St. Paul’s Historic Cave Tour is a must-visit attraction for anyone curious about the city’s captivating past. Visitors can embark on a one-hour journey through the restored Wabasha Street Caves, exploring the intriguing Prohibition-era history that’s brought to life by knowledgeable guides. From tales of bootlegging and speakeasies to the city’s infamous gangster activities, this family-friendly tour offers an engaging and accessible experience for all ages. Dress in layers to stay comfortable as you explore this unique historical site, where the cool cave temperature sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure.
This experience made our list of the 14 Best Tours In Minneapolis Saint Paul.
Good To Know
- The 1-hour guided tour explores the restored Gangster Era Wabasha Street Caves, providing insights into St. Paul’s Prohibition-era history.
- Knowledgeable and engaging guides deliver captivating storytelling about the caves’ past as hubs for bootlegging, speakeasies, and illicit activities.
- The caves maintain a comfortable temperature of ~50°F, allowing visitors to explore the dimly lit passages while dressing appropriately in layers.
- The tour accommodates up to 100 people and is family-friendly, with wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as free on-site parking.
- Visitors consistently praise the tour for its entertaining and informative content, creating an immersive experience that fosters appreciation for St. Paul’s storied history.
Tour Overview and Details
The St. Paul Historic Cave Tour offers an engaging and unique experience for both locals and visitors alike. This 1-hour guided tour takes guests through the restored Gangster Era Wabasha Street Caves, where they’ll hear captivating stories about the site’s history from Prohibition to the present day.
With a 4.7-star rating and a 95% recommendation rate from previous travelers, the tour is a must-do activity in St. Paul. Accommodating up to 100 people, the tour is family-friendly and accessible, with free parking on-site.
Visitors are advised to dress in layers, as the caves maintain a cool temperature of around 50°F. Whether you’re seeking historical insights or simply an entertaining outing, this tour promises an immersive and memorable experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Minneapolis Saint Paul.
Exploring the Wabasha Street Caves
What exactly lies within the historic Wabasha Street Caves?
Descending underground, visitors discover a captivating relic from St. Paul’s Prohibition-era past. Once a hub for gangster activity, the caves now host guided tours that transport guests back in time.
Knowledgeable guides bring the site’s colorful history to life, regaling visitors with tales of bootlegging, speakeasies, and illicit dealings. Winding through the dimly lit passages, guests can almost feel the weight of the city’s storied past.
With temperatures around 50°F, the caves offer a refreshing escape, perfect for learning about St. Paul’s shadowy underworld and the intriguing characters who once roamed these halls.
Captivating Gangster Era Storytelling
Knowledgeable tour guides captivate visitors with their engaging storytelling, transporting them back to the Prohibition-era gangster underworld of St. Paul’s Wabasha Street Caves.
Through a treasure trove of historical anecdotes, the guides bring to life the caves’ notorious past as speakeasies, gambling dens, and hideouts for the city’s most notorious criminal elements.
Visitors are enthralled by tales of:
- Mobsters and bootleggers taking refuge in the shadowy recesses of the caves
- Dramatic raids and shootouts between law enforcement and gangsters
- The caves’ transformation from a hub of illicit activity to a preserved historical site
This captivating experience leaves guests with a deeper appreciation for St. Paul’s storied past.
Knowledgeable and Passionate Tour Guides
Captivating the attention of tour-goers, the knowledgeable guides of the St. Paul Historic Cave Tour expertly bring the site’s colorful past to life.
Visitors repeatedly praise the guides’ engaging storytelling, describing them as "funny," "passionate," and brimming with historical insights.
Whether recounting tales of Prohibition-era gangsters or shedding light on the caves’ more recent history, the guides seamlessly weave together captivating narratives that leave guests enthralled.
Their deep understanding of the site’s significance, combined with a genuine enthusiasm for sharing it, creates an immersive experience that brings the St. Paul caves’ storied legacy to life in vivid detail.
Family-Friendly Caving Adventure
Although the caves maintain a cooler temperature around 50°F, the St. Paul Historic Cave Tour offers a family-friendly caving adventure that captivates visitors of all ages.
Children as young as 5 can join in the exploration, making it an engaging experience for the whole family.
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The guides expertly weave historical tales, bringing the Prohibition-era stories to life with passion and humor.
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Wheelchair and stroller accessibility ensure the tour is inclusive, allowing everyone to discover the unique underground world.
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With free parking on-site and nearby public transportation, the cave tour is easily accessible for families looking to enjoy St. Paul’s captivating past.
Maintaining a Comfortable Temperature
The St. Paul Historic Cave Tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s past, and maintaining a comfortable temperature is an important aspect of the experience.
The caves themselves maintain a steady temperature of around 50°F, making it essential for visitors to dress appropriately. Tour organizers recommend that guests bring jackets or layers to stay warm during the one-hour excursion.
This temperature control helps to preserve the historic integrity of the caves while ensuring a pleasant experience for all.
Whether you’re exploring the caves for the first time or revisiting this captivating attraction, dressing for the cool environment will help you fully learn about the fascinating stories of St. Paul’s gangster-era past.
Visitor Feedback and Experiences
Visitors to the St. Paul Historic Cave Tour are consistently impressed with their experience. Many reviews highlight the entertaining and informative nature of the tour guides, whose captivating storytelling and deep historical knowledge enhance the overall experience.
- Guides are often described as knowledgeable, funny, and passionate, bringing the caves’ Prohibition-era stories to life in engaging ways.
The tour also appeals to families, with visitors noting its suitability for children aged 5 and older, making it an educational and enjoyable outing for all.
The cave’s unique setting and well-preserved history create an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression on both first-time visitors and local history enthusiasts.
Parking, Accessibility, and Amenities
Free on-site parking is available for visitors to the St. Paul Historic Cave Tour, making it convenient to explore the site. The cave tour is also wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience for all. Service animals are welcome as well. Visitors can take advantage of the nearby public transportation options, too.
Amenity | Available | Notes |
---|---|---|
Parking | Yes | Free on-site |
Wheelchair/Stroller Access | Yes | Accessible |
Service Animals | Yes | Allowed |
Public Transportation | Yes | Nearby options |
The on-site facilities include restrooms and Wi-Fi, providing comfort and connectivity during the tour. The St. Paul Historic Cave Tour caters to a wide range of visitors, prioritizing accessibility and convenience.
Things To Known
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the tour, though guides may ask that flash photography be avoided to preserve the historic atmosphere. Check with the tour staff for any specific photography guidelines.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour is family-friendly and welcomes visitors of all ages. There’s no specific age restriction, though it’s recommended for children aged 5 and older to best enjoy the informative and engaging experience.
How Far in Advance Should I Book the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, so it’s suitable for visitors of all ages. As for booking, it’s recommended to reserve your spot several days in advance, as the tours can fill up, especially during peak seasons.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
The tour doesn’t offer any discounts or package deals, but visitors can save by booking tickets in advance online. There aren’t any special offers, but the standard admission price provides good value for the engaging historical experience.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The cancellation and refund policy states that the tour tickets are non-refundable. Confirmation is provided upon booking, so it’s best to ensure your schedule aligns with the tour date before purchasing tickets.
Sum Up
The St. Paul Historic Cave Tour offers a captivating journey through the Wabasha Street Caves, immersing visitors in the city’s intriguing Prohibition-era history. With engaging storytelling from knowledgeable guides, guests can explore the gangster past and discover the cool, comfortable atmosphere of this unique historical site. It’s a perfect family-friendly outing with accessible facilities, making it an enjoyable experience for all ages.
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