The Twin Cities pack an impressive array of well-organized tours that cut right to the heart of Minnesota culture. Local guides excel at three main types of experiences: craft brewery circuits, historic walking tours, and food-focused adventures. The organized brewery tours stand out, efficiently connecting visitors to 3-4 top taprooms while sharing insider knowledge about the booming beer scene. History buffs will appreciate the F. Scott Fitzgerald literary walk and the popular gangster tour, both offering fascinating glimpses into the cities’ colorful past. For food lovers, the guided culinary tours through neighborhoods like Eat Street deliver authentic local flavors with zero tourist traps. Our carefully selected top tours offer the best value and most authentic experiences.
Key Points
- Minneapolis and St. Paul offer a diverse range of tours, including brewery, food, walking, historical, ghost, and gangster experiences.
- The Brews Cruise Hop-On Hop-Off Brewery Loop Tour and Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour provide comprehensive explorations of the local craft beer scene.
- Walking tours, such as the Complete St. Paul Walking Tour and Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour, offer in-depth insights into the cities’ rich histories and urban landscapes.
- Specialized tours, like the Historic Minneapolis Riverfront Private Walking Tour and the Private Shopping Tour to Twin Cities Outlets, cater to unique interests and preferences.
- Spooky and gangster-themed tours, including the Twin City Ghosts Tour and Saint Paul Gangster Tour, offer thrilling and educational experiences for those interested in the cities’ darker histories.
All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour
Although Minneapolis is renowned for its vibrant craft beer scene, navigating the diverse array of local breweries can be a daunting task for visitors.
The All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour offers an ideal solution, providing a comprehensive experience that allows travelers to explore the city’s thriving beer culture without the hassle of transportation or planning.
Over the course of approximately three hours, participants can indulge in all-you-can-drink craft beer at each of the tour’s carefully selected stops, including Fair State Brewing Co-op, Lakes and Legends Brewing Company, and Modist Brewing.
With a maximum of 14 travelers per tour, the experience promises a personalized and intimate atmosphere, led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the local brewing industry.
Boasting an impressive 99% traveler recommendation rate based on 240 reviews, this tour is a must-consider for beer enthusiasts visiting the Twin Cities region.
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The Complete St. Paul Walking Tour
Stepping away from the vibrant craft beer scene, the Complete St. Paul Walking Tour offers a unique perspective on Minnesota’s capital city. This 3-hour, 5-mile excursion introduces visitors to the city’s rich history, from Prohibition-era tales to the secrets of its underground caves.
Along the way, explorers will discover charming neighborhoods like Summit Hill, marvel at the grand Minnesota State Capitol, and enjoy a coffee break and a toast at local cafes and pubs.
With a 100% recommendation rate, this tour is a badge of excellence, led by knowledgeable guides who captivate with their engaging storytelling. The tour accommodates a variety of travelers, including those with mobility considerations, making it an accessible and inclusive experience.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique way to explore the city, the Complete St. Paul Walking Tour promises an informative and enjoyable journey.
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Minneapolis & St. Paul Highlights Private Riding & Walking Tour (3 Hrs)
This 3-hour private tour provides an engaging overview of the top sights in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Covering 16 stops across both cities, the tour showcases iconic landmarks like the Xcel Energy Center, Target Field, Lake of the Isles, and Minnehaha Falls.
Guests are treated to a flexible itinerary tailored to their interests, with insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides, particularly the highly praised Douglas Kline.
The tour offers comfortable private transportation and includes bottled water and gratuities. While not wheelchair accessible, the experience accommodates strollers and service animals.
Travelers have consistently praised the personalized approach, with many noting the enjoyable balance of historical facts and fun interactions. The tour’s 97% recommendation rate and 34 positive reviews attest to its ability to deliver an engaging and informative exploration of the Twin Cities.
Guests often express plans to return for additional tours or explore other local attractions based on the guide’s recommendations.
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Minneapolis Tour – Skyscrapers to City Parks – Walking/Driving
Guests seeking a comprehensive Minneapolis experience can embark on the Minneapolis Tour – Skyscrapers to City Parks. This 3-hour tour, led by a local Minneapolis resident, showcases the heart of the city.
Highlights include a walk through the renowned Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, a tour of the iconic Guthrie Theater, and a panoramic view from the Foshay Tower observation deck. Participants will also see historic landmarks like the Stone Arch Bridge and Mill Ruins Park.
The tour includes private transportation and parking, ensuring a seamless experience. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small group size allows for personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide.
