Raising healthy kids starts with taking care of ourselves, too. For me, carving out a day or two each month for a catch-up with friends or a much needed date night has been a crucial wellbeing strategy. I especially appreciated these moments when the kids were little, and I often found myself drifting into the endless loop of Peppa Pig or Big Cook, Little Cook more than I would have liked.
If you’re in Sydney or Melbourne and feeling a bit mischievous, check out Alcotraz, a prison-themed cocktail bar where you slip into an orange jumpsuit, pretend you’re “doing time,” and sip on contraband cocktails (or, if you’re like me, sneaky mocktails). The idea really appealed to me, and I was excited to head off to Chippendale with two of my mates just before Christmas.
What to Expect at Alcotraz
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I had absolutely no idea what to expect at Alcotraz. I assumed it was a cocktail bar with a theme, hence the orange jumpsuit, but I was curious about how far the concept really went. It turns out Alcotraz is much more than a bar; it’s more like a theatre restaurant where the three-course meal has been replaced entirely with alcohol… and then some.
Upon arrival, I was lined up outside Alcotraz with my fellow “inmates.” I was handed some contraband to smuggle inside (apparently, it would come in handy later), and from that moment, the experience was well and truly underway. As soon as we stepped through the doors, the prison guards documented our arrival and issued our prison overalls. I’m starting to think orange really is the new black.
After processing, all inmates are led into the cellblock. Be sure to note which cell you’re assigned, as you’ll need to stash your personal belongings in the trunk inside your cell and change into your orange jumpsuit. Each cell can technically fit up to six people, but personally, I think four is the sweet spot, especially since my friends and I ended up sharing with a couple on their own date night, which made things a little snug.
As someone who struggles with people in my personal space, I quickly claimed a corner, so I wasn’t in the way. Perhaps it was a very mild insight into what prison life might feel like? I did notice that many of the other cells sensibly stuck to four inmates. I have noted that for bookings of 4 and above, you do receive your own cell. Keep this in mind when booking.
Once you’re dressed, the real experience begins, with cocktails cleverly woven throughout the evening. The Warden, it turns out, is cranky, belligerent, and decidedly unpleasant, while the prison guards are mostly on your side… to a point. In reality, they’re probably corrupt, and she’s just doing her job, but as a hardened Alcotraz criminal, that’s not how you’re supposed to think, is it?
After choosing your prison alias (I was “The Doctor”), you sit back and enjoy the unfolding antics of the guards and fellow inmates. At some point, you’ll become eligible for parole and will need to convince the Warden to grant it, so a believable backstory helps. And just when you think things can’t get any more chaotic, all hell breaks loose as a prison break erupts.
The experience lasts just under 2 hours and is so much fun! Perfect for date night or a night out with friends.
What If I Don’t Drink Alcohol?
As a complete teetotaller, I was slightly worried I might not enjoy the experience. But thanks to a steady stream of delicious mocktails, I was able to have just as much fun as my fellow inmates.
Bonus points: my drinks looked just like everyone else’s and tasted so good!
Top Tips for Alcotraz
- Arrive on time (or a little early). The experience is tightly choreographed, and arriving late means you’ll miss part of the “processing,” which really sets the scene.
- Dress for comfort – you’re goint to gaol!. You’ll be standing, sitting, and moving around, so comfy shoes make a real difference under the jumpsuit.
- Plan your transport home. Drinks flow throughout the experience, so make sure you’ve organised a designated driver or transport in advance.
- Think on your feet. You’ll be questioned by both guards and the Warden, lean into it, have fun, and don’t overthink it. It’s all part of the act. This is immersive theatre first and a cocktail bar second. The more you play along, the better the experience, for you and everyone else.
- Book ahead. This isn’t a “rock up on the night” kind of experience. And don’t forget to use our code THEKIDBUCKETLIST10 for a cheeky discount for the Sydney Alcotraz.
Planning Your Visit
Sydney Alcotraz
Location: 12-16 Chippen Street, Chippendale NSW 2008
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Tickets From: $65.00 per person
Over 18s Only: Ideal for date nights or a night out with friends
I found the best parking over at Market City, If you pre-book, there’s a big discount. Otherwise, use public transport (Alcotraz is within walking distance of Central Station).
Included in your experience are 4 cocktails or non-alcoholic mocktails. They can substitute the cocktails for Beer or Wine, but you need to advise upon booking. There is no food on site.
Melbourne Alcotraz
Location: 592 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne VIC 3000.
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Tickets From: $65.00 per person
Over 18s Only: Ideal for date nights or a night out with friends
Included in your experience are 4 cocktails or non-alcoholic mocktails. They can substitute the cocktails for Beer or Wine, but you need to advise upon booking. There is no food on site.
Are Discounted Tickets Available?
I am glad that you asked! Book your tickets here and score a discount with code THEKIDBUCKETLIST10. How good is that!!
Disclosure: We were invited to experience Alcotraz in Sydney, and we are now an affiliate. This means that if you choose to book using our discount code, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.