Las Vegas: Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl

If you’re visiting Las Vegas and have a taste for its darker, more secretive side, this Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl might just catch your interest. While I haven’t experienced it personally, I’ve gone through the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines history with a fun bar-hopping vibe, and the chance to step into some of Vegas’s most iconic yet hidden spots. Plus, the tour is quite reasonably priced at $35 per person, which seems like a fair deal considering it includes entry to multiple bars and a guide. On the flip side, a key consideration is that it’s a walking tour lasting only two hours, so if you’re after a deep dive into Vegas’s mob history, this might feel a bit surface-level.

This experience is definitely best suited for travelers who enjoy stories of Vegas’s glitzy and gritty past, love exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, or just want a lively way to spend a couple of hours in the city. It’s perfect if you like historical tidbits delivered with a sense of fun and plenty of opportunities to snap photos at neon-lit spots.

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: The tour lasts only 2 hours, making it suitable for those with limited time.
• Historical & Fun: It offers stories of mob murders, bootlegging, and Vegas legends, mixed with visits to secret speakeasies.
• Includes Drinks: You’ll get to sample classic cocktails, adding a tasty touch to the experience.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews praise knowledgeable guides who keep things lively.
• Walking Tour: Expect to walk between 8 sites, including two bars and a hidden speakeasy.
• Cost-Effective: At $35, it’s a budget-friendly way to add a themed activity to your Vegas trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Introduction

The tour kicks off outside the Plaza Hotel & Casino, a spot that is steeped in mob-era history. Your guide, easily recognizable in a white Junket t-shirt, will gather the group here to set the tone for the journey ahead. This initial meeting is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby or can easily access downtown Vegas.

What’s immediately clear from the reviews is how important a good guide is. One reviewer raved, “Jodie was amazing! She was fun and very knowledgeable,” and others echoed this sentiment. Having a guide who can weave stories of mob murders, bootlegging, and notable figures like Bugsy Siegel makes the tour more engaging and helps you visualize the gritty past of Vegas.

Visiting the First Speakeasy: Circa Bar

Your first stop is the Circa Bar, a vintage-inspired spot where you can sip an atomic cocktail straight out of the 50s. It sets a nostalgic mood that’s perfect for a mob-themed tour. The atmosphere here is lively but intimate enough to soak in the vibe.

Exploring Hidden Speakeasies

From there, the tour winds through seven other sites, including two additional bars. The real highlight, according to many reviews, is the hidden speakeasy under the Mob Museum. This spot is intriguing because it uncovers the secret world of organized crime during Vegas’s mobster days. The guide shares stories about Bugsy Siegel and Meyer Lansky, giving a taste of the sort of clandestine activities that made Vegas infamous.

Investigating Jimmy Hoffa’s Disappearance

Another interesting aspect is the segment about Jimmy Hoffa’s disappearance—a story that continues to fascinate many. While the tour doesn’t go into exhaustive detail, it offers enough intrigue to spark curiosity and conversation. Many reviewers appreciated the casual chat about notorious figures and events, making the history feel accessible rather than academic.

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The Old Fashioned and Neon Lights

As you stroll through Fremont Street, you’ll get plenty of photo ops under the neon signs, capturing that unmistakable Vegas glow. The tour also touches on classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, enriching the experience with tastings and stories about their origins. Several reviews note that the tour’s value is boosted by the chance to sample drinks that are emblematic of different eras.

Ending at El Cortez Hotel

The tour wraps up at the El Cortez Hotel, a historic spot with its own mob ties. By this point, you’ll likely have a pleasant buzz and a bunch of juicy secrets to share back home. Many reviewers mention leaving with new knowledge and a sense of having glimpsed a more clandestine side of Vegas.

The tour cost is $35 per person and includes:

• Entry into two bars and one hidden speakeasy
• A history-themed guide
• The overall bar crawl experience

However, it’s important to note what’s not included: transportation between sites and tips for your guide. Since you meet at the Plaza Hotel, you’ll need to handle your own transport to that spot, or plan to walk if you’re already downtown.

Timing and Practicalities

The tour usually takes place in the afternoon, making it suitable for a relaxed exploration without rushing. It lasts for two hours, which is manageable for most travelers but may not satisfy those looking for an in-depth historical tour.

What to Bring

Make sure to bring your passport or ID (necessary for purchasing alcohol), wear comfortable shoes—since you’ll be walking—and dress weather-appropriate, as outdoor parts of the tour are inevitable.

Based on reviews, this experience earns a 3.7 out of 5 rating from 22 travelers. The majority praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning neon views, which really help bring the story of Vegas’s mob past to life. Many find the tour an entertaining way to learn about the city’s darker history, especially if they’re interested in organized crime stories.

That said, some reviewers felt it was a bit overpriced considering what was included. For example, one reviewer noted, “nothing was included,” and that you could find similar info on YouTube. Another pointed out the 30-minute stay at the Mob Museum’s bar was largely just ordering drinks, not exploring the museum itself.

It’s also worth mentioning that the tour doesn’t go into deep historical detail—it’s more of a surface-level look designed to entertain rather than educate at a scholarly level. If you’re craving a comprehensive history, you might want to visit the Mob Museum on your own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a fun, social experience with a bit of history, this bar crawl delivers. It’s especially good if you love hidden spots and vintage Vegas. On the other hand, those expecting a detailed historical lecture might find it a tad light. It’s also not ideal for people with mobility issues since it involves walking between several sites.

Las Vegas: Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl offers a unique peek into the city’s notorious past wrapped in a lively bar-hopping experience. It’s a great way to combine history, nightlife, and sightseeing into a manageable two-hour adventure. The guides receive high praise for their knowledge and sense of fun, making the experience more than just a casual walk.

While it might not satisfy history buffs looking for in-depth analysis, it’s a solid choice for curious travelers wanting a taste of Vegas’s mobster legend with a side of cocktails. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path locations and want to add a bit of storytelling to their trip.

In the end, if you’re comfortable with the price and want to uncover some of Vegas’s shadowy stories in a social, relaxed setting, this tour could be a memorable part of your Vegas itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation between sites is not provided. You meet the guide outside the Plaza Hotel & Casino, so plan to handle your own travel to and from the meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, usually in the afternoon, making it easy to fit into a busy Vegas day.

Are drinks included?
You get to enjoy drinks at the bars, including classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, but these are paid for separately unless specified otherwise.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since it involves drinking alcohol (and ID is required), it’s not suitable for minors or children.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and dress appropriately for the weather.

How many sites do we visit?
You’ll explore a total of 8 sites, including two bars and a hidden speakeasy.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

If you’re interested in a lively, story-filled walk through Vegas’s secret past, this bar crawl could be a fun addition to your trip. Just keep expectations in check regarding depth of history and be ready to enjoy some good drinks and stories along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: