Wabasha Street Caves | Saint Paul

The Wabasha Street Caves are a series of man-made caverns located beneath the city of Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The caverns consist of excavated limestone rock. The interior walls are rough-hewn, displaying the natural grey and beige tones of the limestone. The temperature within the caves remains consistently cool, averaging 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit (7-10 degrees Celsius) year-round. The primary access points are reinforced concrete entrances.

Location & Access Logistics

The main entrance is situated at 215 Water Street, Saint Paul, MN 55107. This location is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) south of downtown Saint Paul. Public parking is available in a lot adjacent to the main entrance. The nearest public transport stop is served by Metro Transit bus route 63, with a stop located approximately 0.2 miles (0.3 km) north of the entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The caves were originally excavated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for the purpose of storing and aging beer by the Schmidt Brewery. The limestone formations are part of the Ordovician period sedimentary rock layers native to the region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Guided tours are offered, focusing on the history of the caves and their use. Specific tours include historical narratives and ghost tours. The caverns are also utilized for private events and concerts.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available near the main entrance. Limited seating is provided in designated tour areas. Cell phone signal is generally unreliable within the caverns. No food vendors are located directly within the cave complex, but several are present in the nearby downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

Tours are available year-round. For optimal comfort, visitors should wear layers due to the consistent cool temperature. The best time of day for photography depends on the specific tour and lighting conditions provided by the guides.

Facts & Legends

A persistent local legend suggests the caves are haunted, with numerous anecdotal accounts of unexplained phenomena reported by visitors and staff. The caves were also used for illicit activities during Prohibition.

Nearby Landmarks

• Schmidt Brewery (0.1km North)
• Mississippi Riverfront (0.3km South)
• Science Museum of Minnesota (1.2km Northwest)
• Cathedral of Saint Paul (1.5km North)
• Landmark Center (1.6km North)