for its balance of fun, food, drinks, and learning, making it an ideal activity for a leisurely afternoon.

Several reviewers pointed out the relaxing stops and comfortable terrain, emphasizing that the walk was manageable and enjoyable. The variety of venues and their ambiance—ranging from cozy bars to lively eateries—kept the experience engaging.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy a blend of history, local flavors, and socializing. If you’re curious about Providence’s unique stance during Prohibition or want a lively way to explore the city’s culinary scene, it’s a perfect pick. The small-group size and knowledgeable guides make it feel personal and engaging, while the inclusive tastings ensure you’ll leave with a sense of the local craft.

It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors looking to get a taste of Providence’s downtown, paired with stories that add context to their surroundings. The mix of education and entertainment means it’s ideal for history buffs and casual explorers alike.

However, if you’re not keen on walking or prefer more structured, seated experiences, this might not be the best fit. Likewise, those under 21 will need to look elsewhere—this is an adult-only affair.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
No, alcohol is only served to guests 21 years old and above, so minors should consider alternative activities.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, including all tasting stops and walking between venues.

What is included in the price?
The ticket price covers all alcoholic beverages, snacks, and an expert guide, with four tastings at different venues.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Hotel Providence at 2:00pm and concludes at Plant City, making it easy to explore nearby afterward.

Is the tour walkable?
Yes, it covers about a mile on easy terrain, with comfortable stops along the way.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
While not explicitly mentioned, the tour offers vegan pizza at the last stop, indicating some flexibility.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While primarily focused on alcoholic tastings, non-drinkers can still enjoy the historical narrative and food at each stop.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be on your feet for most of the tour.

In summary, Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour offers a lively, educational, and flavorful look into Providence’s past and present. It balances historic storytelling with local tastings and relaxed walking, making it ideal for curious travelers who love history, good food, and a bit of fun. With attentive guides, authentic venues, and diverse stories, it promises an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon in Rhode Island’s capital.