St. Paul, Minnesota, is a city made for walking. Its compact downtown, historic neighborhoods, and scenic avenues invite visitors to explore on foot. What makes St. Paul special? For starters, the city boasts fascinating architecture, like the stately Victorian homes on Summit Avenue, and a rich mix of stories from Prohibition caves to literary legends like F. Scott Fitzgerald. We especially like tours that combine history, architecture, and local flavor. For example, the Ultimate St. Paul Walking Tour offers a deep dive into these diverse stories, blending architecture with the city’s untold stories.
St. Paul’s manageable size and walkable neighborhoods make guided tours a practical way to see the city’s highlights and uncover secrets that aren’t obvious from a car. Whether you want to stroll past historic mansions, explore haunted sites, or learn about Prohibition bootlegging, there’s a tour tailored for your interests.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of engaging walking experiences in St. Paul: a comprehensive tour uncovering hidden secrets, a private walk along Summit Avenue’s Victorian mansions, and a spooky haunted history walk. Each offers a different way to experience the city, suited to different interests and budgets. For details, see below.
1. Ultimate St. Paul Walking Tour – Minnesota’s Hidden Secrets
At number one, this Ultimate St. Paul Walking Tour promises a lively exploration of the city’s lesser-known stories and sites. For about $79 per person, you’ll spend 3 hours with an expert guide who reveals the untold tales behind prominent landmarks.
The tour is packed with highlights, such as visiting F. Scott Fitzgerald’s birthplace and his favorite local pub, and uncovering Prohibition caves hidden in the city. The guide shares the dramatic story of the original State Capitol fire, a significant event many overlook. A big draw is the visit to Summit Hill mansions, the homes of railroad millionaires, which showcase extravagant architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The tour concludes with a craft beer tasting and personalized insider tips about where to eat, drink, and explore in St. Paul.
What sets this tour apart is its blend of architecture, local stories, and underground history. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and storytelling, noting that the tour is “a perfect way to see parts of the city you wouldn’t find on your own.” It’s ideal for history enthusiasts and curious travelers eager to discover St. Paul’s hidden corners.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience for those interested in uncovering St. Paul’s secret stories along with its iconic sights.
2. St. Paul: Private Walking Tour Summit Ave Victorian Homes
Number two on our list is a private, personalized experience focused on the magnificent Victorian mansions lining Summit Avenue. For $195, your small group (up to 8 people) enjoys a 2-hour stroll at a relaxed pace, perfect for those who want an intimate look at architecture and local personalities.
This tour is ideal for lovers of early 20th-century architecture and those interested in the tycoons who built these homes. Your guide shares stories about the residents—from Garrison Keillor to F. Scott Fitzgerald—and explains the architectural features that make these mansions stand out. Since it’s a private tour, there’s plenty of opportunity for questions and detailed viewing, making it perfect for history buffs or anyone who wants a leisurely, in-depth experience.
Guests consistently comment on the personalized attention and the chance to see famous homes up close. The tour also covers the history of the neighborhood, adding context to these beautiful structures.
Bottom Line: This private tour offers a tailored, relaxed way to admire historic Victorian homes while learning about the people who made them famous—great for architecture lovers and those seeking an exclusive experience.
3. St. Paul – Summit Avenue Haunted History Ghost Walking Tour
If you’re into ghost stories and haunted houses, the Haunted Summit Avenue Ghost Walk is a fun, spooky way to experience the city after dark. For $30 per person, over 2 hours you’ll explore eerie mansions, parks, and hear chilling tales of ghostly encounters linked to St. Paul’s most famous sites.
Highlights include the haunted St. Paul Cathedral, stories of spirits lingering at the James J. Hill House, and mysterious secrets of the F. Scott Fitzgerald House. Forepaugh’s Mansion and the Stuart House also feature in ghostly lore, adding an eerie atmosphere to your walk. The guide weaves in the history with spooky tales, creating a lively, immersive experience.
Reviews are mixed, but many appreciate the atmosphere and the chance to learn local ghost stories that have been passed down through generations. It’s suited for those who enjoy a bit of haunted history along with their city stroll.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for visitors looking for a fun, spooky experience, blending history with ghostly legends—perfect for a unique evening activity.
$30 per person
How to Choose
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interests and schedule. Want a rundown of hidden stories and underground sites? The Ultimate St. Paul Walking Tour covers a lot in 3 hours. Looking for a more relaxed, intimate experience focused on architecture? The Summit Avenue Victorian Homes is ideal, especially if you’re traveling with a small group. If spooky stories are your thing, the Haunted Ghost Walk offers a fun night-time adventure.
Budget-minded travelers might prefer the ghost walk at $30, while those seeking a more in-depth, personalized experience should consider the private Victorian tour. For most, booking early is wise—especially in peak season—and always check the weather to dress accordingly.
Final Thoughts
St. Paul offers a range of fascinating walking tours that make exploring the city on foot both easy and enriching. For a comprehensive experience packed with stories and hidden sites, the Ultimate St. Paul Walking Tour is a standout. Architecture fans will love the intimate private tour of Victorian homes, and those who enjoy spooky stories will find the haunted walk a memorable experience.
Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just looking for a fun way to get to know this charming city, there’s a tour here for you. Book early, dress comfortably, and enjoy discovering all that St. Paul has to offer on foot.