Saint Paul, MN
Saint Paul's vibrant arts scene shines through its numerous theaters, galleries, and the renowned Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. Foodies will delight in the burgeoning culinary scene, featuring a diverse array of dining options, from trendy eateries to beloved, long-standing institutions. Throughout the year, the city bustles with events such as the Minnesota State Fair, Grand Old Day, and the Winter Carnival, showcasing the city's lively spirit.
Visitors can also relish the city's proximity to the Mall of America, Science Museum of Minnesota, and other regional attractions, making Saint Paul an ideal destination for an enriching and dynamic Midwestern experience.
What to do in Saint Paul, MN
Visit the Cathedral of Saint Paul
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is a magnificent architectural marvel that stands tall on Summit Hill, offering a stunning view of the city and the Mississippi River. The cathedral, built in the Beaux-Arts architectural style, boasts a 186-foot-high dome and is adorned with exquisite marble and stained glass. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history, art, and architecture of this iconic place of worship. With its grandeur and historical significance, the Cathedral of Saint Paul is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
Explore the Science Museum of Minnesota
Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, the Science Museum of Minnesota is a captivating destination for science enthusiasts of all ages. The museum features an array of interactive exhibits, immersive Omnitheater films, and a variety of hands-on activities that showcase the wonders of technology, natural history, and the physical sciences. From dinosaur fossils to a realistic Mississippi River towboat exhibit, visitors can delve into the realms of scientific discovery and exploration at this engaging institution.
Wander through Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory offers a delightful mix of wildlife and botanical wonders, making it a popular attraction in Saint Paul. Visitors can marvel at a diverse range of animal exhibits, including gorillas, giraffes, polar bears, and more. In addition to the zoo, the expansive conservatory features an enchanting collection of plants from around the world, including tropical rainforests and arid desert landscapes. Whether strolling through lush gardens or observing captivating animal behaviors, a visit to Como Park promises a memorable experience for families and nature enthusiasts.
Embrace History at the Minnesota History Center
Delve into the rich tapestry of Minnesota’s past at the Minnesota History Center, where engaging exhibits and interactive displays offer a captivating journey through the state’s history. From immersive galleries detailing Minnesota’s role in World War II to snapshots of early pioneering communities, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the events and people that have shaped the state. With rotating exhibits that explore various aspects of Minnesota’s history, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage and pivotal moments that define the region.
Experience the Wonders of Mississippi River Boulevard
Stretching along the eastern bank of the Mississippi River, the picturesque Mississippi River Boulevard provides scenic views and serene walking and biking paths. Visitors can take leisurely strolls or bike rides while relishing breathtaking vistas of the river and its surroundings. The boulevard is also lined with elegant homes and offers access to stunning parks such as Hidden Falls Regional Park and Crosby Farm Regional Park, where visitors can bask in the beauty of nature. Whether for active outdoor pursuits or tranquil relaxation, Mississippi River Boulevard is a cherished destination for locals and tourists seeking natural splendor in Saint Paul.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring History and Culture
Morning
Start your day at the Minnesota History Center. This museum offers engaging exhibits that showcase the rich history of Minnesota. Spend a few hours here immersing yourself in the state’s past.
Afternoon
Head over to the Cathedral of Saint Paul, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Take a guided tour to admire the stunning interior, including the impressive dome and the intricate design details.
Next, visit the James J. Hill House, a historic mansion offering insight into the life of one of Minnesota’s most influential figures. The guided tours provide a glimpse into the opulent Gilded Age lifestyle.
Evening
Enjoy an evening at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. Check their schedule for various performances, from Broadway musicals to orchestral concerts.
Day 2: Nature and Urban Exploration
Morning
Spend your morning at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. Explore the diverse range of animals at the zoo and wander through the beautifully curated gardens in the conservatory.
Afternoon
Head to the Mississippi River Boulevard for a scenic drive along the river. Stop by Fort Snelling State Park for a hike or a leisurely walk, taking in the breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.
Evening
Conclude your trip with a visit to Grand Avenue for a bit of shopping and dining. This bustling street is lined with unique boutiques, charming cafes, and delicious dining options.
Arts and Culture
Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture scene of Saint Paul by visiting art galleries, attending theater performances, and exploring public art installations.
Twin City Ghosts Tour By US Ghost Adventures
Come on our chilling ghost tour presented by US Ghost Adventures!
One of the most famous streets, Summit Avenue is home to impressive, historic homes and mansions, and its fair share of ghosts as well. Learn the haunted history of some of these iconic locations on this one hour walking tour of Minneapolis.
