Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl

Exploring the Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: An Honest Look

If you’re considering a tour that blends history, architecture, and a touch of gangster lore in Manhattan’s charming neighborhoods, the Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl might catch your eye. It’s one of those experiences that promises a glimpse into the past while giving you a chance to sample some craft cocktails from bars that have survived since the days of Prohibition.

What we really like about this tour is its small-group setting, which usually means a more personal experience and less crowding—perfect if you prefer to connect with your guide and fellow travelers. The fact that it visits actual speakeasies still in operation today is another big plus, offering a genuine peek into NYC’s clandestine drinking history.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t heavy on gangster storytelling, which might be a disappointment if that’s your main interest. The price of $64 per person also means you’ll need to budget for your own drinks, as none are included in the ticket. This tour is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, history-rich walk through Little Italy and Nolita, especially if you enjoy a good cocktail and some local lore.

Key Points

• Small-group experience provides a more intimate atmosphere.
• Visits to authentic speakeasies still operating today add real historical flavor.
• Focus on prohibition-era stories rather than hardcore gangster tales.
• You pay for your drinks separately, so budget accordingly.
• Central meeting point makes it easy to join the tour without hassle.
• Weather doesn’t stop the tour—dress appropriately for all conditions.

Discovering Little Italy and Nolita

This tour kicks off at Lt. Petrosino Square, right in the heart of downtown Manhattan. The location is convenient, with easy access to public transportation, making it simple to meet up without stress. You’ll start the experience around noon, which is a nice time to explore the neighborhood before it gets too crowded or too quiet.

From the outset, the tour promises a chance to walk through two vibrant neighborhoods—Nolita and Little Italy—each with their own unique character. You’ll visit shops, restaurants, and churches that still hold onto their historical charm, giving you a sense of the area’s evolution from immigrant hub to tourist magnet.

The first stop is Nolita, an abbreviation of North of Little Italy, which today blends trendy boutiques with classic eateries. Here, you get to see the modern boundaries of Little Italy and soak in the lively street scenes. Walking along Mulberry Street, you’ll observe the restaurants still open for business, many of which have been around for decades.

While the tour includes admission tickets at each stop, what really stands out is the focus on the bars. Unlike many other tours that just walk past historic buildings, this one makes a point to visit speakeasies that have survived since the Prohibition era—bars that still operate today, with some having real stories to tell.

The Speakeasies: A Walk Through History

One of the main attractions of this tour is the visit to actual speakeasies. These hidden bars, once secret meeting places for bootleggers and gangsters, are now open to the public, and that brings a special authenticity to your experience.

According to reviews, you’ll visit four genuine speakeasies. Some of these bars might surprise you with their attitude and storytelling—two reviews mention bartenders with attitude and plenty of interesting tales. One spot even offers good pizza, making it a bit more of a full experience than just drinking.

It’s important to remember that no beverages or food are included in the ticket price, so you’ll be paying for drinks as you go. This can be a bit of an inconvenience if you’re expecting all-inclusive pricing, but it also allows you to choose exactly what you want to drink and how much to spend.

One reviewer notes, “Visit to 4 speakeasies, some with bartenders with attitude and stories,” which hints that the bars are lively and full of character. Another mentions that one bar gained fame from being featured in Sex and the City, adding a pop-culture twist to your visit.

The Atmosphere and Experience

The overall vibe of the tour is relaxed, with a more laid-back pace allowing you to take in the sights and sounds without rushing. The small group size, capped at 10 travelers, means you can ask questions, chat with your guide, and get a deeper understanding of the prohibition era.

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s wise to dress appropriately—layers and comfortable shoes are key for walking around neighborhoods that are best enjoyed on foot. The fact that it’s a mobile ticket also makes for easy check-in and hassle-free participation.

While the tour’s main focus isn’t heavily on gangster stories, the history of Prohibition and how bootlegging fueled crime in NYC is still woven into the narrative. The guide does a good job, according to reviews, of sharing the historical context, making this more than just a pub crawl.

The tour lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes, which is a reasonable length for a walk that covers quite a bit of ground. It ends conveniently at Centre Market Place, near many restaurants and shops, so you can extend your adventure afterwards if you wish.

What the Reviews Say

The two reviews give us a balanced view. Liam_G felt it was “a good way to see Little Italy and Nolita,” but admitted they weren’t keen on the drinking aspect early in the morning, hinting that the tour might be more enjoyable for those comfortable with alcohol tastings or at least open to it.

Wilma_M pointed out that the tour has the potential to be really good, especially because of the visit to genuine speakeasies and the fact that some bars are famous or have distinctive personalities. However, she also notes it’s “light on gangster stories,” which might disappoint history buffs expecting a more criminal-focused narrative.

Both reviews highlight the delicious food and tapas at some of the bars, which is a bonus if you’re into sampling local flavors along with the drinks.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At $64 per person, this tour falls into a moderate price range. Since drinks aren’t included, your total expense will depend on how much you choose to purchase at each bar. For those who enjoy trying different cocktails and savoring the atmosphere of historic bars, this setup can work out well.

It’s important to consider that this is more of a cultural walk with optional drinks rather than a full-on pub crawl with all inclusive prices. If your main goal is to learn about prohibition and see classic NYC neighborhoods, the price is reasonable. But if you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience, this might not be the best fit.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in NYC’s Prohibition era and urban legends. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, small-group outing where they can ask questions and get personalized attention.

If you’re into craft cocktails and appreciate visiting bars with stories, you’ll likely find this tour engaging. However, if you’re expecting a heavy gangster narrative, you might be left wanting more.

It’s also a solid choice for travelers who prefer walking tours rather than bus rides and want to combine sightseeing with a taste of local nightlife.

Final Thoughts

The Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl offers a unique peek into Manhattan’s past through its surviving speakeasies and historic streets. You’ll love the chance to visit authentic bars that have kept their doors open since the 1920s, along with the relaxed pace that lets you soak in the neighborhood’s charm.

While it’s not heavy on gangster stories and drinks are paid for separately, this tour provides an enjoyable, low-key way to discover Little Italy and Nolita’s history and ambiance. It’s best for those who like a mix of culture, history, and a bit of casual drinking without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If your idea of a good time involves exploring NYC’s hidden gems, learning about the Prohibition era, and enjoying some quality cocktails in historic settings, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to budget for drinks and dress for the weather, and you’ll have a memorable afternoon in one of NYC’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is primarily focused on adult experiences, especially since it involves visiting bars that serve alcohol. It’s not designed for children or minors.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You’ll need to purchase your drinks at each speakeasy during the tour.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly for the weather.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Lt. Petrosino Square and ends at Centre Market Place, both centrally located in Manhattan.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s geared toward adult participants, especially given the focus on alcohol, so it’s not suitable for children or families.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

What’s the best way to dress?
Smart casual is recommended, and dress appropriately for walking and potential weather conditions.

If you’re curious about the history, enjoy a relaxed pace, and are ready to explore some of NYC’s most famous prohibition-era bars, this tour could be a good fit. Just keep in mind the drinking aspect and plan accordingly.