Minnesota may be known for its lakes and friendly towns, but it also has a darker, mysterious side. If you love ghost stories, haunted buildings, or just want to explore places with a strange or creepy past, there are quite a few spots across the state that are perfect for thrill-seekers. From haunted hotels to eerie cemeteries, here are 11 must-visit creepy places in Minnesota that will definitely send a chill down your spine.
1. The Wabasha Street Caves – St. Paul
These man-made caves were once used by gangsters in the 1920s during the Prohibition era. People say you can still hear voices and see ghostly figures walking through the tunnels. They even offer ghost tours if you’re brave enough.
2. Forepaugh’s Restaurant – St. Paul
Even though it’s now closed, this historic mansion-turned-restaurant was known for being haunted by a maid who reportedly took her life after a love affair. Some visitors claimed to see her ghost wandering the halls.
3. First Avenue Nightclub – Minneapolis
Made famous by Prince, this club is said to be haunted by a spirit believed to be a woman who died in the bathroom. Staff and visitors have reported lights flickering and cold spots in certain areas of the club.
4. Grey Cloud Island – Washington County
This quiet and remote place has become a popular spot for paranormal activity hunters. There are local legends about Native American spirits, and many people report seeing strange lights and hearing whispers in the dark.
5. Palmer House Hotel – Sauk Centre
This historic hotel is one of the most haunted places in the state. Guests have reported seeing shadowy figures, hearing footsteps, and even feeling touches in the middle of the night.
6. Fergus Falls State Hospital – Fergus Falls
This old mental hospital, built in the late 1800s, is abandoned but still stands. It’s a massive and eerie place where many claim to feel a heavy presence. Sadly, it’s closed to the public, but just seeing it from the outside is enough to give you goosebumps.
7. The Soap Factory – Minneapolis
This former factory turned art gallery is known for its haunted history. Artists and visitors have reported seeing strange shapes and feeling watched. It’s especially popular during Halloween for its haunted attractions.
8. Glensheen Mansion – Duluth
This beautiful mansion was the site of a real-life murder in 1977. The mystery behind the deaths still fascinates people today. Many say the house is haunted, and tours are available for those who want to see it for themselves.
9. Lakeview Cemetery – Buhl
A small cemetery with a strange past. Visitors have reported hearing crying sounds, footsteps, and even seeing ghostly shapes among the graves. It’s a quiet but spooky place, especially at night.
10. Dead Man’s Trail – Red Wing
This trail runs along the Mississippi River and has creepy stories linked to it. Some say a man died there under strange circumstances, and now his spirit walks the path. People claim to hear footsteps behind them when no one is around.
11. Anoka – The Halloween Capital of the World
Anoka is proud of its Halloween traditions, but some say the town has more than just costumes and candy. With its long history and old buildings, there are several reports of ghost sightings, especially during the Halloween season.
Minnesota isn’t just about lakes and snow—it also has a darker, mysterious side that’s full of creepy stories and haunted places. Whether you’re a fan of the paranormal, horror movies, or just want to explore somewhere different, these 11 places offer a mix of history, legends, and spine-tingling experiences. Just remember to take a friend… you might not want to go alone.
SOURCES
[1] https://thievesriver.com/blogs/articles/haunted-places-in-minnesota
[2] https://www.americanghostwalks.com/articles/minnesota-most-haunted-places
[3] https://quickcountry.com/creepiest-place-minnesota-wabasha-street-caves/
[4] https://www.minnesotahauntedhouses.com/top-rated.aspx
[5] https://www.exploreminnesota.com/seasons/fall/spookiest-places-minnesota
