St. Paul might play second fiddle to Minneapolis in the Twin Cities duo, but don’t sleep on Minnesota’s capital—it’s got charm, history, and adventure to spare.
With its cobblestone streets, Mississippi River views, and Midwestern hospitality, St. Paul serves up a perfect mix of big-city energy and small-town coziness.
From hidden speakeasies (minus the booze talk) to skyline-spanning parks and museums that’ll wow even the pickiest traveler, the best things to do in St. Paul prove this city punches way above its weight.
Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the 12 can’t-miss spots that’ll make you fall hard for St. Paul.
1. Get Lost in the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Free admission? Check. Penguins, giraffes, and a tropical rainforest under glass? Double check. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is one of those rare places that delights kids and adults equally.
The zoo’s compact size makes it easy to see everything without marathon walking, while the Japanese Garden and Sunken Garden in the conservatory are pure serenity.
Pro tip: Visit in winter when the Como Winter Carnival lights up the park with ice sculptures and hot cocoa vibes.
Whether you’re animal-crazy or just need a green escape, this is one of the top things to do in St. Paul year-round.
2. Step Back in Time at the Minnesota History Center
History buffs, rejoice—the Minnesota History Center makes the past seriously engaging. Ever tried on a 1920s flapper dress or “steered” a virtual Mississippi riverboat? Here, you can.
The Weather Permitting exhibit lets you experience a tornado (safely, promise), while the Open House display recreates a 1950s suburban home down to the Jell-O molds.
Special exhibits rotate regularly, so there’s always something fresh. For educational yet fun things to do in St. Paul, this museum nails it.
3. Stroll Summit Avenue’s Historic Mansions
Architecture geeks, this one’s your catnip. Summit Avenue boasts the longest stretch of intact Victorian homes in the U.S., including the James J. Hill House—a Gilded Age mega-mansion with 36,000 square feet of opulence.
Peek through wrought-iron fences at turrets and stained glass, or join a guided tour to hear scandalous tales of St. Paul’s railroad barons.
Even if mansions aren’t your thing, the tree-lined street is perfect for a lazy afternoon walk. For free things to do in St. Paul with major Instagram appeal, Summit Avenue delivers.
4. Explore the Science Museum of Minnesota
Dinosaurs, IMAX, and a real mummy? The Science Museum of Minnesota is where curiosity runs wild.
The Experiment Gallery hands-on zone lets kids (and playful adults) build dams, launch parachutes, and play with lasers. Meanwhile, the Mississippi River Gallery explores the waterway that shaped the region.
Don’t miss the Omnitheater—a domed screen that makes you feel like you’re diving with sharks or floating through space. For family-friendly things to do in St. Paul, this spot is a slam dunk.
5. Bike or Kayak the Mississippi River
St. Paul’s riverfront is made for adventure. Rent a bike from Nice Ride and cruise the Crosby Farm Regional Park trails, or paddle a kayak from Hidden Falls Regional Park for skyline views from the water.
In winter, the trails transform for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. If you’re itching for outdoor things to do in St. Paul, the Mississippi is your playground.
6. Hunt for Treasures at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds (Off-Season)
The Great Minnesota Get-Together may only run 12 days a year, but the fairgrounds buzz year-round. Weekends bring bazaars, antique shows, and food truck rallies (think mini-donuts without the summer crowds).
The Agriculture-Horticulture Building often hosts quirky exhibits, like giant pumpkins in fall.
Local secret: The people-watching here is gold, from vintage collectors to crafters. For offbeat things to do in St. Paul, the fairgrounds never disappoint.
7. Catch a Show at the Fitzgerald Theater
This intimate 1,000-seat venue is where A Prairie Home Companion got its start, and the vibe is pure Minnesota cozy. From live storytelling to indie bands, the lineup leans folksy but eclectic.
Even if you don’t snag tickets, the 1910 building’s ornate lobby is worth a peek. For cultural things to do in St. Paul, the Fitz is a local gem.
8. Eat Your Way Through Keg and Case Market
Housed in a former brewery, this food hall is St. Paul’s tastiest revival project. Grab a wood-fired pizza at Pizza Karma, vegan comfort food at The Hot Take, or small-batch gelato at Sweet Science.
The industrial-chic space often hosts live music and pop-up shops. If foodie things to do in St. Paul top your list, Keg and Case is a must.
9. Wander the Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary
Once a railroad yard, now a 69-acre wildlife haven, this sanctuary is where urban meets wild. Walk the boardwalks to spot herons, beavers, and even the occasional bald eagle.
The Wakan Tipi Cave, sacred to the Dakota people, adds cultural depth. For peaceful things to do in St. Paul, this hidden spot is therapy for the soul.
10. Tour the Minnesota State Capitol
Free guided tours reveal the 1905 capitol’s marble halls, gold-leaf dome, and murals depicting Minnesota’s history. The quadriga statue out front (four horses that gleam in the sun) is a photo op waiting to happen.
Politics aside, the architecture alone makes this one of the best things to do in St. Paul for design lovers.
11. Play at the Children’s Museum
Yes, it’s for kids—but adults will geek out too. The Scramble climbing structure is a multistory jungle gym, while the Earth World exhibit lets tots dig for dinosaur bones.
Special “adult nights” let big kids play after hours. For fun things to do in St. Paul with kids, this museum is pure magic.
12. Picnic at Indian Mounds Regional Park
Climb the six ancient burial mounds for panoramic river views, then spread a blanket under the oaks. The park’s quiet vibe feels miles from the city, though downtown’s just minutes away.
History note: The Dakota people built these mounds over 1,500 years ago. For scenic things to do in St. Paul, this park blends nature and heritage perfectly.
Final Thoughts
From kayaking past skyscrapers to nibbling your way through food halls and stepping into Gilded Age mansions, St. Paul is packed with surprises.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a lifetime, these 12 best things to do in St. Paul prove Minnesota’s capital is anything but boring.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your walking shoes and discover why St. Paul steals hearts one adventure at a time. Trust us—you’ll be planning your next visit before you’ve even left.