Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour

If you’re drawn to stories of the supernatural or just want a different way to explore Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour offers a darkly entertaining experience. This 3-hour guided coach journey promises to uncover the city’s haunted past, combining intriguing history with chilling ghost tales. It’s a tour that’s perfect for those who love a spooky story, enjoy learning about local landmarks, or are simply curious about Minneapolis’ darker secrets.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its expert guide, who seems to have a real knack for storytelling and paranormal lore. The second highlight is the variety of stops, from historic sites to modern venues, each with its own unique ghostly reputation. However, a key consideration is that this is a coach tour, so if you prefer walking or exploring at your own pace, this might not be the best fit. Still, for an evening of spooky storytelling with a splash of history, it hits the mark. This experience is most suited for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or travelers looking for a fun, atmospheric activity that offers a different perspective on Minneapolis.

Key Points

• Expert-guided storytelling makes the experience engaging and informative.
• Comfortable coach transportation allows for relaxed viewing of multiple haunted sites.
• The tour includes 11 stops, each with its own ghostly tales, from historic landmarks to modern venues.
• Free cancellation offers peace of mind, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Accessible for most travelers and suitable for a wide range of ages.
• The tour is booked on average 42 days in advance, indicating its popularity.

The Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour is designed to offer a spooky yet educational experience that appeals equally to history lovers and ghost story fans. Starting at the W Minneapolis – The Foshay, the tour weaves through the city’s streets, stopping at some of Minneapolis’ most iconic landmarks, each with tales that will send shivers down your spine.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Hear

First Stop: Minneapolis City Hall
This towering building with its clock tower is said to be haunted by a former janitor’s ghost. According to local lore, his footsteps echo through the hallways at night, a chilling reminder of the building’s long history. The 15-minute stop allows the guide to share stories about this tragic figure, setting an eerie tone for the night.

Minneapolis Institute of Art
While known for incredible collections, the museum also has ghostly tales. Staff reportedly encounter strange sightings—apparitions wandering the darkened galleries after hours. This 15-minute stop offers a glimpse into the spooky side of Minneapolis’ art scene, blending culture with ghostly whispers.

The Van Dusen Mansion
This historic mansion, often called one of the most haunted locations in Minneapolis, is said to host spectral visitors. Staff have reported eerie encounters, adding a dash of Victorian-era ghost stories to the evening. The 20-minute stop lets you imagine what it’s like to be haunted in a grand old mansion.

Eli’s Food & Cocktails
Here, the story turns darker as the tour touches on Harry Hayward, known as the “Minneapolis Svengali,” linked to a notorious murder. This 10-minute segment connects local crime history to ghostly legends, making it both fascinating and unsettling.

Mill Ruins Park
As night falls, the remains of old mills become a playground for ghost stories about long-deceased mill workers. This 20-minute stop offers atmospheric views along the river and stories of restless spirits, perfect for stirring the imagination.

Foshay Tower
This Art Deco skyscraper is rumored to be haunted by its creator’s ghost, who still whispers secrets of unfinished dreams. During the 30-minute stop, you’ll hear tales of apparitions and unexplained sounds in this historic Minneapolis landmark.

Washington Avenue Bridge
Famous for its legend of a spectral figure, this bridge is also a key part of Minneapolis’ haunted lore. The 15-minute stop adds to the city’s ghostly reputation, with stories of restless spirits crossing the river.

First Avenue & 7th St Entry
Music fans know First Avenue as the legendary venue made famous by Prince. But it also has ghost stories, especially of a female apparition often seen in a green army jacket in the women’s restroom. This 15-minute stop highlights the venue’s haunted history, blending music and ghost tales.

Guthrie Theater
Minneapolis’ iconic theater is said to host the ghost of an unseen usher who keeps returning to work, even after death. This 10-minute segment underscores how theaters often attract paranormal stories, adding a theatrical flair to the tour.

Saint Anthony Main
Walking along the river, you’ll hear whispers of long-ago residents and mill workers. The 15-minute stop offers a peaceful yet spooky atmosphere, perfect for imagining Minneapolis’ historic past.

Northrop Auditorium
Rumored to be the most haunted building on the University of Minnesota campus, this stop features tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena. The 15-minute visit deepens the haunted narrative, especially fitting for university town lore.

The Experience: What to Expect

The tour uses a comfortable coach vehicle, which is ideal for covering multiple sites efficiently. The guided narration is a big strength, with the guide described as knowledgeable and interactive, allowing participants to share their own paranormal experiences. The group size is capped at 30, ensuring a more personal experience without feeling crowded.

The tour begins at 7:00 pm at the W Minneapolis and ends back at the same spot, making it convenient for those staying downtown. Since it’s an evening tour, you’ll get a real sense of Minneapolis’s nighttime atmosphere, perfect for ghost stories.

The cost of $59 per person is reasonable, considering the length, transportation, and storytelling. While it doesn’t include food or drinks, the tour’s value lies in its entertaining storytelling and the chance to see multiple haunted sites in a cozy, relaxed setting.

What Do Travelers Say?

One reviewer praised the guide’s knowledge and storytelling, noting that she allowed participants to share their own paranormal experiences, making the tour feel interactive and fun. The glowing 5-star rating indicates that most guests find this tour engaging and worthwhile. The fact that it’s booked on average 42 days in advance suggests it’s popular among locals and visitors alike.

Practical Details: Navigating the Tour

Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for most ages. Since it’s a coach tour, it’s a good choice if you prefer not to walk long distances. The free cancellation policy also provides flexibility if your plans change.

This experience is ideal for history buffs interested in local lore, ghost enthusiasts eager to hear spooky stories, or anyone seeking a fun, atmospheric way to explore Minneapolis after dark. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a unique activity without a strenuous physical component. If you’re curious about the city’s past or love a good ghost story, this tour will keep you entertained and maybe even a little spooked.

For $59, the Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour offers a balanced blend of history, storytelling, and entertainment. The comfort of the coach, combined with a knowledgeable guide and well-chosen haunted sites, makes it a standout option for an evening activity. The stories are vivid, the sites atmospheric, and the overall vibe just spooky enough to thrill without going over the top.

This tour isn’t just about ghost stories; it’s an exploration of Minneapolis’s hidden mysteries and haunted landmarks, making it a memorable experience for those interested in the city’s darker side. It’s especially valuable for anyone wanting to discover the city’s haunted reputation in a fun, relaxed setting.

How long is the Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, giving ample time to visit 11 haunted sites with stories and stops along the way.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at W Minneapolis – The Foshay, located at 821 S Marquette Ave, Minneapolis.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s designed to be accessible for most, but keep in mind the spooky stories might be more suited for older children and adults.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided haunted history narration and comfortable coach transportation.

Are there any additional costs?
No, food and drink are not included, and there are no extra charges mentioned for the stops.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 42 days ahead, indicating it’s popular and worth reserving early.

What makes this tour different from others?
The emphasis on expert storytelling and the variety of sites visited sets it apart—each stop offers a new ghost story or legend.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start, providing some flexibility.

Is the tour suitable for travelers unfamiliar with Minneapolis?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to showcase key landmarks and tell their ghost stories, making it a fun way to learn about the city’s spooky side.

In summary, the Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour offers a well-rounded, atmospheric journey through the city’s haunted locations, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the stories alive. It’s a fun, spooky night out that balances history with entertainment, perfect for travelers seeking something different and memorable. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, you’ll enjoy the storytelling, the scenery, and maybe even be left with a few ghostly tales of your own.