Explore Downtown St. Paul: A Self-Guided Tour of Minnesota’s Capital
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Discover the fascinating history of St. Paul with this self-guided tour starting at Rice Park, right in front of the Landmark Center. As you walk along the Mississippi River, you'll uncover stories from the city’s early days, including its roots as a Dakota village and its transformation into a bustling hub with landmarks like the Union Depot.
Meander through Lowertown, passing modern architecture and green spaces like Mears Park. Along the way, learn about notable figures such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Pig’s Eye Parrant, and hear tales of St. Paul’s colorful past, including its rivalry with Minneapolis and its history of gangsters. This tour offers a lively look at the characters and events that shaped the “Saintly City.”
Enjoy the flexibility of exploring at your own pace with this private, self-guided experience. With offline access to maps, audio guides, and detailed directions, you can immerse yourself in St. Paul’s stories whenever and however you like.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed for adults aged 6 to 99 and is accessible for all physical fitness levels.
What’s included in the tour?
You get unlimited lifetime access to the audio and written guides, a virtual playback option, offline maps and geodata, and directions to the starting point.
Are there any additional costs or equipment needed?
You’ll need your own smartphone and headphones to enjoy the tour. The tour itself is included in the price.
Can I do this tour privately?
Absolutely. This is a private tour, so you can explore at your own pace without sharing the experience with others.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled start for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1 hour 15 min – 1.5 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Unlimited, lifetime access to this tour, before and after your booking date
- Audio and written guides
- Virtual playback option, so you can listen like an audiobook from anywhere
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so the tour begins smoothly
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Pass by the Landmark Center, often called “St. Paul’s very own castle,” which once housed federal courts handling notorious Prohibition-era gangster trials. Today, it’s a cultural hub with Romanesque architecture celebrating the city’s history.
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Stop 2
Stroll through Rice Park, a charming spot surrounded by historic landmarks and statues, including one of F. Scott Fitzgerald. This park has been a gathering place for over a century, right in downtown St. Paul.
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Stop 3
As you pass Union Depot, imagine the days when this Beaux Arts-style station bustled with trains and travelers. Now restored, it’s a modern transit hub that offers a glimpse into the past.
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Stop 4
Walk through Mears Park, a peaceful green space in Lowertown, surrounded by contemporary architecture and art. Once an industrial center, it’s now a lively community spot.
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Stop 5
Pass by the Fitzgerald Theater, the oldest theater in St. Paul, originally known as the Sam S. Shubert Theater. It’s a tribute to the city’s literary icon, F. Scott Fitzgerald.
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Stop 6
Gaze at the Minnesota State Capitol, designed by Cass Gilbert, featuring a gilded quadriga statue. Learn how the architect won the design contest for this iconic building.
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Stop 7
Pause at the Herb Brooks Statue, honoring the legendary coach who led the U.S. hockey team to victory in the 1980 Olympics. It’s a proud part of St. Paul’s sports history.
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Stop 8
Pass CHS Field, home to the St. Paul Saints baseball team. Its location in Lowertown highlights the neighborhood’s transformation from industrial to vibrant community space.
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Stop 9
Visit the St. Paul Farmers' Market, a historic gathering spot for local farmers and vendors, reflecting the city’s agricultural roots.
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Stop 10
Admire the Quadriga, the golden chariot atop the State Capitol, symbolizing progress and prosperity with intricate pineapple details representing wealth and hospitality.
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Stop 11
See the statue of F. Scott Fitzgerald, who was born and raised in St. Paul, celebrating his literary legacy and connection to the city.
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Stop 12
Reflect at the Minnesota World War II Memorial, honoring veterans and the sacrifices made during global conflicts, a peaceful reminder of history’s reach.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
The tour begins in Rice Park, in front of the Landmark Center next to the circular modernist fountain, where the park’s diagonal sidewalks converge. The fountain is between you and the Landmark Center.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled start for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day before
- No refund if canceled less than 24 hours before
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $9.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
