St. Paul: Drinking History Walking Tour

If you’re curious about the colorful past of Minnesota’s capital city, the St. Paul: Drinking History Walking Tour offers a lively, informative peek into its bar scene and infamous past. This 3-hour guided experience takes you on a stroll through some of the city’s most beloved historic watering holes, blending storytelling with a taste of local culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of good drinks, or simply looking to see a different side of St. Paul, this tour promises a mix of fun, history, and community spirit.

One of the highlights we love is how the guides make the stories come alive, weaving tales of gangsters, bootleggers, and city characters into each stop. Plus, the option to add four top-shelf drinks makes it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a drink or two without the hassle of planning. That said, it’s worth noting that this tour is mainly suited for those 21 and over, and it’s an active walking experience, so comfortable shoes are a must.

A potential consideration is that the tour covers multiple historic bars—some quite old—which might not appeal if you’re expecting a more modern nightclub scene. But for those interested in authentic, longstanding local venues, this makes the experience all the more special. This tour is best for anyone wanting to combine history, local flavors, and a relaxed social atmosphere in a manageable time frame.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling makes the history of alcohol, crime, and city legends engaging.
• Includes visits to 4 historic bars that have stood the test of time.
• Optional top-shelf drinks add a layer of indulgence.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to tailor the experience.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers.
• It’s a three-hour walk, perfect for a relaxed, social outing.

A Closer Look at the Drinking History Walking Tour

What’s the Experience Like?

This tour immerses you in the less-glamorous, but undeniably fascinating, side of St. Paul. You’ll meet your guide, identifiable by a blue umbrella, at the steps of the Cathedral of Saint Paul. From there, the journey begins—it’s a casual walk through downtown, stopping at four of the city’s most characterful bars. Expect stories about bootleggers, gangsters, and police corruption that shaped the city’s reputation.

The guided element ensures you understand the significance of each venue, many of which are multi-generational establishments. The stories are lively and well-placed—like the tale of Pig’s Eye Parrant, a bootlegger who served soldiers from Fort Snelling, or the notorious figures like John Dillinger and Machine Gun Kelly, whose criminal exploits left a mark on St. Paul’s history.

What Are the Stops?

The tour begins at Cossettas, a historic bar with a warm, welcoming vibe. This sets the tone for a journey into classic, local drinking spots rather than glitzy, modern venues. The stops are carefully chosen for their storied past and authentic atmosphere. While the itinerary mentions four bars, the experience isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding the city’s relationship with alcohol and crime through the decades.

Each bar offers its unique charm—some with decades of history, others with a reputation for legendary tales and friendly patrons. One enthusiastic reviewer mentioned that the Waldmann brewery was “awesome,” and highlighted the inside bars of the Schmidt Brewery as a potential addition, noting the wealth of history and a great spot for a drink even if it’s not active brewing anymore.

Is the Drinking Option Worth It?

You can choose to include four top-shelf drinks during your stops, which many find adds extra value. One reviewer pointed out that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable. The drinks are served in each bar, giving you a taste of local spirits, wine, or cocktails while absorbing the stories.

This option elevates the tour from just a historical walk to a more social, flavorful experience. The added drinks are particularly well-liked; guests appreciate the chance to sample quality beverages without the hassle of ordering or paying separately.

The Guides and Their Stories

The guides truly shine here. According to reviews, they’re knowledgeable, friendly, and able to tailor the tour to individual interests. One reviewer praised Collin as a “knowledgeable and fun tour guide,” while others appreciated Dan’s storytelling skills. Their ability to share in-depth tales of gangsters, city officials, and local characters makes the history accessible and interesting.

The guides also add humor and personal touches—like pointing out the historical significance of each venue—making the tour more than just a stroll past old bars. Their insights help you connect the dots between the city’s past and present, making it a memorable experience.

Accessibility and Practical Details

This tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. It’s also a 3-hour activity, making it a manageable outing even for those with tight schedules. Meeting at the Cathedral’s front steps is convenient, and the tour ends back at the starting point, so you can easily plan your next move.

Comfortable shoes are recommended since it’s a walking tour, and bringing a passport or ID is necessary since the experience is for those 21 and over. The tour is flexible—cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot now and pay later.

The Verdict: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, casual drinkers, and curious travelers wanting to explore a different side of St. Paul. It offers a friendly, laid-back environment where you can learn, sip, and socialize. If you appreciate stories about gangsters and prohibition-era bootlegging, you’ll find this tour especially engaging.

The value for the price ($79, with optional drinks) is quite good, given the included guided storytelling and visits to four unique bars. It’s perfect for those wanting an authentic, local perspective without the pretentiousness of newer, more commercial venues.

However, if you prefer modern, high-energy nightlife or are traveling with children, this tour might not be the best fit. Also, travelers who dislike walking or have mobility concerns should consider the activity’s physical demands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, the tour is designed for adults 21 and over due to the alcohol component.

Can I add drinks during the tour?
Yes, you can choose to include four top-shelf drinks, one at each bar, as part of the experience.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 3 hours, making it a great half-day activity.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair friendly, allowing more travelers to enjoy the experience.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet at the front steps of the Cathedral of Saint Paul, where your guide will be holding a blue umbrella.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport, comfortable shoes for walking, and some cash for extra purchases.

Is this tour available on specific days?
Availability depends on the schedule—check the booking platform for start times and dates.

Final Thoughts

The St. Paul: Drinking History Walking Tour offers a unique blend of storytelling, history, and a taste of local culture. It’s a fantastic way to uncover the city’s less-glamorous, yet captivating, past through its legendary bars and stories of gangsters and bootleggers. The knowledgeable guides, combined with optional top-shelf drinks, make for an engaging, relaxed experience that’s perfect for curious travelers and history lovers alike.

While it’s not for those seeking a modern nightlife scene or traveling with minors, it excels as an authentic, fun, and educational outing. The mix of history and hospitality ensures you leave with stories to tell and a deeper appreciation for St. Paul’s colorful past.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a group, this tour promises a memorable journey through the city’s hidden stories—one drink at a time.