St. Paul Historic Cave Tour

If you’re in Minneapolis-Saint Paul and looking for a tour that combines history, a little bit of mystery, and a touch of the underground, the St. Paul Historic Cave Tour is worth considering. For just $15, you get approximately an hour of exploring carved limestone caves that once buzzed with gangster activity during Prohibition. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience promises stories you’re unlikely to find in textbooks, making it a standout in local offerings.

Two things we especially love about this tour are the accessible location with free parking and the personal stories from guides like Angela, who make the history come alive with humor and vivid detail. The caves themselves carry a palpable sense of intrigue, embedded with stories of criminal lore and underground ventures. However, a potential consideration is that the caves are cool and dark (around 50°F), so bringing a jacket is advisable — especially for those sensitive to temperature.

This tour is perfect for families, history buffs, and curious locals alike. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or grew up nearby, the engaging storytelling and historic setting make for a memorable outing. If you enjoy tales of gangsters, prohibition, or underground secrets, this is a cozy, inexpensive way to experience Saint Paul’s hidden past.

Key Points

• Affordable and Accessible: The tour costs only $15, includes free parking, and is suitable for most travelers.
• Expert Guides: Visitors frequently mention personable, knowledgeable guides like Ellie and Deborah, who bring the caves’ history to life.
• Historical Stories: The caves are rich with stories from the gangster era, with many reviews emphasizing the engaging storytelling.
• Comfort and Practicalities: The caves are cool and dark, so layers are recommended.
• Family Friendly: The tour appeals to a broad audience, including children, with a good balance of education and entertainment.
• Book in Advance: Average bookings are made 10 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.

The Wabasha Street Caves offer a rare glimpse into the underground world of Saint Paul’s gangster era. Carved into limestone hillside, these caves have served many purposes over the years — from mining ventures in the 1800s to a notorious gangster hotspot in the 1930s. Today, they serve as a historical attraction where you can walk through history with a guided narrative that often feels like sitting around a campfire listening to local legends.

What to Expect from the Tour

The tour begins at 215 Wabasha St S, where your guide, such as Deborah or Ellie, will greet you and introduce the caves’ fascinating past. The walking tour lasts about an hour, which is enough time to soak in the stories without feeling rushed.

You will explore extensive tunnels carved into the hillside, originally mined in the 1800s and later transformed into a gangster hideout during Prohibition. You’ll hear about mobsters like the James “Whitey” Bulger influence, and how these caves once hosted clandestine speakeasies and secret meetings. The stories are often peppered with colorful anecdotes and vivid descriptions, making the history both educational and entertaining. One review highlights that “our guide was informative, kind, and hilarious,” which is a common sentiment among visitors.

The Experience and Atmosphere

Walking through the caves, you’ll notice the cool temperature—around 50°F—and the dim lighting, creating a secretive, almost cinematic atmosphere. Several reviewers mention the importance of layers for comfort, especially since the caves run cold. The narrow corridors and limestone walls add to the sense of stepping back in time, and some guides even enhance the experience with visual aids or historic photos (though some visitors wish for more visual content).

The Guides: The Heart of the Tour

Reviewers consistently praise guides like Mary, Ellie, and Deborah for their enthusiasm, humor, and depth of knowledge. One reviewer notes that Mary “made the history of the caves come alive,” while another emphasizes how Deborah’s storytelling “was funny and full of facts.” This personal touch keeps the tour engaging, especially since the group size is limited to about 100 travelers, allowing for plenty of interaction.

Group Size and Logistics

Most travelers find the group size manageable, allowing for questions and interaction. The tour departs from 215 Wabasha St S and is conveniently near public transportation options, making it accessible for visitors without a car. The mobile ticket system simplifies access, and since the tour is non-refundable, it’s best to book in advance—particularly since the average booking window is about 10 days.

The Cost and Value

At $15 per person, this tour offers excellent value. Compared to other attractions in the Twin Cities, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore a unique aspect of local history. As one reviewer mentioned, “it’s a relatively inexpensive experience right outside downtown Saint Paul,” yet it provides rich storytelling and a sense of adventure.

Why This Tour Is Worth Your Time

If you’re a history enthusiast, the Gangster Era stories make this a compelling outing. For families or curious travelers, the interactive storytelling and accessible location make it a fun, educational experience. Those who value authentic local stories will appreciate guides who genuinely seem passionate about sharing their knowledge.

While the cool temperature might be a drawback for some, bringing a jacket keeps this minor inconvenience from overshadowing the experience. The hour-long duration is perfect for those with limited time but craving a memorable, immersive story.

Final Thoughts: Is It Right for You?

This tour offers an authentic glimpse into Saint Paul’s underground history—a mix of prohibition, crime stories, and local lore. Its cost-effectiveness and the quality of guides make it stand out among other city attractions. It’s particularly suited for those eager to hear stories that go beyond the usual tourist fare, and for anyone interested in the hidden layers of American history.

If you’re traveling with kids, they often seem to enjoy the engaging stories and the “cool” caves. For those who prefer more visual content, you might find some reviews wishing for more photos during the tour, but that doesn’t seem to diminish the overall experience.

In essence, if you want a fun, educational, and affordable way to explore Saint Paul’s less visible past, this tour hits the mark. It’s a perfect blend of entertainment and history, delivered by guides who genuinely love sharing their stories.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most reviews indicate that it’s suitable for families and kids, especially since it’s engaging and not overly long. Keep in mind the caves are cool, so layering is recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour takes about an hour, giving plenty of time to explore and listen to stories without feeling rushed.

What is the price?
Tickets are $15 per person, which many consider excellent value given the interesting stories and accessible location.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there is free parking at the site—a big plus for visitors traveling by car.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, since the tour is popular and bookings are typically made 10 days in advance. It’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.

Are the caves accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the site is near public transportation, making it easy to reach without a car.

This tour proves that good stories, a modest price, and passionate guides can make for a memorable, authentic experience — perfect for anyone curious about Saint Paul’s underground secrets.