Landmark · Tenderloin

NYC Mafia & Crime Experiences with NYPD Guides

5 · 630 reviews·A top pick in New York City
Check tickets & tours Official site

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.

This one-of-a-kind experience takes you through the gritty underbelly of New York City's organized crime past, led by actual retired NYPD officers who share insider stories and firsthand knowledge. The tour is based in the Tenderloin neighborhood, a historic area once notorious for vice and corruption. You'll visit former mob hangouts, crime scenes, and landmarks while hearing tales of infamous gangsters like John Gotti and Lucky Luciano. The guides' law enforcement background adds authenticity, offering perspectives from both sides of the law. The tour is highly rated and considered the top nightlife activity in NYC, blending entertainment with education. Expect a walking tour that covers several blocks, with stops at bars and restaurants that were once mob favorites. It's a gripping journey into a shadowy era of the city's history.

Don't miss

  • Hear firsthand stories from retired NYPD officers who worked mob cases
  • Visit former speakeasies and mob-owned bars in the Tenderloin
  • See landmarks tied to famous gangsters like John Gotti and Lucky Luciano
  • Learn about the NYPD's role in combating organized crime
  • Enjoy a unique blend of history, crime, and nightlife

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit NYC Mafia & Crime Experiences with NYPD Guides

You can visit on your own (book online to secure your spot; prices vary by package. check the official website for current rates). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.

Good for

BusinessCouplesSolo travelFamilyFriends getaway

How travelers rate it

5 star
607
4 star
12
3 star
4
2 star
4
1 star
3

Know before you go

  • Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes; the tour covers about 1-2 miles.
  • Some stops include bars; bring ID if you plan to drink.
  • Photography is allowed at most stops, but check with your guide.

A bit of history

The Tenderloin district earned its name in the late 19th century as a vice-ridden area where police could afford 'tenderloin' cuts of meat from bribes. It later became a hub for organized crime, with mobsters running illegal gambling, speakeasies, and prostitution. The NYPD's history with the mob is complex, marked by both corruption and crackdowns.

Common questions

Are the guides really former NYPD officers?

Yes, all guides are retired NYPD officers with firsthand experience in organized crime investigations.

Is the tour suitable for children?

The tour discusses adult themes and visits bars, so it's recommended for ages 18 and up.

How long is the walking distance?

Approximately 1-2 miles with several stops, lasting 2-3 hours.

Can I join if I don't drink alcohol?

Absolutely; the focus is on history, and non-alcoholic options are available at stops.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Partially; some historic venues have steps, so please contact the operator in advance.

What happens in bad weather?

The tour runs rain or shine; dress accordingly. In extreme weather, check for rescheduling.

More attractions in New York City

Planning your trip to New York City? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a New York City itinerary.