Growing up in the suburbs of Minneapolis, I knew three main things about St. Paul: The Science Museum, the University of St. Thomas, and the Xcel Energy Center (home of the Wild). Now, I have such a greater appreciation for this city and get excited to cross the river and explore the smaller twin of Minnesota’s Twin Cities. Below, I highlight an easy day trip in St. Paul to do on your own, or with your traveling crew. On this trip, there are options to drive, bike, or walk between stops.
Stop 1: Como Zoo Conservatory
Start your day off by driving to Como Zoo Conservatory. This FREE zoo is a staple in my “what to do” list. Beyond being free, (what’s better than a free activity?!) it is a great place to walk around and enjoy the many gardens, art, and animals they have on site. The gardens include a Bonsai Collection, Orchid House, Fern Room, and many more. As for animals, there is a wide variety in which you can watch and learn as you would like. Make sure to make a reservation ahead of time, as they are required.
Stop 2: Keg and Case Market
After seeing the animals chow down on their favorite meals, it is time for a pit stop to feed yourself. Keg and Case Market is a food hall with various local vendors. From Clutch Brewery on the top floor to coffee, small shops, and food vendors on the first, there is sure to be a taste for everyone. I would recommend getting an Acaí bowl from Juice Wisely, but you certainly cannot go wrong here.
Stop 3: Waldman Brewery and Bad Weather Brewing Company
If you did not already grab a beer at Keg and Case Market, it is time for one of my favorite weekend activities: visiting Breweries! There are many throughout St. Paul, but for this adventure, I would visit Waldman Brewery and Bad Weather Brewing Company, just a few short steps from one another. Starting with Waldman Brewery, you will find a quaint German Beer House with a lot of history. As for beers, this brewery has a short, but hardy menu. I would recommend the Hefeweizen for a traditional German-style ale or the Franconian Dunkel for a darker lager. This brewery has food, so grab a Pretzel or two if you are hungry.
Next, walk around the corner to find Bad Weather Brewing Company. With a diverse selection of beers, it will be hard to choose but stay as long as you like, enjoying the indoor or outdoor seating.
Stop 4: Raspberry Island
After you have tasted your drinks of choice, the next stop is Raspberry Island. This location is along the Mississippi River, where you can go for a short walk to soak up the views of the city. With benches and a walking path, this allows for as much exploring or relaxing as desired.
Stop 5: City House or Cossetta’s
Staying along the Mississippi River, City House is a casual complex serving food and drinks, right along the water. Note this is a seasonal location, so you will have to wait for the warmer months depending on when your St. Paul Adventure occurs. Another option if seasonality is not in your favor is Cossetta’s, a St. Paul staple serving Italian food in a cafeteria-style restaurant.
Stop 6: Treats
It is time to end with my favorite food – Ice cream! One of my favorite places to go for dessert in St. Paul is Treats. Hear me out, because it sounds strange but oh is it good! Treats blends popular cereals into their delicious soft-serve ice cream. My favorites include Treats Supreme and Crisp N’ Cream.
Have fun on your day trip to St. Paul, Minnesota! Download one of the itineraries below to have an incredible day of exploration!
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