Las Vegas is no stranger to reinvention. From its early days as a desert watering hole to its current status as a global entertainment capital, Sin City has always embraced the unique, the bold, and the unexpected. While the neon lights of The Strip captivate millions, there’s a more discreet but equally captivating allure hidden within the city’s heart. The Underground is tucked beneath The Mob Museum in downtown Las Vegas, an authentic Prohibition-era speakeasy that transports visitors back to the 1920s with period-accurate drinks, décor, and a rich historical narrative. As a long-time Las Vegas resident, I’ve seen bars and lounges come and go, but The Underground offers something truly special—a chance to step back in time and experience an era that shaped American history.
The History Behind The Underground: Where Lawlessness and Libations Meet
To appreciate The Underground, you must first understand the significance of the time period it celebrates. The 1920s was a decade of great social, political, and economic upheaval in the United States, and few laws were as controversial as Prohibition. The 18th Amendment, enacted in 1920, made the production, transportation, and sale of alcohol illegal across the country. But the thirst for booze didn’t disappear; instead, it fueled a black market run by organized crime.
Why Las Vegas is a Fitting Home for a Prohibition-era Speakeasy
- Las Vegas has long been linked to the mob. The city’s early development was heavily influenced by organized crime figures, most notably Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel, who helped establish The Flamingo Hotel, the first major casino on The Strip.
- Downtown Las Vegas, where The Mob Museum is located, still retains much of the city’s original grit and character, making it the perfect setting for a speakeasy that celebrates a time of lawlessness and rebellion.
- The city’s love for themed experiences makes The Underground a seamless fit, combining history with entertainment, much like the rest of Las Vegas.
The Mob Museum Connection: Preserving the Past
The Underground is housed within The Mob Museum, which tells the story of organized crime’s influence on American society. The speakeasy is an extension of the museum, allowing visitors to experience a taste (literally) of life during Prohibition.
- Visitors can access The Underground either through the museum’s exhibits or by entering via a discreet side entrance, just like in the old days when speakeasies were hidden from law enforcement.
- The Mob Museum ensures that every detail, from the drink recipes to the décor, is historically accurate, offering an immersive experience that both educates and entertains.
Step into the Past: The Décor and Atmosphere of The Underground
Walking into The Underground feels like stepping back into the Roaring Twenties. The dimly lit space, vintage furnishings, and Jazz Age music playing softly in the background all combine to create an authentic speakeasy ambiance. But it’s not just about looks—this bar is committed to authenticity in every aspect.
Vintage Décor with Attention to Detail
- The bar features exposed brick walls, mahogany wood, and brass accents reminiscent of the period.
- Period-appropriate advertisements and memorabilia adorn the walls, adding to the nostalgic feel.
- Plush velvet seating and dim, amber-colored lighting set the tone for an intimate, cozy experience.
The Speakeasy Vibe: An Intimate Setting
Unlike many of the sprawling bars and lounges that populate Las Vegas, The Underground embraces a more intimate, low-key atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can sit down, have a conversation, and enjoy a drink without the chaos of The Strip.
- Limited seating ensures a more personal experience, with patrons often engaging in conversations with bartenders about the history behind each drink.
- Jazz music plays a central role in setting the mood. You won’t find DJs or loud club beats here, but rather soft, live performances on certain nights or vintage recordings that transport you to another time.
The Drinks: Period-Accurate Cocktails that Pack a Punch
Of course, no speakeasy would be complete without the right libations. The cocktail menu at The Underground is a journey through time, offering classic Prohibition-era cocktails crafted with the same ingredients and techniques that would have been used nearly a century ago. Each drink tells a story, offering a taste of the ingenuity and rebellion that characterized the era.
Signature Cocktails that Harken Back to the 1920s
- Bee’s Knees: A delightful gin-based cocktail that mixes honey, lemon, and gin—a favorite during Prohibition because the honey masked the sometimes questionable quality of bootlegged spirits.
- Sidecar: A strong yet smooth concoction of cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice, offering a taste of old-world sophistication.
- Old Fashioned: A timeless favorite, The Underground‘s version is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of classic cocktail culture.
House-Made Spirits: A Nod to Bootlegging
In a nod to the bootlegging practices of the era, The Underground also offers house-made spirits, including its very own moonshine.
- The Underground Moonshine: Available in flavors like Apple Pie and Peach, this potent spirit is crafted on-site in the speakeasy’s distillery.
- Distilling Process: Guests can even take a tour of the speakeasy’s distillery to learn about the art of making moonshine, a widespread practice during Prohibition.
