Labor Day Weekend Fun in Saint Paul
What to do, see, and experience during the "last weekend" of Summer.

Closing Time
Cue the calls of “I can’t believe it’s already Labor Day weekend!?” Yes, it’s the unofficial end of summer and signals its officially time to go back to school. You’ve got one last long weekend of the summer, so make the most of it in Minnesota's Capital City!
The Great Minnesota Get-Together
Head to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds to catch the last few (of the 12) days of one of the largest state fairs in the nation. Experience all things fried and on a stick from Thursday, August 27 through Labor Day on Monday, September 7.
Planning your visit to The Great Minnesota Get-Together on a budget? Discover discounted admission, food deals, and ride specials to maximize the fun in a way that is lighter on your wallet.
Guide to the Minnesota State Fair
Saint Paul Vendors at the Minnesota State Fair
Minnesota State Fair Attractions
Minnesota State Fair Food Guide
One Last Hurrah Before School
Saint Paul is home to an amazing collection of interactive museums that are perfect for all ages. Venture around the Capital City to discover an array of educational and fun experiences.
- Let the littles run, explore, and create at the Minnesota Children’s Museum
- Watch awe-inspiring films and explore intriguing exhibits at Science Museum of Minnesota
- Learn about the North Star State's rich past at Minnesota History Center
- Get face-to-face with a giant (stuffed) Woolly Mammoth at the University of Minnesota's Bell Museum
- Train fanatics will be in heaven at the Minnesota Transportation Museum and Twin Cities Model Railroad Museum. Or head to Lowertown to explore the transportation hub itself, Union Depot.
Unique Saint Paul Museums
Dive into mob-era history, marvel at awe-inspiring architecture, and uncover cultural perspectives that have helped shape Minnesota's Capital city.
Guide to Union Depot
A gathering place, starting point and hub of activity from the past, present and future.
Saint Paul: The City of Trains
4 Ways to Experience Saint Paul's Robust Train History.
A Weekend by the Water
Labor Day isn't complete without a relaxing trip by the water. Enjoy these excursions on or near the Mighty Mississippi and pristine lakes.
- Go on a guided kayak tour with Paddle Bridge
- Head to the shores of Como Lake to Como Park Pavilion to enjoy American picnic-style eats from Dock & Paddle over live music. Or head out on the water on a kayak, pedal boats, canoes, and paddle boards from Wheel Fun Rentals.
- Enjoy a riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River. Over Labor Day weekend, Padelford Riverboats offers Sightseeing Cruises on Fridays and features a “Monday Madness” special where you can celebrate Labor Day aboard a half-price tour.
Guide to Como Regional Park
Discover this four-season community hub that blends natural beauty and historic charm with recreational attractions to create the ultimate urban oasis.
Picnic Spots
Enjoy a picnic around Saint Paul at these recommended locations. The views are incredible, the experiences memorable.
Down by the River: Guide to the Mighty Mississippi
Did you know Saint Paul has more shoreline than any other city along the entire Mississippi River? Take advantage of all that riverfront with these activities.
A Step Back in Time
Does Labor Day weekend have you wishing you could rewind time and start summer over again? We can’t help you with that, but here are some ways you can travel back in time.
- Learn about Saint Paul's gangster past, haunted histories of Summit Avenue mansions, and get the insider scoop on the city’s lore with tours from CynCity Tours.
- Take in the city’s magnificent architecture with visits to the Cathedral of Saint Paul, Landmark Center, Union Depot, James J. Hill House, and the Minnesota State Capitol.
- Bring Saint Paul’s brewing history to life with visits to Waldmann (the oldest surviving saloon building in the Twin Cities), Saint Paul Brewing (on the refurbished ruins of the iconic Hamm’s Brewery) and Wabasha Brewing Company (hosted in a former tin shop built in 1865).
Saint Paul’s Beer History
The city's first brewery opened in 1848 (ten years before Minnesota became a state), and it hasn't stopped brewing since.
7 Historic & Beautiful Buildings in Saint Paul
Beautiful, historic architecture is integral to Saint Paul’s identity.
Gangster Past
A look at Saint Paul's notorious involvement in prohibition-era gangster activity.
Make Room for Your Fall Wardrobe
Refresh your seasonal wardrobe and support small business. Saint Paul is home to an incredible collection of specialty boutiques and secondhand shops—plus easy, nearby access to the shopping mecca that is Mall of America.
Shop Grand Avenue
Shop Selby West
Shop Downtown & Lowertown
Shop West 7th Street
A Toast to the Sunny Season
Enjoy a great meal out to celebrate the final days of this incredible season. From longstanding icons and quaint patios to immersive markets where you can try global flavors and shop for goodies to take home.
Iconic Saint Paul Restaurants
Indulge at these longstanding Capital City restaurants that have withstood the test of time and continue to serve up a taste of the city.
Diverse Food Halls & Markets
Discover where you can delve into delicious eats and also shop for a few flavorful bites to take home, all under one roof!
Get to Know These Saint Paul Patios
Discover some of Saint Paul’s top outdoor dining spots and learn the perks of the city’s all-new Patio Passport.