Uncover the Secrets of Wabasha Street Caves—St. Paul’s Most Mysterious Attraction!”
About the Wabasha Street Caves
Address: 215 Wabasha St S, St Paul, MN 55107
The Wabasha Street Caves in Saint Paul offer an exciting mix of history, mystery, and adventure—perfect for kids and parents alike! These man-made caves, originally carved for mining in the 1800s, have since served as a mushroom farm, speakeasy, and even a gangster hideout. Today, they welcome visitors of all ages for engaging tours that bring history to life in an unforgettable underground setting.
Family-Friendly Cave Tours
If you have little explorers, the Troll Tales Tour is a must. Designed for kids nine and under, this interactive tour includes a storytelling experience with a friendly troll guide. Plus, kids can create a fun craft to take home with them. It’s a fantastic way to introduce young kids to the magic of the caves without overwhelming them with too much history.
For families with kids six and up, the Historic Cave Tour offers a fascinating journey through the caves’ many transformations, from a silica mine to a Prohibition-era gangster hideout. You’ll hear thrilling stories about the notorious criminals who once gathered here—including an unsolved murder that still sparks ghostly legends today! This 45-minute tour is an excellent option for families looking for a mix of history and mystery without being too spooky.
For families with older kids (ages 8+), the Saint Paul Gangster Tour is a must. This two-hour motorcoach tour takes you around Saint Paul’s historic crime hotspots while a costumed gangster guide shares stories about infamous criminals like John Dillinger and Baby Face Nelson. It’s an action-packed history lesson that will leave everyone entertained.
Do you have tweens or teens? The Lost Souls Cave Tour (ages 10+) dives into the haunted side of the caves. This tour shares eerie stories of ghostly sightings and unexplained happenings. This tour isn’t meant to be terrifying, but it definitely adds a chill factor for families who enjoy a good ghost story.
Plan Your Visit
Tours can fill up quickly. We recommend that you purchase tickets in advance online or at the gift shop. Parking is available onsite, and the caves are handicap accessible. While tipping your tour guide isn’t required, it’s always appreciated.
If you haven’t visited the Wabasha Street Caves yet, add it to your family’s must-do list! Whether you’re uncovering gangster secrets, hunting for ghosts, or enjoying a magical troll adventure, these caves offer a one-of-a-kind experience for all ages.
Swing Dancing on Thursdays
Step back in time and dance the night away at Swing Dancing Night in the Wabasha Street Caves! Every Thursday, enjoy live Big Band music straight out of the 1920s. With no age requirements—everyone is welcome to join.
Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a first-timer, this is a fun weekly event for all ages! Free beginner lessons start at 6:15 p.m. each week, making it easy to jump right in.
Of course, you can dress in vintage attire for extra fun! Doors open at 6:15 p.m., and early arrival guarantees free parking.
Wabasha Street Cave Highlights
- 6 tours with different themes and varying lengths are available, including a tour designed specifically for kids.
- Tours focus on local history and events (not geology).
- The caves are not cold. They have heated and unheated sections (which never drop below about 55 degrees).
- Weekly swing dancing with a live band every Thursday.
Know Before You Go to the Wabasha Street Caves
- Website
- Hours vary by tour time
- Parking is available onsite (free)
- Upcoming Events
- Accessibility: all of the Caves are wheel-chair accessible
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
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