Modern Takes on Classic Cocktails
While The Underground stays true to its Prohibition-era roots, the bar also offers modern twists on classic drinks to appeal to today’s palates.
- Lavender Sour: A fragrant and floral twist on the traditional whiskey sour, made with house-infused lavender syrup.
- The 5th Degree: A spicy, tequila-based cocktail that incorporates chili-infused liqueur for a contemporary kick.
More Than Just Drinks: A Cultural Experience
The Underground offers more than just cocktails—it’s a full cultural experience that immerses visitors in the history and excitement of the Prohibition era. From guided tours to live entertainment, the speakeasy creates a dynamic environment that goes beyond the typical bar experience.
Distillery Tours: Get a Behind-the-Scenes Look
As mentioned earlier, The Underground features an on-site distillery where guests can learn about the process of making moonshine, a central figure in the Prohibition story. The tours are both informative and interactive, giving visitors a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a speakeasy.
- Tour highlights: Learn the history of distilling in America, particularly during Prohibition, and see how the speakeasy’s moonshine is made from start to finish.
- Hands-on experience: Some tours offer the chance to participate in the distilling process, adding a tactile element to the experience.
Live Entertainment: Jazz and More
Music played a significant role in the speakeasy culture of the 1920s, and The Underground pays homage to that tradition by hosting live jazz performances.
- Jazz Nights: Certain evenings feature live jazz bands that play classic tunes from the era, adding an authentic soundtrack to your speakeasy experience.
- Special Events: The Underground also hosts themed events and parties throughout the year, celebrating everything from the end of Prohibition to the rise of speakeasy culture.
Satisfy Your Appetite: The Underground’s Food Offerings
While The Underground at The Mob Museum is primarily known for its meticulously crafted cocktails, it also offers a selection of light bites and small plates that perfectly complement the drinking experience. The menu, though modest in size, is designed to evoke the Prohibition era while satisfying modern palates. These bites are ideal for enhancing your evening as you sip on historically inspired drinks in this intimate speakeasy setting.
Small Plates with a Nod to the Past
The food offerings at The Underground may be light, but they are far from an afterthought. Each dish is crafted with attention to detail, blending both the nostalgic flavors of the Prohibition era with contemporary twists. These small plates are perfect for sharing, making them an excellent choice for groups looking to pair flavorful bites with their drinks.
- Cheese and Charcuterie Board: A mix of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and accompaniments like olives and pickles, this board brings a sense of indulgence to your speakeasy experience. It’s the perfect dish for nibbling while you savor the bar’s signature cocktails.
- Pretzels with Beer Cheese: A classic favorite that balances rich, creamy beer cheese with the salty warmth of freshly baked pretzels. This dish adds a bit of hearty comfort to the evening.
- Roasted Nuts and Olives: If you want something simple yet satisfying, this combination of spiced roasted nuts and marinated olives will keep you snacking throughout the night.
Designed for Pairing
Much like the cocktails at The Underground, the food offerings are designed to be experienced together. The rich, savory flavors of the small plates are meant to balance the sweetness and acidity of the drinks, creating a harmonious flavor journey. For example, the cheese and charcuterie board pairs exceptionally well with classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Sidecar, while lighter bites like roasted nuts are a great match for a Bee’s Knees or Lavender Sour.
Whether you’re just popping in for a quick cocktail or staying for a full evening, these small bites complement the authentic Prohibition-era ambiance of The Underground.
Making a Night of It: Exploring Other Bars and Entertainment Nearby
While The Underground offers an immersive, historically rich experience on its own, it also serves as a great starting point for a broader night out in downtown Las Vegas. After enjoying a few rounds of period-inspired cocktails in this speakeasy gem, you can extend your night by visiting other nearby bars and entertainment venues. The Downtown area, particularly Fremont Street, is home to a growing number of unique, offbeat spots that add flavor to any evening.
Speakeasy Hopping: Other Hidden Bars in Downtown Las Vegas
If you love the vibe of The Underground, you’ll be happy to know that Las Vegas is home to several other speakeasies and alternative bars that carry on the secretive, exclusive tradition of hidden drinking spots.
- The Laundry Room: Located inside the Commonwealth, The Laundry Room is another prohibition-style speakeasy in downtown Las Vegas. With limited seating, vintage décor, and expertly crafted cocktails, it offers a cozy and intimate experience similar to The Underground. The bar requires reservations and a secret password for entry, enhancing its speakeasy allure.
- Velveteen Rabbit: Just a short walk away, this artsy cocktail lounge is known for its creative drinks and eclectic vibe. While not strictly a speakeasy, its hidden-away feel and quirky decor make it a perfect spot for continuing your night after The Underground.
