St. Paul Ghost Tour (USGTAD)
Meeting point
Forepaugh’s 2nd Mansion. 302 Summit Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
Duration
1 hour
Start time
Nightly at 8:00 PM (check seasonal calendar for variations).
Tour Operator
Overview
Walk Among the Restless Spirits of St. Paul’s Gilded Age
Uncover the dark side of Minnesota’s capital on the St. Paul Ghost Tour, the definitive haunted history tour through the legendary Summit Avenue district. Known for its breathtaking Victorian mansions and elite heritage, St. Paul holds a "disturbingly dark chronology" that predates European contact and stretches through the scandals of the Gilded Age.
On this gripping ghost walk, you will trade the city's polished facade for a journey into the shadows, where the spirits of bootleggers, tragic maids, and broken-hearted barons still roam.
Led by local experts from US Ghost Adventures, this haunted tour is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling. As you traverse the gas-lit streets, you’ll discover why St. Paul is considered one of the most haunted cities in the Midwest.
Whether you are a dedicated paranormal investigator or a curious visitor looking for St. Paul ghost tours, this experience blends verified historical research with bone-chilling eyewitness accounts. From the cursed grounds of local parks to the imposing silhouettes of historic estates, this haunted history tour promises an unforgettable evening of mystery and "misery, mayhem, and murder."
What to Expect
Your ghost walk begins in the heart of the historic district, where your lantern-bearing guide will lead you on a one-mile trek through the eerie silence of the night. This isn't just a tour; it’s a deep dive into the psychic residue left by St. Paul's most notorious residents.
- Forepaugh’s Mansion: Stand before the site of a tragic turn-of-the-century love triangle. Hear the heartbreaking tale of Joseph Forepaugh and the maid, Molly, whose spirits are said to still inhabit the lavish halls of this grand estate.
- Cochran Park: Discover why this seemingly peaceful green space is a hotspot for paranormal activity, with reports of spectral children playing in the shadows near the park’s historic sculptures.
- The "Lemon Meringue" House: Visit the exterior of the William Butler House, where the yellow-hued walls hide stories of eerie occurrences that have baffled residents for generations.
- F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Ghost: Explore the legacy of the Great Gatsby author and the mysterious "green lights" seen flickering in the windows of his former residence.
- Burbank-Livingston-Griggs Mansion: Encounter the history of the second-oldest home on Summit Avenue, famed for its restless spectral inhabitants and unexplained noises.
This outdoor haunted walk proceeds in most weather conditions, so please dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes for the mile-long journey. The route is entirely wheelchair and stroller-friendly, making it an accessible paranormal experience for almost everyone.
While the atmosphere is thick with suspense, the tour focuses on authentic lore and historical fact rather than manufactured frights. For those seeking "ghost tours near me" in the Twin Cities, this walk offers the perfect intersection of Victorian beauty and supernatural dread.
No private lot; use the Lowry Ramp or metered street parking along Summit Ave and Selby Ave. Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
No restrooms on tour; please plan ahead. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Wheelchair and stroller accessible via paved city sidewalks. (for more info contact tour operator)
Standard pets are not allowed; service animals are permitted per ADA guidelines.
No entry into buildings; stories are told from outside at public vantage points. (for more info contact tour operator)
Recommended for ages 13+ due to mature themes of true crime. (for more info, contact tour operator)
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FaQ's
what is a ghost tour
A ghost tour is a guided experience that explores haunted locations and shares stories of paranormal activity, local legends, and historical events. These tours often take place at night in historic towns, cemeteries, or old buildings, blending history with spine-tingling storytelling. Ghost tours offer a fun and immersive way to learn about a location’s past while enjoying a spooky adventure.
Why do people go on ghost tours?
People go on ghost tours to explore local history, hear chilling stories, and experience the thrill of the unknown. Ghost tours blend entertainment, folklore, and real historical events, making them popular with travelers, paranormal enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique nighttime adventure. They’re a fun way to discover hidden stories, learn about haunted locations, and enjoy a memorable, spine-tingling experience.
Is a ghost tour scary?
A ghost tour can be spooky, but it’s usually not overwhelmingly scary. Most ghost tours focus on storytelling, history, and exploring haunted locations rather than jump scares or intense horror. The level of fear often depends on the setting, the guide, and your own comfort with eerie tales. They’re designed to be enjoyable for most people, including beginners who want a fun, slightly spooky experience.
What is ghost tourism
Ghost tourism, also known as spooky tourism, is a type of travel focused on visiting haunted locations, paranormal sites, and historic places with spooky stories. It combines history, folklore, and supernatural experiences, attracting travelers who enjoy ghost tours, haunted attractions, and eerie adventures. Ghost tourism offers a unique way to explore a destination’s culture while experiencing thrilling, memorable moments.
What to Expect on a Ghost Tour?
A ghost tour typically combines history, storytelling, and paranormal legends as you explore haunted locations, old towns, and places known for unexplained activity. Expect your guide to share true local stories, including tragic events, mysterious sightings, and eerie folklore tied to the area’s past. Many tours visit historic buildings, cemeteries, alleyways, and landmark sites after dark to heighten the atmosphere.
Most ghost tours are walking tours, so prepare for 60–90 minutes of light to moderate walking, sometimes on uneven ground or dimly lit streets. Some guides may use ghost-hunting tools—like EMF meters or spirit boxes—to demonstrate paranormal investigation techniques, giving you an interactive experience.
You can expect a mix of education, entertainment, and spooky fun, but not guaranteed scares or staged jump moments. The goal is to immerse you in the history, mystery, and unexplained stories that shape each location. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, a ghost tour offers a unique way to discover a city’s hidden past and explore its most haunted corners.
What to Bring on a Ghost Tour?
Preparing properly can make your ghost tour safer, more comfortable, and far more enjoyable. Here are the key items guests are recommended to bring to any ghost walk, haunted history tour, or paranormal investigation.
Essentials:
Comfortable walking shoes for uneven or historic streets
Weather-appropriate clothing: jacket, hoodie, or raincoat
Fully charged phone for photos, notes, or emergencies
Small torch/flashlight for dark areas
Helpful Extras:
Portable power bank for devices or ghost-hunting apps
Bottle of water to stay hydrated
Bug spray for outdoor or older locations
Small backpack or crossbody bag to keep hands free
Optional Paranormal Gear:
EMF detector for interactive ghost-hunting
Thermometer for detecting “cold spots”
Notebook & pen for logging encounters
Red-filtered flashlight to maintain night vision
Safety & Comfort:
Small snacks for longer or late-night tours
Personal medication if needed
Hand sanitizer or wipes for older buildings and high-touch areas