Saint Paul sprawls along the Mississippi River and is the lively capital of Minnesota. It boasts striking architectural landmarks and world-class museums, as well as a cave speakeasy that was once frequented by local gangsters.

Things to do

Join a guided tour of the Minnesota State Capitol, which was designed by renowned American architect Cass Gilbert and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Saint Paul. Admire one of the largest self-supported marble domes in the world and browse the murals depicting scenes from the Civil War.

Visit the beaux arts-style Cathedral of Saint Paul, which has a copper-clad dome overlooking the downtown area. It’s one of the largest churches in the United States and features elegant stained-glass windows and marble statues of the evangelists in its interior.

See the impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons and fossils at the Science Museum of Minnesota. Explore the quirky Museum of Questionable Medical Devices and get hands-on in the Experiment Gallery, then learn about what makes us unique in the RACE: Are We So Different? exhibit.

Gain insight into the antics of Saint Paul’s mobsters at the Wabasha Street Caves, a former speakeasy that was carved into the limestone cliffs on the Mississippi River’s southern shore. Guided tours led by historically-dressed characters help bring the stories to life, with regular swing nights and dance lessons accompanied by big band music.

Getting around

Saint Paul is a 20-minute drive from Minneapolis−Saint Paul International Airport and is connected to Chicago, Seattle and Portland by regular trains. Buses travel throughout Saint Paul and a light rail line runs east to west through the city.