Las Vegas: Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl

Las Vegas: Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl offers an engaging look into the city’s legendary past for just $35 per person. With a 2-hour duration, this tour takes you through 8 iconic sites, including hidden speakeasies and historic casinos. It’s perfect for those curious about Vegas’s glamorous and gritty history, especially if you enjoy a good story and a cocktail. However, the tour’s reviews show a mixed picture: some praise the guides’ knowledge and storytelling, while others find the experience somewhat surface-level and pricey considering what’s included.

This tour begins outside the Plaza Hotel & Casino, a notable landmark from the mob era, setting the tone for an authentic vintage Vegas experience. You’ll explore a variety of stops, from a 50s-style Circa Bar serving atomic cocktails to a secret speakeasy beneath the Mob Museum. Along the way, the guide shares stories about mob murders, bootlegging, and even the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa. The tour concludes at El Cortez Hotel, leaving you with lively stories and a pleasant buzz to enjoy Vegas in the evening.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Just $35 for a 2-hour guided bar crawl through 8 sites.
• Unique Stops: Visit a hidden speakeasy under the Mob Museum and a 50s-style bar with atomic cocktails.
• Historical Stories: Learn about mob murders, bootlegging, and Jimmy Hoffa‘s mysterious disappearance.
• Iconic Locations: Walk in the footsteps of the Rat Pack and other stars at vintage Vegas sites.
• Guide Quality: The guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, making history lively.
• Limitations: The tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues or anyone who cannot walk more than a mile.

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Starting Point at the Plaza Hotel & Casino

The tour kicks off outside the Plaza Hotel & Casino, a building built during Vegas’s mob era. Travelers meet their guide, who wears a white Junket t-shirt for easy recognition. This location sets the tone for exploring old Vegas, giving an authentic feel from the moment you start.

The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour usually takes place in the afternoon, making it a flexible and engaging option for a midday activity. Since no transportation is included, guests should plan to arrive on foot or by taxi.

Visiting the Circa Bar for an Atomic Cocktail

The first stop is the Circa Bar, where vintage 50s-style cocktails like the Atomic drink are highlighted. This bar is designed to evoke the era of atomic age optimism and Cold War intrigue, making it a fun throwback. The guide explains the historical context behind the cocktails, connecting them to the era’s culture and science.

Expect a lively atmosphere and a chance to sip a classic cocktail while soaking in the retro decor. This stop is often praised for its authentic vibe and the guide’s engaging storytelling about the cocktail’s history.

Exploring the Hidden Speakeasy Beneath the Mob Museum

A key feature of this tour is the entrance into a hidden speakeasy located underneath the Mob Museum. Here, the history of notorious mob figures like Bugsy Siegel and Meyer Lansky comes alive through stories shared by the guide. This secret bar adds an exclusive touch to the experience, offering a taste of Prohibition-era Vegas.

Guests can take photos under neon signs and enjoy a drink while discussing the underground world of organized crime. The hidden speakeasy stands out as one of the most memorable stops, especially for those interested in the clandestine side of Vegas history.

Investigating the Disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa

Another intriguing stop involves the story of Jimmy Hoffa, the infamous union leader whose disappearance remains unsolved. The guide shares what is known and speculated about Hoffa’s fate, adding a layer of mystery to the tour. While the site itself isn’t specified, the story contributes to the overall mob and crime theme.

This segment adds depth to the tour, appealing to history buffs and those fascinated by unresolved crimes. It’s a concise yet compelling part of the journey into Vegas’s darker past.

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Walking in the Footsteps of the Rat Pack and Vegas Stars

Throughout the tour, participants walk past locations where the Rat Pack and other Hollywood celebrities once performed or visited. The guide narrates stories of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and others who helped shape the glittering nightlife of vintage Vegas. This aspect highlights the contrast between the glamorous image and the mob-related scandals behind the scenes.

Photographs under neon signs and at classic casino facades help bring this era to life, offering a nostalgic glimpse of old Vegas’s star-studded nights.

The Final Stop at El Cortez Hotel

The tour ends at the El Cortez Hotel, a historic hotel known for its classic Vegas charm. After two hours of exploration, guests are left with plenty of stories to share. The guide’s insights leave a lasting impression, blending history with entertainment.

While the tour provides a fun overview, some reviews mention that it feels a bit surface-level and would benefit from deeper insights or museum access. Still, the lively storytelling and historic stops make for an enjoyable experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers the history tour, entry into two bars and one hidden speakeasy, and a live guide. However, transportation is not included, so guests need to arrange their own travel between stops. Participants should also be prepared to pay for their drinks at each location, and tips for guides are not included.

Guests should bring comfortable shoes, ID for alcohol purchase, and be prepared for weather conditions, as the walk involves outdoor segments. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those unable to walk more than a mile.

Guide Expertise and Tour Pacing

The guides are recognized for their knowledge and storytelling ability, making history engaging and accessible. Reviewers frequently mention the guides’ enthusiasm and ability to bring stories to life, which enhances the overall experience.

The pacing is steady, allowing enough time at each site to absorb stories and take photos, but some reviewers feel that the time spent at each stop could be more balanced, especially since part of the tour involves ordering drinks at the speakeasy.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the tour is rich in stories and historic sites, some reviews express concerns about the cost relative to what is included. Since no museum entry or additional attractions are part of the price, the experience relies heavily on guide storytelling and the ambiance of the bars.

On top of that, the surface-level coverage of Las Vegas’s history may disappoint those seeking in-depth historical analysis. The tour is best suited for casual history enthusiasts who enjoy storytelling and a relaxed pace over detailed immersion.

Final Thoughts on the Las Vegas Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl

This tour offers a lively and engaging introduction to Vegas’s mob and speakeasy history for $35, making it a reasonably priced way to explore the city’s vintage side. The guided stops at iconic bars, including a hidden speakeasy, provide memorable moments and plenty of conversation starters.

While it excels in storytelling and atmosphere, it might feel light on depth for history buffs. Its group setting and outdoor walk make it suitable for most able-bodied visitors, but those with mobility limitations will find it less accessible.

The quality of guides and the unique stops make this tour a worthwhile choice for those wanting a fun, storytelling-focused experience. It’s especially fitting for visitors interested in mobsters, vintage Vegas, and classic cocktails, looking for a lively afternoon activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for this tour?
Participants need to present valid ID to purchase alcohol, so it is suitable for adults of legal drinking age.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside the Plaza Hotel & Casino at 1 North Main Street in Las Vegas.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation between stops is not included; guests should arrange their own travel.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are paid for separately at each bar or speakeasy.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not recommended for those with mobility impairments or who cannot walk more than a mile.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Are cameras allowed?
Video recording is not allowed, but photos are generally permitted unless specified otherwise.

What makes this tour unique?
It combines history, storytelling, and hidden speakeasies, offering a lively peek into the criminal and glamorous side of Vegas.

Would I enjoy this tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, since much of the experience is storytelling and sightseeing, non-drinkers can still enjoy the history and ambiance.

Is this tour suitable for groups?
Yes, it’s designed for groups and offers an engaging social atmosphere with a knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby