Las Vegas: Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl

Discover the Glitz and Grit of Las Vegas with the Mobsters, Casinos, and Speakeasy Bar Crawl

This tour offers a unique way to uncover Las Vegas’ flashy yet shadowy history through visits to speakeasies, historic casinos, and storytelling that highlights the city’s mobster past. With a knowledgeable guide leading you through eight different sites, you’ll get a taste of vintage Vegas—not just the neon lights but the stories of bootlegging, gangsters, and stars that once ruled the scene.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines history with entertainment. It’s not just a walk-and-talk; you get to sip on classic cocktails, step into secret bars, and walk through locations that echo the 50s and 60s mob era. That said, some might find the tour a bit light on historical depth, as it skims over some complex stories and focuses more on the fun side of things.

This tour is best suited for those curious about Vegas’ darker past, fans of vintage glamour, or anyone interested in a lively, social experience that mixes history with a few drinks. If you’re looking for a deep dive into the mobster era or prefer a more museum-focused visit, this might not be the perfect fit. But for a quick, spirited exploration, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Historical Tales & Secrets: Learn about mob murders, bootlegging, and even the mysterious disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa.
• Hidden Speakeasies & Classic Drinks: Enter secret bars under the Mob Museum and sip vintage cocktails like the Old Fashioned.
• Iconic Locations: Walk in the footsteps of stars like Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, with stops at historic casinos like the El Cortez.
• Guided with Local Insight: Led by a seasoned guide, the tour combines storytelling with a fun-loving group atmosphere.
• Short but Sweet: The 2-hour duration makes it an easy addition to your Vegas itinerary, but be ready for some walking and standing.
• Cost-Effective: At $35 per person, it offers a convenient way to learn about Vegas history without breaking the bank—though some reviews suggest it could be more value-packed.

An In-Depth Look at the Mobsters, Casinos, and Speakeasy Bar Crawl

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off outside the Plaza Hotel & Casino, a location steeped in mob history, helping set the scene for what’s to come. Your guide, dressed casually in a white Junket T-shirt, is easy to spot and eager to share stories. We appreciated how the meeting point immediately placed us in the heart of old Vegas, giving an authentic vibe from the start.

This first stop is at Circa Bar, a retro spot where the drinks are themed to the 50s—think atomic cocktails and neon-lit interiors. It’s a fitting beginning, as it transports you back in time while offering a lively atmosphere.

Exploring the Hidden Speakeasy

One of the tour’s highlights is venturing into a hidden speakeasy beneath the Mob Museum. This secret bar is a genuine treat—quiet, atmospheric, and packed with memorabilia. Here, your guide tells tales of mobsters like Bugsy Siegel and Meyer Lansky, adding context to the clandestine drinks.

Though the tour doesn’t include entry into the museum itself, the bar area provides enough ambiance and history for interested guests. The experience is enhanced by the chance to ask questions and snap photos under vintage neon signs, making it a favorite for many.

Investigating Mob Murders and the Disappearance of Hoffa

Throughout the walk, your guide shares stories about mob-related murders and the lore surrounding figures like Jimmy Hoffa. One review mentions that the stories made the experience engaging, even if some details felt somewhat surface-level. The storytelling balances entertainment with nuggets of real history, but don’t expect a detailed academic lecture—more of a lively, storytelling approach.

Exploring Fremont Street and Classic Vegas

As you stroll through downtown Las Vegas, you’ll pass neon signs and vintage casinos, including the El Cortez Hotel, where the tour ends. This location has a real old-school Vegas charm that perfectly caps off the experience. We loved how the tour offers a mix of history, architecture, and vibrant street scenes, giving you plenty of photo ops and conversation starters.

The Drinks and Atmosphere

The tour includes entry into two bars and one secret speakeasy, where you can enjoy well-crafted, classic cocktails. One reviewer pointed out that the 30-minute stop at the Mob Museum’s bar involved ordering a $20 cocktail, which might seem steep. The experience feels more about ambiance and storytelling than a full bar crawl, so don’t expect to be drinking all night.

Practical Details and Considerations

At just $35 per person, the tour is a reasonable way to get a taste of Vegas’ lore without shelling out for a full night on the town. However, some reviews highlight that transportation costs—like a $35 cab ride from a Strip hotel—can add up, making it less economical overall if you’re staying far away.

The 2-hour length is perfect for a quick cultural escape, but it’s also quite active—expect some walking and standing, and varied group sizes. The guide is lively and informative, but the experience might feel a bit superficial if you’re craving in-depth historical analysis.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience suits travelers seeking an entertaining, social introduction to Vegas’ mobster past. It’s ideal if you enjoy stories, vintage cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. It’s also great for those who want a snapshot of Vegas’ history without committing to a longer museum visit or a night in the clubs.

However, if your goal is a comprehensive history, or if you prefer detailed guided tours with visuals or museum entries, this might not fully satisfy. Also, be prepared for some walking and to stand in certain spots for the stories—it’s not tailored for those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price, this tour offers a fun, story-driven look at Vegas’ mobster past. The combination of hidden speakeasies, iconic casinos, and lively storytelling makes it a memorable way to experience a different side of Las Vegas. It’s especially good if you’re into history, vintage glamour, or simply want a lively social activity after a day on the Strip.

That said, the experience might feel a bit light if you’re hoping for an in-depth historical lesson. Some reviews mention that the tour could be more valuable if it included access to the Mob Museum or offered a more comprehensive experience. Still, for a short, spirited walk through Vegas’ shadowy past, it provides more than enough entertainment and insight.

Overall, if you’re after a fun, social, and slightly cheeky adventure that brings history to life with a few drinks along the way, this bar crawl is worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation is not included. The tour starts outside the Plaza Hotel & Casino, and you’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from the meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but engaging activity that fits easily into a day of exploring Vegas.

Are drinks included?
The tour includes entry into two bars and a hidden speakeasy, where you can order cocktails, but drinks are not included in the price. You purchase your own drinks on-site.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking and standing, so it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

What should I bring?
Bring a valid ID or passport (to purchase alcohol), comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be outdoors and walking.

Can I record videos during the tour?
Video recording is not allowed, so be prepared to enjoy the stories and scenery without filming.

What’s the best way to get to the meeting point?
Public transport, rideshare services, or taxis are recommended, especially if you’re staying on the Strip, as the starting point is downtown near the Plaza Hotel & Casino.

This bar crawl offers a lively, visually engaging way to learn about Vegas’ past—perfect for curious travelers who want stories, history, and a few drinks wrapped into a compact experience.