June 06, 2023
Provided Image/Independence Seaport Museum
The Cruiser Olympia will host a 1920s pop-up speakeasy on four Friday evenings from now through October, beginning Friday, June 9. Tickets are $30 in advance. The other speakeasy pop-ups take place July 14, Aug. 11 and Oct. 13.
The Cruiser Olympia at the Independence Seaport Museum will feature an extravagant 1920s-inspired speakeasy on a handful of Fridays this summer.
Beginning this Friday, June 9, from 6 to 9 p.m., visitors ages 21 and older are invited to step onto the U.S. Naval ship and learn from costumed crew members about what the ship was like during World War I and Prohibition, when the federal government prohibited the production, sale and distribution of alcohol. Sneak into the speakeasy through a separate entrance guarded by crew members dressed in period uniforms; once inside, listen to music, dance, drink, play games and learn about about Adm. George Dewey, the Olympia's former commander.
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The speakeasy pop-up returns on July 14, Aug. 11 and Oct. 13. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $30 or for $35 at the door. Museum members can snag tickets for a 20% discount online or in person.
Step onto the Cruiser Olympia and be greeted by crew members dressed in period costumes. There will be music, drinks, dancing and games from 6 to 9 p.m. on June 9, July 14, Aug. 11 and Oct. 13.
The Cruiser Olympia is the oldest afloat steel ship and was first commissioned by the Navy in 1895. It was used in the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War. The ship has been on reserve in Philly since 1922 and became part of the Independence Seaport Museum when the museum merged with the Cruiser Olympia Society in 1996. Now, the ship is home to an interactive exhibit for people of all ages to learn about the ship's backstory, including its final voyage during World War I.
The museum is hosting special programming on the Cruiser Olympia and Submarine Becuna this summer, including extended evening hours and guided daily tours. For more information about this summer's special events, check out the museum's website.
June 9, July 14, Aug. 11 and Oct. 13, 2023
6-9 p.m. | $30 in advance; $35 at the door, includes free drink
211 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106
