Step Into Newport’s Notorious Past On A Gangster Walking Tour

Ever wondered what it was like during the Prohibition era? Newport, Kentucky, offers a unique glimpse into that notorious past with its Gangster Walking Tour. This small city, just across the river from Cincinnati, was once a hotbed for illegal activities, including gambling, bootlegging, and speakeasies. On this tour, you'll stroll through historic streets while hearing tales of infamous mobsters, secret tunnels, and hidden speakeasies. Knowledgeable guides bring these stories to life, making you feel like you've stepped back in time. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for something different to do, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Discover Newport's Notorious Past

Newport, Rhode Island, isn't just about beautiful mansions and scenic coastlines. This charming town has a darker side, filled with tales of gangsters, speakeasies, and crime. Ready to step back in time? Let's explore some of the most infamous spots on a Gangster Walking Tour.

The Infamous Spots

Walking through Newport, you'll find places that once buzzed with illicit activities. Here are some must-see locations:

1. The Viking Hotel

   • Once a hotspot for mobsters, this historic hotel hosted secret meetings and shady deals. The elegant facade hides a past filled with intrigue.

2. The Newport Casino

   • Not just for tennis, this venue was a playground for the rich and infamous. Rumor has it, high-stakes gambling and clandestine gatherings were common here.

3. The Red Parrot

   • Now a popular restaurant, it was once a speakeasy during Prohibition. Imagine the hidden rooms and secret passages that still whisper tales of the past.

4. The Jailhouse Inn

   • This former jail turned inn housed many notorious criminals. Walking through its halls, you can almost hear the echoes of past inmates.

5. The Clarke Cooke House

   • A historic building with a colorful past, it was a favorite spot for smugglers. Today, it offers fine dining, but its walls have seen much more.

Hidden Gems of Crime

Beyond the well-known spots, Newport hides some lesser-known but equally intriguing places. These hidden gems add depth to the gangster lore.

6. The White Horse Tavern

   • America's oldest tavern, it was a meeting place for spies and smugglers. Its age-old walls have witnessed countless secret exchanges.

7. The Armory

   • This imposing structure once stored weapons and contraband. Its strategic location made it a key spot for illicit activities.

8. The Newport Tower

   • Shrouded in mystery, some believe this ancient structure was used by pirates to hide their loot. Its true purpose remains a topic of debate.

9. The Elms

   • A grand mansion with a hidden past, it was rumored to host lavish parties for the elite, including some with questionable reputations.

10. The Breakers

    • While known for its opulence, this mansion also had its share of secret dealings. The Vanderbilt family, who owned it, had connections that ran deep.

The Dark Alleys

Newport's narrow streets and dark alleys were perfect for clandestine activities. These spots might seem ordinary, but they hold secrets of the past.

11. Thames Street

    • This bustling street was once lined with speakeasies and gambling dens. Walking here, you can almost feel the pulse of its vibrant, illicit past.

12. Washington Square

    • A central hub for the town, it saw many public gatherings, some of which were less than lawful. Its open space hides a history of covert operations.

13. Bowen's Wharf

    • A picturesque spot today, it was once a busy port for smugglers. The wharf's hidden corners and underground tunnels tell tales of contraband and crime.

14. Queen Anne Square

    • This quiet park was a meeting place for those looking to avoid the law. Its serene atmosphere belies a history of secret rendezvous.

15. Bellevue Avenue

    • Known for its mansions, this avenue also had hidden speakeasies. The grand homes along this street have seen more than just high society parties.

The Secret Networks

Newport's underground networks played a crucial role in its gangster past. These hidden pathways and tunnels were essential for evading the law.

16. The Tunnels of Fort Adams

    • These tunnels were used for smuggling and hiding contraband. Their dark, winding paths are perfect for imagining the secretive activities that took place.

17. The Underground Railroad Sites

    • While primarily known for aiding escaped slaves, these sites also provided cover for other illicit activities. Their dual history adds a layer of complexity to Newport's past.

18. The Secret Passages of The Chanler

    • This luxurious hotel has hidden passages that were once used for discreet meetings. Exploring these hidden routes gives a sense of the covert operations that occurred.

19. The Hidden Rooms of Marble House

    • Another grand mansion with a secretive side, it had hidden rooms used for private gatherings. The opulence of the mansion contrasts sharply with its clandestine history.

20. The Concealed Spaces of Rosecliff

    • Known for its grand parties, Rosecliff also had hidden spaces for secret dealings. The mansion's beauty hides a past filled with intrigue and mystery.

Newport's Hidden History Awaits

Newport's gangster walking tour offers a unique peek into the city's colorful past. From notorious speakeasies to infamous crime bosses, every step reveals a story. This tour isn't just about history; it's about experiencing the thrill of Newport's underworld.

Imagine walking the same streets where gangsters once ruled. Feel the excitement as tales of bootlegging, gambling, and secret tunnels come to life. It's a chance to see Newport in a whole new light.

Whether you're a history buff or just looking for something different, this tour delivers. It's an adventure through time, right in the heart of Newport. So, lace up your walking shoes and get ready to uncover the secrets that shaped this fascinating city. Newport's hidden history is waiting for you.