Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour

Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour: A Spooky Spin Through the City’s Dark Corners

If you’re interested in Minneapolis’s haunted history and enjoy a good ghost story, the Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour offers a fascinating blend of storytelling, local landmarks, and eerie legends. Starting at the W Minneapolis – The Foshay, this 3-hour guided journey takes you through some of the most iconic and haunted sites in the city, from the Foshay Tower to the Guthrie Theater and the Mill Ruins Park. Led by an expert in the paranormal (whose enthusiasm is often praised), this tour combines historical facts with ghostly lore in a way that keeps you intrigued.

We love how comfortably you travel through the city on a coach, stopping at each location for about 10 to 30 minutes—plenty of time to soak in the stories and imagine the spirits that might still linger. The tour’s focus on local legends and haunted landmarks makes it perfect for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike. The $59 price seems reasonable for a memorable night of storytelling and sightseeing, especially given the small group size—a maximum of 30 travelers ensures you’ll have a more intimate experience.

One thing to consider is that this tour is primarily about storytelling and legend, so if you’re looking for hands-on ghost hunting or supernatural encounters, this might not be your best fit. Also, since it’s a nighttime tour, it’s best suited for those comfortable with dark, atmospheric settings. This experience is most ideal for adventurous travelers who appreciate local history with a spooky twist and enjoy stories that blend fact and folklore.

Key Points

• Engaging storytelling from knowledgeable guides enhances the experience.
• The tour visits well-known haunted sites in Minneapolis, offering local flavor.
• The coach transportation provides comfort and easy movement between stops.
• The 3-hour duration is a good balance of storytelling and sightseeing.
• The tour is limited to 30 people, making it more personalized.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, especially those interested in ghost stories and history.

A Deeper Look at the Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This isn’t just a list of haunted spots; it’s a carefully curated experience that combines history, legend, and local color. Starting at the W Minneapolis – The Foshay, the tour kicks off in style, with the first stop at the Minneapolis City Hall. Here, you’ll hear about the ghost of a janitor whose footsteps still echo through the halls after hours—a classic ghostly tale that immediately sets the tone.

Throughout the journey, you’ll visit landmarks like the Minneapolis Institute of Art, where staff report ghostly encounters, and the Van Deusen Mansion, known for its eerie narratives. Each stop is designed to give you a glimpse into Minneapolis’s darker past, from industrial ruins to famous theaters. The Foshay Tower is especially notable, with the legend of the builder’s ghost whispering secrets in the night.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Minneapolis City Hall: As the tour begins, you’ll learn about a tragic janitor ghost haunting the historic building. The story is simple but effective—footsteps that can’t be explained, shadows seen from the corner of your eye. It’s a lively start that sparks curiosity.

Minneapolis Institute of Art: Here, staff reports strange sightings of ghostly figures wandering the darkened galleries after hours. It’s a quiet, haunting scene—perfect for those interested in artful spirits and museum lore.

Van Deusen Mansion: Known for its eerie stories, you’ll hear tales of apparitions and unexplained noises in this historic home. It’s a classic haunted house experience, but with a local twist.

Eli’s Food & Cocktails: Along with a taste of local history, the tour includes a brief stop to learn about Harry Hayward, the notorious “Minneapolis Svengali.” It’s a reminder that Minneapolis’s dark side isn’t just about ghosts but also about real-life crime stories.

Mill Ruins Park: As night falls, the old mill ruins come alive with whispers of long-forgotten workers. Expect shadows and stories of industrial ghosts, capturing Minneapolis’s industrial past.

Foshay Tower: The highlight for many, legends say the tower’s creator still roams its halls, whispering unfinished dreams. The views of the city at night combined with the stories create a mesmerizing atmosphere.

Washington Avenue Bridge: Known for ghostly sightings of spirits crossing the bridge, this stop offers a romantic yet eerie perspective on Minneapolis’s Mississippi River crossings.

First Avenue & 7th St Entry: Famous for its musical history—especially Prince—the venue is also known for ghostly tales, including a female apparition seen wearing a green army jacket. Music and mystery collide here.

Guthrie Theater: Perhaps Minneapolis’s most haunted theater, stories of a ghostly usher who keeps working long after death add a theatrical flair to the experience.

Saint Anthony Main: Along the river, this charming district hides stories of haunted buildings and whispering shadows as night falls.

Northrop Auditorium: Rumored to be heavily haunted, Northrop offers a final dose of paranormal potential—perfect for those curious about unexplained phenomena on university campuses.

Authentic Stories and Guide Highlights

What travelers love most about this tour are the guides’ knowledge and their ability to blend history with storytelling. As one reviewer noted, “The tour guide was very knowledgeable of the history of Minneapolis. Enjoyed hearing about the history and the occurrences that happened.” The guides often encourage participants to share their own spooky experiences, making the tour more interactive and fun.

The Experience: Comfort, Timing, and Group Size

The coach provides a comfortable ride, allowing us to relax while traveling between sites. The tour starts promptly at 7:00 pm, making it a perfect evening activity—whether you’re a local or a visitor. With a maximum of 30 travelers, the group remains intimate enough for everyone to participate actively.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $59 per person, the tour offers good value. You’ll get guided storytelling, a chance to visit multiple landmarks, and the thrill of exploring Minneapolis’s haunted spots without the hassle of navigating alone at night. Considering the small group size and expert guides, the price feels justified, especially for those craving a mix of history, mystery, and local lore.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy ghost stories and local history. If you like the idea of seeing haunted landmarks while learning their stories from knowledgeable guides, you’ll find this both entertaining and enlightening. It’s also a great evening activity for those who want a different perspective on Minneapolis, combining city sights with spooky legends.

The Sum Up

The Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour offers a captivating blend of history, local legends, and haunting tales delivered by enthusiastic guides. The comfortable coach ensures a relaxed experience, while the stops at iconic sites like the Foshay Tower, Guthrie Theater, and Mill Ruins Park give you a chance to imagine Minneapolis’s darker past.

While it’s primarily a storytelling experience, the tour’s detailed narratives and authentic local legends make it highly engaging. The intimate group size enhances the experience, making it feel more like a spooky night out with friends than a touristy spectacle.

For history lovers, ghost enthusiasts, and nighttime explorers, this tour provides a memorable way to see Minneapolis from a different angle. If you’re looking for a lively, well-delivered, and atmospheric adventure, this ghost bus tour will leave you with stories to tell—long after the night ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is geared toward adults and older children who are comfortable with spooky stories and dark settings. Since it’s a nighttime activity, it might not be ideal for very young kids.

How long does the tour last?
The guided ghost bus experience lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 7:00 pm and concluding back at the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided haunted history tour and coach transportation. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll receive a full refund if you cancel within this window.

What if I want to bring friends or family?
The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, making it ideal for small groups, friends, or couples. It’s a shared experience that encourages storytelling and interaction.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the W Minneapolis – The Foshay, 821 S Marquette Ave, Minneapolis, and ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward.

In all, the Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour offers a well-balanced mix of spooky tales, local history, and comfortable travel—perfect for those looking to experience the city’s darker side in a fun, immersive way.