Reviews praise the tour’s local insights and scenic lunch experience. Whether you’re interested in the city’s history, architecture, or natural beauty, this tour provides an immersive exploration of Minneapolis.
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Walking St. Paul Summit Ave. Victorian Homes Private Tour (2 Hrs)
Visitors exploring the historic Summit Avenue in St. Paul can experience the grandeur of Victorian-era architecture on a private walking tour. This 2-hour tour takes guests through the prestigious neighborhood, highlighting the ornate Queen Anne, neo-classical, Romanesque, and Georgian Revival styles that defined the homes of wealthy families over a century ago.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour intertwines the histories of these prominent tycoons with the stunning architectural details. Travelers can expect a well-organized experience, with a personal touch from the guide that has earned rave reviews from past participants.
The tour starts and ends at the iconic James J. Hill House, allowing easy access for visitors. While interior visits aren’t included, the exterior views provide a captivating glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of Minnesota’s elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
With accessibility features and free cancellation, this private tour offers an immersive and convenient way to discover St. Paul’s architectural treasures.
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Same-Day Tour Package (Historic Cave Tour & Saint Paul Gangster Tour)
Combining a visit to St. Paul’s historic cave network with an exploration of the city’s gangster past, the Same-Day Tour Package offers a full-day experience in Minneapolis-Saint Paul. Priced at $69 per person, this small-group tour, limited to 15 travelers, provides an engaging look at the area’s rich history.
Guests will visit the Castle Royal Nightclub and other sites connected to 1930s corruption and notable figures like John Dillinger. The tour also includes a seasonal photo opportunity with a vintage 1930 Hudson Essex Gangster Car.
Throughout the day, knowledgeable guides, particularly Lois and Brett, share entertaining stories and provide insightful historical context.
With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 12 reviews, the tour receives praise for its engaging content and informative approach. However, some visitors express mixed feelings regarding the humor and entertainment value.
The Same-Day Tour Package is recommended as a unique way for all ages to learn about the local history of Minneapolis-Saint Paul.
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St. Paul Historic Cave Tour
The St. Paul Historic Cave Tour allows visitors to explore the only remaining restored Gangster Era site in Saint Paul. Carved into the hillside near downtown, the caves have served various purposes throughout history, most notably as a gangster hot spot during Prohibition.
The 1-hour guided tour offers fascinating historical stories shared by knowledgeable guides. With a 94% traveler recommendation rate based on 97 reviews, the tour is suitable for locals, visitors, and families.
The maximum group size is 100 travelers, and the price starts at $15 per person. Free parking, Wi-Fi, and restrooms are available on-site, and the caves are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
The tour meeting point is at the Wabasha Street Caves, 215 Wabasha St S, St Paul, MN 55107. Visitors praise the engaging and informative guides, as well as the entertaining storytelling.
Recommendations include bringing jackets or layers due to the cool cave temperature of around 50°F, making it a family-friendly activity enjoyed by both adults and children.
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Walking F. Scott Fitzgeralds St. Paul Life & Homes Private Tour (2 Hrs)
This private 2-hour walking tour immerses guests in the life and stories of acclaimed author F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Visitors explore Fitzgerald’s former St. Paul residences and learn about his experiences during the Roaring ’20s. The personalized pace allows the knowledgeable guide to share insights on Victorian-era lifestyle and local history.
Travelers can expect to learn about Fitzgerald’s influential works and his connection to the Twin Cities. While home interiors aren’t included, the tour provides an engaging narrative that brings the author’s legacy to life.
With a 4.9/5 rating and 100% recommendation from past participants, this experience is well-suited for most visitors.
The tour meeting point is at The Gnome Craft Pub, conveniently located and accessible by public transportation.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option make booking hassle-free.
Enjoy the world of F. Scott Fitzgerald and discover the vibrant literary history of St. Paul.
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Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour
Offering an engaging exploration of downtown Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour immerses visitors in the city’s unique elevated pedestrian network.
Spanning 2.5 hours, the tour provides an overview of the downtown area and its iconic skyways, which allow pedestrians to navigate the city while avoiding street-level traffic and noise.
Led by the knowledgeable and personable guide, Jessica, the tour highlights the historical significance and architectural details of the skyways, as well as points of interest along the way.
Participants appreciate the tour’s balanced pace and Jessica’s use of visuals, such as an iPad, to enhance the experience.
With consistently positive reviews and a 5.0 rating, the tour is highly recommended by past travelers, who praise its informative nature and the discovery of hidden gems in the city.
Easily accessible via public transportation, the Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour offers a unique and insightful way to explore the heart of downtown Minneapolis.
