January 16, 1920, the last legal day to publicly consume alcohol in America before the 18th Amendment took effect. A sad day. But on January 17, the drinking continued—albeit inconspicuously.

Despite the “manufacture, sale and transportation of intoxicating liquors” being illegal, alcohol was all over New York City. In fact, there were an estimated 30,000 speakeasies in New York City during the “dry” decade due in part to gangsters and strategic stockpiling.

There’s much more to the story—mobsters getting whacked, crooked cops, and absinthe—which you will see and taste on this most fascinating walking tour.

Cost: $100, includes 3 drinks and light snacks
Length: 3.5 hours, wear walking shoes
Group Size: Maximum of 15 (private tours with a minimum of 4 guests)
Tour Provider: Bitesee