Live Entertainment and Music: Adding Energy to the Night
If you’re in the mood for live music after your speakeasy visit, Downtown Las Vegas is packed with options to suit every taste.
- The Fremont Street Experience: Just a few blocks from The Mob Museum, the Fremont Street Experience is a lively pedestrian area filled with free concerts, street performances, and plenty of people-watching. The nightly light shows on the canopy overhead provide a vibrant, electric atmosphere that contrasts with the subdued speakeasy vibe.
- Downtown Container Park: This open-air shopping and entertainment venue offers a more laid-back vibe with occasional live music performances and bars like Oak & Ivy, which specializes in whiskey cocktails. It’s a great spot for winding down the night with a nightcap.
Extending the Night: Dining and Late-Night Eats
If you find yourself craving something more substantial after your time at The Underground, Downtown Las Vegas has no shortage of great late-night dining options.
- Carson Kitchen: A short walk from The Mob Museum, this modern American restaurant offers an innovative menu of comfort food with a twist. Dishes like their famous “Bacon Jam” or tempura green beans are great for late-night bites.
- Le Thai: If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of spice, Le Thai serves up flavorful Thai dishes in a relaxed, cozy environment. Their late-night hours make it a perfect stop to fuel up after drinks.
End the Night with a View: Rooftop Lounges
For a more relaxing end to the evening, consider visiting one of Downtown Las Vegas’ rooftop bars. These venues offer great city skyline views and a chance to enjoy a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere.
- Commonwealth Rooftop: The rooftop of Commonwealth offers panoramic views of Fremont Street and the downtown area. It’s a fantastic spot to sip a final cocktail while taking in the lights and energy of the city below.
- Downtown Grand Citrus Pool Deck: For a more casual rooftop experience, the pool deck at Downtown Grand turns into a relaxed lounge at night, offering comfortable seating and drinks with a view of the surrounding downtown area.
Whether you choose to extend your night with more speakeasy-style drinks, live entertainment, or a quiet rooftop lounge, Las Vegas’ vibrant downtown area offers endless opportunities to keep the night going. The Underground serves as the perfect gateway to an unforgettable evening in this historic part of the city.
The Speakeasy Trend: Why Secret Bars Are Making a Comeback in Las Vegas
The Underground isn’t the only speakeasy-inspired bar in Las Vegas. In fact, the city has seen a resurgence of hidden bars and lounges in recent years, catering to a growing demand for more unique, intimate nightlife experiences. But why are speakeasies making such a strong comeback, particularly in a city known for its over-the-top extravagance?
The Appeal of Exclusivity
One of the key factors behind the speakeasy trend is the allure of exclusivity. Unlike the massive clubs and high-profile lounges that dominate The Strip, speakeasies offer a more private, low-key experience.
- Hidden entrances: Many speakeasies are tucked away behind unmarked doors or disguised as something else, adding an element of mystery and discovery.
- Smaller crowds: Speakeasies typically have limited seating, creating a more personal atmosphere where you can enjoy your drink without being overwhelmed by a large crowd.
A Nostalgic Escape from Modern Life
In a fast-paced world dominated by technology and constant stimulation, speakeasies offer a refreshing escape into a simpler time.
- Vintage charm: From the décor to the drinks, these bars transport you back to the 1920s, offering a sense of nostalgia that resonates with many patrons.
- Slower pace: Speakeasies encourage patrons to slow down and savor their drinks, rather than chugging them down in a rush to hit the next club.
The Underground: A Must-Visit for Locals and Tourists Alike
As a long-time Las Vegas resident, I’ve seen countless bars and lounges come and go, each trying to outdo the last with bigger, flashier concepts. But The Underground stands out for its commitment to authenticity, historical significance, and ability to offer something different from the typical Las Vegas experience.
Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply looking for a quiet place to escape the chaos of The Strip, The Underground offers a unique blend of history, culture, and expertly crafted drinks that will leave a lasting impression.
Tips for Visiting The Underground
- Plan ahead: While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when the speakeasy tends to get busier.
- Dress the part: While there’s no strict dress code, embracing the 1920s theme with vintage-inspired clothing can add to the overall experience.
- Ask about the history: Don’t hesitate to chat with the bartenders—they’re knowledgeable about both the history of Prohibition and the stories behind the drinks they serve.
In a city that constantly evolves, The Underground is a reminder that sometimes, the past is just as thrilling as the present. If you’re looking to step back in time and experience the intrigue, charm, and rebellious spirit of the Prohibition era, this speakeasy should be at the top of your list.
