Location: Saint Paul
Top Things to do in Saint Paul
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10 Historic Sites 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. 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.
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. Fort Snelling State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 126 reviews
Located on Pike Island, this scenic state park is one of Minnesota's most visited attractions, which features trails for cross-country skiing, hiking and mountain biking.
Reviewed By 784andym - Saint Paul, United States
Many people have no idea Fort Snelling State Park is there. It is under the Fort area at the bottom of the bluff along the river. It has wonderful hiking, and is an awesome place to go on a hot summer day.
4. 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
5. Historic Fort Snelling
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 218 reviews
CLOSED for the season til Memorial Day weekend 2020. With a human history more than 10,000 years in the making, the area today known as Fort Snelling means different things to different people. Explore the past through tours, demonstrations, and conversations that expand the diverse stories of the women, men, and children who crossed paths here—from the Dakota, who call the land Bdote, to other Native American groups who lived and worked here, to enslaved people, immigrants, fur traders, and soldiers.
Reviewed By W298IWdianer - Appleton, United States
My teen daughter and I attended this living history fort and it was amazing! :) We thought it would be an hour or so but we spent well over 2 hours listening and learning. There was a blacksmith and the living quarters of Dred and Harriet Scott. The staff were so very well informed of history and helped us to feel as if we were in the middle of this historic place. There was a military type action where they fired the cannon and other active and fun learning for all ages. A must see!
6. Wabasha Street Bridge
7. Longfellow House
8. Alexander Ramsey House
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 23 reviews
Explore the unexpected at the Alexander Ramsey House, a Victorian-era home filled with thousands of original family items and furnishings. Through special events and programming visitors can immerse themselves in life from the 1870s. The home was built by Alexander Ramsey, Minnesota's first territorial governor. The house is open year-round for special events and programming and regular Saturday tours in the summer.
9. Church Of The Assumption
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
10. Minnesota Historical Society Building
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
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