Location: Saint Paul
Top Things to do in Saint Paul
10 Outdoor Activities in Saint Paul That You Shouldn't Miss
Saint Paul has been called the last city of the East primarily because early developers built it to fit Eastern standards: city squares or parks, towers and turrets, lofty arches, Baroque domes and elaborate adornments abound. Ideal for families and those who like to explore on foot, the capital of Minnesota offers big city attractions with small town manageability. It's an easy and scenic stroll along the banks of the Mississippi River from the Children's Museum to the Science Museum. The kids (and the young at heart) will love them both. Nearby are the grandiose State Capitol, designed by esteemed architect Cass Gilbert and the historic Como Park, which includes lovely picnic areas, a zoo and a conservatory. Also in the mix are modern museums, stately old mansions, interesting natural wonders and unique shops to browse around. Be sure to check out the stellar collection of contemporary works by local artists at the Minnesota Museum of American Art. From four-star luxury to affordable and family-friendly, Saint Paul offers a variety of lodging and dining possibilities making it a great destination for all tastes and budgets.
Restaurants in Saint Paul
1. Amsterdam Pedals
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 33 reviews
A unique and enjoyable way to tour historic and scenic downtown St. Paul on our group bicycle. We will guide you and up to 15 of your companions through the streets of Lowertown and 7th Street as well as to the doorstep of 3 to 4 waterholes of your fancy. Make sure to bring tunes for our stereo, eats and drinks. Prepare for smiles. We rent our bike 7 days a week Spring, Summer and Fall.
2. Minnesota Adventure Co
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 87 reviews
Minnesota Adventure Company offers guided kayak tours in and around the St. Paul/ Minneapolis area. Come adventure with us!
3. Stand Up MN Paddleboarding Day Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 15 reviews
Looking for an adventure during your stay in the Twin Cities? Stand Up MN offers 3 different stand up paddleboard tours on the Mississippi River in MN: St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Fort Snelling. If you are looking to have an unforgettable experience on your next trip to Minnesota, explore the Mississippi River with us and learn why this is one of the world's greatest rivers!
4. GetKnit Events
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 21 reviews
GetKnit Events is a full service event, tour, and sightseeing company based in Twin Cities, MN. Our ever changing line-up of public offerings range from brewery and winery tours, canoeing and kayaking adventures, sightseeing experiences, and history excursions. Our mission is be 'the thread that knits our community together' and we do that through supporting only local businesses all while cultivating community. "GetKnit" with Minnesota and all it has to offer!
5. Stoneridge Golf Club
6. Summit Avenue
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 415 reviews
Old, wealthy St. Paul neighborhood with Victorian mansions.
Reviewed By KathleenC386 - Saint Paul, United States
Summit Avenue is a pleasant avenue to walk in the spring, summer, and fall to see gorgeous historic homes.
7. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,074 reviews
Located in historic Como Park, this popular zoo, especially known for its California sea lion exhibit, also features a great cat display, gorillas and giraffes.
Reviewed By Smiliemn - Saint Paul, United States
Como Park is always a great place to visit. I always enjoy walking through the conservatory and seeing what flowers are in the sunken garden or what’s currently flowering. The zoo is fun as well, although weekends in the summer get crowded. The seal harbor is currently under construction, so if you go soon, you won’t see the Sparky Show. It looks like it will be beautiful when the new Seal Harbor is finished so be sure to check it out!
8. Gateway Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 69 reviews
Seventeen-mile trail stretching from Stillwater to St. Paul, Minnesota.
Reviewed By TravelingSoccerLoon - Saint Paul, United States
One of the best paved biking trails in the Twin Cities. I especially enjoy the 9.7 mile stretch from North St Paul near I-694 and Hwy 36 out to Pine Point Regional Park. The trail is mostly flat without any strenuous climbs except going over a couple bridges and takes you past pleasant countryside including farms, lakes and rolling hills and much of it is shaded by trees. There are several access points including the two mentioned above and I've never had trouble finding a parking spot even though it is a popular biking trail. There are a couple spots on the trail requiring you to cross a road but traffic is usually light on these roads. You also have the option of combining all or a portion of the trail with biking on the Brown's Creek Trail which intersects the Gateway Trail at Duluth Junction and takes you out to Stillwater and the St Croix River.
9. Wheel Fun Rentals - Lake Como
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
The Lake Como Boat Excursion by Wheel Fun Rentals makes for the perfect outing. Our electric Duffy boat, knowledgeable captain, and pristine views on this St. Paul cruise can't be beat. Located in gorgeous St. Paul, this excursion allows you to get outside, take in the sights, relax, and enjoy good company and cuisine. This one hour excursion is perfect for passengers of all ages. All excursions include a captain. Those who have an interest in learning more about Lake Como can request tour narration from our knowledgeable captain. Enjoy mouth-watering cuisine while on your St. Paul dinner cruise. Guests can choose to bring their own food, beer, and/or wine for an enjoyable dining experience. Food and catering can also be ordered through Como Dockside Restaurant and can be picked up at the take-out window prior to your departure time. Explore miles of winding trails with the entire family on your modern carriage, the Surrey, or enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Como while commandeering a kayak or pedal boat. Be it by land or lake, you'll be able to enjoy the recreational opportunities at the most beautiful park in St. Paul!
10. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 56 reviews
Reviewed By ToyMan675 - Millersville, United States
On a cold rainy afternoon, in December, we decided to visit the Conservatory and a small part of the Zoo. We had a wonderful walk through the beautiful Conservatory and then had a walk through the Primate Building (amazing gorillas) and the African Hoofed Stock Building. This is a wonderful place to visit and it is FREE! Please remember to drop a donation at the entrance.
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