NYC Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour
Meeting point
24 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10013
Duration
2 hours
Start time
Nightly year-round; usually departs at 11.00 am, 3.00 pm & 8:00 PM.
Ticket Price
Adults from $35 (children under 6 free)
*Please check the official site for current prices, seasonal rates, and add-ons.
Tour Operator
Overview
Descend into the dark history of the Big Apple with the NYC Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour. This is not your standard sightseeing stroll; it is a 2-hour investigation into the illicit deals, bloody rivalries, and restless phantoms of Manhattan’s most notorious neighborhoods.
Operated by the history experts at Tours of NYC, this experience peels back the modern veneer of the city to reveal the Five Points slums, the secret social clubs of Little Italy, and the "Blood Alley" of Chinatown.
Led by professional historians, this NYC ghost tour provides a sophisticated look at how the five Mafia families rose to power and why certain corners of the West Village remain tethered to the past.
Whether you are a true crime devotee or a paranormal enthusiast, this haunted history tour offers a rare 2-in-1 experience that bridges the gap between historical fact and supernatural legend. For those searching for gangster tours in NYC or haunted walks in Little Italy, this tour is a top-rated choice that puts you directly in the footsteps of legends like Lucky Luciano and Al Capone.
What to Expect
- The Five Points: Start your journey in the area once known as the most dangerous slum in the world. Learn about the real gangs that inspired Scorsese’s films.
- Chinatown’s "Blood Alley": Navigate the winding streets where the "Tong Wars" once turned the pavement red, and hear reports of the spirits that still haunt these narrow passageways.
- Little Italy & The Mafia: Visit the sites of infamous mob hits and former "social clubs" where the heads of the Five Families orchestrated their criminal empires.
- Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral: On daytime tours, step inside this historic landmark—famously featured in The Godfather—to explore its ties to the city’s immigrant and gangster past.
- West Village Hauntings: Experience the eerie atmosphere of some of the city's most famous haunted townhomes and learn the tragic tales of the souls who never left.
- Expert Storytelling: This is a 1.2 to 1.5-mile walk led by guides who prioritize historical accuracy over theatrical gimmicks. Expect to see rare historical photos that bring the stories to life.
- Logistics: The tour meets at 24 Mulberry St (Columbus Park) and concludes near Washington Square Park. A brief break for restrooms and refreshments is typically included mid-tour.
No on-site parking; public garages nearby. Subway (Canal St) is highly recommended. Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
Includes a scheduled mid-tour restroom break at a local establishment. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Stroller and wheelchair accessible, but involves a 2-hour walk through busy city streets. (for more info contact tour operator)
Service animals only; no pets allowed due to group environment and building access. (for more info contact tour operator)
Includes interior access to the Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral on daytime departures. (for more info contact tour operator)
Family-friendly; a great blend of spooky lore and local history. (for more info, contact tour operator)
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FaQ's
what is a ghost tour
A ghost tour is a guided experience that explores haunted locations and shares stories of paranormal activity, local legends, and historical events. These tours often take place at night in historic towns, cemeteries, or old buildings, blending history with spine-tingling storytelling. Ghost tours offer a fun and immersive way to learn about a location’s past while enjoying a spooky adventure.
Why do people go on ghost tours?
People go on ghost tours to explore local history, hear chilling stories, and experience the thrill of the unknown. Ghost tours blend entertainment, folklore, and real historical events, making them popular with travelers, paranormal enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique nighttime adventure. They’re a fun way to discover hidden stories, learn about haunted locations, and enjoy a memorable, spine-tingling experience.
Is a ghost tour scary?
A ghost tour can be spooky, but it’s usually not overwhelmingly scary. Most ghost tours focus on storytelling, history, and exploring haunted locations rather than jump scares or intense horror. The level of fear often depends on the setting, the guide, and your own comfort with eerie tales. They’re designed to be enjoyable for most people, including beginners who want a fun, slightly spooky experience.
What is ghost tourism
Ghost tourism, also known as spooky tourism, is a type of travel focused on visiting haunted locations, paranormal sites, and historic places with spooky stories. It combines history, folklore, and supernatural experiences, attracting travelers who enjoy ghost tours, haunted attractions, and eerie adventures. Ghost tourism offers a unique way to explore a destination’s culture while experiencing thrilling, memorable moments.
What to Expect on a Ghost Tour?
A ghost tour typically combines history, storytelling, and paranormal legends as you explore haunted locations, old towns, and places known for unexplained activity. Expect your guide to share true local stories, including tragic events, mysterious sightings, and eerie folklore tied to the area’s past. Many tours visit historic buildings, cemeteries, alleyways, and landmark sites after dark to heighten the atmosphere.
Most ghost tours are walking tours, so prepare for 60–90 minutes of light to moderate walking, sometimes on uneven ground or dimly lit streets. Some guides may use ghost-hunting tools—like EMF meters or spirit boxes—to demonstrate paranormal investigation techniques, giving you an interactive experience.
You can expect a mix of education, entertainment, and spooky fun, but not guaranteed scares or staged jump moments. The goal is to immerse you in the history, mystery, and unexplained stories that shape each location. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, a ghost tour offers a unique way to discover a city’s hidden past and explore its most haunted corners.
What to Bring on a Ghost Tour?
Preparing properly can make your ghost tour safer, more comfortable, and far more enjoyable. Here are the key items guests are recommended to bring to any ghost walk, haunted history tour, or paranormal investigation.
Essentials:
Comfortable walking shoes for uneven or historic streets
Weather-appropriate clothing: jacket, hoodie, or raincoat
Fully charged phone for photos, notes, or emergencies
Small torch/flashlight for dark areas
Helpful Extras:
Portable power bank for devices or ghost-hunting apps
Bottle of water to stay hydrated
Bug spray for outdoor or older locations
Small backpack or crossbody bag to keep hands free
Optional Paranormal Gear:
EMF detector for interactive ghost-hunting
Thermometer for detecting “cold spots”
Notebook & pen for logging encounters
Red-filtered flashlight to maintain night vision
Safety & Comfort:
Small snacks for longer or late-night tours
Personal medication if needed
Hand sanitizer or wipes for older buildings and high-touch areas