An Epic Gangster and Ghost Hunt in Saint Paul

If you’re after a low-cost, self-guided adventure that combines history, mystery, and a dash of fun, this tour from Lets Roam offers an intriguing way to explore Saint Paul. For just $14.99 per person, you get about an hour and a half of interactive exploration that takes you through key landmarks like the Fitzgerald Theater and the Minnesota Historical Society Building. Perfect for history buffs, puzzle lovers, or anyone curious about the darker tales of this Minnesota city, this experience promises a blend of urban discovery and playful challenge.

Two things we love about this tour: first, the flexibility—you can start whenever you want, making it easy to fit into your day without worrying about fixed schedules. Second, the interactive elements—photo challenges and trivia that keep everyone engaged and create memorable moments. It’s also a great way for groups to bond, whether you’re friends, family, or colleagues.

One possible consideration is that since it’s self-guided, you might miss the nuances a live guide could add. Also, it’s designed for those with moderate physical fitness, so if mobility is an issue, check how the route suits you beforehand.

This tour works best for independent explorers who enjoy a mix of history, puzzles, and photos, and who are comfortable navigating the city on their own. It’s ideal for casual outings, birthday celebrations, or even a team-building activity that feels more like a game than a structured tour.

Key Points

• Flexible Start Times: Begin the adventure whenever it suits you, fitting seamlessly into your day.
• Interactive Experience: Enjoy trivia, puzzles, and fun photo challenges that keep everyone involved.
• Landmark Focus: Highlights include the Fitzgerald Theater and the Minnesota Historical Society Building.
• Self-Guided Format: No need for a tour guide, making it a relaxed, independent exploration.
• Affordable Price: At just under $15, it offers good value for an interactive urban adventure.
• Physical Requirement: Designed for those with moderate fitness levels; be ready to walk and explore.

Exploring Saint Paul’s Hidden Stories and Landmarks

This adventure from Lets Roam transforms Saint Paul into your personal playground, blending history with mystery in a way that appeals to all ages. You won’t just passively listen to stories; you’ll actively hunt for clues, answer questions, and capture fun photos along the way, making the city’s history come alive in a very personal way.

What to Expect at Each Stop

The tour begins at the Fitzgerald Theater, a building with a storied past of hosting the Minnesota Orchestra and many historic performances. Here, you might find yourself answering questions related to its significance or seeking out specific details on plaques. We loved how these prompts encouraged us to look closely at what’s around us, turning sightseeing into a mini treasure hunt.

Next, you’ll explore the Minnesota Historical Society Building, another key landmark that offers plenty of photo opportunities and trivia questions. The app guides you step by step, so you’re never left guessing where to go or what to do next, making it ideal for independent explorers or first-time visitors.

How It Works and What You’ll Do

The process is straightforward—after purchasing tickets on the website, you download the Lets Roam app and register. The app then takes you through the entire journey, providing interactive challenges, trivia, and photo tasks. You can start the hunt at any time, which means no need to wait for scheduled tours or large groups.

Each person gets a role in the game, adding a layer of fun and personalization. For instance, you might be the “Detective” or “Historian,” which influences the challenges you receive. The app keeps score, so it’s easy to see who’s leading, adding a competitive edge that can make the experience more lively.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Fun

While it’s self-guided, the storytelling is engaging and well-designed. You’ll learn about Saint Paul’s gangster past and ghost stories, adding a bit of thrill to the walk. The interactive format encourages attention to detail and rewards curiosity.

This tour also offers a chance to see lesser-known parts of the city that might not be in typical guidebooks. The focus on plaques, statues, and local art means you’ll be looking at your surroundings more closely, turning sightseeing into an active discovery.

What Travelers Say (Based on Reviews)

Although the reviews are currently limited, those who’ve tried the tour mention it as a “blast” for groups who enjoy puzzles and photos. One reviewer noted, “It’s a fun way to see the city and learn little-known stories,” emphasizing its appeal for curious visitors. The flexibility is also praised: “We started when we wanted and finished at our own pace,” which is perfect for customizing the experience.

However, some travelers might find the self-guided format less immersive than a guided tour, so if you prefer a storyteller’s voice, this might not fully satisfy that craving. Still, for the price and the interactive elements, it offers solid value.

Practical Details for Your Visit

• Duration: About 1.5 hours, but flexible depending on your pace.
• Price: $14.99 per person—an affordable way to explore without extra costs.
• Start & End Points: Begins in Saint Paul with the option to finish back at the starting point.
• Accessibility: Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness; expect some walking.
• Transportation: Near public transit options, making it easy to reach the starting location.
• Availability: Open year-round, with regular operating hours between 8AM and 5PM.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for independent travelers who enjoy a bit of mystery and challenge, but don’t want to be tied to a scheduled guide. It’s a hit with families, friends, or colleagues looking for a casual, fun activity that combines learning with play. It’s also a strong choice for history buffs interested in local lore or fans of ghost and gangster tales.

If you’re visiting Saint Paul for a day or a weekend and want to make the most of your time, this tour harnesses the city’s stories in a way that’s engaging and easy to personalize. It’s also excellent for those on a budget who want a memorable experience without the hefty price tag.

The Sum Up

For around $15, this self-guided gangster and ghost tour offers an interactive, flexible, and affordable way to explore Saint Paul’s streets and stories. It’s well-suited for curious travelers who enjoy puzzles, photos, and local history, making each outing more engaging than just walking around with a guidebook. The ability to start anytime and pick your pace makes it particularly appealing for busy or spontaneous travelers.

While it may lack the storytelling of a live guide, the app-based format and challenge-driven approach create a sense of adventure and discovery that’s hard to match with traditional tours. Plus, with landmarks like the Fitzgerald Theater and the Minnesota Historical Society Building featured prominently, you’re sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for the city’s heritage and hidden tales.

In the end, this experience provides a fun, budget-friendly, and personalized exploration of Saint Paul. It’s perfect for those who value independence, enjoy puzzles and photos, and want to uncover the city’s secrets at their own pace. Whether celebrating a birthday, planning a team-building day, or just looking for an engaging way to see the sights, this tour offers a memorable mix of history, mystery, and good old-fashioned fun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is designed for a general audience and involves walking and puzzle-solving, children who enjoy interactive activities and exploring landmarks will likely find it fun. Adults should ensure the challenges are age-appropriate.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, the tour is completely self-guided, and you can begin whenever you choose. You just need to download the app, register, and start exploring.

How long does the tour take?
The estimated time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but you can take longer or shorter depending on how much time you spend at each stop.

Are there any physical requirements?
This activity is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. Be prepared for some walking, and plan your route accordingly.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation is not provided, but the stops are within walking distance, and the start point is near public transit.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it can be suitable for families, especially if children enjoy puzzles, photos, or stories about ghosts and gangsters. Always consider the age and interests of your children.

What happens if I need help during the tour?
The app provides guidance, and customer service from Lets Roam is available if you need assistance. You can contact their support team for help at any time.

This self-guided tour offers a unique way to experience Saint Paul’s historic streets and stories without the hassle of scheduled guides or large groups. It’s a great blend of education, entertainment, and exploration — perfect for curious travelers eager for a personalized adventure.