St. Paul is one of the two cities that make up the Twin Cities. Along with Minneapolis, the two makes up most of what Minnesota is all about with the capital sharing much of what brings people to this beautiful state each year. There is a great deal of history in the state’s capital that brings in millions of tourists each year.
Whether you’re considering moving or taking a weekend trip to St. Paul, Minnesota, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to entertainment. Downtown is where the nightlife comes comes to life, but there’s much more to offer the further out you go. From outdoor events to recreation which appeal to the entire family and anything can happen day or night, or any of the four seasons.
The following takes a closer look at the Top 10 Things to Do in St. Paul Minnesota for Families which include animals, hiking, concerts, events, nature and much more.
10. Science Museum of Minnesota
Focusing on technology, math education, physical science and natural history, the Science Museum of Minnesota is not your average science and history museum. Located in St. Paul since 1907, there are numerous exhibits, films and events going on year round. For the family, there are both adult and children events all the time with an active schedule that always changes.
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9. Cathedral of Saint Paul
Voted as one of the best places to visit in St. Paul, the Cathedral of Saint Paul is much more than just a cathedral. At first sight it’s impossible not to appreciate the amazing architecture that continues as you step through the front door. There’s daily, weekly mass and everything in between helping bring in thousands upon thousands of visitors for mass each year.
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8. Minnesota History Center
Serving as the headquarters of the Minnesota Historical Society is the History Center which offers, well, a lot of history. Close to downtown St. Paul, the Minnesota History Center always has exhibits, history programs, live performance and interactive discoveries. There’s even a museum store that features a wide selection of jewelry, books, gifts and products. Wrap your day up with an amazing meal at the Center’s restaurant.
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7. Lilydale Regional Park
Covered by a floodplain forest, Lilydale Regional Park is a great place for nature enthusiasts and families who appreciate the great outdoors. This 55-acre park and is highlighted by two including the Brickyards of St. Paul and Harriet Island. Harriet Island offers much of the recreation including various summer activities and has become a popular concert and wedding venue because of its natural beauty.
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6. Mississippi National River and Recreation Are
Taking up 72 miles of the Mississippi River, this park is the ultimate thing to do in St Paul Minnesota for families who love the great outdoors. Offering plenty to do outdoors including hiking, boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, swimming and much more which is more than enough to keep you coming back for more. Locals visit regularly as it’s easily one of the best nature parks in the state.
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5. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Both the Como Park Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory are located in the heart of St. Paul and plays a huge part in the city’s ongoing events. With numerous family fun attractions including animal exhibits, amusements parks, mini golf and exotic plants, you’ll find there’s always something for everyone in the entire family.
You can check out their website below as they’ve always got family friendly events going on.
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4. Minnesota State Capitol
The state capitol building isn’t exactly the most entertaining thing to do in St. Paul, but it is one thing that offers a great deal of history and education. The amazing architecture was first established in 1905 and over the years has received a makeover which returned it to its original grandeur.
Compared to other capital buildings, the Minnesota State Capital building is one of the most amazing which shares with it years of priceless history.
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3. Battle Creek Regional Park
During the summer months, there’s not much better than the sights, sounds and activities at the Battle Creek Regional Park. The park features plenty of outdoor activities including a large playground, paved trail, bike trail, dog park, sledding hill, ski trail and the Battle Creek Waterworks Water Park.
The water park is seasonal and is very popular with local families and has a lot to offer children including a three story twisting waterslide, shallow zero-depth entry poo, swim area, activity pool with lily pad walk, sand play area and more.
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2. Minnehaha Falls
The Minnehaha Falls are located inside of Minnehaha Regional Park with the highlight being the 53-foot waterfall that allures everyone who enters the park. The waterfall alone brings in nearly 900,000 visitors each year. There are other outdoor activities including a wading pool, walking path, bandstand, bike path, trails, picnic area, playground and more. There’s even an event location which has become a popular location for weddings.
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1. Candyland
It’s not everyday you find a world-reknown candy factory in your own backyard, and you probably never knew it. When it comes to kids, there’s no better way to their hearts then candy, pop corn and everything in between which is where Candyland comes in. Whether its a special occasion or a ride on a Saturday afternoon, Candyland gives the entire family true American traditions that never, ever go out of style.
You’ll find virtually every kind of popcorn you can think of and with over 200 made from scratch candies, it’s certain everyone will want to come back for more.