St. Paul Secret Stories Bar Crawl – Hidden Tales & History

If you’re curious about what lies beneath the quiet, genteel façade of Minnesota’s capital, this St. Paul Secret Stories Bar Crawl offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s more shadowy past. This 3-hour adventure takes you beyond the typical sightseeing route into the neighborhoods and taverns that played host to gangsters, bootleggers, and secret tunnels.

It’s a tour that blends history, local lore, and a good drink or two, perfect for those who enjoy stories with a bit of grit and authenticity.

What we especially like about this experience is how it combines storytelling with genuine historic locations, giving you a sense of the city’s less-polished side. The guides, praised for their knowledge and storytelling flair, make these tales come alive. Plus, the fact that you get skip-the-line access to some of St. Paul’s best bars means minimal waiting and more time for stories and drinks.

One potential consideration is that this tour is geared toward those 21 and older, which makes sense considering the focus on alcohol and nightlife. Also, the $79 price tag might seem steep for just three hours, but when you factor in expert-guided storytelling, exclusive access, and a couple of complimentary drinks, it offers good value for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate local history, enjoy a good cocktail, and aren’t afraid to explore the city’s darker, less-polished stories. It’s also a great choice for those who like guided walks that are both educational and entertaining.

This experience made our article of 2 Most Highly Rated Historical Tours In St Paul Minnesota.

Key Points

• Authentic stories: Dive into tales of bootleggers, gangsters, and corruption that most visitors never hear.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides reveal insider stories, making history come alive.
• Historic locations: Visit historic bars with underground tunnels and clandestine pasts.
• Skip-the-line access: Enjoy hassle-free entry to some of St. Paul’s most iconic drinking spots.
• Inclusive of drinks: One complimentary drink is included, with more available for purchase.
• Accessible and flexible: The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers flexible booking options, including free cancellation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The St. Paul Secret Stories Bar Crawl is designed to reveal the city’s hidden past through its bars and back alleys. Meeting your guide outside Cossetta’s, a well-known landmark, you’ll start with a quick orientation before stepping into the city’s backstreets. The tour lasts roughly three hours, usually in the afternoon, making it a perfect afternoon or early evening activity.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Visit and Why

Your guide will lead you through carefully selected historic bars, each with its own story. While the exact stops can vary slightly depending on the guide and day, here’s what you might expect:

Historic Bars with Secret Tunnels and Tales: Several of the bars on the route have underground tunnel systems that were used by Chicago criminals to evade law enforcement. These tunnels are a tangible reminder of the criminal activities that once flourished here. The stories of bootleggers like “Pig’s Eye Parrant” and notorious figures such as Machine Gun Kelly and the Barker Gang are brought vividly to life by your guide.

Bars with Criminal Connections: One highlight is the opportunity to learn how some establishments served as hideouts for gangsters and visitors from Chicago. The guide’s storytelling prowess makes these stories vivid, and you’ll get a sense of how intertwined the city’s law enforcement and underworld were—often in unofficial, secret arrangements.

Craft Cocktails and Premium Beers: While the focus is on history, you’ll appreciate the quality of the drinks served in these establishments. Many of the bars are award-winning breweries or historic taverns that offer a range of craft cocktails and premium beers, giving you a taste of local flavor as you learn about the city’s shadowy past.

The Underground Tunnels: Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the tour is access to underground tunnel systems used by criminals to evade law enforcement. These tunnels are mostly hidden beneath the city streets but are part of the lore that makes this tour unique.

What Guides Bring to the Table

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a major standout. Camille, Dan, and Collin, among others, are praised for their wide knowledge and ability to tailor stories to group interests. As one reviewer put it, “Dan is VERY knowledgeable and also tailored the tour to my interests.” Their local insights help paint a vivid picture of the city’s underground history and political corruption.

The Value of the Tour

At $79 per person, the price might seem steep at first glance, but when considering the personalized storytelling, skip-the-line access, and included drink, it becomes a worthwhile investment for history lovers. The tour’s intimate size—small groups typically lead to a more engaging experience—adds to its value, making it feel more like a personal exploration than a generic group outing.

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The Atmosphere and Experience

Expect a lively walk through historic downtown St. Paul, with each bar offering a different ambiance—some cozy and dark, others lively and bustling—each with its own story to tell. The tour is designed to blend storytelling with socializing, making it a fun way to experience the city’s less-visible side. Expect to walk between 2-3 bars, each with its own character and secrets.

The Reviews Speak

The feedback from past participants strongly praises the guides’ knowledge and storytelling. One reviewer called Camille “outstanding,” while others appreciated the way Dan’s tailored approach made the stories more engaging. Even visitors who are not typically history buffs found themselves captivated by the tales of gangsters and bootleggers, showing how well the stories are told.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy history, especially stories of crime, prohibition, and underground tunnels. It also suits those who appreciate good local beer and cocktails, blending cultural exploration with social fun. If you’re traveling with a group of friends, or even solo but looking for an engaging way to meet like-minded people, this tour delivers.

People who prefer structured, scripted tours might find it a bit informal, but most find the guides’ storytelling makes it feel personal and authentic. Keep in mind, it’s only for those over 21, given the alcohol focus. If you’re looking for family-friendly sightseeing, this probably isn’t the right fit.

Final Thoughts

This bar crawl offers more than just a night out; it’s a journey into the hidden, often overlooked corners of St. Paul’s history. The combination of expertly told stories, historic locations, and quality drinks makes it a well-rounded experience for those eager to see a different side of the city.

We think this tour excels at bringing to light the clandestine tales that shaped St. Paul’s character. The guides’ deep knowledge and friendly manner make the stories memorable. It’s ideal for travelers with an interest in local lore, history buffs, or anyone curious about how the city’s criminal past influences its present.

While it’s not a budget activity, the mix of storytelling, exclusive access, and drinks make it a solid value. Just be prepared to walk, listen, and enjoy some of the city’s best bars in a different way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since it includes drinks and is geared toward those over 21, non-drinkers might find it less appealing. However, you can enjoy the stories regardless of alcohol consumption.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours, usually in the afternoon, offering plenty of time for stories and a few drinks.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet your guide in blue outside Cossetta’s restaurant. Remember, you don’t go inside the restaurant, just meet outside.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a wider range of travelers.

What should I bring?
Just bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and some cash for additional drinks or tips.

How many people are in a group?
Since it’s a small-group experience, you can expect it to be intimate and personal, ideal for engaging conversations.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
No special preparation is necessary, just arrive ready to listen, walk, and enjoy the stories.

To sum it up, the St. Paul Secret Stories Bar Crawl offers a uniquely engaging way to explore Minnesota’s capital city. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of its clandestine past, a few new drinks, and hopefully some memorable stories to share. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun, behind-the-scenes experience, this tour is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby