Saint Paul Day Trips in Full Bloom for Fall
Daytrippin' in the Capital City
The fall season is an exciting time in Saint Paul, with access to various daytrip adventures all over the city. There are endless things to do and see in Minnesota’s historic capital, filled with breathtaking outdoor scenery, a walkable downtown neighborhood, and access to some of the best local attractions. Whether searching for tickets to the event of the season or a laid-back evening with your friends, your next daytrip to Saint Paul is bound to be memorable.
Entertainment
Whether it’s a concert or cabaret, planning a day in Saint Paul centered on entertainment is a fall must. A multitude of big-name artists will venture to Saint Paul in the coming months. At downtown’s Xcel Energy Center, artists like Lizzo (Oct. 11), The Smashing Pumpkins (Nov. 4), and Keith Urban (Nov. 5) will be performing. To check out more underground artists and performers, smaller venue options include Amsterdam Bar & Hall, Fitzgerald Theater, Blues Saloon, and Palace Theatre.
The upcoming calendar for performing arts is also brimming with events of every genre. “Weathering”—written by Harrison David Rivers and directed by Colette Robert—follows a couple dealing with loss and the circle of women who aid in their healing. This play will be showcased at Penumbra Theater from Oct. 11 to Nov. 6. “Fire in a New World” is another approaching show—written and directed by R.A. Shiomi—and is about a crime fighter in Vancouver’s Japantown following WWII, set to run from Oct. 19 to Nov. 6 at Park Square Theatre.
The ‘SIX’ wives of Henry VIII take the stage.
The long-anticipated Broadway performance “SIX” comes to the Ordway on Oct. 25 as the show of the season. Running from Oct. 25 to Nov. 6, the Tony-winning musical demonstrates the powerful ideal of “girl power,” telling the tale of the six wives of Henry VIII.
In person drama not for you? Not a problem! Though the high-profile event calendar is packed for the fall, there are many more low-key events beckoning this season. Continuing its summer-long production, the movies in the park series is dipping into horror for Halloween. Catch your favorite scary movie at a Saint Paul staple location throughout the month of October as anticipation builds for spooky season. Movies presented will include “Psycho” at Mears Park (Oct. 14) and “Rocky Horror Picture Show” at Harriet Island (Oct. 21).
Sports
The State of Hockey and A City of Sports
For sports fans in Saint Paul, October is one of the most exciting times of the year. Get wild at the Minnesota Wild home opener at Xcel Energy Center on Oct. 13, where they’ll take on the rival New York Rangers. Xcel Energy Center’s prime location means perfect access to pre-game dinner and drinks. Stop by Cossetta’s for a casual Italian dinner, Eagle Street Grille for a mob-themed menu—paying homage to Saint Paul’s role as a haven for gangsters in the 1930s—or New Bohemia for the finest local beers the city has to offer.
If soccer is more your speed, Minnesota United FC is hosting their annual Fan Appreciation Night on Oct. 9 at the state-of-the-art Allianz Field. This unmissable game is all about the fans, dedicating a time for the team to express gratitude for all the support. If you are looking to be a part of something special, don’t miss out on this unforgettable event.
Parks & Zoos
Saint Paul is home to the best outdoor recreation activities, and fall is the perfect in-between season for enjoying them. As the leaves change color, picturesque Saint Paul landscapes are in full swing, yearning to be admired. The city’s vast park system presents many options for hiking and biking through the vibrant red and orange treescapes.
Chrysanthemums in Autumn Bloom
A more specialized space, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, is a classic option in Saint Paul—home to 373 animal species, gardens, and other seasonal attractions. The Fall Flower Show at the conservatory opens Oct. 7 and runs through Nov. 27. Part one of the show features white, pink, lime green, and purple chrysanthemums, while the second half (Nov. 5 to Nov. 27) will showcase white, yellow, lime green, bronze, red, and orange chrysanthemums (all the heart eyes!).