How to Plan Your New York City Tour: The Irish Mob of Hell’s Kitchen Tour

New York City is one of the world’s most visited cities, and there is always something new to explore. For visitors who are interested in the city’s fascinating, yet at times sordid, history, there is no shortage of tours and experiences that delve into the past. If you’re looking for an entertaining, yet educational tour with a unique perspective of NYC’s past, the From the Gophers to the Westies: The Irish Mob of Hell’s Kitchen tour might be just what you’re looking for. In this blog post, we will explain how to plan your New York City tour and all you need to know about this one-of-a-kind experience.

Overview of the Tour

The Irish Mob of Hell’s Kitchen tour is an eye-opening history lesson wrapped up in a fun, entertaining package. The tour takes you through the small, but historic neighborhood of Hell’s Kitchen in Manhattan, where Irish-American organized crime syndicates (known as the Irish Mob) once controlled the streets with their fists, guns, and political power.

This experience takes you through the streets and alleyways that were once home to some of the most violent and notorious gangs in New York City history. This small-group walking tour is led by an expert local guide who will engage you with stories of the gangs and their activities.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour will take you through the historic streets where the Irish Mob ruled, stopping at key locations and hearing stories of the people that once lived and operated in the area. The fascinating history of Hell’s Kitchen comes to life as your expert guide shares tales of the Westies, the Gophers, and their decades-long battle for control of the area.

You’ll learn about some of the most famous gangsters in New York City history, including Owney Madden, Mickey Spillane, and Jimmy Coonan. You’ll visit the site of the famous West Side Irish Civil War and explore the buildings where the gangs ran their operations, including speakeasies, gambling dens, and brothels.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour

This tour is perfect for anyone who is fascinated by true crime, mob history, or the gritty, unsavory side of New York City’s past. History buffs, true crime enthusiasts, and anyone who loves a good story will enjoy this tour. Even if you’re a seasoned New Yorker, this tour will show you a side of the city that you’ve never seen before.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour is led by an expert local guide who is knowledgeable about the area’s history and the activities of the Irish Mob. The tour is small-group, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with your guide. The tour lasts for approximately 2 hours and covers approximately 1.5 miles.

Additional Information About the Tour

The Irish Mob of Hell’s Kitchen tour departs from a convenient spot in Midtown Manhattan. The meeting point is at 650 8th Ave, on the SE corner of W 42nd St & 8th Ave. The tour starts at 6:00 PM and ends at 8:00 PM at 350 W 49th St, on the SE corner of W 49th St & 8th Ave.

Booking Your Tour

You can book the From the Gophers to the Westies: The Irish Mob of Hell’s Kitchen tour on Viator, a top-rated company that specializes in tours and experiences all around the world. Visit this link to book the tour and guarantee your spot on this unforgettable experience.

Final Words

The Irish Mob of Hell’s Kitchen tour is a perfect way to explore the darker side of New York City’s history. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll learn about the gangs, their activities, and the impact they had on the city. Book your tour today and embark on a journey that will take you back in time to the streets of Hell’s Kitchen.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About New York City

New York City is one of the most famous and visited cities in the world. Known as “The City That Never Sleeps,” New York is home to countless attractions, famous landmarks, and diverse cultures. Whether you are planning to visit the city for the first time or are a frequent visitor, you are likely to have questions. Here are the most frequently asked questions about New York City.

1. What are the best attractions to see in New York City?

There are numerous attractions you can visit in New York City. Here are some of the best and most popular ones:

The Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom of the United States and one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City. You can visit Liberty Island and climb to the top of the statue’s pedestal, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is another iconic landmark in New York City. You can take an elevator to the top of the building and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world. It houses over two million works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from all around the globe.

Central Park

Central Park is a large green space in the heart of the city. It offers various activities, including jogging, walking, bike riding, and boating, and it’s an ideal spot for picnics.

Times Square

Times Square is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world. It’s known for its bright lights, billboards, and bustling crowds. It’s an entertainment hub with plenty of Broadway shows, restaurants, and shops.

2. What’s the best way to get around in New York City?

New York City has one of the best public transport systems in the world. You can easily get around the city by subway, bus, taxi or bike. Here are some tips for getting around:

Subway

The subway is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city. You can buy a MetroCard at any subway station, and it’s valid for both the subway and bus.

Taxi

Taxis are plentiful, but they can be expensive, especially during rush hour. You can hail a cab on the street or use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft.

Bike

Biking is a great way to explore the city, and there are many bike rental services available throughout the city, including CitiBike.

3. What is the best time of year to visit New York City?

New York City can be visited at any time of the year, but the best times are during the spring and fall. The weather is mild, and the crowds are not as large as during the summer months. The winter months can be cold, especially in January and February, but it’s also the best time to see the city covered in snow.

4. How much should you budget for a trip to New York City?

New York City can be an expensive destination, but it’s also possible to enjoy the city on a budget. Here are some costs to consider:

Accommodation

You can find accommodation options for all budgets, from hostels to luxury hotels. The average cost for a hotel room is around $200 per night.

Food

New York City has a wide range of food options, from street vendors to gourmet restaurants. The average cost for a meal is around $20 to $30.

Attractions

The cost of attractions varies, but the average admission fee is around $25 to $30 per person.

Transportation

A single subway ride costs $2.75, while a taxi ride can range from $15 to $40, depending on the distance.

5. Is New York City safe?

New York City is generally safe, but it’s important to take precautions, especially if you are traveling alone or at night. Here are some safety tips:

Avoid deserted areas at night

Stick to well-lit streets with plenty of people around.

Be aware of your surroundings

Keep your belongings close and be alert to any suspicious behavior.

Stay on marked paths in parks

Don’t wander off the beaten path, especially at night.

6. What is the tipping culture in New York City?

Tipping is expected in New York City, especially for service workers like waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers. Here are some tipping guidelines:

Restaurants

Tip between 15% to 20% of the total bill.

Bartenders

Tip $1 to $2 per drink or 15% to 20% of the total bill.

Taxis

Tip 15% to 20% of the fare.

7. What are some off-the-beaten-path attractions to see in New York City?

If you want to get off the beaten path and explore some lesser-known attractions, here are some suggestions:

The Cloisters

The Cloisters is a medieval art museum located in Upper Manhattan. It’s a tranquil oasis, far from the crowds of Midtown.

Green-Wood Cemetery

Green-Wood Cemetery is a historic burial ground in Brooklyn. It’s a beautiful and peaceful place to take a walk and explore some old gravestones.

The City Reliquary

The City Reliquary is a quirky and fun museum in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It showcases some unusual artifacts and memorabilia from different periods in New York City’s history.

Conclusion

New York City is a vibrant and exciting destination that has something to offer for everyone. Knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions can help you plan a memorable trip to the city. Remember to take precautions, stay safe, and enjoy all that New York City has to offer.