14 Fun-Filled Things to Do in Saint Paul, MN. for Newcomers

by
Updated on March 27th, 2024

Reading Time: 6 minutes

Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a vibrant and historic city located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Known for its unique neighborhoods, rich cultural scene, and friendly residents, Saint Paul is a great place to call home. The city is also a hub for business, education, and healthcare, making it an ideal destination. With a variety of housing options available, from charming historic homes for sale, to modern townhouses and condos, Saint Paul’s housing market offers something for everyone. Life in Saint Paul is characterized by a strong sense of community, with plenty of opportunities to get involved in local events and activities. From art festivals to farmers markets to outdoor recreation, Saint Paul has many fun-filled activities for everybody. Here are a few to check out:

Autumn, from the capitol building

Courtesy of Nathaniel Barber

1. Grab some food at Black Market BBQ Saint Paul

Black Market StP has the very best barbeque in Saint Paul,” suggests local expert, Nathaniel Barber. “Only available on weekends, Black Market StP is a small business run by Robert Lorch and Jill Moeller. They’ve built a tight and highly devoted following and community around their business serving delicious meats out of the back of a trailer/smoker. They serve beef short ribs, baby back ribs, pulled pork, pork and beans, and my favorite, Texas style brisket. Anyone visiting Saint Paul should schedule their visit to this amazing food cart. Make sure to order ahead of time, they often sell out. And schedule enough time to stay to catch a local musician and their set next to the cart.”

Your next home is just a tap away

Access new homes anytime, anywhere with the Redfin app.
2. Harriet Island

“My favorite place to stay and unique site is our beloved bed and breakfast on Harriet Island. A one of a kind, beautifully refurbished, tugboat with skyline and nature views from each room — perfect for surreally escaping the city while being completely in the middle of it all,” recommends Covington Inn. “Luckily, where we are based has so many special treasures to enjoy. One of my favorite restaurants right up the street from us, Babanis Kurdish, has a delicious Chicken Tawa. I love getting a glass of Grog at Moscow on the Hill on a cold day and enjoying a sunny afternoon on Cahoots Coffee Bar’s patio.”

3. Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse

“The Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse Building is not your usual tourist destination. But it is a must-visit destination for lovers of architecture, especially art deco” recommends Nathaniel Barber. “Designed by Holabird and Root of Chicago, masters of the art deco style, and decorated with stunning sculptures by Lee Lawrie, the building boasts a sleek and simple form, featuring murals, medallions, reliefs, and stylized figures that breathtakingly illustrate the people, culture, and history of Ramsey County, and Minnesota. Visitors are especially encouraged to visit a couple separate floors, and take note each floor is decorated in a different wood and style, noted on plaques outside each elevator door.”

4. Enjoy live performances

“Lakeville is about a 35 minute drive to Saint Paul. It’s largest by population in Dakota County and fastest growing city in the Twin Cities area for the fifth year in a row. Lakeville has a ton of live music at our arts center, restaurants, bars, breweries, and an iconic historical downtown,” mentions Visit Lakeville. “A new local favorite, LiveMusicLakeville, is a series of outdoor stage performances in Casperson Park from spring to fall. A special part of this music scene includes Mick Sterling Presents at Brianno’s Chart House. This restaurant and event center sits on Lake Kingsley with a gorgeous large outdoor patio and gardens. The building is shaped like a boat too.”

5. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is a beloved local gem for its stunning gardens and diverse collection of animals. Visitors can see everything from exotic birds to large cats, and even polar bears. One of the highlights of the zoo is the Japanese garden, which offers a tranquil retreat complete with a koi pond and authentic tea house. The conservatory is also a must-see, featuring seasonal displays of plants and flowers from around the world.

Downtown Minneapolis over the Mississippi River.

6. The Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is a natural wonder that offers locals and visitors alike endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. One of the best ways to experience the river is by taking a walk or bike ride along the scenic trails that wind along its banks. These paths provide stunning views of the river and its surroundings, including the downtown St. Paul skyline and historic bridges. In the summer, many locals also enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding on the river.

