Landmark · Downtown Manhattan (Downtown)
NYC Gangsters and Ghosts Tour
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The NYC Gangsters and Ghosts Tour is a walking tour that delves into the dark underbelly of New York City's past, focusing on the mobsters, murders, and hauntings of Lower Manhattan. Starting on Mulberry Street in the heart of Little Italy, the tour winds through historic neighborhoods like the Five Points, Chinatown, and the Bowery. Guides share stories of infamous gangsters like Lucky Luciano and Al Capone, as well as ghostly tales from old taverns and tenements. The tour combines true crime history with supernatural lore, making it a unique experience for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike. The walk lasts about two hours and covers roughly a mile, with stops at significant sites like the former headquarters of the Mafia and haunted alleyways.
Don't miss
- Visit the site of the former Five Points slum, once the most dangerous neighborhood in America
- Hear tales of Lucky Luciano, Al Capone, and other notorious gangsters
- Explore haunted spots like the Ear Inn and the Bowery's ghostly alleyways
- Learn about the history of Little Italy and its connection to the Mafia
- See the exterior of the old police headquarters and the Tombs prison
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit NYC Gangsters and Ghosts Tour
You can visit on your own (paid entry; book online in advance to secure a spot. prices vary by operator (check official site)). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inNew York City Chilling Nightmares & Necromancy Ghost Tour4.3★ · 13 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$26 per personSee dates →
Most bookedNew Orleans Premier Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Walking Tour4.5★ · 13,547 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$37 per personSee dates →
Top ratedGhosts, Gods, & Gangsters of New Orleans5★ · 152 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$34 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; the tour covers about a mile.
- Bring an umbrella if rain is forecast; the tour runs rain or shine.
- Cameras are allowed; you'll pass photogenic historic sites.
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in with the guide.
A bit of history
Lower Manhattan was the epicenter of organized crime in the early 20th century, with gangs like the Five Points Gang and the Italian Mafia running illegal operations. The area is also rich in ghost stories, with many buildings said to be haunted by former residents and victims of violence.
Common questions
How long is the tour?
About 2 hours, covering roughly 1 mile of walking.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It's recommended for ages 12 and up due to some graphic historical content.
Do we go inside any buildings?
No, the tour is entirely outdoors; you'll view exteriors of significant sites.
What happens if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine; dress accordingly.
Can I join the tour late?
It's best to arrive on time; late arrivals may miss the introduction.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The route is on public sidewalks, but some areas are uneven. Contact the tour operator for specific accommodations.
More attractions in New York City



