St. Paul: A Capital Adventure Packed with Family Fun!

Discover the charm of St. Paul, where family fun awaits in the heart of the United States.

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to St. Paul, United States offers a perfect blend of history, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Explore the Minnesota History Center with interactive exhibits that delve into the state's past, enjoy a picnic by the scenic Mississippi River while watching the paddleboats pass by, and visit the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, housing a variety of animals and beautiful botanical gardens. With its welcoming atmosphere and plethora of family-oriented attractions, St. Paul is an excellent choice for a memorable vacation.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to St. Paul: A Capital Adventure!

  • Check into the kid-friendly and stylish Staybridge Suites, where spacious rooms and delightful amenities promise a comfy stay.
  • Start your day by exploring the awe-inspiring Minnesota State Capitol, where gilded structures and stunning architecture reign supreme.
  • Relax in the picturesque Como Park, boasting a zoo, conservatory, and shimmering lakes perfect for a family picnic.
  • Take a step back in time at the Science Museum of Minnesota, where interactive exhibits and a colossal dinosaur skeleton await curious minds.
  • Munch on scrumptious BBQ at Smalley's Caribbean Barbeque, where slow-smoked meats and tangy sauces transport you straight to the Caribbean.
  • Top off the night with a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi River, admiring the twinkling city lights that dance on its tranquil surface.
Day 2

Whisking Through the Wonders of Science!

  • Dive into a sea of knowledge at the Minnesota Children's Museum, filled with hands-on activities and imaginative play areas that will keep your little ones enchanted.
  • Embark on a thrilling adventure at trf Escape, a mind-bending escape room experience that will put your family's problem-solving skills to the test.
  • Refuel at Mickey's Diner, a cherished St. Paul landmark where you can enjoy classic American comfort food served in a charming retro diner car.
  • Get your adrenaline pumping at Urban Air Adventure Park, featuring trampolines, obstacle courses, and even a zip line perfect for burning off excess energy!
  • End the day on a sweet note with a visit to Izzy's Ice Cream, where unique flavors like "Peppermint Bon Bon" or "Hot Brown Sugar" will tantalize your taste buds.
Day 3

Go Wild in St. Paul's Nature Wonderland!

  • Immerse yourself in wildlife wonder at the Minnesota Zoo, where endangered species rub shoulders with playful dolphins and majestic big cats.
  • Unleash your inner daredevil at Afton Alps, a nearby ski resort offering winter thrills and exhilarating tubing adventures for the whole family.
  • Satisfy your hunger at Cossetta's Italian Market & Pizzeria, a bustling food emporium where brick oven pizzas are topped with love and crowned with gooey cheese.
  • Explore the enchanting Gibbs Farm, where historic buildings, farm animals, and fascinating stories of early settlers await curious young historians.
  • Take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Mississippi River Trail, breathing in fresh air and witnessing the captivating beauty of St. Paul's riverfront.
Day 4

Arts, Culture, and Culinary Delights!

  • Immerse yourself in the arts at the renowned Minnesota Museum of American Art, showcasing exceptional American artistic talent in varying mediums.
  • Discover the fascinating history of St. Paul's gangsters and bootleggers on a thrilling Wabasha Street Caves Gangster Tour, where secrets of the past come alive.
  • Enjoy a scrumptious brunch at The Buttered Tin, a cozy eatery where fluffy pancakes, tantalizing pastries, and creamy lattes collide in a symphony of flavors.
  • Step into the fascinating world of sculpture at the Franconia Sculpture Park, a sprawling outdoor museum where gigantic sculptures pop up unexpectedly.
  • Cap off the day by catching a captivating performance at the iconic Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, where renowned artists light up the stage.
Day 5

Farewell St. Paul, Memories in My Heart!

  • Make a final stop at the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Saint Paul, a stunning masterpiece of architecture that will leave you breathless.
  • Treat your taste buds to an explosion of flavors at Mai Village, where traditional Vietnamese cuisine is meticulously prepared with love and authenticity.
  • Bid farewell to St. Paul with a relaxing cruise along the Mississippi River, marveling at the scenic vistas and waving goodbye to this enchanting city.
  • Reflect on your adventure over a sweet treat at Mojo Monkey Donuts, where quirky flavors like "Bacon Maple" and "Root Beer Float" make for a memorable farewell indulgence.
  • Leave St. Paul with a heart full of joy, a camera filled with cherished memories, and a promise to return soon to explore even more hidden gems of this captivating city.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to St. Paul, United States by plane is to fly into St. Paul Downtown Airport (STP) or Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), depending on your origin. Both airports have excellent connections to St. Paul.

Car

Driving to St. Paul is easy since the city has several major highways and roads. From Minneapolis, take I-94E to get to downtown St. Paul, or take I-35E N from southern cities like Rochester, MN.

Train

There is no direct train to St. Paul, but Amtrak offers several services connecting cities across the country to St. Paul-Minneapolis Station. The station is a 15-minute drive from downtown St. Paul.

Boat

Since St. Paul is located inland, there are no direct boat services to the city. However, several cruises offer excursions along the Mississippi and Saint Croix rivers that pass through St. Paul, providing a unique way to see the city.

Bus

Taking a bus is another option to get to St. Paul. Greyhound offers services connecting different cities to the Union Depot Bus Station in downtown St. Paul, which is conveniently located near several major attractions.

More travel plans

4-Day Fun Guide: St. Paul, MN Adventure

St. Paul, located in the heart of Minnesota, offers a unique blend of history and modernity, making it a perfect destination for tourists. Visitors can explore the exquisite architecture of the Cathedral of St. Paul, have a scenic bike ride around the huge Lake Como, or immerse themselves in the vibrant arts and culture scene at the famous Saint Paul Art Crawl.

Discover St. Paul: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

St. Paul is a budget-friendly destination packed with opportunities for low-cost entertainment. Take a stroll through Como Park to enjoy completely free attractions such as its zoo and conservatory. The Twin Cities also abound with affordable cuisine options, from ethnic foods to food trucks and farmer's markets.

St. Paul's Family Adventure: Historical Hunt and More!

A trip to St. Paul, United States is an excellent choice for a family-friendly vacation. This vibrant city offers a variety of engaging activities and attractions suitable for all ages, such as the Minnesota Children's Museum, Science Museum of Minnesota, and Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. With its beautiful parks, family-friendly restaurants, and welcoming atmosphere, St. Paul is sure to create cherished memories for the whole family.

Two-Day Romantic Escape to Quirky St. Paul

St. Paul is the perfect romantic getaway destination for couples looking for a mix of urban and natural experiences. Immerse yourself in the city's history by visiting the stunning Cathedral of St. Paul, followed by a walk through the picturesque Como Park. End the day with a romantic dinner and cocktails at the chic W.A. Frost & Company.