Saint Paul Gangster Tour

Our review of the Saint Paul Gangster Tour offers a close look at one of the Twin Cities’ most intriguing histories. This two-hour bus journey draws in history buffs, curious travelers, and those looking for a fun, informative way to see Saint Paul through a different lens. What makes it stand out? First, there’s the lively, knowledgeable guide who spices up the stories with humor and personality. Second, the carefully curated stops that connect you directly with the city’s secretive, often violent past during the Prohibition Era.

A potential consideration? Because it’s a bus tour, you won’t get off at every site, which might limit hands-on exploration. However, the relaxed ride and comprehensive commentary make this a great pick for those who prefer learning while staying comfortably seated. This tour is ideal for history lovers, fans of classic crime stories, and anyone eager to see a side of Saint Paul rarely covered in typical sightseeing.

Key Points

• The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and covers key sites linked to organized crime in Saint Paul.
• It’s led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide who keeps the narrative lively and engaging.
• Stops include historic crime scenes, gangster hangouts, and landmarks linked to famous figures like John Dillinger.
• The tour is accessible and includes restrooms on board, adding to traveler comfort.
• Cost at $55 offers good value for a themed experience packed with stories and local history.
• Most travelers find the tour entertaining, informative, and well-paced, with standing-room only being a possibility at busy times.

An In-Depth Look at the Saint Paul Gangster Tour

If you’re interested in the shadowy world of organized crime from nearly a century ago, this tour offers a window into Saint Paul’s notorious past. What’s immediately clear is the balance between storytelling and sightseeing. You’ll be riding comfortably on a coach, with the ability to absorb fascinating tales without the hassle of navigating on your own.

Starting Point: A Central Location

The tour begins at 215 Wabasha Street South, a location that’s easily accessible, being near public transportation. Once aboard, you’re welcomed with a comfortable ride and a friendly guide—some reviews even mention guides who put on a character or two, like “John Dillinger,” making the experience even more memorable.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Saint Paul
The first leg of the tour is a deep dive into the city’s streets, where you’ll get a panoramic overview of the gangster era. The stops include notable sites like the Castle Royal Gangsters Nightclub, now converted into historic street caves, and the Hamm’s mansion kidnapping site. You’ll see landmarks like the St. Paul Hotel, Green Lantern Saloon, and Summit Hill. These areas aren’t just sprinkled with stories—they’re historic locations that you can visualize in your mind, adding depth to your understanding of the era.

A highlight praised by visitors is the chance to see where John Dillinger shot his way out of Saint Paul, a story that really captures the dangerous allure of the gangster figures. The tour also passes by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s childhood home, offering a surprising literary twist amid all the crime lore.

Stop 2: South Saint Paul
Here, you’ll visit a payroll robbery site, giving a tangible connection to the robberies that fueled gangland conflicts. The quiet mention of these sites by guides makes it clear they’re more than just empty spaces—they’re chapters from a bygone criminal underworld.

Stop 3: West Saint Paul
This part of the tour features the famous White House hotel, a notorious hangout for gangsters, as well as the Horseshoe Saloon—a spot where crime and nightlife intertwined. Visitors have remarked on how the famous hotel and saloon evoke a sense of the era’s gritty nightlife.

What You Get for Your $55

The price is quite reasonable considering the depth of storytelling and the visual connection to historic sites. The tour runs for about two hours, and most reviews describe it as well-paced—not too rushed, not too slow. The mobile ticket makes it convenient, and the restrooms on board mean you won’t miss the stories waiting at each stop.

The Guide: The Heart of the Experience

Most reviews praise the guides’ expertise and sense of humor. One commenter even mentioned a guide who played the role of Dillinger, which underscores the entertaining storytelling style. Guests consistently describe guides as knowledgeable, engaging, and fun, making the stories memorable. This personal touch and storytelling flair turn what could be a dry history lesson into an engaging narrative.

The Vehicle and Group Size

The bus accommodates up to 25 travelers, which means it’s intimate enough for everyone to hear the stories clearly, yet large enough to feel like a shared experience. The comfortable bus and the ability to stay seated during the tour make it ideal for those who prefer a relaxed experience over walking or standing.

Authenticity and Value

While this isn’t an underground tour with secret entrances or hands-on exploration, it offers authentic stories based on real sites and events. The value lies in the combination of storytelling, historic visuals, and the chance to see Saint Paul’s streets through a different lens. The cost of $55 feels justified given the depth of stories, the quality of guides, and the convenience of a bus tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, especially those with an interest in organized crime, Prohibition, or American history. It also suits travelers who want a laid-back, engaging experience that doesn’t involve a lot of walking. Families with older children or teens who enjoy stories of gangsters and lawmen will find it entertaining. While it’s not a hardcore crime tour, it’s well-suited for anyone curious about Saint Paul’s lesser-known, colorful past.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Delivers More Than Just Crime Stories

The Saint Paul Gangster Tour offers a fun, educational journey into the city’s past, driven by guides who bring stories vividly to life. It’s a great way to see Saint Paul from a different angle, combining historic sites with entertaining storytelling. The value for the price is solid, especially considering the immersive experience and the comfort of the bus.

This experience is ideal for those who prefer narrative-driven tours and want to learn about Saint Paul’s criminal underbelly without the hassle of walking or self-guided exploration. If lively storytelling and engaging history interest you, this tour will be a highlight of your visit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most reviews focus on adult audiences, the stories are generally appropriate for older children and teenagers who have an interest in history or crime stories.

Are there restroom facilities on the bus?
Yes, the bus is equipped with restrooms, which helps keep the tour comfortable for everyone.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable time slot for most travelers.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, booking about 23 days ahead is average, indicating it’s quite popular but still accessible with some planning.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and since it’s a bus tour, it’s generally accessible. However, no specific accommodations are mentioned.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour begins at 215 Wabasha Street South, a convenient location with nearby public transportation options.

Is tipping expected for guides?
Tipping isn’t included in the price, but if you enjoyed the experience, a tip for the guide is appreciated.

The Saint Paul Gangster Tour offers a well-rounded, entertaining look at Saint Paul’s historic criminal underworld. With knowledgeable guides, authentic sites, and engaging storytelling, it’s a value-rich experience that adds a unique twist to your visit. It’s especially suited for history lovers and those fascinated by the lore of gangsters. If you’re after a relaxed, engaging, and fact-filled outing, this tour is a smart choice—and a memorable way to spend part of your time in the Twin Cities.