Savannah’s connection to Prohibition runs deep, shaped by its position as a thriving port city and cultural hub. When the nationwide alcohol ban began in 1920, Savannah’s location along the Georgia coast made it an ideal entry point for smuggled spirits. Ships often arrived under cover of darkness, unloading their cargo into discreet warehouses or directly into hidden basements along River Street. Many locals found ways to skirt the law, creating private drinking clubs that operated behind closed doors. The echoes of that era still linger, and today’s speakeasy Savannah, GA, experiences keep the intrigue alive. These modern venues pay homage to the city’s storied past through their décor, menu design and storytelling, allowing visitors to feel a tangible connection to the history that shaped Savannah’s nightlife.
What Makes Savannah’s Speakeasy Scene So Unique?
Savannah has always had a knack for mixing history with a good drink. Long before today’s visitors strolled the squares with to-go cups in hand, the city was home to a quieter, more secretive nightlife. In the 1920s, when Prohibition swept the country, Savannah’s riverfront warehouses, hidden basements and back rooms became gathering spots for those in the know. Passwords were whispered, cocktails were poured behind closed doors and the spirit of the speakeasy Savannah, GA, took root. That tradition hasn’t disappeared. Instead, it’s evolved into a collection of modern bars that keep the mystery alive while serving some of the city’s most creative drinks. In this guide, we’ll explore Savannah’s Prohibition past, discover today’s hidden spots and share where you can raise a glass in true speakeasy style.
What Was Savannah Like During the Roaring Twenties?
The Roaring Twenties in Savannah were a mix of southern charm and quiet defiance. When Prohibition took effect in 1920, the city was already known for its lively gatherings, busy riverfront trade and easy access to imported goods. As one of the busiest ports in the South, Savannah became a natural entry point for liquor shipments arriving from the Caribbean. Rumrunners took advantage of the city’s maze of riverfront warehouses and winding alleys, quietly moving barrels of whiskey and rum ashore at night.
The Law and the Loophole
Federal agents patrolled the docks, but enforcing Prohibition in a port city was a constant challenge. Liquor often arrived hidden among legitimate cargo, and locals found clever ways to keep the drinks flowing. Private clubs poured “special bottles” into teacups, making it look like nothing more than an afternoon social. Some hotel lounges charged for “setups,” such as glasses, mixers and ice, while leaving the source of the liquor unmentioned.
The Rise of the Underground
Savannah’s earliest hidden bars were not grand operations. Many operated in the basements of historic homes, behind unmarked doors in the commercial district or tucked into back rooms of neighborhood businesses. Closer to the river, it was easier to find a place where the music played and drinks were poured late into the night. These early speakeasies became social havens, filled with jazz melodies, dancing couples and laughter that spilled into the early morning hours.
The Social Shift
Prohibition blurred the lines between social classes. Wealthy businessmen shared tables with dockworkers, musicians and artists, all united by the thrill of enjoying something forbidden. This era shaped Savannah’s reputation as a city that values good company, good conversation and a good drink, no matter the law of the day.
Today, the same spirit lives on in the speakeasies in Savannah, GA, scattered across the city, where modern mixology meets the secrecy and style of the 1920s.
Which Savannah Speakeasies Bring the City’s Hidden History to Life?
If Savannah’s walls could talk, they would have plenty to say about the Prohibition era. In the 1920s, when the United States banned alcohol, Savannah’s role as a busy port city made it a natural hub for smuggling and underground drinking. Cargo ships brought liquor from the Caribbean into the Port of Savannah, and from there it found its way into hidden storerooms, basement bars, and even the back rooms of private homes. The city’s cobblestone streets, winding alleys and maze-like network of old buildings created the perfect cover for those looking to enjoy a drink away from the law’s reach.
That sense of secrecy is still alive today. Modern speakeasies in Savannah, GA, are inspired by that era, blending quiet intimacy with a touch of mystery. They are often tucked away behind unmarked doors or hidden in unexpected places. Inside, you will find dim lighting, carefully crafted cocktails and an atmosphere that feels like stepping into another time.
Where Can You Find Savannah’s Hidden Bars?
Congress Street Up
Inside the American Prohibition Museum®, this is Savannah’s only speakeasy directly connected to a museum experience. Every detail is designed to recreate the 1920s, from the period-inspired décor to the bartenders dressed in vintage attire. Guests can sip a perfectly made Bee’s Knees, Old Fashioned or Sidecar while surrounded by the history of Prohibition. It is also the only place in town where you can book a cocktail-making class and learn the art of crafting drinks the way bartenders did a century ago.
Mata Hari Speakeasy
Located near River Street, Mata Hari is as close as you can get to a secret club from Savannah’s past. Entry is by invitation only, usually through a discreet pass from someone who already knows the way in. Once inside, guests are greeted with soft candlelight, richly decorated interiors and the sound of live jazz or blues. Some nights feature burlesque performances, while others offer a more relaxed lounge feel. This is one of the most authentic speakeasy Savannah, GA, experiences for those who want to feel part of an exclusive hidden world.
