Location: Saint Paul
Top Things to do in Saint Paul
What to do and see in Saint Paul, Minnesota (MN): The Best Free Things to do
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. Minnesota Vietnam Veterans' Memorial
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 20 reviews
Reviewed By Nonna56377
I am a military wife, now a widow! I married my MN soldier in 1974. I still feel a part of the Minnesota military community even though I was born in NY!
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Cathedral of Saint Paul
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,041 reviews
This Classical Renaissance-style Cathedral dating back to 1915 features a splendid interior of six chapels, imported marble columns, large statues of the four evangelists and beautiful rose windows.
Reviewed By jerb2014 - Bristol, United States
The cathedral is perched on a hill with a commanding view of the city and the capitol building. There is street parking and a lot for the church itself. Inside, the cathedral is filled with stunning artwork including a replica of Michelangelo's Pieta and some colossal statues of the Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Behind the altar there are small chapels representing various ethic groups that were so very nice to see. A huge vaulted ceiling soars to the heavens. Just so very much to see. A incredibly serene and peaceful setting for prayer and reflection in this hectic world Well worth a visit.
5. Saint Paul Public Library
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By CaptTrouble - Hudson, United States
The George Latimer Library (St. Paul Central Library) is built in the Renaissance Revival style and was designed by Electus Litchfield. Ground was broken for the building in 1914; the building including the Hill Reference Library cost approximately $1.5 Million to build. James J. Hill (founder of the Great Northern Railway) contributed $700,000 to the building of the reference library on the end, $100,000 was raised by subscription, $30,000 was received by bequest of Greenleaf Clark (an attorney for the Great Northern Railway), and the State of Minnesota authorized $600,000 in bonds to be sold to finance the rest. This building, the Central Library, opened in 1917. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975. Mayor George Latimer supported the creation of the Historic Preservation Commission in 1976, and the Central Library was designated a St. Paul Heritage Preservation Site in 1979. In 2014, the library was renamed for George Latimer to honor his contributions to historic preservation. I was able to wander through the collections of this library. I spoke to a librarian near the entrance she told me to enjoy myself. She was very nice. I first went up a couple of floors; the exterior elevator doors on the main level are very ornate. Also, note the extensive use of stone throughout; this building is built to last! It’s a very interesting and surprisingly bright building with a lot of natural light. And, when I first got there, the doors were held open for me by two Cub Scouts, a little boy and a little girl.
6. Grand Avenue
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 242 reviews
Rich in local history and charm, this long avenue spans 25 blocks filled with old homes, small shops and restaurants.
Reviewed By CaptTrouble - Hudson, United States
I stopped at a couple of businesses in the Grand and Victoria part of St. Paul. In this area are Cafe Latte, Cooks of Crocus Hill, Billy's, etc. There were a lot of people out and there was only parking available in the ramp near this intersection. Further down the road toward Downtown are more restaurants like Dixie's, Tavern on Grand, Saji-Ya, and La Cucaracha. All long-time restaurants and I've had good meals at all of them. The other direction are restaurants like Grand Catch, the Lexington, Salut Bar Americain, and Everest on Grand. I haven't been to the renovated Lexington or to Salut yet, but sometime I will have to stop! It is always lively in this part of St. Paul, even in the darkest part of winter.
7. 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
8. St. Paul Farmers Market
9. Ramsey County Courthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 40 reviews
Reviewed By s2mc
Downtown St. Paul is filled with old buildings. While this one may not stand out from the outside, it hides some beautiful Art Deco inside and is well worth a detour. Visiting is free, although you must go through security. Once inside, you are immersed in 1930s beauty. Make your way to the 3-story Memorial Hall and be prepared to ooh and aah at the marble walls and gold mirror ceilings, as well as the Art Deco elevators and other elements in the room. However, the main draw is the Vision of Peace statue. Rising 36 feet, it is the largest carved onyx statue in the world and is spectacular. Unveiled in 1936, it slowly revolves to reveal a tribute to Native Americans. Lovely and awe-inspiring. There are other historical treasures and memorials in the building as well. I understand that you can take a self guided tour of this amazing space as well.
10. College of St. Catherine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 36 reviews
Reviewed By TIRMD
Great school and a great place to visit. the campus is beautiful and park like. Take a tour or just walk around the Dew Drop.
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