If you have an interest in true crime or just want a different way to explore Minneapolis, the “Shocking” True Crime Trolley Tour might catch your eye. Based on solid reviews and a dedicated 5-star rating, this two-hour journey promises an entertaining and interactive look at some of the city’s most infamous crimes.
We haven’t taken it ourselves, but the details paint a picture of a tour that’s both engaging and informative, perfect for those who enjoy a mix of history, mystery, and a little bit of drama.
What really stands out about this experience are the knowledgeable guides who keep things lively and the interactive element that invites you to participate—playing the Jury to solve some of the city’s most chilling cases. Plus, the reviews praise the well-curated stories and the stunning insights into Minneapolis’s shadowy past.
It was fun to hear the history of some of Minneapolis’s true crime and visit the locations. Got to see some beautiful homes along the way and was in absolute awe of the bed and breakfast pick up point. What an experience, thank you!!!
Lots of very interesting, cool information and a nice tour of historic buildings and a drive through the city
This was such a fun time! I learned so much and the tour guide was wonderful! I definitely recommend this tour!
One thing to keep in mind is that, at $80 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to see the city, but many found it to be well worth the price for the quality storytelling and unique experience. It’s especially suitable for anyone with a curiosity about crime stories, history buffs, or travelers seeking an engaging, offbeat activity.
It’s not explicitly described as family-friendly, but older kids or teenagers with an interest in true crime will likely find it compelling.
- Key Points
- What to Expect When You Join the Tour
- Overview and General Vibe
- From the Reviews to the Real Experience
- The Itinerary in Detail
- The Stories and Engagement
- Value for Money
- Who Is This Tour Best For?
- The Bottom Line
- FAQ
- More Tours in Minneapolis Saint Paul
- More Tour Reviews in Minneapolis Saint Paul
- Our NewestMinneapolis Saint Paul Activity Reviews
Key Points
- Engaging and Interactive: You play the Jury, making it a participatory experience that keeps you involved.
- Highly Rated Guides: Reviewers repeatedly praise the guides for their storytelling, humor, and energy.
- Dark Stories of Minneapolis: The tour reveals untold and secret crime stories that aren’t easy to find elsewhere.
- Comfortable Transport: The trolley is air-conditioned, making the two-hour journey comfortable regardless of the weather.
- Well-Reviewed and Recommended: With a perfect 5-star rating and glowing reviews, it’s clearly a crowd favorite.
- Limited Group Size: Max of 29 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.
What to Expect When You Join the Tour
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Minneapolis Saint Paul.
Overview and General Vibe
This tour is designed to be more than just a drive-by of crime scenes. It’s a story-rich, interactive experience that combines local history with true crime. Starting at the 300 Clifton Bed and Breakfast, the trolley takes you around downtown Minneapolis, stopping at locations tied to the city’s most notorious cases.
The duration is about 2 hours, which seems just right—long enough to tell compelling stories but not so long that it drags. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially if you’re visiting during warmer months. The group size is capped at 29, which allows for a more personal feel without feeling cramped.
From the Reviews to the Real Experience
Multiple reviewers have described it as a “fun,” “interesting,” and “engaging” way to see Minneapolis. Kristine emphasizes how much she learned and appreciated the wonderful guide. Kelly mentions how the stories are super interesting and the guide’s storytelling makes the tour both fun and educational.
Brandon highlights how the guide’s humor and entertaining style elevate the experience, turning a crime story tour into a lively, memorable event. The trolley itself is decorated well and has thoughtful touches like blankets, which add a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and show attention to detail.
Really fun way to see the city. The guide told four true crime stories that were super interesting. This is my second tour with this company and I really enjoyed both. If I was in town longer, I would take another tour with this company.
The guide was outstanding. Not just informative but entertaining and hilarious. Really engaging. The trolley itself was decorated really well inside and they had blankets on the chairs which my wife appreciated.
John was a great guide! Loved his energy. The true crime tour was a fun way to go around downtown. The stories were interesting to hear and made all the more so because of John's good-humored nature. I'd love to see them create a historical tour!
