With a wide selection of specialty drinks, beer, wine and a mean martini menu, there’s something for everyone to love. The local patrons, laid-back atmosphere and flowing craft drinks will make you feel like you’re back in the 1920s. When you do make it to the SpeakEZ, you won’t be disappointed. We’ll give you a hint, though: it’s right next door to its well-marked sister restaurant, Hank’s Restaurant and Drinkery.
Built in 1855 as the first mansion in Lake Geneva, the European-style Maxwell Mansion is full of rich history, including the infamous Prohibition era, which was the inspiration for this relaxing hideaway.įilled with edgy 1920s décor with a modern twist, this little-known bar is as good as it gets, as long as you have the password to get in! Keep your eyes open-Maxwell Mansion opens their bar for special events and on certain nights of the week, whether it’s for live music performances, cabaret shows or murder mystery events.Ĭheck their Facebook page for event updates and password changes.Ī night of classic bar fun is in store for you on a trip to Hank’s SpeakEZ-you’ll just have to get in the door first! There’s no password needed, but with no sign posted along the street in the speakeasy spirit, it’s a fun game to find your way in. If ghost hunting isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the cigar bar and sip on a delicious cocktail.ĭescend the dimly lit stone stairs to the basement of Maxwell Mansion, and you’ll find something unexpected-a hidden speakeasy. If you’re feeling extra brave, stay on an overnight tour and test your wits. Visit by night for the popular ghost tour at “Milwaukee’s most haunted bar” to learn more about its wild history since it was built in 1894. Shaker’s is complete with delicious eats and premium whiskies, absinthe cocktails and boutique wines-but if that’s not enough to pique your interest, the place is also haunted.Īs a Prohibition speakeasy and site of many an illicit dealing throughout the 1920s and '30s, this bar has acquired more than a few ghoulish guests. No doubt about it-this Milwaukee gem is the perfect way to do something different with your night.īy day, Shaker’s in Milwaukee is an unassuming cigar bar, restored in the mid-1900s with a rustic interior. To top off your visit, the "Showstopper Dancers" add some flapper fun and flair with live music and performances. Once you’re in, explore the authentic speakeasy décor and sip on some delicious vintage cocktails like a Sidecar or a French 75.Īt Bugsy’s, there’s no need to dress up to grab a few drinks, but be prepared to see the staff decked out to the nines in their ‘20’s-style attire. The name says it all-true to ‘20s form, you can only get in through an inconspicuous back alley entrance. Whether it’s historical refurbished bars that were home to real operating speakeasies or modern-day interpretations on the culture, Wisconsin is still the place to experience a rich gangster history and see some seriously cool hidden spots.Įxplore these speakeasies all around the state to party like it's 1920! You'll also find a seasonal menu of bites that range from caviar and sea urchin to braised beef cheeks.Put on your best suit or flashiest dress and get ready to travel back in time! Did you know Wisconsin was a hotspot for speakeasies during the Prohibition era of the Roaring Twenties? Put your hand on it, and another door will open to let you into a secret room where a library-style setting offers emerald seats and bookshelves that line the walls and ceiling.ĭrinks on the menu include intriguing selections like The Northside, made with mint-infused Citadelle gin, raspberries, ginger, lemon, sugar, and seltzer. Once inside, make sure to keep your eye out for a floral painting on the wall. Push on the handle, and a door will open to let you in. To get here, though, you'll first enter into what appears to be an upscale umbrella shop, with one of the meticulously carved silver umbrella handles holding the key to the entrance.
The space is designed to evoke the luxury of first class plane and train cabins of the past, and a VIP room features dark red seats and custom lights resembling vintage car headlamps.
Take a step back in time at Foxglove, in Hong Kong, which harkens back to the glory days of travel.