Explore New York’s Layered History
Take a Big Onion Walking Tour and discover New York’s rich history through memorable stories and little-known facts.
“Satan’s Seat” Walking Tour: New York During Prohibition
A walking tour focused on the history of Prohibition in the Central & West Villages.
On our walk we will discuss and explore the history, politics, culture and speakeasies of New York in the Roaring ‘20s – one of the most volatile eras in American history. The 18th Amendment is the only Constitutional Amendment restricting the rights of Americans. This restrictive 13 year period gave rise to an explosive arts and literary scene, incredibly innovative legal loopholes…and the Great Depression! Please note: this is a history-based walking tour and no alcohol will be offered on the outing. Stops could include: John McGurk’s “Suicide Hall”, The Black Swan, Chumley’s and sites associated with Margaret Sanger, Al Jolson, Bernie Gallant, Carrie Nation, and Fiorello LaGuardia. The “Satan’s Seat” walk does contain mature content within the historic discussion.
Created in conjunction with WNET New York Public Media, a walking tour based on the 2011 Ken Burn’s documentary “Prohibition”.
Tour Info
Cost: $30
$20 Seniors and Full-Time Students
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Tour Schedule
No schedule yet
Tour Reservations
Big Onion requires all walkers to reserve and pay in advance. Prepayment helps us determine group size and appropriate guide numbers.
NOTE: You will select your date in the next step.
For bigger groups, consider a private walking or virtual tour!
Whether you are looking to integrate a tour into your academic curriculm or entertaining out-of-towners, a Big Onion walking tour is a great way to experience the city.
For more information, or to arrange, please call (718) 499-3001 or email info@bigonion.com.
Meeting Location
Location:
Northeast corner of Bowery & Houston Street, in front of the iron-fenced community garden.
Subway Trains
F to Second Avenue; 6 to Bleecker Street; F/B/D to Broadway-Lafayette.
FAQs for In-Person Street Walks
Guides
The finest group of tour guides anywhere. Most of us are full-time graduate students researching and writing doctoral dissertations in history passionate about the history, architecture and people of New York.
Finding Your Guides
All guides carry an 8×11 sign that says “Big Onion Walking Tours”.
Time & Distance
All tours last approximately two hours. We start on time and walk between one and two miles at a moderate walking pace, stopping at various sites along the tour.
Rain/Inclement Weather
Big Onion generally presents tours rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather please check our home page for notifications or call our hotline [(888) 606-WALK (9255) ext. 1], to confirm our schedule.
Tips
Gratuities are always appreciated, but never expected.
Reschedule Policy
With 24+ hours prior to a walking tour, Big Onion offers a full credit for the value of the booking. Credits will be given as Gift Cards in dollar amounts. Gift Cards are good for two years and can be used on any Big Onion outing. Cancellations with less than 24 hours prior to the tour or no shows cannot be credited.
Walks are held rain or shine, but may be cancelled for severe weather or if museum is closed. In the event of a Big Onion cancellation or museum closure, full refunds or rescheduled tickets will be offered.
More Questions? Check out How it Works for more details.