Twin City Ghosts Tour By US Ghost Adventures

If you’re looking for an unusual way to experience the Twin Cities after dark, the Twin City Ghosts Tour might just be your perfect pick. Offered by US Ghost Adventures, this one-hour walking tour winds through historic Summit Avenue, revealing haunted homes, parks, and intriguing stories of supernatural activity.

What we love about this tour is its perfect blend of history and ghostly tales — it’s not just about scares but about understanding the stories that give these beautiful old buildings and spots their eerie reputation. Plus, the affordable price of $24 makes it accessible for most travelers.

However, it’s worth noting that since it’s an outdoor evening walk, winter or chilly months might be less comfortable. Also, if you’re expecting high-intensity ghost encounters, keep in mind the stories tend to lean more toward atmospheric storytelling rather than constant paranormal activity.

This tour suits history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone curious about the supernatural side of Minneapolis-Saint Paul. It’s a relaxed, engaging experience that offers a different perspective on the Twin Cities’ storied past.

This experience made our article of Minneapolis Saint Paul’s 4 Best City Tours.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of architecture, history, and ghost stories.
• Guided by knowledgeable and engaging storytellers.
• Affordable pricing with great value for the hour-long experience.
• Suitable for all ages with a moderate physical activity level.
• Ideal for those interested in local lore, haunted spots, and beautiful old homes.
• Weather-dependent, best during milder seasons.

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

An Introduction to Haunted Summit Avenue

Starting promptly at 8:00 pm at 302 Summit Ave in St. Paul, this tour begins as a walk through one of the most historic and visually stunning streets in the Twin Cities. The guide kicks things off with a quick overview of the area’s ghostly reputation, setting an atmospheric tone that’s perfect for a night walk.

Forepaugh’s Mansion: Opulence Meets the Supernatural

Your first stop is the Forepaugh’s Mansion, a grand estate with a tragic past. Built as a symbol of opulence, today it’s linked with reports of spectral whispers and ghostly apparitions. The lush, historic architecture adds a silent grandeur that makes the stories even more compelling. As one review notes, this mansion is renowned for its eerie hauntings, and it’s easy to imagine the ghosts whispering in shadowed corners.

Stuart House: The Oldest Home’s Restless Spirit

Next, you’ll visit the Stuart House, built in 1858. It’s the oldest residence on Summit Avenue, and stories of a restless spirit lurking inside have circulated for years. The house’s age and history add layers to its ghostly reputation, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs. Reviewers mention that seeing some of these historic homes up close “keeps you entertained on a chilly March night,” highlighting the charm of the neighborhood.

Cochran Park: Haunted Children’s Laughter?

Moving on to Cochran Park, established in 1926, this spot has a dark reputation. The park’s pool area is said to be haunted by the spirits of children, with some visitors describing a playful yet unsettling presence. The dark shadows of the park and the eerie echoes add to the spooky vibe, especially in the quiet of night. One reviewer called it “a dark history and ghostly lore” that makes the park feel like a portal to another time.

Nathan Hale Park and the Patriot’s Ghost

Your next stop is the Nathan Hale Park Statue—a tribute to the American patriot. Rumors whisper of spectral sightings and eerie whispers near the statue, adding a layer of intrigue to the location’s patriotic significance. The story of Nathan Hale lends a historical weight to the ghost stories, connecting past and supernatural.

The Haunting of Burbank Livingston Griggs Mansion

This second oldest home on Summit Avenue (built in 1863) is famed for its ghostly activity. Visitors report eerie noises and ghostly figures, and some reviews mention the mansion’s “grand, aged rooms” as a perfect setting for ghostly encounters. The Italianate architecture and historic ambiance make it easy to imagine spirits lingering in the shadows.

Madame Clifford Statue: A Mysterious Monument

The Madame Clifford Statue commemorates an influential figure from the early 20th century. Reputedly linked to ghostly phenomena, sightings of a female apparition dressed in 1920s attire are common. The statue itself, combined with these stories, gives the location an unsettling charm that resonates with visitors.

The Chilling Chauncey-Griggs Mansion

Built in 1885, the Chauncey-Griggs Mansion is a highlight for many. With its Romanesque design, it’s a visual treat. Ghost stories involve a haunting maid from the early 20th century who is said to still linger in the mansion’s grand rooms. One reviewer remarked that the “eerie noises” and “shadowy corridors” make this a must-see stop.

