Minneapolis Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour

If you’re someone who enjoys a good ghost story or simply loves exploring a city’s darker side, the Minneapolis Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour might catch your interest. This experience promises a spooky, atmospheric ride through some of Minneapolis’s most haunted sites, all aboard an historic trolley that many say is haunted itself. While I haven’t done this tour personally, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that it’s a well-loved way to add a bit of thrill to your Minneapolis visit.

Two things that really stand out are the knowledgeable storytelling and the charming trolley ride. Guests consistently praise the guide’s charisma and depth of local lore, which makes the experience feel both fun and informative. The tour’s setting—starting and ending at a genuinely haunted mansion—is also a highlight, blending history with a spooky twist. A possible downside to consider is the weather — since it’s an outdoor trolley ride, poor weather conditions can make visibility and atmosphere less than ideal.

This tour would suit anyone interested in ghost stories, Minneapolis history, or just looking for a unique way to see the city after dark. Travelers who appreciate engaging storytelling and a relaxed pace will find this experience rewarding. It’s also family-friendly, according to reviews, making it accessible for a wide range of ages who can handle a bit of spooky fun.

Key Points

• Highly rated with a perfect 5.0/5 from 92 reviews, showing consistent customer satisfaction
• Cost-effective at $55 per person, offering a good value for a 1.5-hour immersive experience
• Interactive storytelling keeps guests engaged, with charismatic guides bringing the tales to life
• Beautiful start and end points at a historic mansion and a quaint meeting spot in Minneapolis
• Limited group size (max 24 travelers), which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized
• Weather-dependent, so bad weather might affect your experience, but refunds or rescheduling are available

The Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and Atmosphere

The tour kicks off at the 300 Clifton Bed and Breakfast, a cozy, welcoming spot that sets the tone for the evening. From there, you’ll hop aboard a decorated, warm trolley that’s as much a part of the ambiance as the stories you’ll hear. The reviews often mention how easy and friendly the check-in process is, which is a small but important detail that can impact your overall experience.

The Journey Through Downtown Minneapolis

Once underway, the trolley takes you past several spooky spots around Downtown Minneapolis. While the exact locations aren’t listed, reviewers mention stories about haunted mansions, tragic tales, and shadowy buildings. One guest said, “The stories about haunted buildings and their families were very captivating,” and noted that the guide’s local knowledge added depth to the experience.

The Narrator and Guides

Guests repeatedly rave about the guides’ charisma, humor, and knowledge. One reviewer described their guide as “fun, personable, and super knowledgeable,” which seems to be a common sentiment. These guides don’t just tell ghost stories—they weave in historical details and personal anecdotes, making the tales more relatable and memorable.

Sightings and Visuals

The tour includes visual aids and props, which help bring the stories to life. Some reviewers mentioned that the guide used visuals on the trolley, adding an extra layer of engagement. A few even reported seeing paranormal images or catching ghostly figures on camera, although such sightings are more about the spooky vibe than guaranteed ghost encounters.

The Haunted Mansion

The tour ends back at the historic mansion at 300 Clifton, which is reputed to be haunted itself. Many guests find this part particularly atmospheric, as they get to explore the grounds and hear about its haunted history. Some reviews mention Gertrude’s After Hours, an optional extension that adds even more spooky fun, including a visit from a neighborhood black cat.

The Value for Money and Overall Impression

At $55 per person, this tour offers a solid mix of entertainment, education, and spooky fun. With most bookings happening 16 days in advance, it’s clearly popular enough that planning ahead is recommended. The duration of about 1 hour and 30 minutes feels just right—long enough to tell a good number of stories and soak in the atmosphere without dragging.

Guests consistently describe the experience as friendly, fun, and worth every penny. Many mention that it’s suitable even for skeptics or those new to ghost tours because of its relaxed, storytelling approach rather than jump scares or theatrical theatrics. One reviewer said, “It felt like traveling back in time,” highlighting how atmospheric and immersive the ride can be.

Weather and Comfort

A couple of reviewers noted that bad weather, especially rain or fog, can hinder visibility and overall ambiance. The trolley windows can fog up or reflect light, making it harder to see the surroundings clearly. However, refunds or rescheduling options are available if weather conditions are truly poor.

Family and Group Experience

While the tour is family-friendly and described as suitable for most travelers, it’s worth noting that the ghost stories are generally spooky rather than scary, making it suitable for kids who enjoy a gentle scare. The relaxed pace and engaging storytelling mean everyone can enjoy the ride, but it’s not a formal children’s activity.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Minneapolis Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour offers a fun, atmospheric way to explore the city’s haunted past. Its combination of charming guides, captivating stories, and beautiful historic locations makes it a standout experience for those who love spooky tales or want a different way to see Minneapolis after dark.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value engaging storytelling and a relaxed pace, and for anyone interested in a mix of history and mystery. The relatively affordable price and positive reviews suggest this is a solid choice, whether you’re a local looking for something different or a visitor eager for a spooky night out.

If you’re ready for a laid-back but intriguing evening, this trolley tour is a great pick. Just remember to dress warmly, check the weather forecast, and arrive early for a smooth start.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Many reviews mention that it’s child-friendly, as there are no jump scares, and stories are spooky but not terrifying. It’s a good choice for families or those who enjoy a bit of ghostly lore without being scared stiff.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the stories and sights without feeling rushed.

What’s the price? The tour costs $55 per person, which many guests feel is reasonable given the quality of storytelling and atmosphere.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins and ends at 300 Clifton Ave, Minneapolis, at the historic mansion, making it a convenient location for most travelers.

What should I wear? Since it’s an outdoor trolley ride, dress warmly, especially in cooler months. Weather conditions can affect visibility and comfort, so check the forecast before heading out.

Is the group size small? Yes, a maximum of 24 travelers makes the experience intimate, allowing for better engagement with the guide and a cozy atmosphere.

What if the weather is bad? If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled, but you’ll be given the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

To sum it up, the Minneapolis Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour offers a well-reviewed, engaging way to experience the city’s haunted sites. Perfect for those who love stories, history, and a spooky night out, it strikes a good balance between entertainment and education. Just prepare for the weather, and you’re in for an atmospheric ride that’s worth every penny.