Alley Cat Lounge
Situated in the basement of a historic 19th-century brick building just off Broughton Street, Alley Cat Lounge feels like a cozy secret in the heart of downtown. The shelves are stocked with hundreds of bottles from around the world, and the bartenders are known for their skill and deep cocktail knowledge. The drink menu comes in the form of a cleverly designed newspaper called the Alley Cat Rag, which is as much fun to read as it is to order from.
La Aparición at Mint to Be Mojito Bar
Tucked away inside Mint to Be Mojito Bar is La Aparición, a moody and intimate space that feels far removed from the busy street outside. Specializing in creative cocktails with Latin American influences, it offers something a little different from the typical speakeasy Savannah, GA, experience. The combination of warm lighting, inventive flavors and a true sense of privacy has quickly made it a favorite for locals and visitors who enjoy finding a bar that feels like their own hidden spot.
Specialized Prohibition Tours
Several local tour companies offer themed experiences that focus on Savannah’s life during Prohibition. These tours guide you along cobblestone streets and past old storefronts where secret rooms once buzzed with music, laughter and clinking glasses. Along the way, you’ll hear about the city’s rumrunners, the bootleggers who kept spirits flowing, and the police officers who sometimes looked the other way. Guides often point out River Street warehouses where liquor was hidden behind stacks of imported goods or tucked deep in cool brick cellars. Some tours even end inside a present-day speakeasy so you can raise a glass to the city’s rebellious spirit while standing in a setting that feels straight out of the 1920s.
What Else Can You Discover Beyond Savannah’s Speakeasies?
Savannah’s hidden bars bring the romance and secrecy of the Prohibition era to life, yet the city’s cocktail scene offers even more. You’ll find everything from cozy hideaways rich in history to rooftops with incredible views. Each spot has its own personality, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the city in unique ways while keeping the timeless charm of a Savannah night out.
One standout is Peregrin Rooftop Lounge, perched atop the Perry Lane Hotel. Guests can enjoy seasonal cocktails while looking out over church steeples, historic buildings and the shimmering Savannah River. It’s an ideal place to slow down and take in the city’s skyline as the evening light changes.
Another local favorite is Pinkie Masters, a downtown landmark that’s been part of Savannah’s social scene for decades. Known for its laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where conversations flow easily and everyone feels like part of the neighborhood. Jimmy Carter famously stood on the bar here during a campaign stop in the 1970s, adding a memorable chapter to its story.
If you’re drawn to craftsmanship and classic style, Artillery Bar delivers a refined cocktail experience in a beautifully restored 1890s building that once housed the Georgia Hussars’ armory. The bartenders are skilled in both time-honored recipes and creative new combinations, served in a space that glows with warm light and polished wood.
For a bar with a direct link to the Prohibition era, The Ordinary Pub is a must. Tucked below street level, it occupies a space that once operated as a speakeasy. Today, exposed brick walls and a relaxed, modern menu keep the historic charm alive, offering a setting that bridges the past with the present.
Savannah’s cocktail culture thrives because it blends history, creativity and personality. Whether you’re seeking a cozy hideaway or a stylish spot with panoramic views, the city always finds a way to make every drink feel like part of its story.
What Prohibition-Themed Experiences Can You Try in Savannah?
Savannah has a way of making history feel alive, especially when it comes to its Prohibition past. Many spots around the historic district offer experiences that celebrate the stories, style and flavors of the 1920s. If you want to explore the side of Savannah, GA, that blends real history with modern hospitality, there are some unforgettable places to add to your itinerary.
Specialized Prohibition Tours
Several local tour companies offer themed experiences that focus on Savannah’s life during Prohibition. These tours guide you along cobblestone streets and past old storefronts where secret rooms once buzzed with music, laughter and clinking glasses. Along the way, you’ll hear about the city’s rumrunners, the bootleggers who kept spirits flowing, and the police officers who sometimes looked the other way. Guides often point out River Street warehouses where liquor was hidden behind stacks of imported goods or tucked deep in cool brick cellars. Some tours even end inside a present-day speakeasy so you can raise a glass to the city’s rebellious spirit while standing in a setting that feels straight out of the 1920s.
American Prohibition Museum®
Right in the heart of the historic district, the American Prohibition Museum® stands as the only museum in the United States dedicated entirely to the Prohibition era. Inside, interactive exhibits take you from the early temperance movement of the 1800s through the nationwide ban on alcohol that began in 1920. You can see authentic artifacts like vintage bottles, homebrewing tools and propaganda posters that urged Americans to embrace a dry lifestyle. The recreated 1920s speakeasy, Congress Street Up, is a highlight. Here, bartenders in period clothing mix cocktails inspired by the drinks people enjoyed when alcohol was served behind closed doors. Order a Bee’s Knees or a Sidecar, and it’s easy to imagine yourself in the middle of Savannah, GA, a hundred years ago, when every pour carried a little extra thrill.
