Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour

Exploring Minneapolis’ Haunted Corners: The Ghost Bus Tour Experience

When it comes to spooky adventures, the Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour offers a captivating mix of history, ghost stories, and atmospheric sights. Although we haven’t taken it ourselves, detailed reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect from this 3-hour journey. Guided by knowledgeable experts, the tour promises a fun, slightly eerie look at the city’s darker tales—perfect for those interested in ghost lore, local history, or just a different way to see Minneapolis after hours.

What we love about this experience? First, the expert guides who bring the stories alive with their insights and enthusiasm. Second, the carefully curated stops—each with its own spine-tingling history—like the Foshay Tower and Mill Ruins Park. Third, the comfort of traveling on a coach, making it easy to relax and soak in the stories without walking through dark streets. That said, one thing to consider is that, being a bus tour, it’s not ideal for those wanting a full walking experience or up-close investigations into each site. It’s best suited for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and those seeking a fun, atmospheric night out in Minneapolis.

Good To Know

• Live-guided tour with expert insights into Minneapolis’ haunted history
• Comfortable coach transportation for an easy exploration of multiple landmarks
• Free stops at notable haunted sites like Foshay Tower, Mill Ruins Park, and more
• Engaging stories blending historical facts and ghostly legends
• Affordable price point of $59 per person for a 3-hour adventure
• Ideal for those interested in history, paranormal stories, or unique city tours

A Detailed Look at the Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour

Starting Point: W Minneapolis – The Foshay

The tour kicks off at the stylish W Minneapolis hotel, located at 821 S Marquette Ave. Here, your guide gathers everyone and sets the tone for an evening full of spooky tales. The meeting point’s central location makes it easy to access, and most travelers book about 42 days in advance, which hints at its popularity. Starting at 7:00 pm, the tour takes you into the night, just as Minneapolis begins to settle into its darker side.

The Stops and What They Offer

Minneapolis City Hall
The first stop is the iconic City Hall, with its towering clock and imposing façade. According to local legends, it’s haunted by a former janitor whose footsteps are often heard echoing through the halls after hours. While the stop is only 15 minutes long, the stories shared here set a spooky tone for the night. One reviewer noted, “the guide was very knowledgeable of Minneapolis’s history,” and mentioned that tales like these make the tour engaging.

Minneapolis Institute of Art
Next, the tour visits the art museum, where staff have reported strange encounters with ghostly figures roaming the darkened galleries. This adds an eerie layer to the tour, especially considering the quiet, almost sacred feel of an art institution after hours. The 15-minute stop allows for a quick glimpse into the supernatural claims that surround this cultural site.

Van Dusen Mansion
The Van Dusen Mansion is another highlight—an elegant historic home where staff have experienced ghostly apparitions wandering the darkened rooms. This stop lasts about 20 minutes and often leaves visitors intrigued. The mansion’s architecture and ambiance amplify the ghostly stories, making it a favorite among attendees.

Eli’s Food & Cocktails
Here, the focus shifts from ghost stories to a fascinating local crime story—Harry Hayward, known as the “Minneapolis Svengali,” and his notorious murder trial. This 10-minute stop offers a break from supernatural tales but adds depth to the city’s darker history. Reviewers appreciated the guide’s detailed storytelling, which made even the crime tales compelling.

Mill Ruins Park
As night falls, the crumbling remains of Mill Ruins Park become shrouded in shadows. Rumors speak of restless spirits of mill workers still wandering among the ruins. The 20-minute stop is atmospheric, and many find it a hauntingly beautiful reminder of Minneapolis’ industrial past.

Foshay Tower
The Foshay Tower is perhaps the most iconic haunted site on the tour. Legend says the ghost of its creator haunts the halls, whispering unfinished dreams into the night. Lasting around 30 minutes, this stop offers ample opportunity to absorb the stories. An authentic sense of history combined with ghostly legends makes it a standout.

