The shadow of the massive marble dome of the Minnesota State Capitol rises over the city skyline, a structure that serves as the seat of state government and features one of the largest unsupported marble domes in the world.
Historic Landmarks and Architectural Grandeur
- Minnesota State Capitol: Visit this 1905 landmark to see its imposing architecture. The dome was partially modeled on the dome of St. Peter's Basilica.
- James J. Hill House: Tour this grand 1891 mansion, once owned by a famous railroad tycoon, located on Summit Avenue.
- Landmark Center: Explore this historic building, originally constructed as a post office and federal courthouse, which now hosts various galleries and exhibits.
- Cathedral of Saint Paul: Visit this site to see the co-cathedral for the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
Museums of Art, Science, and History
- Minnesota Museum of American Art: View a collection dedicated to representing the diverse cultural, racial, and regional variety of American art.
- Science Museum of Minnesota: Experience hands-on activities in the experiment gallery, view dinosaur fossils, or see the permanent exhibit featuring the Mississippi River.
- Minnesota History Center: Explore the state's main history museum, which features both permanent and rotating exhibits.
- Bell Museum: Visit this natural history museum to see animal and plant specimens from around the world and visit Minnesota’s only planetarium.
- AZ Gallery: View art in this local gallery space.
Unique Experiences and Local Culture
- Wabasha Street Caves: Step into these sandstone caves that once housed speakeasies and gangsters during the 1920s. You can also experience a swing night with a big band and dance floor every Thursday evening.
- Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory: Spend time among animals at the zoo or explore the botanical offerings of the conservatory.
- Minnesota Children's Museum: Take the kids to an immersive world featuring seven uniquely designed galleries for hands-on play.
- Jackson Street Roundhouse: Visit this old railroad roundhouse where you can see historic locomotives and rolling stock undergoing maintenance.
Neighborhoods and Regional Events
- Summit Avenue: Walk this neighborhood to see its collection of historic mansions and connect with the legacy of writer F. Scott Fitzgerald.
- Grand Avenue: Stroll this street just one block south of Summit Avenue, known for its many shops.
- Minnesota State Fair: If visiting between mid-August and Labor Day, head to the fairgrounds for one of the largest state fairs in the United States.
- Saint Paul Winter Carnival: Visit in January to experience the festivities in Downtown and Como Park, including the annual Ice Palace.
Whether you are drawn to the massive scale of the State Capitol or the hidden history of the Wabasha Street Caves, Saint Paul offers a deep sense of place through its architecture and culture. Start planning your visit today to experience these landmarks firsthand.