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Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour
A comprehensive 3-hour walking tour of Minneapolis provides a captivating exploration of the city’s rich culture, history, and architectural gems.
Starting from the Minneapolis Visitor Center, this tour covers the Skyway System and downtown neighborhoods, offering an insider’s perspective on the city’s vibrant heart.
Accompanied by an enthusiastic guide, participants learn about the city’s unique history and culture, with opportunities to snap photos of the river and cityscape.
The tour includes a stop for locally-roasted coffee or tea, as well as a beer or soda at a popular local bar.
With a maximum group size of 12, the tour maintains a relaxed and personal atmosphere, allowing for engaging conversations and personalized recommendations for further sightseeing.
Praised by travelers for its educational and enjoyable experience, the Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour is an excellent way to take in the city’s dynamic urban landscape.
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Twin City Ghosts Tour By US Ghost Adventures
Venturing through the historic neighborhoods of Minneapolis-Saint Paul, the Twin City Ghosts Tour by US Ghost Adventures invites travelers on a lantern-lit journey to uncover the region’s haunted past.
This 8 PM walking tour explores locations like Forepaughs 2nd Mansion and Cochran Park, where guests can expect spine-tingling stories and a mix of local history and paranormal elements.
Led by knowledgeable and personable guides, the tour accommodates up to 35 travelers and features accessible routes for wheelchairs and strollers.
Guests can rent EMF detectors to enhance the spooky atmosphere as they learn about the area’s haunted past.
With a 4.5-star rating from 117 reviews, the tour is praised for its engaging guides and beautiful surroundings, though some wish for more varied storytelling.
Starting at £25.59 per person, the tour offers a unique way to experience the Twin Cities, with flexible 24-hour cancellation.
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Saint Paul Gangster Tour
Though Minneapolis and Saint Paul are often associated with their modern-day attractions, the Saint Paul Gangster Tour invites visitors to explore the cities’ captivating past as a hub for organized crime during the Prohibition era.
The 2-hour tour, priced at $55 per person, explores significant sites connected to the notorious gangsters of the 1930s, including the historic Castle Royal Gangsters Nightclub and the location where John Dillinger escaped the city.
With a maximum capacity of 25 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and immersive experience, led by knowledgeable and entertaining guides who enhance the narrative with humor and interactive storytelling.
While some feedback suggests a need for visual aids to complement the presentation, the tour is widely praised for being informative, fun, and a unique way to learn about Saint Paul’s history.
With 34 reviews and a 4.5 overall rating, the Saint Paul Gangster Tour provides a captivating glimpse into the region’s colorful past.
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The Essential St. Paul Walking Tour
Moving from the dramatic gangster history of St. Paul, the Essential St. Paul Walking Tour offers a more balanced perspective on the city. This 3-hour excursion takes visitors on a scenic journey through the heart of downtown, showcasing the city’s architectural gems and multicultural flair.
The tour begins outside the iconic Cathedral, providing a bird’s-eye view from the Eureka Skydeck. Guests then explore inner-city street art, seeing the vibrant local culture.
The experience is further enriched by tastings of Melbourne’s diverse culinary offerings, including a coffee, international cuisine, and a refreshing beverage.
With a maximum group size of 12, the tour promises an intimate and personalized experience. The tour’s accessibility features, including wheelchair and stroller access, make it welcoming to all.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and the tour’s ability to enhance visitors’ overall experience in St. Paul.
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Crooked St. Paul Gangsters Private Riding Tour (2 Hrs)
This private 2-hour Crooked St. Paul Gangsters tour immerses visitors in Minneapolis’s notorious past. Priced at €469.18 for up to 2 people, the tour highlights the city’s thug-life history, including stories of John Dillinger and other infamous gangsters.
The tour covers former speakeasies, casinos, gangster homes, and hideouts, providing a glimpse into the city’s seedy underbelly. Guided by the knowledgeable Douglas Kline, reviewers praise the depth of historical information and personalized experiences.
The tour includes round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, bottled water, and gratuities. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and open to service animals. Infants must sit on laps.
Confirmed within 48 hours and with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, the Crooked St. Paul Gangsters tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Minneapolis’s gangster past.
With a 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews, this private experience is a must-consider for those interested in the city’s darker history.
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Lost Souls Tour
Those craving a more otherworldly experience in Minneapolis-Saint Paul can embark on the Lost Souls Tour at the Wabasha Street Caves in St. Paul. This hour-long exploration delves into Minnesota’s most haunted site, a former gangster hideout said to be occupied by around 60 ghosts.