7. The Science Museum of Minnesota

The Science Museum of Minnesota is a top destination for science enthusiasts. The museum is home to a variety of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to explore the natural world, space, and technology. One of the most popular exhibits is the dinosaur exhibit, which features life-size models of prehistoric creatures and interactive displays that teach visitors about their biology and behavior.

8. St. Paul Farmers Market

St. Paul Farmers Market is a vibrant gathering place for locals to buy fresh, locally-grown produce and artisanal goods. The market is open year-round, but is especially bustling during the summer months when it features over 200 vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade jams and baked goods. The market is a great spot to find unique gifts and souvenirs, as well as to enjoy live music and other events.

Riverfront walk in downtown St. Paul MN

9. Summit Avenue

Summit Avenue is a historic neighborhood in St. Paul that is known for its stunning architecture and grand mansions. The avenue is home to some of the city’s most notable landmarks, including the James J. Hill House, a massive mansion that was once home to the railroad magnate. Visitors can take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the avenue to admire the beautiful homes and gardens, many of which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

10.  Minnesota State Capitol building

The Minnesota State Capitol building is a must-see attraction for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Completed in 1905, the building is a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts style and features impressive marble columns, a grand dome, and ornate artwork throughout. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the building’s history and architecture, and can also view exhibits and artwork related to the state’s political and cultural history.

Front entrance approach of the Minnesota State Capitol building in St. Paul, Minnesota

11. Palace Theatre

The Palace Theatre is a historic venue that has been a cultural hub in St. Paul for over 100 years. Originally opened in 1916 as a vaudeville theater, the Palace has been restored and now hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year. The venue features stunning Art Deco architecture, including a sparkling marquee and ornate ceiling fixtures. Locals love to attend shows at the Palace for its intimate atmosphere and world-class performances.

12. Grand Avenue

Grand Avenue is a charming shopping district in St. Paul that is known for its local boutiques and unique shops. Visitors can find everything from handmade jewelry and clothing to artisanal foods and home decor. Many of the shops on Grand Avenue are locally-owned and offer one-of-a-kind items that cannot be found elsewhere. The avenue is also home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, making it a great spot to spend a leisurely afternoon.

13.  Wabasha Street Caves

The Wabasha Street Caves are a fascinating historical landmark that offer a glimpse into St. Paul’s past. The sandstone caves and tunnels were originally used for storage and transportation in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and later became a popular spot for speakeasies during Prohibition. Today, visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the caves’ history and hear stories about historical characters and other colorful characters who once frequented them.

 A pair of hikers with dog walking on pathway in forest

14. Fort Snelling State Park

Go for a hike at Fort Snelling State Park, a scenic natural area that offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The park is located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers and offers stunning views of both waterways. Visitors can explore a variety of ecosystems, including oak savannas, prairies, and wetlands, and can spot a variety of wildlife along the way, including deer, foxes, and bald eagles. The park is also home to historic Fort Snelling, a military outpost that played a crucial role in the region’s history. Hiking at Fort Snelling State Park is a great way to get outside and explore the natural beauty of the St. Paul area.

Learn more about Saint Paul

21 Popular Saint Paul Neighborhoods: Where to Live in Saint Paul in 2023

7 Most Affordable Saint Paul Suburbs to Live In

7 Fun Facts About St. Paul: How Well Do You Know Your City?

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.
Avatar

Holly Hooper

Holly is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about home improvement and lifestyle. Her dream home would incorporate both an industrial and biophilic design.

Connect with Holly

Find the right loan for the home you love

Find the right loan for the home you love

Homes for sale in

St. Paul

Home Image
$290,000
3 beds, 2.25 baths, 1984 sq ft
158 Charles Ave, Saint Paul, MN
Home Image
$450,000
4 beds, 1.75 baths, 2010 sq ft
2081 Sargent Ave, Saint Paul, MN
Home Image
$275,000
4 beds, 2 baths, 2304 sq ft
582 Winslow Ave, Saint Paul, MN
Home Image
$439,900
4 beds, 1.75 baths, 2174 sq ft
1634 Bayard Ave, Saint Paul, MN
Home Image
$369,900
4 beds, 1.5 baths, 1615 sq ft
1615 Juno Ave, Saint Paul, MN
Start your home search on Redfin
Scroll to Top