Washington Avenue Bridge
This bridge is famous for ghost stories of spirits seen crossing over the Mississippi River. With 15 minutes allocated, the stop offers a brief but atmospheric experience, perfect for those who love urban legends tied to recognizable landmarks.

First Avenue & 7th St Entry
Music lovers will recognize First Avenue, made legendary by Prince’s Purple Rain. Ghostly tales involve a female apparition seen in a green army jacket in the women’s restroom. In just 15 minutes, you get a taste of Minneapolis’ vibrant music scene haunted by a spooky presence. One reviewer noted, “the stories of Prince’s hauntings add a fun twist to the tour.”

Guthrie Theater
The Minneapolis theater is known for its haunted reputation, with stories of an usher who keeps coming back to work after death. The 10-minute stop provides a theatrical feel, blending the arts and ghost lore seamlessly.

Saint Anthony Main
Along the Mississippi River, this charming district is also said to be haunted, with whispers of past residents and river spirits. A 15-minute visit offers a peaceful yet spooky atmosphere as the shadows lengthen.

Northrop Auditorium
Finally, the tour concludes at Northrop Auditorium on the University of Minnesota campus, rumored to be the most haunted building on campus. With 15 minutes to explore, this stop leaves a lasting impression on anyone interested in haunted academic institutions.

The Overall Experience

Throughout the tour, the guides stand out as a highlight. As a reviewer noted, “the tour guide was very knowledgeable,” and she encouraged interaction, sharing stories that felt authentic and engaging. The mix of historical facts and ghostly legends is well balanced, making the experience appealing whether you believe in spirits or just enjoy a good story.

The coach itself is comfortable, making it easy to relax while listening to tales and viewing the city lights. The stops are brief but meaningful, allowing for a quick glimpse into each haunted site without feeling rushed. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $59 per person, the tour offers a lot of value. You’ll spend approximately 3 hours immersed in Minneapolis’s darker side, with plenty of stories and atmospheric sights to justify the price. The small group size—max 30 travelers—enhances the experience, encouraging interaction with guides and fellow ghost enthusiasts alike.

While it’s not a walking tour, the bus format means you won’t be trudging through cold or dark streets for long periods. It’s particularly suited to those who prefer storytelling and ambiance over intense exploration. Food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to extend your night afterward.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Ghost Bus Tour is best for history buffs, ghost fans, and anyone curious about Minneapolis’s haunted reputation. It’s also a fantastic choice for groups or couples looking for a fun, spooky night out. If you love storytelling, art, architecture, or urban legends, this tour ticks all of those boxes. However, those expecting a full walking exploration or ghost hunting might find it too brief or passive.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does the tour last?

It lasts about 3 hours, starting at 7:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

• What is the meeting point?

The tour begins at W Minneapolis – The Foshay, located at 821 S Marquette Ave.

• Is the tour suitable for all ages?

Most travelers can participate, but it’s primarily designed for adults or older children who enjoy spooky stories.

• How many people are in each group?

The tour has a maximum of 30 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

• Are tickets available on the day of the tour?

It’s recommended to book about 42 days in advance, as it’s quite popular.

• What’s included in the price?

You get a guided haunted history tour; food and drinks are not included.

• Can I cancel if I change my mind?

Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

• Is transportation included?

Yes, the tour travels by coach, making it easy to see many sites comfortably.

• Are there any hidden costs?

No, the tour price is all-inclusive, aside from personal expenses.

• Can I join if I don’t know much about Minneapolis?

Absolutely. The guides provide plenty of context and stories that don’t require prior knowledge.

To sum it up, the Minneapolis Ghost Bus Tour offers a compelling mix of history, legend, and entertainment. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a spooky night with minimal effort, guided by knowledgeable narrators who bring stories to life. Whether you’re a skeptic or a true ghost enthusiast, this tour provides a fun, atmospheric peek into Minneapolis’s haunted past. Perfect for groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable, slightly eerie adventure.