Location: Downtown
Top Things to do in Downtown
10 Things to do in Downtown 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. CHS Field
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 189 reviews
Reviewed By V9240JPtoms
Beautiful ergonomic contemporary vibe. Baseball is only part of the entertainment; there is something happening before the game, between every half-inning, and after the game. The announcers are hilarious. "(The opposing batter) has two strikes,.....(wait for it)...and NO BALLS!!" Great family fun. We like it more than going to a Twins game. Come early to hear live music outside the stadium. Inside the stadium, there is a nice variety of foods and drinks--from basic hotdogs and budweiser to gourmet selections and craft beers--a few cuts above traditional ballpark fare.
2. Minnesota State Capitol Mall
3. James J. Hill Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By CaptTrouble - Hudson, United States
I went here yesterday to look through the library. It was completed in 1921, and even though I grew up in the Twin Cities, I never had a chance to see it. It is the building adjacent the the central St. Paul Public Library (George Latimer Library) and across from Rice Park. It is open to the public, however, there are book collections that you are not supposed to touch unless you have specific permission. When I went through the library, I spoke to a receptionist/librarian first. She was very friendly and directed me to areas where there were exhibits as well as the elevator. She took me in the library and pointed out another librarian whom she said knew “a lot” about the library and could answer all of my questions. She asked that I not touch the shelved books BUT that I could look at the books that were open on the tables. I was then turned loose to look around! I looked at all of the collections on the first and second floors. This is a business reference library and not surprisingly they had many books I’ve never even heard of, even though I have a business undergrad. There were 3 people working quietly at different library tables; I made sure I didn’t disturb them. I went into the Empire Builder Room right off the main library. There were items for purchase displayed there. I then went to the second floor. The second floor had a few items displayed, including a replica of one of Hill’s steamships and his roll-top desk of 1870 that he used working at Red River Transportation. On the wall was an oil painting, and portraits of a daughter or daughters. On the other side was a glass case with his Yale regalia from when he was granted an honorary L.L.D. James J. Hill was a Canadian-American railroad and steamship magnate whose home on St. Paul’s Summit Avenue is still open to the public. His railroad, The Great Northern Railway, which ran from St. Paul, was completed in 1893 and was one of the foundational lines of the Burlington Northern Railroad. He funded this library but died six (6) years short of its opening in 1921.
4. Minnesota History Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 601 reviews
An interactive museum with both permanent and changing exhibits, the Minnesota History Center hosts concerts, lectures, family days and other special events throughout the year. The building is also home to the Minnesota Historical Society library and archives, a research destination for schoolchildren, family historians and academics.
Reviewed By JoanieM620 - Grantsburg, United States
I spend 3 days doing research in the History Library. Their collection of materials is extensive and the staff is very helpful. They showed me how to use the microfilm reader and make copies from the digital copier. In the print materials room, it was easy to use the computer to find the materials I needed. The staff was quick in retrieving items from the archives that I wanted to read through. All-in-all, I had a very successful time doing research.
5. James J. Hill House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 497 reviews
Rugged stone, massive scale, fine detail and ingenious mechanical systems recall the powerful presence of James J. Hill, builder of the Great Northern Railway. Guides lead tours that help you imagine family and servant life in the Gilded Age mansion, the setting of the public and private lives of the Hill family. The James J. Hill House is a National Historic Landmark. The home also includes an art gallery, which features work from the Minnesota Historical Society's collections.
Reviewed By suebee220
I've been here three times and find it fascinating. It's my go to place when I have guests visiting from out of town. Not only is the house incredible, the tour provides historical information about the Hill family and the contributions James made. If you have time, make the short walk to the cathedral to check it out too.
6. Minnesota State Capitol
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 375 reviews
Connect with this landmark government building designed by Cass Gilbert through its amazing stories — and learn about its incredible architecture, art and history.
Reviewed By Madogfechan - Bishopton, United Kingdom
Such a beautiful building, marble pillars and staircases, breathtaking dome, somber official chambers, rich colours, warm woodwork, gilded details.......all brought to life by the informative guides with their unique stories to share. The guide we had on our tour pointed out so many details that we would surely have missed if left to our own devices. As visitors from Scotland we felt very welcomed here.
7. Park Square Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 64 reviews
Major performing arts center with two stages in downtown Saint Paul. Great restaurants, bars and clubs nearby; convenient street and ramp parking; 3 blocks from the Green Line.
8. Landmark Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 156 reviews
The former Federal Court House and Post Office building (circa 1902)is designated as a National Historic Monument, which serves as a cultural venue for a variety of events including music, dance, theatrical performances, exhibitions and public forums.
Reviewed By danielp542
Great picturesque building with interesting bronze statues across the street. Very peaceful area on a weekend afternoon
9. Minnesota Children's Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 360 reviews
The Bigger, Better, Bolder Museum is Open! This is our first major renovation since we opened our downtown St. Paul museum in 1995. Children and adults alike delight in our 10 new exhibits and enjoy a variety of new amenities. A glass addition along West Seventh Street houses The Scramble, a four-story climbing adventure. Elsewhere in the new museum, visitors delight in an updated pretend town, get creative in two maker workshops and engineer their own fun in an air-and-water exhibit. Families also enjoy a bigger toddler gallery and step out into a revamped rooftop and backyard. Kids craft their own adventures in a ninja-training course and a carpet skate park. This is play like it’s meant to be. Natural. Joyous. Genuine. Children will explore, experiment, try new things, test their limits, adapt and grow. Each exhibit helps children develop the life skills they need to succeed throughout life — how to think creatively, make plans, analyze problems, tackle challenges, speak and listen, work as part of a team and more.
Reviewed By Stay790848
Took my 7 year old here. Very convenient area. We rented an electric scooter and rode there and it was right down the road from our hotel. We are from Houston, TX on vacation and we enjoyed it much more then our Children’s Museum in Houston. So much fun and so much to do and The Scramble is awesome and he enjoyed going to the very top and the view. Love that it’s four stories high because there is a lot to do on different floors and the Lazer Maze/Beam Buster was our favorite part! Would definitely go back to if we’re ever back in this area. ????
