Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl

Travelers curious about New York City’s secretive Prohibition era will find this Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl offers a mix of history, authentic bars, and a touch of the gangster mythos. While it might not satisfy hardcore history buffs or those seeking a lively drinking spree, it provides a relaxed, intimate way to experience some of Manhattan’s most charming neighborhoods with a hint of clandestine charm.

What we like about this tour is the chance to visit actual speakeasies still in operation today, making the experience more tangible and authentic. The small-group setting promises more personal attention and a chance to savor the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Also, the tour’s timing and central starting point make it easy to incorporate into a broader day of exploring NYC.

However, one consideration is that beverages and food are not included in the price, so you’ll need to budget extra for drinks at each stop. Plus, if you’re not particularly interested in the gangster stories or don’t want to drink early in the day, this might not be the right fit.

This tour will appeal best to those who enjoy a mix of history, local flavor, and a bit of curiosity about the underground nightlife of the 1920s. It’s ideal for visitors who want a laid-back experience with a dash of storytelling and a chance to see real historic bars still operating today.

Key Points

• Authentic Speakeasies: You’ll visit actual bars from the Prohibition era still open today, a rare chance to step into living history.
• Small-Group Experience: With a maximum of 10 travelers, expect a more relaxed pace and personalized attention.
• Historical Focus: The guide shares stories about gangsters and the alcohol trade of the 1920s, appealing to those interested in NYC’s gangster lore.
• Flexible Timing & Location: The tour starts at Lt. Petrosino Square and ends at Centre Market Place, both central and easy to reach by public transit.
• No Drinks Included: While the tour includes sampling craft cocktails, you’ll need to purchase beverages separately at each pub.
• Weather-Ready: The tour runs in all weather, so dress accordingly for comfort and safety.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itself

Meeting Point and Duration

The tour begins promptly at Lafayette St. & Cleveland Pl at noon, a central spot in Nolita, making it convenient for most visitors. With a duration of approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, it’s a manageable chunk of time that blends sightseeing, history, and tastings. Ending at Centre Market Place, the route is designed to be leisurely, not hurried, giving you a chance to soak in the neighborhood atmosphere along the way.

Exploring Nolita and Little Italy

The first stops take place in Nolita, often considered a more modern, trendy extension of Little Italy. Here, the tour explores shops, restaurants, churches, and pubs, giving a broad sense of the area’s evolution from a dense Italian immigrant community to a fashionable district. The guide’s emphasis on the area’s history helps bring the streets alive with stories of the past.

When entering Mulberry Street in Little Italy, you get a snapshot of the bustling tourist hub that still attracts visitors looking for authentic Italian food and souvenirs. This part of the tour is less about history and more about observing the modern-day scene, but it sets the stage for the speakeasy visits.

Visiting Historic Pubs

The core of this experience lies in the visits to genuine speakeasies from the Prohibition era—bars that have survived over the decades. Unlike many closed or fake “speakeasy” bars, these establishments are still in operation, giving you a real taste of what nightlife might have been like during the 1920s.

According to reviews, some of these bars have “bartenders with attitude and stories to tell,” adding a personal, theatrical element to your experience. One venue is noted for its good pizza, giving you a chance to enjoy a snack along with your drinks. Another gained fame from being featured in “Sex and the City,” offering a bit of pop culture charm.

Beverages and Cost

While the tour description includes sample beverages, it’s important to note that drinks are not included in the $64 price. You will need to purchase your own drinks at each stop, which can add up depending on your preferences. Several reviewers mentioned that they appreciated the chance to buy from independent bartenders with stories, but it also means planning ahead for your drinks budget.

What the Reviews Say

One traveler, Liam, mentioned that they were more interested in mobster lore than drinking, and found the history shared by the guide quite informative. “The tour guide did a good job with the history of prohibition,” he noted, highlighting that the experience isn’t just about the bars but also about understanding the era’s stories.

Another reviewer, Wilma, felt the visit to four genuine speakeasies added value, especially since some bars have “attitude and stories to tell.” She appreciated the chance to see Nolita and Little Italy from a different perspective, though she noted the tour was somewhat light on gangster stories—an aspect some might find disappointing if that’s their main interest.

The Value of the Experience

At $64 per person, the tour is priced comparably to other specialized NYC experiences, especially considering the small group size and the chance to access real, functioning speakeasies. However, since drinks are extra, your on-site costs might rise, making it wise to budget around $10–$20 per venue.

For history buffs or those curious about Prohibition-era nightlife, this tour offers a meaningful glimpse into the past, paired with a relaxed walk through charming neighborhoods. It’s not a pub crawl designed for wild partying but rather a historical adventure with tasting opportunities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers looking for something more than just a typical neighborhood walk. If you enjoy stories about gangsters and the clandestine nightlife of the 1920s, you’ll find plenty to like. It’s also great for those who prefer small groups and personalized attention, rather than large, noisy tours.

If your main goal is to sample a wide variety of drinks or party late into the night, this tour might fall short. But for a laid-back, authentic slice of New York nightlife with a historical twist, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl offers a charming look into New York City’s underground past, combined with visits to real, still-operating speakeasies. Its small-group format fosters comfortable conversations and a more intimate experience, perfect for travelers who enjoy storytelling and history over rowdy nightlife.

While the cost is reasonable for what’s included, keep in mind that drinks are extra, and the focus leans more toward history than cocktail tasting. If you’re interested in the stories of mobsters and Prohibition, or want to explore Nolita and Little Italy with a knowledgeable guide, this tour delivers that experience with authenticity.

However, if you’re seeking a lively, drink-heavy night or more gangster lore, you might find this experience somewhat limited. The tour’s strength lies in its blend of neighborhood exploration and genuine historic bars—making it ideal for curious, laid-back travelers who appreciate a touch of history with their drinks.

FAQ

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, the $64 fee covers the tour itself, but you will need to purchase drinks separately at each speakeasy or pub visited.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, starting at noon and ending around 1 p.m., making it a manageable activity for a midday outing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Lafayette St. & Cleveland Pl and ends at Centre Market Place, both centrally located and accessible via public transportation.

Is this tour suitable in all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather, so dress appropriately for rain, cold, or sunshine.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, providing an intimate experience and more personalized attention.

Do I need to be a drinker to enjoy this tour?
Not necessarily. If you’re more interested in the history or the neighborhood scenery, you can enjoy the storytelling and ambiance without needing to drink alcohol.

In summary, if you’re after a relaxed, intimate look into New York’s Prohibition past with some authentic bars and a friendly guide, this tour delivers a solid experience. It’s best suited for history lovers, curious locals, or travelers eager to peek behind the city’s lively façade and step into a piece of its clandestine history.