Popular Saint Paul Attractions
When in the west half of the Twin Cities, Minnesota area, you'll never find yourself growing bored if you keep an eye out for the many of the most popular Saint Paul attractions. To get you started, here are some of the most popular Saint Paul attractions.
Cathedral of Saint Paul
One of the most instantly recognizable structures in all of the Midwest, the Cathedral of Saint Paul is a soaring testament to the saint in traditional Christian and Catholic legend who gave the city its name. (It was quite an improvement over the original moniker, Pig's Eye Settlement.) After the first cornerstone was laid in 1907, it took until 1915 to complete the 306-foot-tall building made of granite, Minnesota travertine (a form of limestone) and Italian Botticino marble. It is considered one of the finest examples of Beaux Arts architecture in the world. The cathedral offers guided tours at 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
A great low-cost zoo -- an admission of $2 for adults, and $1 for kids is voluntary -- Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is a top stop for visitors to Saint Paul who have little ones in tow. The facility is owned by the City of Saint Paul and boasts the usual variety of creatures, including gorillas, lions, polar bears, giraffes, penguins, tigers, zebras, sloths and much more. The botanical side of the park will intrigue grownups, with a bonsai gallery, sunken garden, Japanese garden and butterfly garden.
Padelford Packet Boat Company
See Saint Paul the 19th Century way with a paddleboat cruise along the mighty Mississippi River. The 125-foot Jonathan Padelford is one of the few authentic sternwheelers still on the water, affording a stunning view of downtown Saint Paul, High Bridge, Pig's Eye Cave, Pike Island and Fort Snelling. The 90-minute narrated sightseeing excursion runs twice a day during summer; check the Padelford Boat Company website for a detailed schedule.
Minnesota State Capitol
The state capitol is a mammoth building with an impressive marble dome that's among the largest in the world. Opened in 1905, it was designed by Cass Gilbert, who also dreamed up the U.S. Supreme Court Building and the Woolworth Building in New York City. Gilbert wanted a building constructed in the classical style, but with modern conveniences. Free guided tours begin daily on the hour until one hour before closing.
Posted on May 11, 2011 by Christopher Lloyd