Book Today on Viator From $30.00
Saint Paul Gangster Tour
The original St. Paul Gangster Tour (2 hours by Bus in comfort) reveals why Saint Paul was a center for bootlegging operations and criminal activities during the 1930s prohibition era. The tour guide is informative and humorous. This is the only tour that starts at the historic Castle Royal Gangsters nightclub, preserved today as The Wabasha Street Caves. Please note that this tour does not include the Historic Cave Tour. Package available which includes priority seating, photo op, and tickets to both our Historic Cave Tour, as well as the Saint Paul Gangster Tour!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $55.00
St. Paul Historic Cave Tour
See the only remaining restored Gangster Era site on this historic tour of extensive caves carved into the hillside in long-abandoned mining ventures in the 1800s. Later it was a mushroom farm, and it was then developed into a restaurant casino and gangsters' hotspot during the 1930s prohibition era. Newspapers reported an unsolved gangland murder at the casino. Tour guides point out the bullet holes. Some believe the caves are haunted by the murdered mobsters whose bodies were never found. The original bar from the 30s has been fully restored - it was a then-record at 60 feet long.
Though this tour is appropriate for all ages, we recommend ages 5 and up, due to shorter attention spans and restlessness.
Book Today on Viator From $15.00
In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis
Find out how Minneapolis helped define Prince Rogers Nelson as a young musician who went on to change the world of music with this affordable walking tour.
• Learn how Prince was the first artist in history to have a number one film, album and song at the same time
• Hear from producer Frank Bures, an award-winning writer, essayist and the editor of Under Purple Skies: The Minneapolis Anthology
• Do it all in 75 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home
Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.
The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.
Book Today on Viator From $7.99
Food and Dining
Indulge in diverse culinary experiences by dining at the city's renowned restaurants, cafes, and food markets offering a wide range of cuisines.
Challah Baking Experience
For thousands of years, Jewish people have brought in the Sabbath with candles, wine, and the blessing over challah -- the traditional braided bread. During this activity, you'll learn practical challah-baking tips as well as the history, significance, and cultural roots of challah-baking.
You'll experience a genuine and age-old Jewish tradition as you learn the steps to bake your very own challah -- and then you'll be able to enjoy your warm-from-the-oven fresh-baked challah bread!
Book Today on Viator From $72.00
All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour
Join the number 1 rated, all-you-can-drink, all-inclusive brewery tour in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Our guided tours take adventurous people interested in tasting locally produced craft beer to several of the Twin Cities' best craft breweries and taprooms.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $85.00
Minneapolis Food Tour - Walking
On this walking food tour you'll get a taste of what makes Minneapolis so special. Because all our local spots are connected by skyway, we'll never be rained (or snowed) out. Our small groups of only 6-8 people set us apart. You will feel like you're dining out with friends.
These five restaurants were chosen because they tell a story of Minneapolis. It's a food story full of character(s): immigrants, community partners, new visionaries, and the tried and true. They believe "wealth is built at the table," and "everyone deserves a good meal." They make "the food you grew up with," and "pay attention to the seasons and support local organic farms." Simply put, they make "damn good food."
Whether you're just passing through or live in the area, join us for this 2-3 hour food journey, and savor what it's all about!
PLEASE NOTE: There will be no dietary accommodations. Peanuts are ground on the premises of one venue.
(Please wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water.)
Book Today on Viator From $115.00
Sports Events
Attend sporting events in Saint Paul, including hockey games, basketball matches, and baseball games, featuring teams like the Minnesota Wild and St. Paul Saints.
Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball Game Ticket at Target Center
Target Center, home of the Minnesota Timberwolves NBA team is not only a landmark and a spiritual home to the locals of Minneapolis, but a must-visit for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the city's true culture, passion and history. Get the full experience of a Timberwolves' game live at Target Center, by wearing the team's colours and grabbing your favourite drink (and maybe some hot wings) at a nearby sports bar while locals crowd around the big screens for some pre-game punditry, before making your way to the court in time for the electrifying team entrances, national anthem and of course, the jump ball in the world's most-famous basketball competition.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $81.62
Minnesota Twins Baseball Game Ticket at Target Field
Watching the Minnesota Twins play a Major League Baseball game live at Target Field is an unforgettable experience. The ballpark boasts great amenities and fantastic views of the field from every seat in the stadium. With an array of concessions, merchandise, and other treats available, everyone can enjoy their time at the game regardless of their budget. Live music often plays during pre-game warmups and between innings, providing the perfect atmosphere for baseball enthusiasts of all ages. From families with young children to corporate functions, no one will be disappointed when watching a ballgame at Target Field!
