St. Paul: Twin Cities Haunts Ghost Walking Tour

If you’re intrigued by haunted history and ghost stories that have been whispering through Minnesota’s oldest city for centuries, the St. Paul: Twin Cities Haunts Ghost Walking Tour offers an engaging way to explore. This 1.5-hour walking adventure, led by a knowledgeable guide, takes you through the shadows of downtown St. Paul, revealing stories of misery, murder, and restless spirits that still linger in some of the most historic spots.

What immediately stands out about this tour is the chance to visit not just haunted landmarks, but also to learn about their dark pasts from someone who genuinely knows their stuff. The cost, $24 per person, makes it accessible for most travelers eager to add a spooky twist to their visit, with the option to reserve and pay later. One potential downside is that the stories, while entertaining, might not be terrifying for all — some reviews note they’re more fun than frightening — so it’s best suited for those who love ghost stories with a side of local history.

This experience appeals especially to history buffs and fans of the paranormal who appreciate authentic storytelling. If you’re planning an evening in St. Paul and want a mix of architecture, history, and ghostly tales, this tour will be a memorable choice. Now, let’s explore what makes this ghost walk worth considering — and what to expect along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic local ghost stories delivered by an experienced guide
• Visiting iconic haunted sites like Forepaughs Mansion and Cochran Park
• A walk of about a mile — manageable and leisurely paced
• Insight into St. Paul’s 2000-year-old dark history of ghosts and villains
• Accessible for most guests with wheelchair accommodations and rain or shine scheduling
• A great option for those interested in history, architecture, and supernatural tales at an affordable price

An In-Depth Look at the Ghost Walking Tour

The Start: Meeting Outside the Germanic-American Institute

Your journey begins outside the Germanic-American Institute at 301 Summit Avenue. Look for your guide, who will be wearing a US Ghost Adventures shirt and carrying a lantern — a detail that adds a touch of old-fashioned mystery to the start. The meeting point is central, historic, and easily accessible, setting the tone for a stroll through time and ghostly legends.

The Tour Itself: What to Expect During the 1.5 Hours

Led by a live guide who is both knowledgeable and enthusiastic, the tour covers a series of haunted locations in downtown St. Paul. The focus is on storytelling, architecture, and uncovering the darker side of the city’s past. The guide will regale you with stories about glimpses of spirits, historic misery, and tales of villainy that have haunted these streets for centuries.

Visit Forepaughs Mansion and Old Smith Vine Mansion

These two mansions are major highlights, and both are steeped in stories that have been passed down through generations. Reviewers mention that their architecture is impressive, but it’s the ghost stories associated with these buildings that truly make them memorable. You’ll learn about the spirits believed to haunt these stately homes, with some accounts probably dating back to the buildings’ prime.

Stories of Misery, Murder, and Mayhem

Throughout the mile-long walk, you’ll hear about the darker chapters of St. Paul’s past. While some stories are more spooky than terrifying, they are always engaging. One reviewer noted that while the ghost stories weren’t “terribly scary,” they were nonetheless entertaining, especially paired with tales of historic misdeeds and eerie occurrences.

Iconic Haunted Spots like Cochran Park

Your route also includes Cochran Park, a site that’s known for ghostly legends and unsettling stories. Expect to hear about sightings and whispers that have made this park a local haunt legend. The combination of natural beauty and ghostly tales makes it a compelling stop.

The Atmosphere: Walking and Eerie Energy

The tour involves about a mile of walking, which is manageable and allows for pauses to take in the architecture and absorb the stories. The guide’s use of lanterns and storytelling style adds an eerie touch, especially during dusk or evening hours. Whether it’s a rainy night or clear skies, the experience proceeds rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Guides: Experience and Authenticity

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the knowledgeable guides. Reviews highlight guides like Lilly, who initially was a bit nervous but proved to be enthusiastic and informative. Reviewers mention that guides are very into the stories and do a good job of engaging their audience, even when some participants are lively or loud. The guides’ genuine interest helps create an authentic atmosphere that keeps everyone hooked.

Value and Price

At $24 per person, this tour offers excellent value. For a well-organized, hour-and-a-half walk filled with intriguing stories and historic insights, it’s a bargain. It’s particularly attractive for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an affordable evening activity that’s both fun and a little spooky.

Booking and Practicalities

You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind if your plans change. The tour starts outside the Germanic-American Institute, and it’s wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, a valid ID, and be prepared for a night of walking and storytelling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost walk is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those curious about the supernatural. If you enjoy authentic local stories and are interested in exploring the haunted corners of St. Paul’s historic district, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s also great for travelers on a budget, offering a memorable experience without a hefty price tag.

If you’re expecting a hair-raising haunted house experience, you might find some stories a bit tame, but for most, the charm is in the storytelling and the historic ambiance. It’s perfect for a fun, slightly spooky evening that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

The Sum Up

The St. Paul: Twin Cities Haunts Ghost Walking Tour offers a fascinating mix of history, architecture, and ghost stories delivered by guides who genuinely know their stuff. It provides an affordable way to get a different perspective on St. Paul’s oldest neighborhoods, with tales that range from spooky to insightful. Whether you’re a ghost story enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to explore the city after dark, this tour ticks many boxes.

You’ll love the authentic storytelling, the iconic haunted sites, and the relaxed pace that allows you to soak in the atmosphere. The guides, like Lilly, bring a genuine enthusiasm that makes the stories come alive, even if some tales lean more toward fun than fright.

While the ghost stories may not keep you awake all night, they will leave you with a lingering sense of the haunted history that shapes St. Paul. Overall, it’s an engaging, well-priced experience that’s best suited for those interested in history, architecture, and the supernatural — and who enjoy a good story told with local flair.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, covering about a mile of walking through downtown St. Paul.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the Germanic-American Institute at 301 Summit Avenue, and it ends back at the same location.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and the walking distance is manageable for most people.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $24 per person, which is quite reasonable for a guided, story-rich experience.

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

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and a valid ID. The tour proceeds rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Is alcohol or smoking allowed?
No, alcohol, drugs, or smoking are not permitted during the tour.

In essence, if you’re eager to explore the haunted side of St. Paul with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy some local ghost stories, this walking tour offers an entertaining and value-packed experience. It’s perfect for an evening adventure, especially if you appreciate history with a side of spooky tales.