St Paul Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

St. Paul, the quieter and more historic twin of the Minneapolis-St. Paul duo, offers a distinctively European charm that sets it apart from its modern neighbor. Built on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, the city is a tapestry of well-preserved Victorian neighborhoods, winding river roads, and a skyline dominated by architectural masterpieces rather than glass skyscrapers. It feels established, cultured, and deeply connected to its past.

From the bootlegging days of the prohibition era to its current status as a cultural melting pot, St. Paul invites visitors to slow down and look closer. Whether you are walking the leafy summit of Cathedral Hill or navigating the bustling stalls of Hmong Village, you’ll find a city that prides itself on community and tradition. It is a place where history is not just remembered; it is lived in, dined in, and celebrated daily.

The Saintly City’s Unique Character

While Minneapolis is known for its glittering skyline and lakes, St. Paul is defined by its neighborhoods and history. This is the city where F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote his early works and where gangsters like John Dillinger once found refuge. The influence of the late 19th-century wealth is still visible in the opulent mansions lining Summit Avenue, the longest stretch of Victorian homes in the United States.

Culturally, St. Paul is incredibly diverse, boasting one of the largest Hmong populations in America, which has dramatically influenced the local food scene. The city embraces its “Saintly City” moniker with a slightly more reserved, polite atmosphere, but don’t let that fool you; the energy during a Minnesota Wild hockey game or the rowdy St. Patrick’s Day parade proves that St. Paul knows how to celebrate.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Cathedral of Saint Paul - This National Shrine is a Beaux-Arts masterpiece that dominates the skyline. It is open daily for tours (7:00 AM - 5:00 PM) and sits at the top of Summit Avenue (0 mi from city center). Admission is free, but donations are encouraged.

Minnesota State Capitol - Designed by Cass Gilbert, this marble structure features the second-largest self-supported marble dome in the world. Located downtown (0.5 mi from Cathedral), free guided tours run hourly.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory - A beloved local treasure featuring a polar bear odyssey, a blooming sunken garden, and the tropical fern room. Located 3.5 miles from downtown, admission is free (voluntary donation of $4 suggested).

Science Museum of Minnesota - Perched on the river bluffs, this museum offers stunning views and world-class exhibits including a 90-foot giant astronaut. Located in downtown (1 mi from Cathedral), tickets are roughly $29.95.

Summit Avenue - A historic district perfect for walking or driving. It stretches 4.5 miles from the Cathedral to the Mississippi River, showcasing Gilded Age architecture including the James J. Hill House.

Planning Your Visit

St. Paul is easily accessible via Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), located just 8 miles southwest of downtown. Getting around is convenient thanks to the METRO Green Line light rail, which connects downtown St. Paul to downtown Minneapolis and the University of Minnesota. However, to explore the further reaches of Summit Avenue or Como Park, renting a car or using rideshare apps is recommended.

When packing, always check the forecast. Winters require heavy parkas, boots, and thermal layers, while summers can be surprisingly hot and humid, necessitating breathable fabrics. If you are visiting in spring or fall, layers are your best friend, as a sunny afternoon can quickly turn into a chilly evening once the sun sets behind the river bluffs.

St. Paul is a city that rewards curiosity, offering a blend of high culture and down-to-earth Midwestern friendliness. Whether you are marveling at the frozen architecture of the Winter Carnival or enjoying a rooftop drink in Lowertown during the summer, St. Paul provides a rich, historical experience that feels both grand and intimately local.