St. Paul may seem like the quieter twin city, but beneath its calm surface lies a collection of stories that most visitors never hear. This isn't your typical bar crawl - it's an insider's journey through the untold chapters of Minnesota's capital city.
While other tours stick to the sanitized version of history, this bar crawl experience reveals the real stories behind St. Paul's character. From bootlegger origins to unlikely criminal sanctuaries, from corrupt deals to neighborhood secrets, you'll discover why locals know there's much more to their city than meets the eye.
Crawl through downtown St. Paul, visiting curated historic bars, each with its own hidden past. Your expert guide shares exclusive stories about the colorful characters who shaped the city, including tales of bootlegger "Pig's Eye Parrant," visiting gangsters from Chicago, and the complex relationships between law enforcement and lawbreakers.
Step into the upstairs Louis Bar at this iconic Italian institution and learn about the underground tunnel systems and Italian immigrant community's role in protecting visiting Chicago criminals like those mentioned in the original tour listings.
NOTE: Advertised bar stops are indicative of the kinds of places we visit. Each tour your guide will select the bars on the day, taking guest preferences into account.
Discover this remarkable family-run establishment that maintained independence despite downtown development, where you'll hear about corrupt Police Chief John O'Connor's system that allowed gangsters like John Dillinger to operate freely in St. Paul's "Cheers"-style atmosphere.
NOTE: Advertised bar stops are indicative of the kinds of places we visit. Each tour your guide will select the bars on the day, taking guest preferences into account.
Take in the magnificent Renaissance dome crowning Minnesota's spiritual centerpiece and architectural masterpiece
Enter this indie music venue where you'll learn about the violent end of the criminal protection system and how the Battle of Barrington (where Babyface Nelson died) changed everything for St. Paul's gangster sanctuary status.
NOTE: Advertised bar stops are indicative of the kinds of places we visit. Each tour your guide will select the bars on the day, taking guest preferences into account.
Stand in St. Paul's cultural heart surrounded by theaters, museums, and the elegant Landmark Center
Stand where one of St. Paul's most notorious speakeasies operated beneath the former Federal Courts Building, learning about the elaborate tunnel systems and how Machine Gun Kelly and the Barker Gang used these networks to evade federal agents.
Upscale mexican restaurant with the best margaritas in town
NOTE: Advertised bar stops are indicative of the kinds of places we visit. Each tour your guide will select the bars on the day, taking guest preferences into account.
Stroll America's longest Victorian boulevard where F. Scott Fitzgerald penned his early works among Gilded Age mansions
Making arguably the best-tasting beers in the Twin Cities (and that's really saying something), this industrial brewpub has tons of board games to keep the fun going.
NOTE: Advertised bar stops are indicative of the kinds of places we visit. Each tour your guide will select the bars on the day, taking guest preferences into account.
Hear about the golden-domed seat of state government showcasing Beaux-Arts grandeur and political heritage
Preserved in amber of it's 1980s "Goodfellas" vibe, this red-pleather, dinner-theater seating bar is a Minnesota establishment, and a place to rub shoulders with well known St. Paulites
NOTE: Advertised bar stops are indicative of the kinds of places we visit. Each tour your guide will select the bars on the day, taking guest preferences into account.
One of the original craft cocktail bars in the Twin Cities, Parlour will impress with delectable drinkable delights.
NOTE: Advertised bar stops are indicative of the kinds of places we visit. Each tour your guide will pick 4 of their favorite bars, and this is the kind of place we'll take you.
The oldest brewery in St Paul, this place is so old that it predates the State of Minnesota. It's so old they run the wood-burning stove in cold winter days. It's so old they follow original German techniques when making their hefeweizens.
NOTE: Advertised bar stops are indicative of the kinds of places we visit. Each tour your guide will select the bars on the day, taking guest preferences into account.
We meet outside the 7th Street entrance to iconic St Paul institution, Cossetta's.
Note: This tour is not affiliated with Cossettas, so staff won't be able to help you find your guide. Please sit tight and your guide in blue will be there shortly, or call us with questions.
Minneapolis-Saint Paul, known as the Twin Cities, is a vibrant metropolitan area in Minnesota, offering a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. With its renowned arts scene, extensive park system, and rich cultural heritage, it's a destination that appeals to both outdoor enthusiasts and city dwellers.
One of the largest shopping malls in the world, featuring over 500 stores, an indoor amusement park, and numerous dining options.
A premier art museum with over 90,000 works of art from around the world, spanning 5,000 years of creativity.
A stunning 53-foot waterfall in Minnehaha Park, surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking trails.
A historic bridge offering beautiful views of the Minneapolis skyline and the Mississippi River.
A free zoo and conservatory featuring a variety of animals, gardens, and a Japanese garden.
A cheese-stuffed hamburger, a local specialty.
A creamy soup made with wild rice, a staple in Minnesota cuisine.
A comforting casserole made with a variety of ingredients, often including tater tots.
A unique pizza topped with lutefisk, a traditional Scandinavian dish made from dried fish.
Summer is the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals and activities. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time.
US Dollar (USD)
GMT-6 (Central Standard Time, CST), GMT-5 (Central Daylight Time, CDT) during daylight saving time
120VV, 60HzHz
The Twin Cities are generally safe for visitors, but as with any urban area, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Union Depot (St. Paul), Minneapolis Depot
Union Depot (St. Paul), Greyhound Station (Minneapolis)
The Metro system includes the Blue Line (airport to Mall of America), Green Line (downtowns to University of Minnesota), and Green Line Extension (under construction).
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
A charming river town with historic buildings, antique shops, and beautiful views of the St. Croix River.
A free zoo and conservatory featuring a variety of animals, gardens, and a Japanese garden.
A beautiful arboretum featuring gardens, trails, and a variety of plant species.
Price varies by option