The Itinerary in Detail
While the specific stops aren’t extensively listed, the tour focuses on crime scene locations, affidavits, and "secret" information not publicly released—adding an air of exclusivity and intrigue. Each stop is carefully selected to reveal Minneapolis's darker stories, some of which are probably unknown to most locals and visitors alike.
The stories range from sensational crimes to possibly lesser-known cases, told with a mix of facts and engaging narration. The guide plays a critical role here, not just relaying information but also making the experience lively, humorous, and thought-provoking.
The Stories and Engagement
One of the standout features, based on reviews, is how interactive the experience is. You won’t just be passively listening—you’ll be encouraged to play the Jury, working together to piece clues and figure out the outcome of some crimes. This element adds a layer of fun and challenge, perfect for those who like to think and participate.
According to feedback, guides are skilled storytellers who mix humor with storytelling, making the tour lively without losing the seriousness of the subject matter. This balance is key to keeping the audience engaged and entertained.
Value for Money
At $80 per person, it’s a fair price given the quality of storytelling, the interactive component, and the unique insights into Minneapolis’s crime history. Reviewers feel that it’s worth the expense, especially considering how well-reviewed and fun the experience is. For those who enjoy true crime or local history, this tour offers a different way to connect with the city.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal if you’re a true crime enthusiast or someone excited by stories that aren’t part of the typical tourist fare. It’s also perfect if you want a more interactive, story-driven activity that combines city sightseeing with a bit of suspense. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older children with an interest in crime stories might also find it appealing.
If you prefer guided tours that are more historical or scenic, you might want to consider other options. But if you’re after a fun, engaging, and slightly mysterious way to see Minneapolis, this tour hits the mark.
The Bottom Line
The Minneapolis "Shocking" True Crime Trolley Tour offers a unique blend of storytelling, interactivity, and local lore. The guides seem to be a highlight, making complex and chilling stories accessible and entertaining, while the trolley itself provides a comfortable setting for the ride. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to add a darker, more mysterious layer to their Minneapolis visit.
While it’s not the cheapest tour around, the consistent high ratings and enthusiastic reviews suggest it’s a good value for people interested in true crime stories or looking for an engaging city tour. It's best suited for curious travelers who enjoy piecing together stories and don’t mind a bit of crime content to spice up their sightseeing.
Overall, if you're after a memorable, story-rich experience with a lively guide and a bit of crime-solving fun, this tour could very well be the highlight of your Minneapolis trip.
Minneapolis’ “Shocking” True Crime Trolley Tour
"It was fun to hear the history of some of Minneapolis’s true crime and visit the locations. Got to see some beautiful homes along the way and was..."
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for families or children?
It’s not explicitly labeled as family-friendly, but older children or teenagers with an interest in crime stories are likely to find it engaging. The tone is serious but delivered with humor and energy, making it accessible to a broad age range.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, which is a manageable length for most travelers without feeling rushed.
What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the ride in an air-conditioned trolley, the stories told by the guide, and participation in the interactive aspects. No additional fees are mentioned.
Can I book this tour last minute?
Most travelers book about 13 days in advance on average, but availability may vary. It’s worth booking ahead if you want a confirmed spot.
What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at the 300 Clifton Bed and Breakfast, located at 300 Clifton Ave, Minneapolis.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.
What if I need to cancel or change my reservation?
The booking is non-refundable and cannot be changed once confirmed, so plan accordingly.
Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, it is near public transit options, making it convenient to reach the starting point.
What makes this tour different from other sightseeing options in Minneapolis?
It’s uniquely focused on true crime stories, blending city landmarks with dark tales, all told interactively by a lively guide—something you won’t find on standard city tours.
If you’re craving an experience that’s fun, a little mysterious, and deeply engaging, the "Shocking" True Crime Trolley Tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a great way to see Minneapolis from a different perspective—one filled with stories that will stay with you long after the ride ends.
