St. Paul Historic Cave Tour

Explore the Only Restored Gangster Era Site in Saint Paul

The St. Paul Historic Cave Tour offers an exciting journey into the past at the Wabasha Street Caves, a unique site carved into the hillside near downtown Saint Paul. For $15 per person, this one-hour guided experience unlocks stories from a time when these caves served as a gangster hot spot during Prohibition. The tour is highly recommended, with 95% of visitors suggesting it to friends and family.

Starting at 215 Wabasha St S, the tour immerses you in over a century of local history, from abandoned mining ventures of the 1800s to their more infamous role in the 1930s mafia scene. The guided tour features colorful stories and historical insights from guides known for their personable and engaging style. With free parking available and Wi-Fi access, it’s a convenient and educational outing for locals, visitors, and families alike.

While most tours are booked 10 days in advance, it’s best to plan ahead to secure your spot. Keep in mind that the caves are around 50°F, so layering your clothing is advisable. This experience offers a mix of history, entertainment, and a peek into Saint Paul’s lesser-known past.

Key Points

• Price: Only $15 per person for a one-hour guided tour
• Location: Starts at 215 Wabasha St S, Saint Paul
• History Focus: Former mining caves turned gangster hideout during Prohibition
• Tour Length: Approximately 1 hour
• Group Size: Limited to 100 travelers, ensuring an engaging experience
• Extras: Free parking and Wi-Fi access at the site

The Wabasha Street Caves: A Historic Mining and Mafia Hotspot

The Wabasha Street Caves are carved into the hillside, originally created through long-abandoned mining ventures in the 1800s. Over the years, these caves have been repurposed multiple times, but the most notable chapter remains their association with gangsters during the 1930s. This history makes them a distinctive attraction in Saint Paul, combining industrial archaeology with criminal lore.

During the tour, guides share colorful stories about the caves’ transformation from mining sites to Mafia hideouts. Visitors learn about the prohibition era when the caves became a hotspot for illegal activities. The restoration of the site ensures that the gangster-era features are preserved for visitors to explore safely.

Guided Tour with Engaging and Knowledgeable Guides

The success of the tour rests heavily on the guides’ storytelling ability and their passion for local history. Reviewers praise guides like Ellie, Deborah, and Tyra for their entertaining, personable, and well-informed narration. They bring the caves to life with stories of gangsters, prohibition, and local lore, making the experience both fun and educational.

Tour guides are known for their humor and storytelling flair, with some guides, like Ellie, making the stories particularly vivid. The average tour length of 60 minutes allows for a relaxed pace that keeps visitors engaged without feeling rushed. With most guides being described as funny and kind, you’ll find the atmosphere welcoming and lively.

What You Will See Inside the Caves

The guided tour covers the extensive caves carved into the hillside, which were originally part of mining ventures in the 1800s. As you walk through, you’ll see the preserved features that highlight the caves’ industrial past, along with stories of their gangster associations in the 1930s.

The caves are designed to educate visitors on the various uses and histories of the space, from abandoned mining to a mobster hideout. The temperature inside remains around 50°F, so bringing layers or jackets is highly recommended.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Accessibility, and Parking

The tour begins at 215 Wabasha St S, a central location easily accessible from public transportation. Free parking is available on-site, making it simple for visitors driving in. The caves are accessible to most travelers, with service animals allowed.

The mobile ticket system simplifies the booking process, and confirmation is received immediately upon booking. The tour is suited for most travelers, including families, with most people able to participate comfortably. Since the caves are underground and cool, wearing comfortable layers is a smart choice.

The Group Size and Tour Atmosphere

The maximum number of travelers is 100, ensuring the tour remains intimate enough for lively storytelling and interaction. Reviewers highlight the personal touch of the guides, with many describing guides as hilarious, knowledgeable, and engaging.

This setting creates a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who enjoy storytelling, history, or simply a fun outing. Whether you’re local or visiting, the small group size makes it easy to ask questions and feel included.

Pricing, Booking, and Cancellation Policy

At just $15, this tour offers fantastic value for a rich historical experience. It’s recommended to book about 10 days in advance since most bookings fill up quickly. The experience is non-refundable, with no option for cancellations or changes once booked.

The tour is ideal for those interested in local history, gangster lore, and underground caves. It provides an affordable way to learn about Saint Paul’s past while enjoying a lively guided experience.

Experienced Guides Make the Difference

Multiple reviews praise the guides’ storytelling skills. Mary, Ellie, Deborah, and Tyra are all noted for their humor, knowledge, and warmth, making the tour both educational and entertaining. Guides often incorporate visual aids, such as pictures, to complement their stories, though some guests wished for more visual content.

Their passion for the caves’ history shines through, creating a memorable experience that feels personal. Expect funny anecdotes mixed with historical facts that make the hour fly by.

The Experience’s Suitability for Different Visitors

This tour suits families, history buffs, and local residents interested in Saint Paul’s underground past. It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors looking for an affordable, engaging activity near downtown Saint Paul.

The caves’ cool temperature means visitors should bring a jacket or layers to stay comfortable. The easy access and short duration make it suitable for most ages and physical abilities.

Final Thoughts on the Wabasha Street Caves Tour

The St. Paul Historic Cave Tour offers a highly rated, affordable, and engaging experience into Saint Paul’s underground history. With top-notch guides, fascinating stories, and a unique gangster-era setting, it captures the imagination of all who visit.

While the caves are cool and underground, which requires layering, the entertaining narration and rich history make it a worthwhile outing. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun activity, this tour is well worth the $15 investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 1 hour, providing a relaxed but engaging look into the caves’ history.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $15 per person, making it an affordable option for many visitors.

Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is available at the Wabasha Street Caves location.

What should I wear?
The caves are kept around 50°F, so layers or jackets are recommended to stay comfortable during the tour.

Can I bring service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

How do I book the tour?
Bookings are made through a mobile ticket system, and it’s best to reserve 10 days in advance to secure your spot.