Ultimate St. Paul Walking Tour - Minnesota's Hidden Secrets
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Ultimate St. Paul Walking Tour - Minnesota's Hidden Secrets

Active
(38 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the surprising secrets of Minnesota's capital that even locals don't know. This expert-guided St. Paul walking tour reveals the "rags to riches" story of the Twin Cities' other half - from Summit Hill mansions to hidden Prohibition caves.

Step into St. Paul's world of old-money elegance and speakeasy history. Your local guide shares untold stories about Dakota and Ojibwe (Chippewa) heritage, the US-Dakota War of 1862, F. Scott Fitzgerald's birthplace, and how St. Paul became Minnesota's "Beer Capital."

Perfect for visitors exploring both Twin Cities, this tour shows the historic heart of Minnesota. From the Cathedral of Saint Paul to trendy downtown bars, discover why there's more to this city than meets the eye.

Join Minnesota's top-rated St. Paul walking tour and uncover hidden stories and architectural marvels. End with local craft beer while receiving insider tips about the best restaurants and attractions.

Available options

Ultimate St. Paul Walking Tour - Minnesota's Hidden Secrets

What's included

Exclusive Access Stories - Hidden Prohibition stories, Capitol fire history, literary connections
Expert St. Paul Local Guide - Deeply embedded in Minnesota culture with lived local experience
Premium Minnesota Coffee Experience - Locally-roasted artisanal coffee at unique St. Paul location
Personalized Minnesota Tips - Recommendations for local attractions, restaurants, & activities
Local Minnesota Craft Beer - Or non-alcoholic alternative at historic St. Paul pub

Detailed itinerary

1

Begin at one of Minnesota's most magnificent churches. Learn why this location was chosen and how it became the spiritual center of St. Paul. Your guide shares stories about the cathedral's role in Minnesota history and its stunning architecture.

2

Explore the wealthy Summit Hill district where Minnesota's industrial barons built their mansions. Discover the "rags to riches" stories of families who shaped the Twin Cities and learn about the neighborhood's transformation from farmland to luxury district.

3

Stand in the neighborhood where the famous author of "The Great Gatsby" was born and raised. Learn about Fitzgerald's complex relationship with St. Paul and how Minnesota influenced his writing and worldview. See his favorite local pub, still available for private bookings today.

4

Discover the palatial home of the "Empire Builder" who connected Minnesota to the Pacific. Learn how railroad wealth transformed St. Paul from frontier town to major American city.

5

Coffee time - enjoy locally-roasted Minnesota coffee at a unique St. Paul location while your guide shares insider stories about the city's transformation and answers questions about Minnesota life.

6

Learn the surprising story of this urban oasis.

7

Former Post Office building with fascinating history

8

Explore St. Paul's famous Skyway system on this elevated walking tour through Minnesota's capital. The weather-proof pedestrian bridges connect 50+ downtown blocks, revealing hidden public art, Mississippi River views, and unique urban architecture year-round.

9

Learn about one of the Midwest's premier educational institutions and its role in making St. Paul a center of learning and innovation.

10

Learn the dramatic story of the fire that destroyed the original capitol and why the current 1905 building represents Minnesota's emergence in the "New West." Discover political stories and architectural significance.

11

Learn about the frontier military outpost perched dramatically above the confluence of Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers

12

Explore St. Paul's premier cultural venue and learn how the arts scene rivals Minneapolis while maintaining its own distinct character.

13

End your St. Paul adventure with locally-brewed Minnesota beer (or non-alcoholic alternative) while your guide shares personalized recommendations for your St Paul's itinerary

14

Now named the 'Grand Casino Arena', discover the political machinations behind Minnesota Wild's home arena and how sports transformed downtown St. Paul's economy and culture.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
22 reviews
5★
21
4★
0
3★
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1★
1
Tripadvisor 5.0
16 reviews
5★
16
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Meet at the front steps facing Summit Ave, near the sidewalk/roadway.

For most convenient parking, a pay lot is available at the Minnesota History Center for a flat rate of $6 - 345 W Kellogg Blvd.

About Minneapolis-Saint Paul

Minneapolis-Saint Paul, known as the Twin Cities, is a vibrant metropolitan area in Minnesota, offering a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. With its renowned arts scene, extensive park system, and rich cultural heritage, it's a destination that appeals to both outdoor enthusiasts and city dwellers.

Top Attractions

Mall of America

One of the largest shopping malls in the world, featuring over 500 stores, an indoor amusement park, and numerous dining options.

Shopping/Entertainment Half day to full day Free to enter, varies by attraction

Minneapolis Institute of Art

A premier art museum with over 90,000 works of art from around the world, spanning 5,000 years of creativity.

Museum 2-3 hours Free admission

Minnehaha Falls

A stunning 53-foot waterfall in Minnehaha Park, surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking trails.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Stone Arch Bridge

A historic bridge offering beautiful views of the Minneapolis skyline and the Mississippi River.

Historical/Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

A free zoo and conservatory featuring a variety of animals, gardens, and a Japanese garden.

Nature/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Juicy Lucy

A cheese-stuffed hamburger, a local specialty.

Dinner Contains dairy and gluten

Wild Rice Soup

A creamy soup made with wild rice, a staple in Minnesota cuisine.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free

Hot Dish

A comforting casserole made with a variety of ingredients, often including tater tots.

Dinner Varies by recipe, can be made vegetarian or gluten-free

Pizza with lutefisk

A unique pizza topped with lutefisk, a traditional Scandinavian dish made from dried fish.

Dinner Contains fish and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Kayaking Rock climbing Picnicking Reading Yoga Meditation

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals and activities. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish, Hmong, Somali
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-6 (Central Standard Time, CST), GMT-5 (Central Daylight Time, CDT) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Twin Cities are generally safe for visitors, but as with any urban area, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of your surroundings
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use reputable taxi services

Getting there

By air
  • Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from downtown Minneapolis
By train

Union Depot (St. Paul), Minneapolis Depot

By bus

Union Depot (St. Paul), Greyhound Station (Minneapolis)

Getting around

Public transport

The Metro system includes the Blue Line (airport to Mall of America), Green Line (downtowns to University of Minnesota), and Green Line Extension (under construction).

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Minneapolis Uptown Saint Anthony Main Grand Avenue

Day trips

Stillwater
35 km (22 miles) from downtown Saint Paul • Half day to full day

A charming river town with historic buildings, antique shops, and beautiful views of the St. Croix River.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
6 km (4 miles) from downtown Saint Paul • Half day

A free zoo and conservatory featuring a variety of animals, gardens, and a Japanese garden.

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
25 km (16 miles) from downtown Minneapolis • Half day to full day

A beautiful arboretum featuring gardens, trails, and a variety of plant species.

Festivals

Minneapolis Aquatennial • Late July Saint Paul Winter Carnival • Late January to early February Minneapolis Mill City Farmers Market • May to October

Pro tips

  • Visit the Mall of America for a unique shopping and entertainment experience
  • Explore the extensive park system and outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking
  • Attend a theater performance or concert at one of the many venues in the Twin Cities
  • Try local specialties, such as the Juicy Lucy and wild rice soup
  • Take a day trip to Stillwater for a charming river town experience
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-99
1
Childs
Age 5-12
0
Infants
Age 0-4
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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