Located at 216 Wabasha Street in downtown St. Paul, the Wabasha Street Caves have been a fixture of Minnesota’s heritage for more than a century. Carved into a sandstone hillside in the 1800s for mining, the underground chambers later served as a mushroom farm, a restaurant, and a casino before becoming a notorious speakeasy during Prohibition.
From Gangsters to Guided Tours
According to Explore Minnesota, the caves attracted figures such as John Dillinger and Ma Barker in the 1930s, when the illegal liquor trade turned the space into a bustling underground bar. Local legend holds that three gangsters were gunned down inside the caves and were buried beneath the floorboards; bullet holes from that incident remain visible today, though the bodies have never been recovered.
Modern Uses and Community Events
Today the Wabasha Street Caves operate as a public‑interest attraction. The venue offers regular historical tours that highlight the site’s mining origins, Prohibition‑era activities, and the folklore that surrounds it. In addition to tourism, the caves serve as a versatile event space. Couples have held weddings beneath the arches, schools have organized proms, and local musicians have performed concerts in the cavernous setting. Seasonal Halloween productions, such as the “Lost Souls Tour” and “Caves and Graves Bus Tour,” draw additional crowds during the fall.
Why the Site Remains Popular
Visitors are drawn to the blend of authentic history and eerie atmosphere. The caves provide a tangible link to St. Paul’s early industrial era while also offering a unique backdrop for celebrations and cultural events. The combination of historic preservation and contemporary community use aligns with the city’s broader effort to celebrate its heritage and support local tourism.
Practical Information
Guided tours run throughout the week, with tickets available online or at the on‑site box office. The venue is wheelchair accessible in the main lobby, though the underground passages have limited mobility accommodations. For private events, the caves can be booked in advance through the venue’s website, which also lists upcoming public tours and special programming.
Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for a unique outing, or a couple seeking an unconventional wedding venue, the Wabasha Street Caves offer a memorable experience rooted in St. Paul’s colorful past.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
