St. Paul Historic Cave Tour

Discover Saint Paul's only restored Gangster Era site with a guided tour of historic caves, compelling stories, and authentic underground scenery for just $15.

If you’re looking for a unique glimpse into Saint Paul’s past, the St. Paul Historic Cave Tour at Wabasha Street Caves offers just that. It’s a well-rated, reasonably priced experience that combines a walk through tunnels carved into the hillside with tales of gangsters, prohibition, and notable local history. This tour promises to be an engaging way to see a lesser-known side of Minnesota’s capital city—whether you’re a history buff, a casual visitor, or a family seeking an offbeat adventure.

What we love about this tour is the approachable storytelling from guides who know how to make history lively—plus, the impressive setting of caves created in 1800s mining ventures that played host to bootleggers during Prohibition. Another perk is the affordability at just $15 per person, making it accessible for most budgets. That said, some travelers might find the hour-long tour a bit short if they’re looking for a deep dive into every detail. Still, it’s an experience that appeals to those curious about local lore and underground secrets, especially if you enjoy stories told with humor and insight.

This tour is particularly fitting for locals wanting to learn more about their city’s past, visitors eager for a quick yet memorable activity, or families looking for an engaging outing. As long as you’re comfortable walking through cool, underground spaces, this adventure offers a satisfying mix of history and entertainment.

Key Points

St. Paul Historic Cave Tour - Key Points

  • The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who share entertaining and insightful stories.
  • It takes place in a historic site that’s the only remaining restored Gangster Era location in Saint Paul.
  • The experience is affordable, at only $15 per person, and offers good value for a one-hour guided visit.
  • Free parking at the site and access to Wi-Fi add convenience.
  • Visitors frequently mention the engaging storytelling and friendly guides as highlights.
  • The caves are carved into hillside mines from the 1800s, with historical ties to Prohibition-era gangsters.

A Closer Look at the Wabasha Street Caves Experience

When considering a visit to the Wabasha Street Caves, it’s helpful to understand what makes this tour special—and what potential drawbacks to keep in mind.

The Setting: Caves Carved from the Hillside

Your adventure begins at 215 Wabasha St S, where you’ll meet your guide for the 1-hour tour inside the caves. These tunnels are remnants of 1800s mining activities, long abandoned but now carefully restored. They offer a tangible link to Minnesota’s industrial past, and walking through them, you can’t help but feel transported to another time.

The caves’ proximity to downtown Saint Paul makes this an easy addition to a day of sightseeing. Plus, the fact that parking is free at the site means you don’t need to worry about hidden costs or hunting for a meter.

The Historical Highlights: From Mining to Gangsters

The caves have served many functions over the decades—including as a gangsters’ hideout during Prohibition in the 1930s. Your guide will share stories that are difficult to find in books, painting a vivid picture of this underground hotspot.

Several reviews emphasize the guide’s storytelling skills. For example, one visitor said, “Angela was a wonderful guide,” and another noted that the guides are personable, funny, and engaging. These guides not only deliver facts but also keep the atmosphere lively and personable—an attribute that greatly enhances the experience.

Authentic Stories and Visuals

Throughout the tour, expect colorful pictures and stories that bring the caves’ history to life. These visual aids help you understand the caves’ significance and imagine what life was like during their gangster heyday. Many reviewers appreciated the mix of education and entertainment, describing the tour as “educational, fun, and entertaining.”

The Nature of the Tour: Group Size and Accessibility

With a maximum group size of 100 travelers, the tour maintains a comfortable and engaging atmosphere. The tour is accessible to most travelers, including those with service animals, and is designed for a wide audience—families included. Since the caves can be cold, bringing layers or jackets is recommended, especially in cooler months.

Practical Details: Booking, Cost, and Duration

The $15 fee is quite reasonable considering the storytelling quality and historical setting. Tours are most often booked 11 days in advance, so planning ahead is advisable. The tour’s one-hour duration makes it a quick cultural escape—perfect for fitting into a busy schedule without feeling rushed.

The Pros and Cons

St. Paul Historic Cave Tour - The Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Rich storytelling from passionate, knowledgeable guides
  • Unique underground setting linked to local criminal history
  • Affordable price point
  • Free parking and Wi-Fi enhance convenience
  • Suitable for diverse audiences, including families and locals

Cons:

  • The tour’s one-hour length might leave some wanting more detail
  • The caves can be cold; layers are recommended
  • Non-refundable policy means you should plan carefully

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those interested in local history with a flair of the clandestine. If you enjoy stories about gangsters, Prohibition, or underground caves, you’ll find plenty to engage with here. Families with children who can handle the cool underground environment will appreciate the fun stories, but very young kids might find the setting a bit chilly or dark.

History buffs will value the detailed tales, and casual visitors looking for something different from typical museums or parks will find this a charming alternative. It’s also a good choice if you’re short on time but still want an authentic taste of Saint Paul’s past.

The Sum Up

The Wabasha Street Caves tour offers a fascinating peek into Saint Paul’s underground past, combining historical intrigue with entertaining storytelling. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, transforming what could be a simple cave walk into a memorable experience filled with stories of gangsters, prohibition, and mining. With a modest price and accessible location, it’s a smart choice for curious travelers seeking authentic and engaging local history.

If you’re interested in quirky, offbeat history that feels personal and lively, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially well-suited for families, history enthusiasts, and locals eager to discover a hidden chapter of their city’s past. Just remember to bring layers and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking available at the site? Yes. There is free parking right at the Wabasha Street Caves, making it easy to start your visit without worrying about parking fees.

How long is the tour? The guided tour lasts approximately 1 hour, offering a concise but rich experience.

Is the tour suitable for children? Typically, yes. The tour is suitable for families and most travelers, but since the caves can be cold, bringing layers is advisable.

What’s the price of the tour? It costs $15 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the storytelling and historic setting.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, most people book about 11 days ahead, especially during busier months, to secure a spot.

Are service animals allowed? Yes, service animals are permitted to accompany visitors on this tour.

What is included in the experience? Your ticket provides access to the guided tour inside the caves, along with access to Wi-Fi at the site.

Can I cancel or reschedule? The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Planning carefully is recommended.

In the end, the Wabasha Street Caves tour offers an engaging, affordable, and authentic adventure into Saint Paul’s underground history. Whether you’re a local wanting to learn more or a visitor seeking an offbeat story, it’s a memorable way to spend an hour exploring Minnesota’s clandestine past.