Explore the gritty underbelly of New York City’s past on the "Gangs and River Pirates of New York Walking Tour." This captivating 1.5-hour journey delves into the notorious world of gangs and river pirates that once dominated the city’s waterways. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour takes participants through the streets, uncovering the dark secrets that lurk beneath the surface of modern-day New York. With a maximum group size of 30 and a starting price of $38, this immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the city’s captivating criminal history.
Key Points

- This 1.5-hour walking tour explores New York City’s underworld history, focusing on gangs and river pirates.
- The tour departs from Columbus Park and ends near Coenties Slip, with a maximum group size of 30 participants.
- The tour is led by a licensed guide and includes gratuities, with a starting price of $38 per person.
- The tour route is wheelchair and stroller accessible, but is not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
- Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring water and necessary medication, and be prepared for walking and standing during the tour.
Tour Overview

The "Gangs and River Pirates of New York Walking Tour" explores the gritty history of New York City’s underworld, taking travelers on a 1.5-hour journey through the streets of Lower Manhattan.
Explore the gritty underworld of New York City’s past on a 1.5-hour walking tour through the streets of Lower Manhattan.
Based in NYC, the tour departs from Columbus Park and ends near Coenties Slip, covering a maximum group size of 30.
Priced from $38 per person, the tour includes a licensed guide and gratuities.
While wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, requiring a moderate fitness level.
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
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Meeting Point and Start Time
The tour begins at the South West corner of Columbus Park, located at 158 Worth St, New York, NY 10013.
Participants will meet their licensed tour guide at 3:30 PM to embark on a 1.5+ hour adventure exploring the gangs and river pirates of New York.
The meeting point is:
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Near public transportation
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Wheelchair and stroller accessible
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Allows service animals
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At the start of the tour route
Inclusions and Accessibility

Included in the tour are a licensed guide and gratuities.
This walking tour is accessible to wheelchair users and strollers, and service animals are allowed. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
The tour route is near public transportation, and the surfaces are wheelchair accessible.
Health Recommendations and Transportation
Although the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, it isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
The tour route is near public transportation, and the surfaces are wheelchair-friendly.
To make the most of your experience:
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Wear comfortable shoes.
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Bring water and any necessary medication.
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Be prepared for some walking and standing.
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Familiarize yourself with the meeting and end points.
Transportation to and from the tour is the responsibility of the participants.
Pricing and Booking
The tour costs from $38.00 per person.
Booking options include reserving now and paying later. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Paying now provides a lowest price guarantee, ensuring competitive pricing.
The tour has received a 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews, with praise for the engaging guide and her ability to bring history to life.
A 5.0 rating from 2 reviews praises the engaging guide’s ability to bring history to life on this immersive walking tour.
Whether interested in New York’s neighborhood gangs or immigrant history, this walking tour offers an immersive and informative experience through the streets of the city.
Tour Reviews
The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 5.0 rating based on 2 customer reviews.
Travelers have praised the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide, Ramona, who brings the history of New York’s neighborhood gangs and immigrant communities to life, despite challenging weather conditions and the loss of many historical buildings.
The tour is recommended for those interested in learning about the city’s gritty past.
Key highlights mentioned by reviewers include:
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Ramona’s engaging storytelling
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Insights into New York’s gang and immigrant history
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Educational experience despite inclement weather
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Suitability for those fascinated by the city’s past.
About the Tour Provider
Tommys New York, the tour provider, offers a range of immersive experiences that explore the city’s rich history and cultural diversity.
As the supplier of the Gangs and River Pirates of New York Walking Tour, the company prioritizes providing a competitive and reliable tour experience.
With a lowest price guarantee, Tommys New York ensures that travelers receive the best value for their money.
The tour is led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides who bring the city’s past to life through engaging storytelling, despite the challenges posed by lost historical landmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Types of Gangs and Criminal Activities Will Be Discussed?
The tour discusses notorious New York City gangs like the Five Points Gang and Old Broadway Boys, as well as the criminal activities of river pirates who preyed on ships along the city’s waterways in the 19th century.
How Safe Is the Tour Route for Travelers?
The tour route is generally safe for travelers, as it is situated near public transportation and has wheelchair-accessible surfaces. However, it’s not recommended for those with medical conditions or limited mobility, as a moderate fitness level is required.
Are There Any Special Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?
There are no special dress code requirements for this tour. Travelers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes as the tour involves exploring the city on foot. No formal attire is necessary.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?
Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups. The tour provider, Tommys New York, offers the flexibility to accommodate specific group sizes and preferences for a more personalized experience.
What Are the Tour Guide’s Qualifications and Background?
The tour is led by Ramona, a licensed New York City tour guide with extensive knowledge of the city’s gang and immigrant history. Her engaging storytelling and enthusiasm have received high praise from past participants.
The Sum Up
The "Gangs and River Pirates of New York Walking Tour" offers a captivating exploration of the city’s notorious underworld history. Led by a licensed guide, this 1.5-hour journey delves into the gritty past of New York’s gangs and river pirates, providing an immersive experience for history enthusiasts. With a maximum group size of 30 and starting at $38, this tour is a must-do for those seeking insights into the city’s fascinating criminal underbelly.
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