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Sips from the Past – Original Speakeasy Experience

About this experience

A bold blend of history and indulgence—our cocktails and bites channel the glamour, rebellion, and rich flavors of the Prohibition era with a modern twist on timeless classics. Learn the history of the original speakeasy, while sipping on a handcrafted cocktail, and seeing the country's oldest electric elevator in action.

At a glance

  • Duration: 1 hr 30 min

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

Sips from the Past - Original Speakeasy Experience

Plan your experience

Time on the tour1 hr 30 min
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide)

Set aside 1 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

What is included

  • One curated small plate to pair with your cocktail (additional menu offerings available for an upgrade)
  • One historic handcrafted cocktail (with zero-proof options available), inspired by original 1920s recipes

Itinerary and highlights

Step beyond the city street and descend into a secret world hidden beneath the cobblestones. This immersive speakeasy experience transports guests back to the roaring 1920s—a time of jazz, bootleggers, and whispered passwords. Located in a once-forgotten underground space, this reawakened speakeasy was originally a covert gathering spot during Prohibition, and has now been meticulously restored with vintage décor, candlelit corners, and the echoes of a time gone by.

Whether you're a history lover or cocktail connoisseur, this hidden gem invites you to sip, sway, and step into D.C.’s underground past.

What to Expect
A guided introduction to the speakeasy’s history—true tales of raids, resistance, and revelry
One handcrafted cocktail (with zero-proof available) and paired small plate, inspired by original 1920s recipes
Roaring '20s ambiance with jazz-era soundscapes and furnishings
Optional upgrades for additional cocktails and curated small bites

Highlights
-Reawakened speakeasy in a real Prohibition-era hideout
-Interactive storytelling and immersive ambiance—no costumes required, but encouraged!
-Intimate setting—limited guests per night for an exclusive experience

See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.

Meeting and pickup information

  • Enter National Union Building and walk to the end of the lobby corridor to the curtained entry.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • National Union Building

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Are zero proof options available? Yes.
  • Are full dinner menu options available onsite? Yes.

Cancellation policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 1 hr 30 min.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Adult tickets: age 21+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What accessibility information is provided?
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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