The Haunted Lemp Brewery Bottle Works Tour

Exploring abandoned buildings and haunted sites can be a thrilling way to connect with the stories of a city’s past, and this Lemp Brewery Bottle Works Tour in St Louis promises just that. With a focus on history and paranormal activity, the tour takes you into the mysterious basements and underground tunnels of a site that once housed one of America’s most famous brewing families—and later, a major shoe manufacturing plant. It’s a fascinating blend of dark history and ghostly tales that appeals to both history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike.

One of the biggest draws: the knowledgeable guides, especially Dr. Mark, who keeps the stories engaging, informative, and sometimes downright spooky. The stunning underground spaces—some of which are still waiting to be rediscovered—add an authentic, eerie atmosphere. However, the tour involves walking, stairs, and standing, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. If you love history, old buildings, and ghost stories, this tour offers a memorable glimpse into a hidden part of St Louis’s past.

Key Points

• Authentic Historical Setting: Explore the basements of the old Lemp Brewery Bottle Works and learn about its transformation from brewery to shoe factory.
• Guided by Experts: Highly praised guides like Dr. Mark provide detailed, engaging stories, including paranormal activity accounts.
• Physical Activity Required: Be prepared for walking, standing, and climbing stairs—suitable for those with moderate fitness.
• Value for Money: At $30 per person, the tour offers a compelling mix of history and paranormal stories, with plenty of behind-the-scenes access.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and intimate tour.
• Free Cancellation: Flexible booking option with full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Discovering the Haunted World of Lemp Brewery

The Haunted Lemp Brewery Bottle Works Tour offers an intriguing peek into a site that has stood silent for decades—yet still whispers stories from its past. The story begins with the collapse of the Lemp Brewing Empire, a giant in the local beer industry. But what most visitors find captivating is how the brewery lived on as the largest shoe manufacturing plant in the world, only to shut down after the construction of Interstate 55. For nearly 30 years, the complex sat quiet, with underground tunnels and basements waiting to reveal their secrets once more.

The tour, run by the St. Louis Paranormal Research Society, is about more than just walking through old buildings. It’s about understanding how the space operated during its industrial days, and uncovering the darker, often chilling, stories of those who worked and met their fates there. The tour focuses mainly on the basements of Buildings 2, 3, and 3A, which are some of the most atmospheric parts of the complex—dark, cool, and echoing with history.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting at 1820 Cherokee Street, the tour begins at 1:30 pm, with a small group of up to 15 people. This limited size ensures a more personalized experience and the chance to ask questions. The walk lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, during which you’ll explore the underground spaces that remain largely untouched since the 1990s.

Walking and climbing stairs are part of the experience, so comfortable shoes and moderate physical fitness are recommended. The tour is rich in storytelling, with guides like Dr. Mark sharing intriguing facts and ghostly encounters. Ashley S notes that “the tour was interesting, and Dr. Mark was very informative,” adding that they saw the basements of several buildings and discussed paranormal activity. This indicates that the stories are well-anchored in the history but also include some eerie, spine-tingling accounts.

Throughout the visit, you’ll learn about the operation of the brewery during its prime and how its dark recesses played host to mysterious happenings—some visitors have reported paranormal activity, adding an extra layer of thrill to the experience. The stories are delivered with a storyteller’s flair—Liese S mentions the “spooky real-life stories of an infamous family”, which heighten the chilling atmosphere.

The Atmosphere and Setting

The underground tunnels and basements add a visceral element to the tour. These spaces, with their worn brick walls and echoes, evoke a sense of stepping back in time. The atmosphere is spooky but safe—perfect for those who enjoy ghost stories and historical curiosities. The guides’ knowledge and storytelling talent come through in the reviews, with Annette M highlighting how Mark’s patience and depth of knowledge enhance the experience.

The dim lighting and confined spaces evoke a ghostly feeling, especially when stories of paranormal encounters are shared. Some reviewers mention that being in the actual spaces where history happened makes the stories more tangible—”it gives you chills just being there,” Liese S comments.

The Value of the Experience

At $30 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It combines history, architecture, and paranormal stories into a compact, engaging experience. The inclusion of all fees and taxes simplifies planning, but alcoholic beverages are not included—so plan to bring your own if you want a drink afterward.

The small group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd and will have the chance for a more detailed experience. With reviews consistently rating it a perfect 5, it’s clear that participants find this tour memorable and well worth the cost. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge stand out, making the stories and sights even more compelling.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s walking, standing, and stairs involved.
• Bring a flashlight if you’re curious about dark corners (though the guide will likely have one).
• Arrive on time at the meeting point on Cherokee Street.
• This tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.
• Check the weather forecast, as the tour requires good weather—canceled tours are fully refundable.
• Keep in mind, the group is small (max 15), so booking in advance is advisable, especially since it’s typically booked 20 days ahead.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates history with a side of haunted tales, this tour will satisfy your curiosity. It’s perfect for history buffs, ghost story lovers, and those interested in industrial relics. The knowledgeable guides and intimate setting mean you’ll get more than just surface stories—you’ll walk away with a genuine sense of what made this place special (and spooky).

It’s also a hit for visitors wanting an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in St Louis. Since it’s not overly commercialized, the focus remains on storytelling and atmosphere—ideal for travelers seeking something different.

The Sum Up

The Haunted Lemp Brewery Bottle Works Tour offers a rare chance to explore a historic industrial site steeped in mystery and ghost stories. With expert guides like Dr. Mark, who bring the space to life with fascinating facts and chilling tales, it appeals to those with a curiosity for the past and a taste for the supernatural. The underground tunnels and basements really add to the sense of authenticity and suspense, making it a memorable adventure.

Priced reasonably at $30, the tour delivers a well-rounded experience that blends history, architecture, and paranormal stories, all within a compact time frame. The small group size ensures personal attention and a more immersive experience. Whether you’re a local history enthusiast or a paranormal aficionado, this tour offers solid value and a genuinely haunting glimpse into St Louis’s hidden past.

If you’re looking for a unique, slightly spooky tour that combines learning and adrenaline, this is sure to be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and prepare for a bit of walking—your ghostly adventure awaits.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness due to walking and stairs. Children under a certain age may not be ideal, but please check with the provider.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
At 1820 Cherokee Street, St. Louis, MO 63118.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes are included; alcoholic beverages are not.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since it involves stairs and walking, it’s best for those with moderate fitness levels.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before the start.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended given the walking and stairs.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

When is the best time to book?
It’s usually booked 20 days in advance, so plan accordingly to secure your spot.