Bust the Chicago Connection

Beneath the streets of Moose Jaw lie a labyrinth of tunnels with a sordid history. Originally built by frightened Chinese workers to hide from CPR railway ruffians, the tunnels were repurposed in the 1920’s as a bootlegger supply line during prohibition. Gangsters like Al Capone paid regular visits to the city, roaming freely and protected by a corrupt police chief. Officials denied the tunnels until well into the 1970’s. Today, it’s re-enactors share the tall tales of this fascinating underworld of Canadian history.

Length of Trip : The Chicago Connection and Passage to Fortune tours last 50 minutes each.

Cost : There are two tours offered in the Moose Jaw Tunnels: The Chicago Connection and the Passage to Fortune. A single tour costs $15 for adults, $12 for senior. Both tours: $25 for adult, $18.90 for seniors. Click here to the latest tour prices.

Best time to go : Open year-round, every day except Christmas Day.

Wheelchair friendly : Limited wheelchair access.

Family friendly : Yes

Where to eat : There are plenty of restaurants nearby. Click here for a list of options for dining on Main St, Moose Jaw.

Official Site : Tunnels of Moose Jaw Official Site

Where to Stay : In keeping with the theme, literally, Capone’s Hideaway Hotel is just the sort of place for shady dealers. It also has a website that looks like it was designed in 1986. For other accommodation options in Moose Jaw, the Tunnels of Moose Jaw have provided a handy list.

Getting There : The Tunnels of Moose Jaw are located on 18 Main Street. Moose Jaw is about a 40-minute drive from Regina.

Note from Robin : When prohibition was lifted, rumrunners became established families of power and wealth – the Kennedy’s, the Bronfmans. Al Capone was not so lucky, but considering he wasn’t gunned down by a Tommy gun, he was luckier than others. The tunnels are a fascinating glimpse into our recent shady past. I wonder, will tourists be visiting marijuana grow-ops in the not-to-distant future?