The Lemon Meringue House and the Fitzgerald Connection

Your tour concludes at the William Butler House, also known as “The Lemon Meringue House.” Built in 1914, it’s reputedly haunted with unexplained sightings and ghostly apparitions. Interestingly, this house was once home to F. Scott Fitzgerald, and some visitors report hearing unsettling whispers echoing the author’s legendary stories. It’s a fitting end to a tour that fuses literary intrigue with ghostly tales.

The Guide and Group Size: What to Expect

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable, personable guides—people like Patty, Kevin, Ty, and George—who bring a blend of humor, storytelling skill, and local insight. Their enthusiasm makes the experience engaging even for skeptics. The tour typically has up to 35 travelers, which strikes a good balance between an intimate experience and a lively group.

Timing and Comfort

The one-hour walk is manageable and not strenuous, but travelers should be prepared for outdoor conditions. The tour begins at 8:00 pm and ends back at the starting point, making it convenient for an evening activity. If you’re visiting during colder months, dress warmly, especially since reviews mention chilly nights and a few even took the opportunity to rent EMF detectors to enhance their experience.

The Value for Money

At $24 per person, this tour offers remarkable value. You get a guided walk through historic neighborhoods, engaging stories, and the chance to experience the city from a different perspective—at night, when the homes and parks take on a ghostly glow. Several reviewers called it a “great value,” especially considering the depth of information and atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book in advance — most people reserve about 10 days ahead, likely due to limited availability or seasonal popularity.
• Prepare for weather — dress warmly, especially in winter.
• Arrive on time — the tour starts at 8:00 pm sharp at 302 Summit Ave.
• Bring an EMF detector — some guests have found these light up at various locations, adding to the fun.
• Moderate physical fitness required — the walk is generally relaxed but covers several notable sites.
• No food or drinks included, but there are plenty of dining options afterward, including Forepaughs for a haunted dinner experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost tour is perfect for those interested in historic architecture, local legends, or paranormal stories delivered with wit and insight. It’s well suited for adults and older children—because the stories are atmospheric rather than overly frightening.

If you enjoy nighttime strolls, beautiful old homes, and stories that link past and present, you’ll find this tour a charming way to see a different side of the Twin Cities. The mix of history, architecture, and supernatural tales creates a memorable experience that’s both fun and slightly spine-tingling.

Final Thoughts

The Twin City Ghosts Tour offers an engaging, affordable way to explore Minneapolis-Saint Paul’s historic streets after dark. The knowledgeable guides and stunning architecture combined with spooky stories make for a compelling evening outing. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the stories and atmosphere can add a playful, mysterious flavor to your visit.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate history, architecture, and a little ghostly fun without the need for high adrenaline or extreme scares. The tour’s moderate length and relaxed pace make it accessible and enjoyable, even in cooler seasons.

In short, if you’re curious about the haunted side of the Twin Cities and want an evening that combines storytelling, history, and a touch of the supernatural, this tour is worth considering. It’s a memorable way to see part of St. Paul through a different lens — one filled with ghostly whispers and historic charm.

FAQ

How long is the Twin City Ghosts Tour?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it a perfect short evening activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 302 Summit Ave, St. Paul, and ends back at the same location.

What is the best time to take the tour?
It starts at 8:00 pm, ideal for experiencing the neighborhood in the dark and enjoying the spooky ambiance.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally appropriate for older children and adults who enjoy stories and architecture. It’s not overly frightening but atmospheric.

Do I need to wear special clothes?
Dress warmly, especially during fall and winter. Since it’s an outdoor walk, layers and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are the stories fact-based?
The guide shares a mix of historical facts and local lore, designed to entertain and intrigue. Some stories involve reports of paranormal activity, but these are based on local legend and eyewitness accounts.

Can I bring my own ghost-detecting device?
Yes! Some guests bring EMF detectors or similar gadgets, and several have reported interesting readings at key locations.

What is the price, and is it good value?
At $24, it’s an affordable, value-packed hour of entertainment that combines history and storytelling. Many reviews highlight its great value considering the guided experience and unique sights.

Ready for a night of history and ghost stories? This tour offers a fun, atmospheric way to explore Minneapolis-Saint Paul’s haunted side, perfect for curious travelers eager to add some mystery to their trip.