New York City: Catacombs by Candlelight

Exploring the Hidden World Beneath NYC: A Review of the Catacombs by Candlelight Tour

If you’re looking for a different side of New York City—beyond skyscrapers and bright lights—the Catacombs by Candlelight tour offers an intriguing peek into the city’s lesser-known past. Led by knowledgeable guides, this 1.5-hour experience takes you underground to discover the eerie, historic burial sites and secret areas of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral in Little Italy. It’s a captivating blend of history, mystery, and a touch of the macabre, all at an affordable price of $38 per person.

What really makes this tour stand out is the access to off-limits areas that most visitors never see, including two walled cemeteries and the city’s only active Catholic catacombs. The atmosphere created by candlelight combined with the stories of notable Americans buried there creates an experience that’s both educational and a little haunting. That said, one thing to consider is the limited accessibility—there’s one flight of stairs down to the catacombs, so it might not be ideal for everyone.

This experience suits anyone with a curiosity for history, architecture, or the spooky side of urban legends. It also appeals to those who enjoy guided storytelling with a personable touch, especially if you’re interested in New York’s Catholic community and prominent figures from the past. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a history buff, or a small group looking for something unique, this tour promises an insightful journey into NYC’s underground stories.

Key Points

• Unique Access: Explore areas normally closed to the public, including two cemeteries and active catacombs.
• Historical Significance: Learn about notable figures buried there, from bishops to prominent New Yorkers.
• Atmospheric Experience: Candlelights create a mysterious ambiance perfect for history and ghost enthusiasts.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Lee, Jimmie, and Bill are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills.
• Affordable Value: At $38, the tour offers a memorable experience with knowledgeable guides and exclusive access.
• Limited Accessibility: Not fully wheelchair accessible; involves stairs down to the catacombs.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting at 266 Mulberry Street, just a short walk into Little Italy, the tour begins with a gentle introduction to the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral. This church, built over 200 years ago, is a cornerstone of NYC’s religious and cultural history. As you step inside, the atmosphere shifts immediately—dimly lit and charged with centuries of stories. The tour’s focus is on the catacombs and burial grounds beneath the basilica, which reveal the city’s hidden past.

The first highlight is gaining exclusive access to areas usually off-limits to regular visitors. With your guide leading the way, you walk through two walled cemeteries, which are normally roped off but open for this experience. These cemeteries are not just resting places—they’re silent witnesses to New York’s history, filled with the gravestones of influential families like the Delmonico family, as well as historic figures such as Bishop John Connolly. Descriptions of the tombs reveal stories of wealth, power, and community, making the graves feel like chapters of NYC’s storybook.

The journey then takes you into the active Catholic catacombs, the only ones still operating in New York City. Here, the candlelight flickers across vaults housing the remains of bishops, industry leaders, and Civil War-era generals like Thomas Eckert. As one reviewer noted, “seeing where bishops rest alongside prominent New York Catholics… is a very special experience.” The labyrinthine vaults, with their stone walls and narrow passages, evoke a sense of reverence and curiosity.

Throughout the tour, guides like Lee, Jimmie, and Bill are praised for their deep knowledge and engaging storytelling. Melissa remembered Lee as “funny and knowledgeable,” while Stanley described his guide as “passionate and personable,” which makes the experience more relatable and memorable. Their stories flesh out the history of the church, the burial customs, and the notable figures interred there, providing context that makes the visit much more meaningful.

The atmosphere is intentionally somber and respectful, fitting for an active parish and sacred space. Visitors are asked to be reverent, which adds to the sense of stepping back in time. Candles are provided, enhancing the mood and making the experience feel intimate and even a little mysterious.

What’s Included and What to Expect

For the ticket price of $38, you get a guided walking tour with a professional guide and complimentary tea lights to set the mood. The tour is scheduled at various times throughout the day—be sure to check availability—and lasts about 1.5 hours.

The tour begins with a check-in at 266 Mulberry Street, a lively part of Little Italy, where you’ll meet your guide. From there, it’s a walk through the neighborhood’s streets, rich with Italian-American history, before descending into the basilica’s underground vaults. The experience ends back at the meeting point, meaning no transportation is required once you’re finished exploring.

Since the tour involves descending one flight of stairs, it’s not fully wheelchair accessible. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, bring cash for tips or souvenirs, and dress weather-appropriate—especially since the underground vaults can be cool and damp.

The Value for Money

At just $38, this tour offers a unique glimpse into New York’s underground that few other experiences can match. For history enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the city’s Catholic past, it’s a chance to see rare sites and hear stories that aren’t available elsewhere. The inclusion of candlelights and the small group setting make it feel intimate and special.

The guides’ expertise is a significant part of the value here. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable, engaging guides who made the stories come alive. Jimmie, in particular, is noted for his energy and local insights, which add extra layers of context for curious travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those intrigued by ghost stories or underground sites. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers wanting a more personal, guided experience rather than just walking through on their own. If you’re interested in religious history, not afraid of confined spaces, or simply want to see a side of NYC most travelers never do, this tour is a solid choice.

It’s also a great activity for small groups or couples seeking a memorable, meaningful outing that combines education with a touch of mystery. However, those with mobility issues or looking for a fully wheelchair-accessible experience might want to consider other options, as there is one flight of stairs involved.

The Sum Up

The Catacombs by Candlelight tour offers a rare opportunity to step beneath one of NYC’s historic churches and explore buried stories of influential Americans and the city’s Catholic community. With expert guides, atmospheric candlelight, and access to hidden vaults and cemeteries, it’s a fascinating journey into the city’s more shadowed past.

This experience provides excellent value, especially for those who enjoy history, architecture, and a dash of the spooky. It’s a respectful, well-organized tour that balances storytelling with solemnity, making it suitable for anyone with a curiosity for the city’s lesser-seen treasures.

While it might not be for everyone—particularly those with mobility concerns or a need for full accessibility—those who do participate will walk away with a deeper understanding of New York’s religious and cultural tapestry. For a unique, intimate look at NYC’s underground history, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally best suited for older children and adults because it involves walking through narrow, dark vaults and maintaining respectful behavior in a sacred environment.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, and you’ll want to allocate time for check-in and possible waiting periods.

Are the tombs and cemeteries open year-round?
Yes, the tour typically runs throughout the year, but always check availability before booking.

Is there a dress code or specific attire needed?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking and stairs; dress weather-appropriate since you’ll be outdoors and in cool, underground spaces.

Can I record videos during the tour?
Video recording is not allowed during the tour to preserve the reverent atmosphere.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Currently, it is not fully wheelchair accessible, as there is one flight of stairs down into the catacombs.

What should I bring?
Bring cash (for tips or souvenirs), comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, spots are limited and booking ahead ensures your preferred time slot.

In sum, the Catacombs by Candlelight tour provides an atmospheric, affordable, and compelling glimpse into NYC’s secret underground. Perfect for history lovers and those seeking a different perspective on the city’s past, it’s a memorable step into a quieter, more mysterious side of New York.