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Local picks in Saint Paul

Scenic views and fun activities

Spending time outdoors with a clear view is better when there is something engaging to do.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Como Regional Park image 1
Como Regional Park image 2
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Spacious park with beautiful conservatory and Japanese garden offers a peaceful atmosphere and live music under glass. Zoo and outdoor pavilion add variety, while picnic areas support relaxed visits. Free access invites casual exploration despite limited parking.

Paths wind through the park offering many scenic spots to pause and enjoy views. The colonial-style pavilion overlooks the lake and swan pedal boats, creating a great backdrop for photos.

Shows at the zoo offer fun entertainment for both kids and adults. Como Regional Park provides a relaxing and educational outing suitable for all ages.

People are saying

"I loved Como Regional Park's scenic beauty and all the activities."

"It's a fun time with rides and attractions for the kids."

"It's a beautiful place with peaceful, soothing surroundings."

Good to know

1

Como Regional Park is free to access, but donations are appreciated.

2

Parking can be very difficult to find, especially during events.

3

The park features a small zoo that is also free to visit.

02
Como Lakeside Pavilion image 1
Performing arts theater

Outdoor pavilion on a lake offers covered seating with orchestra-quality live music and a cool breeze from the water. Visitors enjoy walking trails, paddle boats, and a relaxed, cozy atmosphere with space for sitting or dancing. The crowd is diverse and friendly, creating a welcoming community vibe.

Views stretch east over the water, offering a clear sight of the lake. Performances take place with a backdrop of lake views that add to the experience.

Paddle boat swans light up at night for a unique ride. Summer concerts at the pavilion offer live music by the water and fun choir events with engaging setlists.

People are saying

"It's a great outdoor space with a nice walking path around the lake."

"I found the live music here to be really fun."

"I loved the scenic views over the water and lake."

Good to know

1

Free concerts are held regularly at Como Lakeside Pavilion during the summer.

2

Parking is free but can be difficult to find on weekends.

3

The pavilion hosts live music events, often at no cost to attendees.

03
Shadow Falls Park image 1

Small park offers gorgeous views of the Mississippi River and a stream-sized waterfall covered in moss. Trails vary from paved paths for biking and running to steep, muddy dirt paths along the creek. Shaded areas with trees provide spots for relaxation and hammocking.

Gorgeous views of the Mississippi River stand out here. The park offers beautiful creek valley and river views from above, all within a small, scenic setting.

Fun trails run alongside the Mississippi River, offering great paths to explore. The park and surrounding woods provide a variety of outdoor adventures that keep things interesting.

People are saying

"I loved exploring the fun trails by the creek."

"I found the views of the Mississippi River to be really beautiful."

"The scenic views of the river here are beautiful."

Good to know

1

The park has a parking lot, drinking fountain, and porta potty.

2

Parents should have children use the restroom before walking any of the trails.

3

The park features a waterfall that leads into the Mississippi River.

04
Harriet Island Regional Park image 1

Park offers stunning river and city views with open lawn space and live music at a bandshell. Paths remain quiet and clear, attracting an older crowd seeking calm and scenic walks. Facilities support festivals and casual gatherings with picnic areas and food vendors.

Great views of the Mississippi River and Downtown Saint Paul stand out. Walking across the bridge and visiting Raspberry Island offer unique perspectives of the riverfront and cityscape.

Fun live music and great vendors create a lively atmosphere. Kids enjoy the space, making it a spot for family fun.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of downtown and the river."

"The fair had great food, beer, vendors, and live music."

"You'll love the great views of downtown and the river."

Good to know

1

Paddleboats offer affordable midday rides and romantic sunset rides from the park.

2

Food trucks are available on select days during events at the park.

3

Parking can be confusing and limited at Harriet Island Regional Park.

05
Minnesota State Capitol image 1

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.

Climbing 63 steps leads to a rooftop with a gold statue and golden sculptures. The spot offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the cathedral.

Tours offer informative and fun experiences, especially for school groups. Festivals bring lively and engaging activities during summer. Family visits to the Capitol provide a fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"This beautiful historical site's architecture is grandiose and stunning."

"The architecture here is magnificent and grand."

"I found the tour to be fun and informative."

Good to know

1

Entry to the Minnesota State Capitol is free for all visitors.

2

Guided tours start at the beginning of every hour.

3

The Capitol closes at 3 pm on Saturdays.

06
Ordway Center for the Performing Arts image 1

Performing arts theater offers an intimate setting with phenomenal acoustics and comfortable seating providing great views from all seats. The atmosphere feels elegant and classic, creating a special experience akin to attending an opera. The venue maintains a family-friendly and well-kept environment with a festive energy during events.

Great views come from almost every seat, offering a clear sightline to the stage. Both theaters provide excellent sound and consistent visibility throughout the facility.