The small-group format ensures clear communication with the guide, who shares stories and images related to the caves’ history. Suitable for travelers who enjoy spooky experiences, the tour isn’t recommended for children under 12.
Wheelchair-accessible and near public transportation, the tour site offers free parking, restrooms, and Wi-Fi. While some reviewers found the tour overly promotional and too dark, others praised the engaging guides and entertaining stories, highlighting a desire for more in-depth ghost tales.
At $20 per person, the non-refundable Lost Souls Tour invites visitors to uncover the haunted past of this historic location.
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Minneapolis Food Tour – Walking
Although Minneapolis is renowned for its vibrant food scene, the Minneapolis Food Tour – Walking offers a unique opportunity to take in the city’s diverse culinary offerings.
Over the course of 2 to 3 hours, small groups of 6-8 people will explore five remarkable restaurants that embody the essence of Minneapolis. Participants can expect to enjoy delicious and varied food choices while learning the stories behind passionate immigrant chefs and dedicated community partners.
The tour starts at Hells Kitchen Inc. and concludes at the W Minneapolis – The Foshay, providing a convenient and accessible experience. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s located near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, the Minneapolis Food Tour – Walking promises an intimate and personalized culinary adventure that showcases the best of the city’s vibrant food culture.
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Historic Minneapolis Riverfront Private Walking Tour
Set out on a private walking tour of Minneapolis’ historic riverfront, exploring the city’s rich past spanning over three centuries. This personalized experience allows you and your group to discover the highlights of Minneapolis, including the Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, Mill Ruins Park, and the mighty Mississippi River.
Your knowledgeable, licensed guide with over a decade of experience will share compelling stories about the city’s history, including tales of railroad tycoon James J. Hill.
The tour begins at the Guthrie Theater, where your guide, wearing a purple shirt with the company logo, will greet you outside the front doors. The route is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
As you explore, you’ll appreciate the tour’s proximity to public transportation and the wheelchair-friendly surfaces. At the conclusion of the tour, you’ll return to the starting point.
Priced at $349 for up to 10 participants, this private tour earns a perfect 5.0-star rating, highlighting the guide’s expertise and the overall enjoyable experience.
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Private Shopping Tour From Minneapolis to Twin Cities Outlets
This private shopping tour whisks travelers from Minneapolis to the Twin Cities Outlets, providing 4 hours of free time to explore the shopping and dining options.
Aboard a modern, air-conditioned private vehicle, the roundtrip service offers pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Minneapolis. The tour is operated by taxiGo.online, ensuring a seamless experience.
The cost of this tour starts from £406.24 per person, with a lowest price guarantee. Flexible booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option.
Pickup is scheduled at 9:00 am, allowing you to select a convenient location from your accommodation.
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.
Most travelers can easily join this shopping excursion, with all fees and taxes included in the price.
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Minneapolis City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by 3Quest Challenge
Visitors seeking a unique and engaging way to explore Minneapolis can enjoy the Minneapolis City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by 3Quest Challenge. This 2-hour private tour allows participants to embark on a remote interactive adventure led by a knowledgeable guide.
Groups can look forward to a seamless experience, with all activities, private transportation, and the use of an activity-owned smartphone included.
The excursion starts and ends at 102 Portland Ave, Minneapolis, with availability from Tuesday to Sunday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of hassle-free booking, with confirmation upon reservation and the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour is accessible, with service animals allowed and stroller-friendly, though not wheelchair-accessible.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Minneapolis City Scavenger Hunt Excursion offers an exciting way to discover the city’s hidden gems and create lasting memories.
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Brews Cruise Hop-On Hop-Off Brewery Loop Full-Day Tour
Travelers can enjoy a full-day exploration of Minneapolis-Saint Paul’s thriving craft brewing scene with the Brews Cruise Hop-On Hop-Off Brewery Loop Tour.
This 5-star rated tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle and gratuities, allowing guests to hop on and off at their leisure to visit a selection of local breweries. The tour starts at 4:00 PM and caters to most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.
According to reviews, the tour’s friendly and informative staff guide guests through the breweries, offering a good selection and the opportunity to fully experience the city.
One reviewer, Christopher_D, praised the fun and engaging staff, while Kim_V recommended completing the full tour and noted the host’s knowledgeability, expressing intent to return.
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Recap
The Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area offers a diverse range of tours, from craft brewery excursions to walking tours showcasing the cities’ historic neighborhoods and architectural highlights. Whether you’re interested in sampling local brews, exploring the riverfront, or discovering the area’s Victorian charm, there’s a tour that caters to your interests and allows you to experience the best of the Twin Cities.