St. Paul Historic Cave Tour

If you’re looking for a fun, affordable way to get a slice of Saint Paul’s intriguing history, the St. Paul Historic Cave Tour might just be what you need. Based on glowing reviews and a proven track record, this short but engaging experience offers a unique glimpse into the caves carved into the hillside near downtown Saint Paul. It’s perfect for history buffs, curious locals, or visitors wanting a different perspective on the Twin Cities.

What really caught our eye are the knowledgeable guides and the stories of the gangster era that bring the caves’ past to life. Plus, at just $15 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to spend an hour. That said, one consideration to keep in mind is that the caves can be a bit chilly—so dressing in layers is a smart move.

This tour tends to attract a wide audience—families, groups of friends, or solo explorers—making it flexible and accessible. If you’re after a taste of local lore, enjoy stories you won’t find in history books, and appreciate good value, this tour is likely worth your while.

Key Points

• Affordable Experience: At just $15, it offers great value for a one-hour guided look into Saint Paul’s past.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Tour guides are praised for their enthusiasm, humor, and depth of knowledge, making the experience lively and informative.
• Rich Stories: The tour covers more than just the gangster era, providing stories that go beyond the typical history.
• Accessibility and Convenience: Free parking, Wi-Fi access, and proximity to public transit make it easy to visit.
• Suitable for Many: Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or traveling with family, most people will find this tour engaging.
• Temperature Consideration: The caves sit around 50°F, so bringing a jacket is a good idea.

What to Expect from the Wabasha Street Caves Tour

An Introduction to the Caves’ Past: Carved for Mining and Crime

Your journey begins at 215 Wabasha St S, the heart of the caves, which are carved into the hillside from abandoned 1800s mining ventures. Once a quiet site, the caves gained notoriety in the 1930s as a gangster hotspot during Prohibition. You’ll learn about how these tunnels transitioned through various uses over the years, turning from industrial spaces into a place of infamy.

The Gangster Era Connection

One of the main highlights is the fascinating stories of the caves’ association with organized crime. The tour explores how the caves served as secret hideouts and meeting spots, casting a shadow of intrigue over the site. The stories are engaging and often told with humor, making this part of the experience particularly memorable. As one reviewer put it, the guide “brought the stories to life,” making history feel real and immediate.

The Cave Environment and Physical Aspects

The caves are carved into sandstone, and the temperature stays around 50°F, so layering up is recommended. The tour lasts roughly an hour, and while the caves are accessible, they do feature uneven surfaces and low ceilings in parts. If you’re bringing children or seniors, a bit of caution might be wise. From reviews, we gather that most find the walk comfortable, but a jacket makes the experience more enjoyable.

The Guides: The Heart of the Tour

Guides are consistently praised for their personality and storytelling skills. Many reviews mention guides like Ellie or Deborah, who make the history engaging and fun. They sprinkle in humor and interesting facts, which keeps the tour lively. One reviewer noted that Ellie “brought the stories to life,” and another mentioned Deborah as a “wealth of knowledge” with a funny, storytelling style.

The Overall Experience: Fun, Informative, and Well-Priced

Most visitors agree that this tour offers solid value, blending education with entertainment. For just $15, you get an hour of stories, history, and a peek into a unique part of Saint Paul’s past. The tour’s small group size (up to 100 travelers) keeps it intimate enough for questions and interaction, fostering a friendly vibe.

Family-Friendliness and Accessibility

While the tour is suitable for most travelers, it’s worth noting that the caves can be cold and a little dark. Kids who are interested in history and aren’t bothered by the temperature will likely enjoy it, but it’s not specifically designed as a kids’ activity. For families, it’s an educational outing that can spark interest in local history.

The Practical Side: Booking and Logistics

Most travelers tend to book this tour about 10 days in advance, especially during peak seasons. You’ll meet at 215 Wabasha St S, where parking is free—another bonus for visitors. The tour is mobile ticket enabled, making check-in easy. It’s near public transportation, so getting there is straightforward.

Is It Worth It?

Considering the reviews and the price, this tour delivers more than just a cursory glance at the caves. The stories, the guides’ personalities, and the historic atmosphere make it a worthwhile outing. For those interested in local lore or looking for an inexpensive cultural activity, you’ll find it rewarding.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re into history with a twist of crime and intrigue, this tour will satisfy your curiosity. It’s also great for local residents wanting to learn more about Saint Paul’s past or visitors who prefer offbeat attractions over conventional museums. The engaging guides and lively storytelling make it particularly appealing for groups or families with older children who can appreciate the stories and walk comfortably in a cool environment.

However, if you’re seeking a physically demanding or highly scenic outdoor experience, this isn’t quite that. It’s a tour primarily about storytelling within the caves, not about sightseeing in the traditional sense.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, giving you enough time to explore the caves and enjoy the stories without feeling rushed.

Is parking available?
Yes, there’s free parking at the site, which is a big plus in downtown Saint Paul.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most travelers book around 10 days in advance, but you can try booking closer to your intended visit if available; just be aware it might fill up.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most kids who enjoy stories and history should find it interesting, but keep in mind the caves can be chilly and somewhat uneven.

What’s the main theme of the tour?
The tour focuses on the caves’ history, especially their gangster era notoriety, but also covers their broader past.

Is the tour accessible for everyone?
While accessible for most, some uneven surfaces and low ceilings mean caution is advisable, especially for those with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers because the caves stay around 50°F. Comfortable shoes are recommended due to uneven surfaces.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What is the price?
The tour costs $15 per person, making it an affordable cultural outing.

Final Thoughts

The St. Paul Historic Cave Tour offers a fascinating, budget-friendly peek into the city’s underground past. The combination of accessible pricing, engaging guides, and captivating stories makes it a strong choice for anyone wanting to add a bit of local lore to their visit. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of quirky stories, or someone looking for an easy outing, this tour delivers.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy storytelling, are interested in the gangster era, or simply want a relaxed, informative experience that fits easily into a day of exploring Saint Paul. If you’re prepared for cooler temperatures and curious about the caves’ darker days, you’ll likely walk away with a new appreciation for this hidden corner of Minnesota.

In essence, this tour is about more than just walking through caves—it’s about stepping into a piece of Saint Paul’s colorful past, with guides who make sure the stories stay lively and memorable.