To ensure you get the best seats, tickets are sourced from a combination of primary and reseller partners and are perfect for travellers, guaranteeing seamless access to the venue. Premium & Regular category seats generally sit along the 3rd or 1st baseline with Premium seats closer to the field. Budget seating is typically in higher tiers in the outfield.
Book Today on Viator From $16.19
Minnesota Wild Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Xcel Energy Center
Xcel Energy Center, home of the Minnesota Wild NHL team is not only a landmark and a spiritual home to the locals of Minneapolis, but a must-visit for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the city's true culture, passion and history. Get the full experience of a Wild's game live at Xcel Energy Center, by wearing the team's colours and grabbing your favourite drink (and maybe some hot wings) at a nearby sports bar while locals crowd around the big screens for some pre-game punditry, before making your way to the ice in time for the electrifying team entrances, national anthems and of course, the puck drop in the world's most-watched ice hockey competition.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $45.19
Museums
Explore the various museums in Saint Paul, MN such as the Science Museum of Minnesota, Minnesota History Center, and the James J. Hill House.
Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball Game Ticket at Target Center
Target Center, home of the Minnesota Timberwolves NBA team is not only a landmark and a spiritual home to the locals of Minneapolis, but a must-visit for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the city's true culture, passion and history. Get the full experience of a Timberwolves' game live at Target Center, by wearing the team's colours and grabbing your favourite drink (and maybe some hot wings) at a nearby sports bar while locals crowd around the big screens for some pre-game punditry, before making your way to the court in time for the electrifying team entrances, national anthem and of course, the jump ball in the world's most-famous basketball competition.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $81.62
Minnesota Twins Baseball Game Ticket at Target Field
Watching the Minnesota Twins play a Major League Baseball game live at Target Field is an unforgettable experience. The ballpark boasts great amenities and fantastic views of the field from every seat in the stadium. With an array of concessions, merchandise, and other treats available, everyone can enjoy their time at the game regardless of their budget. Live music often plays during pre-game warmups and between innings, providing the perfect atmosphere for baseball enthusiasts of all ages. From families with young children to corporate functions, no one will be disappointed when watching a ballgame at Target Field!
To ensure you get the best seats, tickets are sourced from a combination of primary and reseller partners and are perfect for travellers, guaranteeing seamless access to the venue. Premium & Regular category seats generally sit along the 3rd or 1st baseline with Premium seats closer to the field. Budget seating is typically in higher tiers in the outfield.
Book Today on Viator From $16.19
Minnesota Wild Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Xcel Energy Center
Xcel Energy Center, home of the Minnesota Wild NHL team is not only a landmark and a spiritual home to the locals of Minneapolis, but a must-visit for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the city's true culture, passion and history. Get the full experience of a Wild's game live at Xcel Energy Center, by wearing the team's colours and grabbing your favourite drink (and maybe some hot wings) at a nearby sports bar while locals crowd around the big screens for some pre-game punditry, before making your way to the ice in time for the electrifying team entrances, national anthems and of course, the puck drop in the world's most-watched ice hockey competition.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $45.19
Outdoor Activities
Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking in places such as Como Park, Indian Mounds Park, and the Mississippi River trails.
Outdoor Escape Room in Minneapolis - Downtown East
One part scavenger hunt, one part escape room, and one part urban crawl. Can you escape your city? Search for real-world clues, solve puzzles, and discover your city with an experience you will never forget!
Follow the storyline around town as you find clues and use them to crack codes. Then enter solutions on the app to find out where to go next. Clues can be anywhere - murals, statues, landmarks, and more!
Plan on about two hours of playtime, depending on your experience level and how much time you spend exploring along the way. Difficulty level is adjustable - take as many or as few hints as you’d like!
Please Note: When planning your adventure, keep in mind that shipping can take up to 7 business days.
Book Today on Viator From $65.00
Saint Paul Prowl Scavenger Hunt
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment!
Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!
Book Today on Viator From $27.00
Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Minneapolis with Holly Jolly Hunt
Celebrate the magic of the season this year with Holly Jolly Hunt. Holly Jolly Hunt is an app based scavenger hunt that you can play anywhere of your choosing. Explore the city and look for holiday related items, both traditional and not so traditional. Take a photo through the app to score points for your scavenger hunt team. Perform fun, holiday challenges that will bring laughter to your team. See your score on the leaderboard compared to other teams from all over. Holly Jolly Hunt is guaranteed to provide lasting holiday memories. Whether you play with friends, family, or even co-workers, Holly Jolly will put a smile on your face for the rest of the year!
Book Today on Viator From $20.00
Magical Minneapolis Scavenger Hunt
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment!
Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!
Book Today on Viator From $27.00