Charming St. Paul: A Day Trip Guide

Discover the charming capital city of Minnesota with a trip to St. Paul.

22 April 2023

St. Paul is a charming city located in the state of Minnesota that offers a variety of attractions for tourists. Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture of the State Capitol building, stroll through the trendy neighborhoods of Lowertown and Grand Avenue, and visit the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Saint Paul. Additionally, St. Paul is known for its vibrant music scene and delicious food, making it a destination not to be missed.

Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering St. Paul's Charm

  • Start the day with coffee and breakfast from Cafe Astoria, a cozy and hip spot with delicious pastries and artisanal cappuccinos.
  • Visit the Cathedral of Saint Paul, a stunning church with a dome that offers a panoramic view of the city. Taking a tour is worth it!
  • Head to the Grand Avenue area for a shopping spree at the local boutiques and shops. Look out for the lovely and quirky store, Patina, for unique souvenirs and home decor.
  • Walk through the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, where you can see all kinds of animals, including gorillas, orangutans, and polar bears. You'll feel like a kid again.
  • End your day with dinner at Revival, a popular restaurant that serves amazing Southern-style fried chicken, mac and cheese, and pie. Don't forget to try their signature cocktail, the "Church Basement Punch".
  • St. Paul may not be as flashy as its sister city, Minneapolis, but it's charming, cozy, and has plenty to offer for a day trip.

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

Escape for a 4-day Romantic Getaway in St. Paul

Escape to the charming city of St. Paul with your significant other for a romantic getaway. Enjoy a stroll along the Mississippi River or explore the city's historic architecture. Treat yourselves to a cozy dinner at one of St. Paul's renowned restaurants and soak up the city's intimate atmosphere.

St. Paul Extravaganza: The Ultimate 2-Day Family Adventure

Embark on a delightful family-friendly trip to St. Paul, United States, where you can explore a multitude of attractions catering to all age groups. Spend quality time with your loved ones in the scenic Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, enjoying up-close encounters with various animals and vibrant botanical gardens. Discover the fascinating exhibits at the Science Museum of Minnesota, engaging young minds in interactive learning experiences, before ending the day with a relaxing picnic along the Mississippi River.

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.

A Fantastic Family Adventure in St. Paul

St. Paul, located in the United States, is the perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. Explore the numerous museums and attractions, such as the Minnesota Children's Museum and the Science Museum of Minnesota, which offer interactive exhibits and educational experiences for children of all ages. Take a stroll along the beautiful Mississippi Riverfront, enjoy outdoor activities at Como Park, and immerse yourselves in the vibrant local culture through art festivals and community events for an unforgettable family adventure in St. Paul.