Shows deliver great singing and dancing with fun storylines and high energy. The foyer offers engaging activities that add to the overall fun experience.

People are saying

"The performing arts venue here is especially beautiful."

"The shows here are so fun and full of energy."

"You get great views from almost any seat here."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in nearby lots, but can fill up quickly during events.

2

Tickets for popular shows often sell out weeks in advance; buy early.

3

The theater offers a family-friendly environment with accessible seating options.

07
Allianz Field image 1

Open stadium design offers fantastic views from every seat and a friendly, fun atmosphere with lively energy during matches. Well-distributed vendors and a brew hall create a social vibe, while a large playground and sensory kits support family-friendly experiences.

Steep seating provides amazing views from every seat. The stadium's modern design ensures clear sightlines to the pitch. Fans enjoy great views of the game and sky throughout the venue.

Energetic and loud fan atmosphere creates a super fun environment. Games offer a great place to have fun and enjoy the fun fan-base.

People are saying

"The live sports atmosphere here is awesome with high-energy fans."

"The family fun before the match was really enjoyable."

"You get great views of the game from everywhere."

Good to know

1

Clear bags are allowed, but larger bags will be turned away at security.

2

Food and drinks are available, but prices can be quite high.

3

Expect long lines for food and drinks during halftime.

08
Cherokee Regional Park image 1

Park offers breathtaking river views and spacious green areas with well-maintained walking trails. Atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, attracting families and nature lovers. Features include modern playgrounds, sports courts, and shelters suitable for picnics and events.

Breathtaking views of the Mississippi River Valley and the St. Paul skyline dominate from the High Bridge Overlook. Multiple spots offer gorgeous river vistas alongside picnic areas and a playground.

Offers fun for all ages with activities that engage both children and adults. Provides a solid option for a day filled with outdoor enjoyment.

People are saying

"These parks offer serene, secluded trails with gorgeous river views."

"The scenic views of the river valley and skyline are breathtaking."

"The views of the river and city skyline are breathtaking."

Good to know

1

The park has picnic areas, pavilions, and a basketball court for recreational activities.

2

Restroom facilities are available and well-maintained throughout the park.

3

Free parking is available along the streets adjacent to the park.

09
SpringHill Suites by Marriott St. Paul Downtown image 1

Hotel offers quiet hallways and a modern, spacious room setup with comfortable beds and updated fixtures. Indoor pool area includes a kid-friendly section with water features, while secure, heated parking adds convenience. Lobby and common areas feel inviting and calm, supporting relaxation and connection.

Rooms offer amazing views of downtown and the nearby airport. Staying on higher floors like the 10th provides a nice cityscape outlook.

The pool area features both an adult pool and a kids pool that offers plenty of fun. Families find the kids pool especially engaging and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The hotel staff's genuine warmth and attentiveness made my stay memorable."

"The city views from the room were amazing."

"The pool area is a lot of fun for kids."

Good to know

1

Parking is available underground and requires a hotel key card for access.

2

The hotel is within walking distance of the Minnesota Children’s Museum.

3

On-site paid parking is available for guests.

10
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area Visitor Center image 1

Three stories of interactive educational exhibits offer a mix of natural history and science activities suitable for kids and adults. The space provides a bird's eye view of the Twin Cities and combines urban and natural elements along the river. It feels informative but modest, best for those interested in local ecology and national parks.

Views include the Stone Arch Bridge and St. Anthony Falls framed by the city skyline. Climbing stairs at the visitor center reveals a great view of the river and two major bridges crossing it.

Three stories offer interactive games and educational fun, including a national parks section. A visitor center adds to the engaging activities.

People are saying

"The interactive museum exhibits are educational and fun for all ages."

"You can race a T-rex or fly like an eagle in these fun activities."

"You get great scenic views of the river and bridges from above."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 and the garage entrance is easy to miss.

2

The visitor center does not require a ticket for entry.

3

Pets are not allowed in the visitor center.

11
Palace Theatre image 1
Live music venue

Historic theater with updated industrial design offers intimate, multi-level setting and great acoustics. Bars on every floor provide easy access to drinks without long waits. Sight lines are excellent from both general admission and balcony seating, creating a close, personal concert experience.

Clear, unobstructed views of the stage exist from nearly every seat. The venue offers great views even from cramped balcony spots, with no bad sightlines in the house.

The atmosphere offers a fun vibe that keeps energy high. Activities here provide lots of enjoyment for everyone.

People are saying

"I thought the historic vibe and atmosphere here was really cool."

"I had a really fun day with all the fun activities here."

"The scenic views from every seat were great."

Good to know

1

Nearby parking is available, making it convenient for visitors.

2

The venue has tiered seating for better sight lines during performances.

3

Expect crowded seating during popular events; arrive early for better options.

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