Discover the gritty underbelly of New York City’s past on this captivating walking tour. Led by a seasoned ex-NYPD officer, you’ll uncover the city’s notorious criminal history, from Mafia activities to gang rivalries. As you follow in the footsteps of infamous mobsters, you’ll be treated to first-hand accounts that bring these stories to life. But the adventure doesn’t end there – you’ll also indulge in a delectable Sicilian cannoli, a sweet contrast to the tour’s darker themes. Get ready to explore the East Village, Little Italy, and Chinatown like never before, where the past and present collide in an unforgettable experience.
Good To Know

- A 2.5-hour walking tour exploring the history of New York’s Mafia and Chinatown gangs, led by a retired NYPD detective or police officer.
- Includes first-hand stories from law enforcement, visits to centers of Mafia activity, and an immersive experience of the city’s criminal past.
- Provides an authentic Sicilian cannoli from a local Italian bakery as part of the tour experience.
- Offers a wheelchair-accessible tour with headsets for enhanced audio and comfortable attire recommended for walking.
- Highly rated by customers for its deep knowledge, engaging stories, and the opportunity to explore New York’s gangland history.
Tour Overview

This exhilarating 2.5-hour New York: Gangs and Mafia Walking Tour with Italian Pastry transports visitors into the heart of the city’s notorious criminal underworld.
Led by a retired NYPD detective or police officer, the tour explores the East Village, Little Italy, and Chinatown, uncovering the dark history of NYC’s Mafia and Chinatown gangs.
Participants will walk through the centers of Mafia activity and hear first-hand stories from insiders about their gangland experiences.
The tour includes a large Sicilian cannoli from an authentic pastry shop, and additional food and drinks can be purchased along the way.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a must-do for anyone fascinated by the city’s criminal past.
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Itinerary and Highlights

The walking tour whisks participants away to the East Village, Little Italy, and Chinatown, revealing the dark underbelly of New York City’s notorious criminal empires.
Led by retired NYPD detectives or police officers, the tour shares first-hand stories of gangland experiences, immersing guests in the history of the Mafia and Chinatown gangs.
Visitors will walk through the centers of Mafia activity and enjoy a large Sicilian cannoli at an authentic pastry shop.
With the help of provided headsets, guests can better hear the insiders’ tales of the city’s underworld, creating an adventurous and captivating experience.
Included Features

The New York: Gangs and Mafia Walking Tour offers a range of included features that immerse guests in the city’s notorious criminal past.
At the heart of the experience is the guided walking tour, led by a retired NYPD detective or police officer who shares first-hand stories and insights about gangland activities.
Headsets are provided to ensure clear audio throughout the tour. Guests will also enjoy a large Sicilian cannoli, an authentic Italian pastry, at a local bakery.
While additional food and drinks are available for purchase, the cannoli is included, providing a delicious taste of the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Tips, however, aren’t covered in the tour price.
Important Information

Accessibility is a key factor, as the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing guests of all abilities to explore the gritty underbelly of New York City. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must, as the tour will take you through the streets rain or shine. Be ready to learn about the stories of the city’s notorious gangs and mafia.
| Important Details | ||
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible | |
| What to Bring | Comfortable shoes | Weather-appropriate clothing |
| Tour Conditions | Operates in all weather | |
| Meeting Point | In front of Johns of 12th Street restaurant |
Customer Feedback

Excited guests have raved about their immersive experiences on the New York: Gangs and Mafia Walking Tour.
With an outstanding 4.9/5 rating based on 16 reviews, the tour has captivated visitors seeking a thrilling glimpse into the city’s notorious underworld. Reviewers praise the excellent guide’s deep roots in the topic, delivering first-hand stories that bring the past to life.
The inclusion of an authentic Sicilian cannoli has also earned rave reviews, perfectly complementing the gangland exploration.
Suitable for solo travelers and those seeking social opportunities, the tour offers an unforgettable adventure for anyone fascinated by New York’s gritty criminal history.
Gangland Experiences

Though the tour’s guides have deep roots in New York’s notorious underworld, they don’t shy away from sharing first-hand stories that transport guests right into the gritty heart of the city’s gangland experiences.
From whispers of mob safehouses to the echoes of violent turf wars, the guides paint a vivid picture that brings the past to life:
- Tales of infamous mob bosses and their rise to power
- Insider accounts of Chinatown’s cutthroat gang activity
- Chilling stories of bloody showdowns on the city’s streets
- Firsthand experiences dealing with the NYPD’s Organized Crime Control Bureau
This immersive journey into New York’s underworld is a thrilling highlight for those brave enough to walk in the footsteps of the city’s most infamous criminals.
Mafia Activity Centers

As the tour winds through the city’s gritty streets, the guides lead guests to the true centers of Mafia activity in New York.
Dark alleyways and nondescript storefronts reveal the historical haunts where made men conducted their illicit business.
Visitors are captivated by tales of Cosa Nostra power plays, bloody turf wars, and infamous mobster hangouts.
From the old speakeasies to the hidden social clubs, each stop on the route showcases the Mafia’s far-reaching influence and the ruthless tactics that maintained their stranglehold on the city.
Guests feel transported to a bygone era, walking in the footsteps of legendary figures like Lucky Luciano and John Gotti.
Authentic Pastry Shop

After navigating the gritty streets, the tour arrives at an unassuming storefront in the heart of Little Italy.
The group steps inside, enveloped by the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pastries. The guide introduces the family-owned hotel, a beloved institution that has been crafting authentic Sicilian delicacies for generations.
The group is invited to indulge in a large, flaky cannoli, its shell dusted with powdered sugar and its creamy filling a perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
As the group savors each bite, they’re transported to the vibrant streets of Sicily, connecting with the essence of the old-world Italian experience.
- Handcrafted Sicilian cannoli
- Family-owned Italian bakery
- Immersive cultural experience
- Decadent pastry treat
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, you’ll be free to take photos throughout the tour. The guide encourages capturing the vibrant sights and scenes as you explore the neighborhood’s intriguing history and culture. Just be mindful of any rules at specific locations.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be suitable for children. While the immersive experience and insider stories are fascinating, the subject matter – gangs and mafia – could be too intense or inappropriate for younger audiences. Parents should use their best judgment.
Is the Sicilian Cannoli the Only Food Included?
The Sicilian cannoli is not the only food included. Participants can enjoy additional food and drinks that are available for purchase during the tour, making it a tasty and immersive experience.
What Happens if the Tour Is Canceled Due to Weather?
If the tour is canceled due to weather, guests will receive a full refund. The tour operator is committed to providing the best experience possible and won’t let a little rain or snow get in the way.
Can I Leave the Tour at Any Time?
Adventurers can leave the tour at any time, though it’s best to stick with the group. The guide’s stories and insights make for an immersive experience, so sticking around is recommended. Just don’t wander off on your own in the city streets.
The Sum Up
Dive into the gritty underbelly of New York City on this captivating tour. Uncover the city’s notorious criminal past, from Mafia strongholds to gang territories. Between thrilling stories, indulge in a mouthwatering Sicilian cannoli, savoring the rich flavors of authentic Italian pastry. This one-of-a-kind experience blends history, culture, and culinary delights, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the city’s complex and intriguing past.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Walking Tours in New York City
More Tours in New York City
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- Upper West Side NYC Architecture Walking Tour
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More Tour Reviews in New York City
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- Upper and Lower Manhattan Tour
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- Wall Street: The birth place of NYC in French/English tour
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