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.
Historic Sites to See
Saint Paul is known for stellar museums, including the Science Museum of Minnesota, the Minnesota Children’s Museum, the Minnesota History Center and more. While we’d argue that you’re probably due for a trip to one of these well-known museums, we have a few exhibits in the city that might surprise you, too.
Discover rich history, uncover newfound interests, and marvel at preserved creations around the city.
Built in 1868, the home of the Minnesota Territory’s first governor and state’s second governor is an example well-preserved Victorian architecture. Although the Alexander Ramsey House doesn’t have regular hours, check here for happy hours, history tours, and seasonal events.
Located in the Cass Gilbert-designed Pioneer Endicott building, the Minnesota Museum of American Art has a history that spans back to 1894. The M strives to bring in diverse exhibits that showcase American identities, experiences, and complex truths through art and creativity.
Though the Twin Cities Model Railroad Museum recently moved to a new location, but you’ll still find the O-scale models of your favorite trains. Much of the museum replicates the railroads and landmarks that travel through Minnesota, but you’ll find some Easter egg treats hidden in the tracks, such as Big Foot and Mickey’s Diner.
Inside the Landmark Center, you’ll find several organizations that represent the history of music, art, legislation and change within Minnesota. The Uncle Sam Worked Here exhibit, the American Association of Woodworkers gallery and the Ramsey County Historical Society are tenants in the building, and we highly recommend heading to the second floor to The Schubert Club to make music and learn how it's made.
The Julian H. Sleeper House is a testament to architecture and furniture during the Gilded Age, and features more than 500 decorative owls scattered throughout the home. Although the structure has moved throughout the Crocus Hill neighborhood, it’s now permanently situated on St. Alban’s Street. Tours are available by appointment only as it is a private residence.
There aren’t many operational roundhouses from the 1890s anymore, but the Minnesota Transportation Museum is happy to show you one. The museum houses the regional history of buses and trains, as well as several interactive exhibits. Ask to see the restoration area or the blacksmith shop, and don’t pass up free train rides on Saturdays.
Grab a coffee and see the smallest museum in the city. At Workhorse Coffee Bar, a 24” x 35” vintage firebox is curated to feature a new tiny exhibit. Branded as The Smallest Museum in St. Paul, this on-going effort is a project of the Knight Foundation and is curated by artists who are selected to showcase on a monthly basis.
The Hmong Cultural Center is a small community exhibition, but it’s well worth a visit to this University Avenue gem. Located conveniently next to the Green Line, spend some time learning about the Hmong history, art and culture in Saint Paul. While you're in the area, stop in for a bite at one of our favorite University Avenue restaurants.
Other Legacy Attractions
Though the city is home to an incredible collection of museums and exhibitions to explore, Saint Paul is also host to other unique attractions suited for a self-guided adventure. Don't miss must-see sites like F. Scott Fitzgerald's former homes, the Peanuts characters that hang around downtown, the world's largest Lite Brite, and the longest stretch of preserved Victorian homes in the country—4.5 miles to be exact—on Summit Avenue.
The Peanuts and Saint Paul
Summit Avenue History: The Story of Saint Paul’s Famous Street
Public Art in Saint Paul
A Booklover’s Escape in Saint Paul
Tours
Take a Guided Tour
There's no shortage of history to learn in Saint Paul. Take a tour to get an in-depth look at our longstanding history and uncover new pockets of the city.
From haunted history and architecture to breweries and literature, there is a niche topic for everyone to indulge in during their visit to Minnesota's Capital City.
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