Experience the Spooky Side of Minneapolis with the Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour
If you’re looking for a uniquely Minneapolis way to enjoy a spooky evening, the Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour offers an engaging blend of history, legend, and a dash of the paranormal. For $55 per person, you’ll hop aboard an historic trolley that’s rumored to be haunted itself, and cruise through downtown Minneapolis, visiting sites with eerie stories that have been passed down through generations. The tour lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable, captivating experience perfect for a relaxed evening out.
What we love about this tour is the storytelling — the guides are not only knowledgeable about Minneapolis history but also skilled at weaving mysterious tales that keep you hooked. Plus, the atmosphere during sunset as the city lights flicker on creates an ideal spooky vibe. The highlight is the starting and ending point at the real haunted mansion, 300 Clifton, which adds an authentic touch to the experience.
One thing to keep in mind is the weather. Since most of the tour takes place outdoors on a trolley, foggy or rainy nights might make it harder to see the haunted buildings clearly through the windows. Still, most find the stories and atmosphere more than enough to compensate for that.
This tour is perfect for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Minneapolis’s darker legends. It’s family-friendly, too — several reviews mention how children find it engaging without it being overly scary.
Key Points

- Authentic Historical and Paranormal Mix: The tour combines real Minneapolis history with spooky legends, making it both educational and entertaining.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Christian and John receive high praise for their storytelling ability, charisma, and depth of knowledge.
- Comfortable and Scenic Ride: The trolley provides a warm, decorated setting, perfect for an evening wander through haunted locations.
- Good Value for Money: At $55 for a 90-minute experience, most reviewers feel the stories and sights are worth the price.
- Photographic Opportunities: Some guests have caught ghostly images on camera, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
- Accessible and Convenient: Near public transportation and accommodating service animals, making it easy to join.
A Closer Look at the Minneapolis Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour
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The Itinerary and Stops
The tour kicks off at the 300 Clifton Bed and Breakfast, a location with genuine historical significance, setting the tone for the spooky night ahead. From there, the trolley cruises through downtown Minneapolis, stopping at various sites with haunted reputations. While the exact locations aren’t listed in detail, reviews mention gorgeous mansions with tragic tales and buildings considered haunted due to their stories or past residents.
Each stop offers a glimpse into the city’s mysterious past, with guides sharing legends about why these places became haunted. The storytelling is the star of the tour, with guides like Christian and John keeping the audience captivated with funny, personable narration. Reviewers repeatedly note that the guides bring history to life and add humor, making the tour both spooky and enjoyable.
What to Expect During the Tour
The experience takes place on a festively decorated, comfortable trolley, which adds to the eerie atmosphere. The trolley is warm, making it suitable for Minnesota’s chilly evenings, and most rides are illuminated with visual aids or lighting effects to underscore the stories being told.
You can expect mysterious sightings, strange sounds, shadows, and the occasional ghostly photo opportunity. Some guests have even managed to “capture” spirits on camera, which enhances the fun for those intrigued by paranormal photography. The narration is lively and engaging, with detailed accounts of how hauntings began and the lore behind them — perfect for history enthusiasts and skeptics alike.
The Experience at Nightfall
Most reviews highlight the beautiful sunset views that set a perfect backdrop for the tour. The cityscape provides a stunning contrast to the ghost stories, emphasizing Minneapolis’s historic architecture and old neighborhoods. The windows of the trolley sometimes make it tricky to see everything clearly in foggy or rainy weather, but most agree that the storytelling more than makes up for it.
Group Size and Atmosphere
With a maximum of 24 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate feel. Guests praise the friendly, welcoming atmosphere, with many mentioning how the guides make everyone feel comfortable and involved. Service animals are permitted, making it accessible for travelers with special needs.
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Price and Value
At $55 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the length, storytelling quality, and the unique experience of touring with a haunted trolley. Many reviews emphasize how memorable and fun the experience was, with some guests planning to return for other tours or holiday lights excursions.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for history lovers, ghost story fans, families, or anyone curious about Minneapolis’s spooky side. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy storytelling with a humorous twist, as guides keep things lively without being overly scary. While weather can influence visibility, most find the stories alone compelling enough to enjoy.
The Sum Up
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The Minneapolis Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour offers a fun, atmospheric way to explore the city’s haunted corners without the need for long walks or intense outdoor exploration. It balances history, lore, and entertainment, making for a memorable evening. The guides’ storytelling skills and the trolley’s cozy ambiance create an experience that’s both engaging and authentic.
If you’re a fan of spooky tales, enjoy city history, or simply want a different perspective on Minneapolis, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly appealing for those who appreciate a well-told story, a bit of eerie fun, and a relaxed, social atmosphere. The moderate price point makes it accessible for most travelers looking for a memorable, slightly spooky adventure.
For families with children, the tour’s friendly tone and engaging stories make it an approachable option — just be mindful of the weather and the darkness. If you’re after a straightforward ghost-hunting experience or love exploring haunted sites, this trolley ride should definitely be on your list.
FAQ
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Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, several reviews mention that it’s child-friendly. It’s more about storytelling than jump scares, making it suitable for families.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing a relaxed yet captivating experience.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 300 Clifton Ave, Minneapolis, at the historic mansion that’s believed to be haunted.
What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $55 per person, which many guests find reasonable given the storytelling, scenery, and unique experience.
Is the trolley heated and comfortable?
Yes, the trolley is decorated for the occasion, warm, and comfortable, making it suitable for Minnesota’s chilly evenings.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely — some guests have reported catching ghostly images on camera, adding excitement to the experience.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits groups to 24 travelers to maintain an intimate atmosphere.
How do I book the tour?
It’s best to book 16 days in advance on Viator or through the Minneapolis Trolley website, especially during peak seasons.
This ghostly journey through Minneapolis offers more than just scares — it’s a chance to see the city’s darker, fascinating side in a friendly, fun setting. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the stories, scenery, and storytelling craft a memorable night that will have you talking long after the trolley ride ends.
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