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Guide to Saint Paul

Kid-friendly spots with nice views

A table with a view that you can actually enjoy while keeping an eye on the kids.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 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.

Kids explore a small amusement park, an outdoor zoo with many animals, and a Dinosaur Expedition where they can touch animals. Shows at the zoo entertain both kids and adults, and picnic areas add to the family-friendly options.

Scenic spots surround every path, offering great views of the lake and tropical landscapes. The colonial-style pavilion overlooks the water and swan pedal boats, adding to the beautiful scenery.

People are saying

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

"It's a great spot for kids and families to hang out."

"I loved the beautiful scenery and the gorgeous flowers."

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
Cathedral of Saint Paul image 1
Catholic cathedral

Cathedral presents majestic architecture with intricate artwork and stained glass windows creating a reverent atmosphere. Visitors experience a peaceful, spiritual vibe with quiet chapels for reflection and excellent music during services. Guided tours and seating areas support both admiration and contemplation.

Kids feel comfortable and engaged during services and events. Walking the beautiful grounds and admiring the interior captures their attention.

Perched on a hill, the cathedral offers great views of the city and the Capitol building. Visitors can see the cityscape and the capital from its vantage point.

People are saying

"This place is a peaceful Meditation Spot with beautiful stained glass."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my kids called it a castle!"

"The architecture here is beautiful, with ornate stained glass windows."

Good to know

1

Visiting the Cathedral of Saint Paul is free, with optional donations.

2

Parking is often full during mass; consider street parking.

3

On Sundays, donuts and coffee are served after Mass.

03
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.

Kids enjoy climbing stairs and exploring the building's details. Staff manage groups well during classroom field trips.

The rooftop offers panoramic views of the city and the cathedral, with a close-up of the gold statue and the Quadriga. Climbing 63 steps leads to an observation deck with exceptional views of downtown and St. Paul's charm.

People are saying

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

"The guided tours are so insightful and passionate about history and architecture."

"It's really Kid Friendly; my kids loved exploring the building."

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.

04
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.

The pool area features an awesome kids area with a kiddie slide and a mushroom waterfall. Secured premises and a garage add to the kid-friendly environment.

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

People are saying

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

"The free breakfast here was amazing and well stocked."

"The city views from the room were amazing."

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 Childrenโ€™s Museum.

3

On-site paid parking is available for guests.

05
Phalen Regional Park image 1

Traditional Chinese pavilion and arch add an oriental flair to the spacious park with lakeside views. The atmosphere stays peaceful and family-friendly, with walking and biking trails, a beach, and water activities. Sculptures and bridges along paths create an interesting environment for visitors.

Many kids activities like canoeing, fishing, and water play keep children busy. Trails for walking and biking add variety, and free life jackets make swimming safer for little ones.

Beautiful lake views dominate the scenery. The walk offers scenic routes with outstanding lakeside sights throughout.

People are saying

"I loved walking and biking the scenic paths around the lake at this park."

"It's a kid-friendly place with a cool splash pad."

"I loved the beautiful lake and scenery."

Good to know

1

Parking is available around the lake, especially on the western shore.

2

The beach area is great for families and swimming.

3

Dogs are welcome at the park, but be mindful of leash laws.

06
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.

Living history displays offer interactive learning for kids. The rifle demonstration captures their attention and makes history come alive.

Walking trails offer access to beautiful scenery and gorgeous views of the river. The grounds provide great views of the city and rivers.

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 nice view of the river is beautiful."

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.

07
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.

Many interactive activities and a junior ranger program keep kids engaged for hours. The visitor center offers educational science exhibits suitable for a wide age range, including pre-teens.

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.

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."

"It's so kid friendly with tons of interactive science activities."

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.

08
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.

A free sensory kit with noise-canceling headphones and games supports kids during visits. A kids playground and the Players Pal program let children play and go onto the field during the National Anthem.

Steep seating provides amazing views from every seat. The stadium's design offers fantastic views of the field and sky, even from the top rows.

People are saying

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

"It's so Kid Friendly, they even have a playground!"

"The nice view from any seat is great."

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.

09
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.

Train rides and interactive exhibits keep kids engaged for hours. Special events like the Easter Egg Hunt and Santa's greeting add extra fun for little ones.

Stunning scenery surrounds the area, including a waterfall and trestle visible during the trip. Views from the museum add to the beautiful landscape regardless of weather or season.

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."

"The scenery here is beautiful, truly a nice view."

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.

10
Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown image 1

Spacious rooms include small living rooms and feature updated fixtures with unique layouts. The atmosphere stays quiet and comfortable despite many guests, with well-kept common areas. Amenities include a warm pool and hot tub alongside free evening receptions and breakfast.

Pool and hot tub provide fun for kids and relaxation for adults. Evening kickback offers free meals and drinks with options for kids. Breakfast includes choices that kids enjoy. Late check-out at 1 pm adds convenience for families.

Rooms offer different views that stand out. Each room stays spotless with comfortable beds and furniture.

People are saying

"You get a free hot breakfast with eggs, sausage, and pancakes."

"The free breakfast and kickback are fantastic and kid friendly."

"I loved the nice view of the cities from my room."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers complimentary drinks and snacks from 5:30 to 7pm daily.

2

Guests enjoy a free evening buffet with drinks included.

3

The hotel provides free breakfast and dinner with each stay.

11
Radisson Hotel St. Paul Downtown image 1

Spacious rooms offer beautiful views of nearby landmarks, creating a calm atmosphere despite some noise from hallways and highways. Free shuttle services connect to local events, adding convenience for guests. Outdoor gathering areas provide pleasant spots to relax outside the building.

Indoor pool and hot tub attract kids but humidity runs high. Shuttle service eases travel with children. Staff handle special requests well, and safety feels solid for young guests.

Rooms and spots offer a beautiful view of the Cathedral and the capital building. The hotel sits close to the interstate with clear sightlines to the massive cathedral and chapel.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so friendly and helpful."

"The breakfast staff here are so friendly and accommodating."

"The staff here is so nice and accommodating for kids."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers $15 gated parking without height restrictions.

2

Parking is secure but can be chaotic at times.

3

The hotel provides free breakfast for all guests.

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Saint Paul, Minnesota

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