Ghost Walking Tour in Stillwater

Travelling through Stillwater, Minnesota, offers a charming glimpse into the past — but a ghost tour takes that experience into the realm of the uncanny. This 1.5 to 2-hour walk, hosted by American Ghost Walks, promises a spooky yet captivating exploration of the town’s haunted corners and ghostly legends. It’s a lively way to learn about Stillwater’s history, with a dash of ghostly intrigue that will make your visit memorable.

What we love about this tour is how it combines expert storytelling with authentic local sites. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable, personable approach, making the stories come alive. Plus, the tour hits some iconic spots like the Stillwater Lift Bridge and Lowell Park — not just for their scenic views but because they’re woven into the town’s haunted tales.

A possible consideration? This isn’t a deep dive into history or a spooky scare fest — it’s a fun, storytelling-focused experience. If you’re looking for a serious ghost-hunting adventure with intricate history or a lengthy walk, this might feel a bit light. But for anyone wanting a lively, engaging evening that mixes culture, scenery, and stories, it hits the mark.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or groups who enjoy a good story, outdoor strolling, and a touch of mystery. It’s perfect if you want to see Stillwater’s sights while hearing about its ghostly residents and legends in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic stories from a knowledgeable guide bring the haunted sites to life.
• The tour covers iconic landmarks like the Stillwater Lift Bridge and Lowell Park.
• It’s a balanced mix of history, culture, and ghostly legends, appealing to a broad audience.
• The walk is manageable in length and pace, suitable for most travelers.
• It’s an excellent way to explore the town’s scenic beauty along the St. Croix River.
• The small group size (up to 30 people) encourages interaction and questions.

A Detailed Look at the Stillwater Ghost Tour

Starting Point: The Heart of Stillwater on Main Street

The tour kicks off at 401 S Main St, a location that’s easy to find and central, making the meetup simple. Our experience shows that the meeting point sets the tone — friendly, relaxed, and ready for a spooky evening. The fact that the tour ends back at the starting point means you can extend your evening easily, maybe with dinner or a drink at a local spot.

First Stop: Stillwater Lift Bridge

The iconic Lift Bridge is not just an engineering marvel but also the starting point for ghostly tales. Here, the guide shares the story of Fisherman John, a local legend about a figure who allegedly fished for bodies lost in the St. Croix River. The story is about 10 minutes long but packed with enough intrigue to make you glance at the river with new suspicion. The story is based on local lore, and the fact that it’s free to view the bridge makes it a perfect introduction.

Second Stop: The Zephyr Theatre

Next, you’re taken to the Zephyr Theatre, a historic venue that’s reputed to be haunted. The guide explains that theaters often have ghost stories, and this one is no exception. The 10-minute stop offers a peek into the building’s history and the spooky legends that surround it. Given that theaters are known to host ghostly activity, it’s an authentic part of the tour’s appeal. The guide’s storytelling makes this stop lively and engaging.

Third Stop: Warden’s House Museum

The Warden’s House Museum adds another layer of haunted history, tied to the Minnesota State Prison that once operated nearby. The guide shares ghost stories associated with the house, adding a sense of mystery and local color. Like the previous stops, it’s about 10 minutes long, but the stories are memorable enough to linger. This stop is especially interesting because it connects ghost stories with the town’s past justice system.

Fourth Stop: Lowell Park

Finally, the tour moves to Lowell Park, along the scenic St. Croix River. Here, the stories are more atmospheric, with plenty of local legends about spirits haunting the park and the river. This segment lasts about 15 minutes and is often highlighted by reviews praising the engaging storytelling. The park’s natural beauty combined with ghost tales makes for a captivating end to the walk.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews showcase the tour’s strengths: knowledgeable guides, engaging storytelling, and beautiful views. One reviewer mentions “wonderful stories, flickering lights, photography lessons,” suggesting that the guides do more than just tell stories — they create a memorable atmosphere. Others praise Joseph and Linda for their excellent storytelling skills and personable approach, which keeps everyone engaged.

Many reviewers also appreciate the manageable pacing and less intense walking — “the walking was way less intense than I expected,” says one, with some even wishing for more. The tour’s length and group size make it accessible, and the focus on storytelling rather than scares means it appeals to a wide audience.

Some guests found it inspiring enough to explore more of Stillwater’s haunted spots afterward, such as Mysterious Mary’s gravesite or the Warden’s House — evidence that this tour sparks curiosity beyond the walk.

Pricing and Value

At $33 per person, this tour offers a good value for a well-organized, engaging experience. You get a mix of historic sites, scenic views, and ghost stories all in one outing. The fact that it’s a guided experience means you’re not just wandering around with a map — you’re hearing stories that bring the sites to life.

Given the small-group format and the quality of guides praised in reviews, this price feels justified. It’s a nice option for those wanting an entertaining, educational evening without breaking the bank or committing to a lengthy tour.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance, especially in summer or on weekends, to secure your spot.
• Wear comfortable shoes — the walk is manageable, but you’ll be outside for the duration.
• Arrive promptly at the meeting point on Main Street.
• Bring a flashlight if you like, though the tour is in well-lit areas.
• If you’re interested in photography, the scenic spots like Lowell Park are excellent for evening shots.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This ghost walk is ideal for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a good story with a side of scenery. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or groups looking for a relaxed, friendly outdoor activity. If you’re curious about local legends and enjoy storytelling, you’ll find this tour both fun and informative.

It’s not designed to be a fright fest but rather a charming blend of local lore and picturesque views. If you’re after dark, atmospheric stories in a manageable setting, this is a great choice. The tour is also perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with a touch of mystery, especially if you’re visiting Stillwater for the first time.

The Sum Up

This ghost walking tour in Stillwater offers a well-balanced experience, blending fascinating local stories with scenic views and a friendly guide. Its affordability, manageable length, and engaging storytelling make it a smart choice for travelers seeking an authentic, entertaining way to explore the town’s haunted side. Whether you’re a history lover, a curious traveler, or just in the mood for a spooky evening with a view, this tour promises fun, intrigue, and a few shivers along the way.

The emphasis on expert guides and picturesque locations means you’ll walk away not just with ghost stories but a greater appreciation for Stillwater’s charming character. It’s a memorable way to see the town and hear about its secrets, all while enjoying an evening outdoors.

If you’re visiting Stillwater and want a unique, fun experience that’s suitable for most ages and interests, this ghost walk is a clever way to add a little mystery to your trip. It’s an experience that captures the spirit of the town — playful, historic, and just a little spooky.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the pace and questions.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at 401 S Main St, Stillwater, MN 55082, which is a central and easy-to-find location on Main Street.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the stories are suitable for a broad audience. It’s family-friendly, but consider your children’s comfort with spooky stories.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a friendly and interactive experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a light jacket if needed, especially in the evening.

Are there any additional costs?
All stops are free to view; the tour fee covers the storytelling and guide services. Additional personal expenses are at your discretion.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I book this tour online?
Yes, it’s available through Viator and can be booked in advance to secure your spot.

For anyone looking to add a fun twist to their Stillwater visit, this ghost tour offers a lively, authentic look at the town’s mysterious side — with stories that will linger long after the walk ends.