Attractions and Places To See around St. Paul - Top 20

St. Paul offers a variety of natural attractions, including lakes and river areas. You can visit Lake Phalen, which is popular for water sports and hosts an annual Dragon Boat Festival. Another option is Como Lake, a former wetland that has seen significant water quality improvements. The city also boasts the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, ideal for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing along the iconic Mississippi River.

Yes, the most popular waterfall is Minnehaha Falls, a 53-foot-tall waterfall. A trail leads down to views of the falls from below, and it's particularly impressive after rainfall.

St. Paul is rich in history. You can explore the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Paul, known for its classical Renaissance architecture and stunning interior. The Minnesota State Capitol, with its Beaux-Arts architecture and large marble dome, also offers guided tours. For a glimpse into the Gilded Age, visit the James J. Hill House, one of the nation's best-preserved Victorian homes.

Many attractions in St. Paul are suitable for families. The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory offers free admission to its zoo, botanical gardens, and amusement rides. The Science Museum of Minnesota provides hands-on exhibits ranging from dinosaurs to space exploration, including an Omnitheater. Additionally, the Minnesota Children's Museum offers engaging and educational experiences for younger visitors.

Yes, St. Paul offers several hiking opportunities. The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area provides scenic trails along the river. Hidden Falls Regional Park features waterfalls, picnic areas, and trails along a 7-mile stretch of river. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes in the region by visiting the St. Paul cycling guide, which also covers trails.

St. Paul has a variety of cycling routes for different skill levels. Popular options include the Mississippi River Trail Loop and the Saint Paul Grand Round. For more detailed information on routes, including mountain biking and gravel biking, you can check the Cycling around St. Paul guide, the MTB Trails around St. Paul guide, and the Gravel biking around St. Paul guide.

You can find excellent views of the Mississippi River at the Confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, located at the tip of Pike Island. Harriet Island Regional Park also offers beautiful views of the city's skyline across the river. The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area provides numerous spots for peaceful river views and diverse ecosystems.

Absolutely. The Science Museum of Minnesota offers interactive exhibits for all ages. The Minnesota History Center provides an in-depth look into the state's past. For performing arts, consider the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts or the historic Fitzgerald Theater. The Minnesota Museum of American Art also showcases a rich collection of American art.

The best time to visit St. Paul for outdoor attractions generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling. Summer is ideal for water sports on the lakes and river, though it can be warm. Winter provides opportunities for unique experiences like the St. Paul Winter Carnival and winter hiking, if you are prepared for colder weather.

Yes, Lake Nokomis features a 7.3-mile paved path that is wheelchair accessible, popular for biking, walking, and inline skating. Many city parks also offer accessible pathways and facilities, making them enjoyable for everyone.

Many parks and trails in St. Paul are dog-friendly, though specific regulations may vary. Crosby Farm Regional Park, for example, offers trails where dogs are generally welcome on leash. It's always recommended to check local park rules or trail signage before visiting with your dog.

St. Paul is renowned for its architecture. Beyond the State Capitol and Cathedral, you can explore Summit Avenue, known for having the longest line of Victorian-era homes in the United States. The Landmark Center, originally a federal courthouse, is another example of Romanesque architecture now serving as a cultural hub. For more on the city's architectural heritage, you can visit this resource.