CENTRAL NEW YORK -- Nestled in the Adirondacks is a building from the 1800's that's booming with business.
"The facility started out basically as a railroad camp," said Van Auken's Inne Owner Jim Moore.
Now it's a popular inn.
"A Rochester or an Albany or a Syracuse visitor is not uncommon," Moore said. "I think on our Facebook we actually have a picture of a New York City taxi cab parked out front."
Downstairs is a modern-day speakeasy called Wakely's complete with a replica moonshine still.
"We'll be sort of a sultry-exclusive kind of vibe," Moore said. "I don't think anybody has ever been turned away here, but we're all having fun with it."
Soon the century-old idea will be expanding.
Moore is in the process of turning the former "Shots" Sports Bar on Varick Street in Utica into a speakeasy.
He said the area has been supportive.
"I would say unequivocally we have no regrets," Moore said. "We've been nothing but pleased. We've been nothing but treated kindly by everyone."
This isn't the only work in progress in the Varick Street area, there's also a former church being turned into a bar.
"The Sanctuary," will be a multi-floor bar and restaurant. The owner says it's too soon to reveal what will make his business really stand out. He said he wanted to open up shop there because of the popularity and people behind the Boilermaker, specifically Tim Reed, nearby brewery, and support of Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri.
"I think it's wonderful to see bars come here to Utica," Utica resident Edward Mcinnis said.
There are concerns over previous violent incidents on Varick Street, but to help prevent any kind of violence, Moore says he plans on hiring former law enforcement employees and veterans to serve as security at the speakeasy.
To learn more about Van Auken's Inne and their speakeasy idea, visit their website.