Stillwater Ghost Walk
Meeting point
401 Main Street South Stillwater, MN 55082
Duration
90 mins
Start time
Typically Thurs/Fri/Sat evenings. Check the operators’ calendar for seasonal dates.
Tour Operator
Overview
Step into the shadows of the "Birthplace of Minnesota" with the Stillwater Ghost Walk, the premier haunted history tour in this historic river town. As the sun sets over the St. Croix River, Stillwater transforms from a picturesque getaway into a landscape of lingering spirits and unsettled legends. This ghost walk takes you through the heart of downtown Stillwater, where the echoes of the mid-1800s lumber boom still resonate in the brick and mortar of its oldest structures.
This haunted tour is meticulously researched, blending verified local history with chilling paranormal reports. You’ll explore the dark side of a city built on the grit of lumberjacks and the secrets of the frontier.
Whether you are a local or a visitor looking for paranormal tours near the Twin Cities, this experience offers a unique perspective on Minnesota’s most haunted town. Led by expert storytellers from American Ghost Walks, you will uncover why Stillwater remains a hotspot for spectral activity, making this a must-do ghost tour for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike.
What to Expect
During this 90-minute haunted walk, your guide will lead you on a one-mile journey through the historic streets, stopping at landmarks that have baffled paranormal investigators for decades.
- The Warden’s House Museum: Discover the heavy atmosphere of the home that housed thirteen different wardens of the Minnesota State Prison, where reports of ghostly footsteps and apparitions have persisted for nearly a century.
- The Lowell Inn: Visit the exterior of this "Mt. Vernon of the Midwest," a 1927 landmark where celebrities like Johnny Cash have stayed, but some permanent guests never checked out.
- The St. Croix Riverfront: Hear the macabre tale of "Fisherman John" Jeremy, a man whose unique business was recovering drowned bodies from the river’s depths—and the spirits he may have stirred.
- Austin Jenks Home: Learn about the steamboat captain who brought the first electricity to the region and why some believe he still watches over his historic property.
This is an outdoor ghost walk that proceeds rain or shine, so please dress for the Minnesota weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. The terrain includes standard city sidewalks, making it a manageable paranormal experience for most fitness levels.
While the stories cover eerie themes like true crime and Native American legends, the tour is family-friendly and focuses on atmospheric storytelling rather than theatrical jump-scares. For those searching for "ghost tours near me," this walk provides the perfect blend of eerie folklore and authentic local heritage.
Public city lots (Lot 8a, 10) and ramps available. Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
No restrooms on the walking route; use public facilities at Lowell Park or local cafes pre-tour.. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Mostly flat sidewalks; some historic unevenness. Advise operator in advance for assistance.
Service animals only; no pets allowed to ensure a focused storytelling environment.
Exteriors only; explore the architecture and haunts from the sidewalk.
Recommended for ages 13+ due to mature historical themes and spooky atmosphere. (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