Former mafia don Stefano Magaddino and his brothers will be returning to Niagara Falls after a 34-year absence. But this time they will be part of
The Mob ToursTM, a new adventure bus tour opening in June. The tour is 90-minutes long and highlights former criminal hideouts, hangouts, and homes, and explains the history of Stefano, Gaspare and Nino Magaddino, the former brothers who ruled Western New York with iron fists.
Most people don't associate Niagara Falls with criminal activity, let alone the mob. "When the Magaddino's were alive, this city was known as a sin center," stated founder Mike Rizzo. "We just try to capture some of that former drama and entertain our visitors for a short time, so they have another reason to remember their visit to the Falls."
Historical accuracy is an important aspect of the tour. "We started working on the tour last summer," said Rizzo. "I have extensive research experience, so when it came time to find out about the Magaddino's, I knew where to look. There is very little information available about Magaddino in general circulation, so we worked hard to find the information so we could present an accurate tale of the former mafia don and his brothers."
But the tour isn't just about boring facts. Rizzo said it is a fun-filled ride, full of music, stories, and a little excitement. "It allows visitors to Niagara Falls to see that there is more to the city than just the water or the casino," mentioned Rizzo. "The guides are knowledgeable on the subject and dress the part."
The tour will definitely appeal to fans of organized crime, the Sopranos, or mafia movies. "But it's entertaining enough that anyone young or old would enjoy it," Rizzo said.
Also included on the tour is a stop at the Magaddino Museum, which includes one-of-a-kind memorabilia from the Magaddino's and the Niagara Falls mob.
The Mob Tours
TM will be opening on June 14, 2008 and is currently taking reservations through their website
www.themobtours.com.
About The Mob Tours
TM
Developed by Michael Rizzo, a entrepreneur, historian, researcher, and author, he started and ran Zippy Delivery, the only bicycle delivery service in Buffalo, NY for 7 years and has written two local history books. The Mob Tours
TM will be open 11 months of the year in Niagara Falls, NY.