Planning Your Spirited Exploration
A little planning can make your night feel even more memorable.
Dress Code: There’s no need for a full costume, but adding a few vintage-inspired touches can make the experience even more fun. A fedora, suspenders or a flapper-style accessory will help you feel like you’ve stepped back in time without going overboard.
Reservations: Many speakeasy-style spots are intentionally small to keep that intimate, secretive feel alive. Making a reservation ensures you’ll have a seat when you arrive, especially on busy weekends.
Transportation: The historic district is easy to navigate on foot, and many speakeasies are just a short walk apart. If you’re coming from outside downtown, ride-share services and pedicabs are convenient ways to get around.
Responsible Drinking: The real fun of exploring speakeasies in Savannah, GA, is savoring the craft behind each cocktail. Many of these drinks are carefully made using fresh juices, homemade syrups and quality spirits. Sip slowly, enjoy the flavors and give yourself time between stops to take in the lively atmosphere of the city at night.
Savannah’s Prohibition-themed experiences give you the chance to enjoy both history and hospitality in a way that’s unique to this city. From guided tours that uncover hidden stories to the immersive exhibits at the American Prohibition Museum®, every stop connects you to a time when finding a drink meant knowing the right people and the right doors to knock on.
Why Explore Savannah’s Speakeasy Scene?
Savannah has a way of blending history and hospitality that’s unlike anywhere else. You can wander cobblestone streets once traveled by merchants, sailors and rumrunners. Then settle into a candlelit bar that feels like a direct link to the Prohibition era. The city’s port and bustling River Street played a key role during those dry years as liquor quietly moved through warehouses and basement rooms away from the public eye. Today, the stories live on in places like the American Prohibition Museum® and in the carefully crafted drinks served at intimate lounges throughout the historic district. Visiting a speakeasy in a Savannah, GA, venue is more than an evening out with friends. It’s a chance to step into a living piece of American history, surrounded by restored interiors, vintage furnishings and an atmosphere that echoes the past. Every location offers its own interpretation of Savannah’s long-standing appreciation for the art of the cocktail, making each visit both memorable and distinctly tied to the city’s cultural roots.
FAQs
Yes, and one of the most immersive experiences is the American Prohibition Museum®, the only museum in the United States dedicated entirely to this era. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits, historic photographs and rare artifacts that reveal how the movement to ban alcohol transformed the country. The museum features a fully reconstructed 1920s-style speakeasy, Congress Street Up, where bartenders prepare drinks inspired by authentic Prohibition-era recipes. Beyond the museum, specialized tours take guests through Savannah’s historic streets, pointing out former gathering places, hidden entrances and buildings linked to the city’s spirited past. Many of these tours conclude with a visit to a current speakeasy Savannah, GA, venue, allowing you to raise a glass in the same city where history unfolded.
Savannah’s speakeasies create an experience that feels both intimate and steeped in history. Many operate in restored historic spaces such as brick-walled basements, former bank vaults or century-old storefronts. Lighting tends to be warm and inviting, and music often sets the tone with live jazz, soft blues or carefully curated vintage playlists. Bartenders pay close attention to craft, serving drinks that blend timeless classics with fresh, locally inspired flavors. The speakeasy Savannah, GA, atmosphere encourages conversation, relaxation and savoring the moment, whether you’re seated at a polished wooden bar or tucked into a quiet corner booth.
Yes! While Prohibition forced distilling into secrecy, modern Savannah celebrates the craft openly. For several years, Ghost Coast Distillery offered tours and tastings that introduced visitors to the art and science of spirit-making. Though Ghost Coast closed in 2023, other producers in the region, as well as specialty tasting rooms, continue to share the tradition. Guests can often learn about the distillation process, from milling the grains to aging the final product, before sampling different varieties. Pairing a distillery visit with an evening at a speakeasy Savannah, GA, venue is a great way to explore the city’s enduring relationship with fine spirits.
Savannah boasts several historic bars that tell their own unique stories. The Pirate’s House, established in 1753, was once a meeting spot for sailors and adventurers. The Olde Pink House, an elegant 18th-century mansion, offers a cozy downstairs tavern with plenty of character. The Marshall House, one of the oldest hotels in Savannah, features a welcoming lounge where guests have gathered for more than a century. While not all of these locations are speakeasies, they capture the same sense of history and charm that makes speakeasy Savannah, GA, nightlife so appealing.
Absolutely! Savannah’s cocktail culture thrives on a mix of creativity, history and a relaxed approach to enjoying an evening out. Skilled bartenders craft everything from Prohibition-era classics to inventive seasonal creations using fresh herbs, local fruit and house-made infusions. The city’s open-container policy in the historic district means you can take your drink to go, wandering cobblestone streets while enjoying the warm coastal air. Many speakeasy Savannah, GA, venues embrace their historic inspiration, ensuring that each drink is as much about the experience as it is about the flavor.
