Ghost Walking Tour in Minneapolis

Discover the Haunted Heart of Minneapolis with a Ghost Walking Tour

If you’re curious about the darker tales hiding beneath Minneapolis’s bustling streets, this ghost walking tour offers a fascinating journey through the city’s haunted past—all for free! Led by knowledgeable guides, this roughly 90-minute to 2-hour stroll visits iconic landmarks like City Hall, the Stone Arch Bridge, and the Foshay Tower, with stories that blend history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural.

What we love about this tour is how it transforms familiar sights into sites of spooky storytelling, making even regular city landmarks feel mysterious. The guides’ storytelling is lively and detailed—delivering stories that are often hard to find on your own. Plus, the tour’s downtown location makes it easy to combine with your other sightseeing plans, whether you’re exploring the city’s art, food, or nightlife afterward.

A potential consideration is that, since the walking involves about 15-minute stops at several sites, those with mobility issues might want to prepare accordingly. The tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers, but it’s worth considering if you have specific mobility needs.

This experience suits anyone interested in local lore, ghost stories, or historical mysteries, especially those who enjoy storytelling that’s both educational and entertaining. It’s a great way for curious travelers to see downtown Minneapolis from a different perspective—one filled with ghostly legends and historic rumors.

Key Points

• Historic Sites with a Haunted Twist: The tour visits landmarks like City Hall, the Foshay Tower, and Mill Ruins Park, each with their own spooky stories.
• Engaging Guides: Expect lively storytelling from guides like Mad Tom, who bring Minneapolis’s haunted history to life.
• Free of Charge: You get all these stories without paying a dime, making it an excellent value for an evening activity.
• Ideal for Night Explorers: Starts at 7 p.m., perfect for experiencing downtown Minneapolis’s evening atmosphere.
• Accessible Location: Near public transportation, so getting there is straightforward.
• Group Size: Limited to about 30 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

A Deep Dive into the Minneapolis Ghost Walking Tour

What’s the essence of this tour?

This ghost walking tour in Minneapolis is designed to offer a unique perspective on the city’s history through the lens of its haunted stories. It combines history, local legends, and a dash of the supernatural to create an experience that’s both entertaining and educational. For those who love wandering through historic parts of a city with a storyteller’s flair, this tour hits the spot.

The route: from City Hall to Mill Ruins Park

The tour kicks off at 102 Portland Ave S, right in the heart of downtown Minneapolis—an ideal starting point if you’re already exploring the city. The first stop is Minneapolis City Hall, where you’ll learn about the city’s last execution and the ghost stories that linger around the old courthouse. Our guide, like Joanna noted in her review, made history fun and memorable, “learning about some of the city’s history and all the ghost stories and buildings!”

From there, the tour winds through famous sights:

• Stone Arch Bridge: Not just a picturesque spot, but also the site of tragedies at the Mill Ruins, with stories of restless spirits and ghostly apparitions.
• The Depot Minneapolis: An old train depot with tales of hauntings and mysterious sightings, making it more than just a transportation hub.
• Foshay Tower: Once the tallest building in Minneapolis, reputed to host ghostly presences, particularly in its historic corridors.
• Hennepin Avenue Bridge: A site linked to mysterious deaths in the Mississippi River, adding a folkloric twist to the river’s darker reputation.
• Guthrie Theater: The new venue continues the tradition of performing arts, but whispers suggest that some spirits from the old theater might have followed.
• Mill Ruins Park: Beyond the scenic ruins, there are stories of explosions and lingering spirits.
• St. Anthony Main: Built in the 1850s, this historic neighborhood is said to be full of haunts and echoes of Minneapolis’s past.

Each stop provides about 15 minutes of exploration and storytelling, giving plenty of time to absorb the eerie tales while soaking up the evening atmosphere.

What makes this tour special?

The guides’ storytelling is a highlight, with reviewers like Kristin describing Mad Tom as doing a “wonderful job” with a group of 16. Their ability to weave spooky stories with historical facts keeps the tour lively and engaging. The fact that it’s free also encourages many to give it a try, and the reviews confirm it’s more than just a novelty—it’s a well-delivered experience.

The value of this experience

At no cost, this tour offers a rich, authentic glimpse into Minneapolis’s haunted history that rivals paid experiences. The detailed stories, scenic stops, and knowledgeable guides make for an engaging evening. Plus, the compact group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, making it easier to ask questions or get closer to the stories.

Potential drawbacks to consider

Since the tour involves walking outdoors in the evening, be prepared for the weather—rain or cold could dampen the experience. The walking distance might be taxing for those with mobility issues, though the stops are relatively short and on accessible routes. It’s also worth noting that this is a non-refundable experience, so if weather cancels the tour, you’ll need to reschedule or accept a refund.

Who is this tour perfect for?

This ghost tour is ideal for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and those seeking a different way to explore downtown Minneapolis. It’s especially good for travelers who want a free, guided experience that combines storytelling with sightseeing. Families with older children or teens who are interested in spooky tales would also find it enjoyable.

The Sum Up: Is it worth your time?

If you enjoy stories that blend history with a spooky twist, this Minneapolis ghost walking tour offers genuine value and plenty of authentic charm. The friendly guides and well-chosen landmarks make it a fun, memorable way to experience downtown Minneapolis after dark. The tour’s free price point makes it accessible for most travelers, offering a chance to learn about the city’s haunted past without breaking the bank.

While it’s not a strenuous or overly long experience, it delivers a deep sense of local lore that can enhance your visit, especially if you’re interested in uncovering stories behind familiar sights. If you’re willing to walk a bit and enjoy a good ghost story, this tour will add an intriguing layer to your Minneapolis adventure.

This ghost walk stands out as a well-organized, entertaining, and informative experience—perfect for curious travelers who want a mix of history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the pace and how long you spend at each stop.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the spooky stories may be better suited for older children or teens interested in ghost tales.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is generally booked about 17 days in advance and starts at 7 p.m., offering a great evening activity.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking around downtown, so those with mobility concerns should consider the distance and terrain, though stops are relatively short.

Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted, but pets are not mentioned, so check with the provider if you plan to bring one.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. In case of rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 102 Portland Ave S and concludes back at the same meeting point, making it convenient to plan your evening.

Whether you’re a local looking for a different perspective or a visitor curious about Minneapolis’s secret legends, this ghost walking tour offers a memorable, fun, and slightly spooky way to explore the city’s historic core.