Old star fort stands with gorgeous river views and extensive hiking trails nearby. Exhibits and guided tours cover 19th-century soldier life and include Native American and WWII history. Accessibility features like golf cart rides and wheelchair availability support diverse visitors.
Exhibits offer a clear view of the United States' settlement impact on Minnesota, showing both good and bad aspects. Guided tours and displays provide an excellent opportunity to understand history, supported by a well done setup and operation.
Historic buildings stand out with rich history. The fort and the tour offer a really cool experience.
"It's a kid-friendly place with living history displays that bring the past to life."
"The museum's knowledgeable staff really bring history to life."
"It was cool seeing the historic buildings and costumed guides."
Good to know
Tours or shows occur every 30 minutes, especially on weekends.
Veterans receive free admission to the museum and fort.
Parking is free at Historic Fort Snelling.
Three levels of museum-style displays create a vast, well-organized space filled with historic memorabilia and a wide variety of antiques. The atmosphere feels cool and clean, with wide aisles and many unique collections arranged into small museums. Visitors can explore rich exhibits like Winter Carnival artifacts alongside diverse vintage items.
Collections of antiques fill several small museums upstairs, showcasing preserved history and informative exhibits. One section focuses entirely on the Saint Paul Winter Carnival.
Extremely cool with a deceptively huge layout full of little nooks and crannies. Offers a wide variety of items and many cool things to see.
Good to know
The store features a wide variety of antiques, from furniture to collectibles.
A museum section showcases historical items related to the Saint Paul Winter Carnival.
Expect to spend hours exploring the well-organized aisles filled with unique items.
Rail museum offers historic trains and detailed railroad exhibits in a family-friendly setting. Visitors enjoy a free caboose ride and interactive experiences like exploring engines. The space feels cool and cute, suitable for all ages interested in trains and history.
Exhibits focus on big trains and railroad history. The space is stroller-friendly and works well for kids and families.
Space and trains create a cool vibe that feels both kid friendly and cute. Exhibits add to the overall coolness of the venue.
Good to know
The entry fee is $15 for adults, which includes a free 15-minute train ride.
There is plenty of parking available at the venue.
The museum is family-friendly and great for kids of all ages.
Historic mansion showcases magnificent woodwork and intricate architecture with original features from 1890. Atmosphere feels opulent and rich in history, enhanced by detailed craftsmanship and early technological innovations. Visitors encounter a quiet, immersive experience that transports them back in time through guided tours and preserved interiors.
A stunning museum from the gilded age, this place offers a huge and fascinating house museum experience with pristine exhibits. It focuses on history and is not geared toward young kids.
Hidden servant door in the dining room stands out as a cool feature. The flaming dragon sconces add a unique touch. The house offers a hauntingly cool atmosphere that makes the museum experience interesting.
Good to know
Tickets for the James J. Hill House must be purchased online in advance to avoid sellouts.
Expect limited street parking, especially on Sundays due to nearby events.
The holiday tour features beautifully decorated trees and runs during the festive season.
Roundhouse setting hosts a cozy, casual space filled with train cars to walk through and model trains. Atmosphere stays quiet and friendly, welcoming families and solo visitors alike. Interactive features like a kids' zone and caboose ride keep children engaged for hours.
Several restored train cars invite exploration inside a historic roundhouse building. Exhibits cover streetcars and buses, showing how people moved before cars. The museum offers a hands-on, historical experience that appeals to kids and rail enthusiasts alike.
Several restored train cars invite exploration inside a historic roundhouse building filled with interesting sights. The place holds a very cool history tied to transportation.
Good to know
The museum hosts 'Tots and Trains' events on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 10:30 am.
Parking is very limited, so arriving early is advisable.
Admission includes train rides, making it a great value for families.
Massive dome and detailed stonework define the building's classical architecture and stunning murals. Interior spaces feel regal and somber, with marble finishes and elegant painted designs. Roof access offers views of golden sculptures and the city skyline, while the surrounding plaza hosts community events and memorials.
Exhibits focus on Minnesota history and Native American culture with powerful, informative displays. The building preserves historical features like original swinging bathroom doors and offers public galleries to watch the legislative process.
Very cool architecture stands out with historic statues and paintings inside. Touching the building gives a unique, cool feeling.
Good to know
Entry to the Minnesota State Capitol is free for all visitors.
Guided tours start at the beginning of every hour.
The Capitol closes at 3 pm on Saturdays.