Minnesota History Center
Overlooking downtown St. Paul, the Minnesota History Center brings the North Star State’s past to life through multimedia exhibits and hands-on experiences. This Smithsonian-affiliated museum houses artifacts from prehistoric times to the present, including the snowmobile that made the first solo trek to the North Pole. Don’t miss the feature exhibit on Minnesota’s Greatest Generation, highlighting the sacrifices of citizens during World War II. Costumed interpreters demonstrate life in a recreated 1940s St. Paul streetscape. Other galleries spotlight the First Nations, early European settlers, and immigrants who shaped local culture. The History Center also presents fun, family events like ghost story nights and scavenger hunts. Or enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city from the observation deck — the perfect place to snap a group photo before continuing your adventures.
Address: 345 Kellogg Blvd W, St. Paul, MN 55102
Phone: (651) 259-3000
Marvel at the Cathedral of Saint Paul
Rising from the heart of downtown, the angular granite spires of the Cathedral of Saint Paul make a striking first impression. This Romanesque and Classical Revival-style cathedral serves as the mother church of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Completed in 1915, its grand dome stands 306 feet tall. Intricate mosaics and dazzling stained glass windows decorate the sanctuary’s soaring arches, while European and American artwork fills the surrounding chapels. A centerpiece is the rose window, one of the largest in the world. Free audio tours delve into the cathedral’s artistic highlights and religious history. Don’t miss the Opportunity Gallery showcasing relics like locks of hair from Saint John Vianney and Saint Catherine of Siena.
Address: 239 Selby Ave, St. Paul, MN 55102
Phone: (651) 228-1766
Wabasha Street Caves
Beneath the streets of downtown lies a subterranean labyrinth once used to store illegal liquor during Prohibition. Carved from St. Paul’s natural sandstone cliffs, the Wabasha Street Caves consist of interconnected chambers that housed everything from speakeasies to cafés through the decades. On lively public tours, guides regale you with tales of gangsters, kidnappings, and supernatural occurrences within the caves’ shadowy tunnels. You’ll even learn ghost lore from paranormal experts. Come in costume if you dare for the seasonal flashlight tours each October. After getting your fill of the dank caverns, emerge to savor a cold craft beer at nearby Bad Weather Brewing or enjoy Mississippi River views from the tree-lined paths in Upper Landing Park.
Address: 215 S Wabasha St, St Paul, MN 55107
Phone: (651) 292-1220
West Seventh
Craving a fancy night out in St. Paul? Head to West Seventh, a trendy neighborhood packed with internationally inspired eateries, chic cocktail lounges, craft breweries, dessert shops, and live music venues. With so many options, you’ll want to arrive hungry. Start off with Belgian-style brews, mussels, and live jazz at The Happy Gnome before grabbing a table at Hyacinth, a cozy New American bistro. Next, sip creative concoctions like the cucumber gimlet at Pajarito, housed in a colorful Victorian mansion, then split plates of duck fat fries and poutine next door at The Gnome Craft Pub. Wrap up your tasting tour with doughnuts, gelato, or handcrafted chocolates for dessert. Then dance the night away at Dixie’s On Grand, where local bands rock the rooftop deck until 2 AM.
Address: 260 E 5th St, St. Paul, MN 55101
Walker Art Center
Though technically located over the river in Minneapolis, the renowned Walker Art Center practically straddles the border between the Twin Cities. This contemporary art hub welcomes over 700,000 visitors annually to behold its vast collection of post-WWII paintings, sculptures, photos, videos, and mixed media works. Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, Chuck Close — all the modern masters are represented here. The park-like grounds also contain 40 eye-catching outdoor sculptures, including the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry. Before heading back to St. Paul, grab an organic bite and locally roasted coffee at the on-site cafe.
Address: 725 Vineland Place, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Phone: (612) 375-7600
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
From thrilling rollercoasters to exotic animals, Como Park packs in endless family fun. The beautiful grounds encompass an amusement park, zoo, conservatory, carousel, and outdoor pools. The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory immerses you in luscious gardens and floral displays representing waterfalls, deserts, and more exotic environments. The zoo houses big cats, penguins, and orangutans in naturalistic habitats. Little ones will love spotting colorful birds in the aviary and riding the ponies and swan-shaped paddle boats. Enjoy lunch at the lakeside pavilion before capping off your visit with exhilarating rides like the Turtle rollercoaster.
Address: 1225 Estabrook Dr, Saint Paul, MN 55103
Phone: (651) 487-8200
Landmark Center Observation Deck
One of St. Paul’s most distinctive buildings, the Landmark Center first opened in 1902 as a federal courthouse. The magnificent Romanesque Revival structure still impresses with its soaring Great Hall capped by a stained glass dome. Visit the free public observation deck on the 4th floor for panoramic vistas of downtown St. Paul and the mighty Mississippi River. The Landmark Center also hosts everything from film screenings to ethnic cultural festivals in its grand public spaces. Grab lunch to go from the on-site cafe and enjoy a picnic on the tree-shaded lawn outside. Then gaze up at the beautiful architecture before heading off to your next destination.
Address: 75 W 5th St, St Paul, MN 55102
Phone: (651) 292-3276
Can Can Wonderland
At this quirky arts and entertainment venue, adults can embrace their inner child. The labyrinthine space overflows with old-school games, oddball art installations, cozy nooks, and a cocktail bar slinging candy-themed drinks. Try your hand at Can Can’s oversized Foosball tables and skee ball lanes or get lost in the blacklight minigolf course winding through surreal landscapes. Gather your group for a friendly round of duckpin bowling or a dance party in the retro lounge. With so many amusements under one roof, you’ll never get bored.
Address: 755 Prior Ave N, Ste 4, St. Paul, MN 55104
Phone: (651) 925-2261
Plan Your Adventure in Style
Don’t wear yourself out driving all over St. Paul when you can kick back and take in the sights together from your private party bus. With professional team, luxury coaches, and door-to-door service, Party Bus St. Paul helps groups explore the city affordably and in serious style. Contact us at 218-520-3551 today to request a custom quote. Then get ready to see St. Paul like never before!