Experience St. Paul Ghost Walking Tour

If you’re looking to add a spooky twist to your Minnesota trip, the St. Paul Ghost Walking Tour offers a compelling blend of history, legends, and ghostly tales. Priced at around $29 per person and lasting approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, this tour promises a hauntingly good time through some of St. Paul’s most intriguing and eerie sites.

What we love about this experience is the storytelling—the guide’s vivid narration makes each ghostly encounter feel almost tangible. The stop at landmarks like the Landmark Center and the Cathedral of Saint Paul is especially engaging, bringing history and ghost stories together in a way that feels authentic and fun. A possible consideration is that the tour is relatively short, so if you’re craving a deep dive into paranormal investigations, you might want to supplement this with other ghostly activities.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the supernatural side of St. Paul. It’s also great for groups who want an entertaining, inexpensive night out that blends storytelling with local landmarks.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $29, this tour offers a cost-effective way to explore St. Paul’s haunted history.
• Compact Duration: Lasting just over an hour, it’s easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Authentic Stories: Led by an expert storyteller, the tour emphasizes genuine legends and local lore.
• Multiple Historic Sites: Stops include landmarks like Ramsey County Courthouse, Landmark Center, and the Cathedral of Saint Paul.
• Ghostly Encounters: Expect tales of spirits, past crimes, and paranormal experiences shared by guides and visitors alike.
• Group Size: Limited to around 30 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

A Deep Dive into the Haunted Streets of St. Paul

The Experience St. Paul Ghost Walking Tour offers an hour and a half of engaging storytelling that brings the city’s shadowed past to life. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit a handful of historic sites, each with its own ghostly tales and eerie encounters.

Starting Point: St. Paul City Hall

Your tour kicks off at St. Paul City Hall, where you’ll get a quick introduction to the haunted history. The guide will share stories of spectral sightings and the area’s dark past, setting an appropriate eerie tone. The location’s central placement makes it a convenient launch point, and the fact that it’s accessible via public transportation is a plus for travelers staying downtown.

Ramsey County Courthouse

Next, you’ll move to the Ramsey County Courthouse, a site connected to the tragic story of a crime of passion in 1905. Here, the ghost of a condemned individual is said to wander the basement—an echo of the final moments of a justice that still feels unresolved. The fact that the tour includes free admission to this stop makes it even more appealing, allowing you to focus on the stories rather than additional costs.

Landmark Center and Ann Bilansky

A highlight is the Landmark Center, which is not only a popular wedding venue but also a hot spot for ghostly activity. Visitors have reported hearing footsteps and feeling unseen presences, especially around the second-floor bathrooms. The site is famously linked to Ann Bilansky, known as the “Black Widow of St. Paul.” Her grim story—being the only woman in Minnesota history executed for poisoning her husband—adds a chilling historical edge. Interestingly, even long after her death, some claim to see her spirit or hear her voice, reinforcing the site’s haunted reputation.

Minnesota State Capitol and Cathedral of Saint Paul

The tour makes stops at the Capitol, where even a daughter of a Minnesota Supreme Court justice claims to have had supernatural experiences. As you walk through, the guide might share stories of unexplained sensations and ghost sightings. The nearby Cathedral of Saint Paul is another location where visitors often feel an uncanny presence; some report feeling watched or sensing unseen entities sitting beside them during services, adding to the spiritual and ghostly intrigue.

Fitzgerald Theater

Moving on to the Fitzgerald Theater, named after one of Minnesota’s cultural icons, you’ll meet two spirits—Ben and Veronica—so active they have earned names from stagehands. This lively detail adds a touch of humor and authenticity, as workers have noted their presence over the years. Expect to hear stories about how these apparitions are still part of the theater’s ongoing narrative.

The Saint Paul Hotel and Old Bets

The Saint Paul Hotel, nicknamed the “Million Dollar Hotel,” has a storied past, especially during Prohibition when gangster Leon Gleckman used the third floor as a hideout. Some guests and staff report ghostly sightings of past mobsters or unexplained noises, making it a compelling stop. Not far from here is Old Bets, a Dakota woman famous for wandering the streets, charging for photos, and her distinctive call of “ho-ho.” Though long gone, her spirit is believed to still call out, echoing through the streets at night.

Final Thoughts on the Tour

Throughout the walk, the guide’s storytelling prowess shines. They weave historical facts with ghostly legends, making each stop feel alive with mystery. The fact that the tour is limited to about 30 participants ensures a personal touch, and the walking pace is manageable for most fitness levels.

Practical Considerations

The $29 price point offers good value, especially considering the quality of storytelling and the historic sites involved. As all stops are free to enter, you won’t need extra cash unless you want to buy souvenirs or additional drinks. The tour starts at 7 pm, making it an ideal evening activity, especially if you’re seeking a break from daytime sightseeing.

Weather can influence the experience—it’s best enjoyed in clear conditions, although the guide might have suggestions if rain dampens the mood. Since service animals are allowed, it’s accessible for travelers with assistance needs.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to those interested in local history, ghost stories, or supernatural legends, but it also offers a fun and slightly spooky cultural experience for a broad range of travelers. It’s perfect if you want to explore the city’s darker past without committing to a long or expensive tour. Families with older children, history buffs, or fans of ghost stories will find this a memorable outing.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but given the ghost stories and historical themes, it’s best for older children or teens who enjoy spooky tales.

How long does the tour last?
It is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?
Yes, the tour requires a mobile ticket and confirmation is received at booking, to secure your spot.

What is the meeting point?
It starts at St. Paul City Hall, located at 15 W Kellogg Blvd, St. Paul.

Can I join if I don’t use public transportation?
Yes, the location is accessible and close to public transit options, but you can also drive or walk depending on your accommodation.

Are there any extra costs?
All the stops are free to enter, but note that the tour itself costs $29. Additional expenses are optional.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the sites afterward.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or snow, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The St. Paul Ghost Walking Tour presents a delightful blend of history, local legends, and ghostly tales, all wrapped in a manageable and affordable package. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a ghost story aficionado, or simply looking for a unique evening activity, this tour provides a fascinating peek into the haunted corners of Minnesota’s capital.

The stories told by the guide are both authentic and engaging, making each site come alive with spectral tales. The stops at historic landmarks like the Landmark Center and the Cathedral of Saint Paul are especially memorable, offering a glimpse into the city’s past through a supernatural lens. The tour’s limited size and expert storytelling ensure a personal experience that feels both fun and genuine.

If you’re eager to explore St. Paul’s darker history without spending a fortune or time on a lengthy tour, this ghost walk is a smart choice. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring your curiosity, and be ready for a few chills along the way. It’s a perfect activity for a cool evening that will leave you questioning what’s real—and what’s not.

The Experience St. Paul Ghost Walking Tour is an accessible, entertaining way to discover the city’s haunted history. It’s ideal for curious travelers who appreciate a good story, historical context, and a hint of the supernatural. For a modest price, you’ll walk away with a collection of eerie tales to ponder long after the tour ends.