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Best of Saint Paul

Interesting museums

Exploring a museum that offers something genuinely interesting turns a standard day into a discovery.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Landmark Center image 1
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Historical landmark

Historic building showcases phenomenal architecture and original courtrooms with rich details. Atmosphere blends elegant charm with a magical, romantic vibe, making it ideal for weddings and events. Spaces include upper-level balconies and areas for music and dancing, creating a festive yet refined experience.

Permanent exhibits include the Schubert Club Museum, musical instruments, and woodturning art. The architecture and historical displays add to the experience.

Historical architecture stands out with beautiful design and interesting exhibits inside. Free museums on the second floor showcase local art and woodwork, alongside unique stores like an experimental music shop.

People are saying

"The historical architecture here is beautiful and phenomenal."

"I found the historical building's architecture to be stunning."

"I found the historical building's architecture really interesting."

Good to know

1

The Schubert Club Courtroom Concert Series is free and accepts donations.

2

Landmark Center hosts various free community events throughout the year.

3

The building features several interesting museums on the second floor.

02
Historic Fort Snelling image 1
Historical landmark

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.

Historical significance stands out with stories about Dred Scott and slavery in the Northern Territories. The museum offers interesting displays and the walk includes insightful views of daily life at the fort.

People are saying

"It's a kid-friendly place with living history displays that bring the past to life."

"I found the history here really interesting and educational."

"The museum's knowledgeable staff really bring history to life."

Good to know

1

Tours or shows occur every 30 minutes, especially on weekends.

2

Veterans receive free admission to the museum and fort.

3

Parking is free at Historic Fort Snelling.

03
West St Paul Antiques image 1

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.

Basement holds a lot of interesting items. Artwork and unique displays catch the eye throughout the shop.

People are saying

"You'll find interesting collections and displays in every nook and cranny."

"The staff at this vintage shop are so friendly and knowledgeable."

"You'll find museums filled with preserved history and antiques."

Good to know

1

The store features a wide variety of antiques, from furniture to collectibles.

2

A museum section showcases historical items related to the Saint Paul Winter Carnival.

3

Expect to spend hours exploring the well-organized aisles filled with unique items.

04
James J. Hill House image 1
History museum

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.

Tours reveal many hidden aspects and interesting features of the house. The first floor and basement hold particularly engaging historical details.

People are saying

"The Guided Tours here are super nice and deeply knowledgeable."

"I found the historic home to be a really cool experience."

"The tour was really interesting and informative."

Good to know

1

Tickets for the James J. Hill House must be purchased online in advance to avoid sellouts.

2

Expect limited street parking, especially on Sundays due to nearby events.

3

The holiday tour features beautifully decorated trees and runs during the festive season.

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.

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.

Tours reveal detailed history and architecture. Exhibits focus on Minnesota history and the building's large central area.

People are saying

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

"I found the tour and its interesting details about history and architecture wonderful."

"I learned so much about Minnesota's history at the exhibits."

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
Minnesota Transportation Museum image 1

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.

Displays offer interesting self-guided activities inside a nice space. The exhibits focus on transportation and hold attention for adults more than kids.

People are saying

"I loved walking through the train cars at this museum."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with lots of trains to see and play with."

"I found the displays here really interesting."

Good to know

1

The museum hosts 'Tots and Trains' events on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 10:30 am.

2

Parking is very limited, so arriving early is advisable.

3

Admission includes train rides, making it a great value for families.

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