Las Vegas: Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl

Introduction: A Drink and a Story—Las Vegas Mobsters, Casinos, and Speakeasies

If you’re curious about the darker, glitzier side of Las Vegas, this Mobsters, Casinos, and Speakeasies tour offers a lively two-hour glimpse into the city’s past. For just $35, you’ll follow your guide through eight different sites, including hidden speakeasies and iconic casinos, soaking in stories of mob murders, bootlegging, and even nuclear testing. Led by friendly, well-informed guides like Jodie and Chyvone, this experience combines history, fun drinks, and the chance to walk in the footsteps of legends like the Rat Pack.

What we love most is how the tour manages to blend entertaining storytelling with authentic locations, creating an atmosphere that feels both educational and lively. The inclusion of classic cocktails allows you to taste the flavors of different eras, and walking through Fremont Street offers a vibrant, neon-lit backdrop that truly captures old Vegas charm. On the downside, some reviews mention that the history can feel a bit surface level and that additional costs (like drinks and optional tips) can add up, so it’s not a budget-free experience.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, nightlife lovers, and anyone curious about Las Vegas’ notorious past. If you’re interested in hidden gems and classic cocktails rather than a deep historical lecture, this is a good fit. Travelers who enjoy lively group atmospheres and quirky stories will find this tour especially appealing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Locations: Visit hidden speakeasies and legendary casinos tied to mob history.
• Engaging Guides: Expect knowledgeable, friendly guides who make the stories come alive.
• Decades of Drinks: Enjoy classic cocktails that reflect different eras in Vegas history.
• Vivid Atmosphere: Walk Fremont Street’s neon glow and step inside the legendary Mob Museum.
• Cost and Duration: At $35 for 2 hours, it’s a compact, affordable way to add some Vegas flair.
• Limited Depth: Some reviews note that the historical details are more surface level than in-depth.

Exploring the Details: What You Can Expect from the Tour

Starting Point: The Historic Plaza Hotel & Casino

Your adventure begins outside the Plaza Hotel & Casino, an hotel that dates back to Vegas’ mob era. Your guide will be easy to spot, wearing a white Junket t-shirt, and ready to lead you into the heart of old Vegas. This initial meeting point sets the tone—you’re stepping into a city where mobsters and movie stars once shared the same turf.

First Stop: Circa Bar and the Atomic Cocktails

Your first taste of the past comes at the Circa Bar, a speakeasy-style venue that transports you back to the 1950s. Expect a drink called an “Atomic Cocktail”, paying homage to the nuclear testing that took place nearby. The setting is nostalgic, with vintage decor that makes you feel like you’ve traveled back in time, and the drinks help set the mood.

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Hidden Speakeasy Under the Mob Museum

Next, you’ll venture into a secret speakeasy located beneath the Mob Museum. This part of the tour is especially appreciated by those interested in mob lore. The guides will share tales of Bugsy Siegel, Meyer Lansky, and the gritty underworld of prohibition-era Vegas. The hidden entrance adds an element of adventure, and the stories really come to life when you’re standing in a place that was once a hub of illicit activity.

The Disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa

One of the tour’s highlights is the snippet about Jimmy Hoffa’s mysterious disappearance, a story that still captivates many. While the focus is on storytelling rather than detailed investigation, you’ll enjoy hearing how Hoffa’s fate is linked to the casino and mob history of Vegas. This particular story resonates well with visitors, as it adds a layer of intrigue to the Vegas mob landscape.

The Old-Fashioned and the Neon Glow of Fremont Street

As you walk Fremont Street, you’ll have the chance to snap photos under neon signs that have become iconic symbols of Vegas. The atmosphere is lively, bustling with street performers and the glow of countless signs. The tour includes a stop at a bar where you can order a classic Old-Fashioned, letting you taste a cocktail that’s as timeless as the city itself.

Final Stop: El Cortez Hotel

Your tour wraps up at the El Cortez Hotel, which has its own long-standing history with Vegas’ mob days. By now, you’ll likely have a pleasant buzz, and plenty of stories to share with friends. The group atmosphere makes the experience more memorable, especially if you’re a fan of Vegas nightlife’s vintage vibe.

The Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $35 covers the guided tour, visits into two bars and a hidden speakeasy, and a lot of entertaining storytelling. However, it’s important to note that transportation isn’t included—so if you’re staying on the Strip or elsewhere, you’ll need to factor in taxi or rideshare costs. Also, tips for guides are not included but are customary if you enjoyed the experience.

You will need to bring a passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes (since you’ll be walking through various locations), and dress according to weather conditions—Las Vegas can be warm or cool depending on the season.

Authenticity and Group Dynamics

The tour generally involves a small group, with guides like Jodie and Chyvone praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to make history engaging. Travelers consistently mention how guides bring stories to life and keep the group entertained. The group size and the informal setting contribute to a relaxed, friendly atmosphere—perfect for solo travelers or couples.

Overall Value and Considerations

While the $35 price point offers a fun, compact experience, some reviews suggest that the historical content can sometimes feel superficial, and that additional costs for drinks and tips can make the experience feel pricier. One traveler remarked that, given the cost of transportation (around $35 for a cab from their Strip hotel), it might be more cost-effective to visit the Mob Museum directly or explore other Vegas attractions.

That said, the unique combination of hidden speakeasies, lively stories, and the chance to walk in the footsteps of Vegas legends makes this tour a memorable pick. It’s especially suited for those who want a lighthearted, story-driven glimpse into Vegas’ mob past without the commitment of a full-day tour or entrance fees.

The Sum Up: Who Should Take This Tour?

This Mobsters, Casinos, and Speakeasies tour offers a fun, engaging way to connect with the history of Las Vegas. It’s ideal for history lovers, nightlife aficionados, or anyone curious about the city’s shady, glamorous side. If you’re looking for a guided experience packed with stories and vintage drinks yet don’t mind a somewhat light coverage of historical details, this tour hits the right note.

Because of the small group setting and knowledgeable guides, you’ll likely leave with more than just stories—you’ll have a sense of the mystique and mischief that shaped Vegas. Just be prepared for a cost, both in terms of the ticket and potential additional expenses, and realize that it’s more about the atmosphere and storytelling than an in-depth historical lecture.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point outside the Plaza Hotel & Casino.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, usually offered in the afternoon.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and dress weather-appropriate as the tour takes place rain or shine.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase classic cocktails at each stop.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not recommended for those with mobility impairments, as it involves walking and navigating stairs in some locations.

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

What kind of stories will I hear?
Expect tales of mob murders, bootlegging, Jimmy Hoffa’s disappearance, and other notorious legends from Vegas’ mob era, told in an engaging and accessible way.

This tour offers a lively, storytelling approach to Vegas’ gangster past. It’s best for those who want an entertaining, atmospheric experience that combines history, nightlife, and a touch of intrigue—all at a reasonable price. Just come with curiosity, comfortable shoes, and an open mind to enjoy one of Vegas’ most colorful chapters.

You can check availability for your dates here: