Gangs and River Pirates of New York Walking Tour

From$38
2 hours
New York City, USA

About this activity

Dive into New York's rich history with a guided walking tour exploring its notorious gangs and river pirates, featuring iconic sites like the South Street Seaport.

Highlights

  • Explore historic neighborhoods
  • Visit South Street Seaport
  • Learn about New York's past
  • Engage with knowledgeable guides
  • Discover hidden gems of the city

Full description

Step back in time and uncover the tales of New York's infamous gangs and river pirates on this captivating walking tour. Led by expert guides, you'll traverse historic neighborhoods, including the South Street Seaport, and hear riveting stories that bring the city's past to life. This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the underbelly of New York's history, making it a must-do for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided walking tour through historic neighborhoods
  • Visit to iconic landmarks like the South Street Seaport
  • Engaging storytelling by knowledgeable guides
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

We will make several stops in the South Street Seaport where your guide will tell stories of the River Pirates of the East and Hudson Rivers circa early 1800s

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Your tour guide will take you through this district and talk about some of the 19th Century Gangs of the First Ward of New York

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Tour begins at the South West corner of Columbus Park at the very intersection that was once Orange, Cross and Anthony Streets. Together these streets formed the "Five Points"

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates rain or shine
  • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
  • Pets are not permitted on the tour

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Dress appropriately for the weather
  • Bring a camera to capture historic sites

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Stroller Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport

Traveler reviews

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Great experience

Excellent historical perspective of the 1850s time period of NYC with changes in population, religion and lawlessness. Ramona was both educational and entertaining. It is a busy 1.5 hours with a fair amount of walking.

Jim_KApr 20, 2026VIATOR

Highly Recommend

Ramona, the tour guide, was wonderful and knowledgeable. I knew a little history going in, and Ramona made it come alive with her stories and the way she went about it. My wife was not as familiar with the history, and felt equally as engaged.

Richard PJul 29, 2025TRIPADVISOR

Great Tour!

First of all I have to say that we had another tour booked that cancelled on us because of the weather. We booked this tour last minute and it did not disappoint. Our guide Ramona met us on a blustery snow driven afternoon dressed in 19th century woolen clothing which I was hoping was keeping her warm! Her knowledge and enthusiasm was enough to keep her warm and kept us engaged throughout our entire 1.5 + hr journey through the tip of Manhattan. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who is interested in the neighborhood gangs of NY, pirates and the history of the immigrants who settled in this area in these tough and turbulent times. Thank you for enduring the weather with us Ramona!

Linda_NFeb 20, 2025VIATOR

History of Lower Manhattan Brought to Life

Ramona was a fantastic guide and super knowledgeable! Despite most of the buildings being lost to history, she still brought the past to life in a very engaging and informative way. I highly recommend this tour, or any other Tommy’s New York tours.

Joe_FSep 2, 2024VIATOR