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Fun activities in Downtown

The routine has become predictable and the afternoon needs a sudden shift in energy.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
James J. Hill House image 1
James J. Hill House image 2
James J. Hill House image 3
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History museum

Historic mansion features intricate architecture and magnificent woodwork from 1890. Guided tours share fun stories and cover the entire house with knowledgeable guides. Visitors enjoy a quiet, immersive experience rich in history and craftsmanship.

Tours offer fun stories and cover the entire house. Guides stay knowledgeable and courteous, making the experience memorable for all ages.

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 guides are so knowledgeable and fun!"

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.

02
History Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Intimate theater offers excellent acoustics and great sight lines for every seat. Shows like I Am Betty bring joyful entertainment with fun characters. Cozy lobby cafe bar serves wine and beer, creating a relaxed vibe before performances.

Productions like I Am Betty offer joyful entertainment with fun characters. The theatre provides a fun venue to learn about history while enjoying the show.

People are saying

"The plays here are phenomenal and well written."

"The musicals here are a blast and great fun."

"The bathroom here was really clean."

Good to know

1

Parking in lot 7A is convenient but costs $18 for Sunday shows.

2

The theatre has limited elevator access, making it challenging for those with mobility issues.

3

The restroom is located half a floor down from the main area.

03
Zen Room Kava Lounge image 1

Small space with local art and zen design offers a peaceful vibe. Event nights add fun activities without loud noise. Games and a patio create a relaxed social scene perfect for chilling and connecting.

Offers a fun alternative to typical bars with event nights that bring energy. Great spot to chill and connect while enjoying the vibe.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful sanctuary where you can truly unplug."

"This bar is a community hub where you'll find like-minded folks."

"It's a great spot for fun activities, with a laid-back vibe and friendly people."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night with a two-drink minimum.

2

The lounge hosts various innovative events and celebrations throughout the month.

3

Free parking is available next to the lounge.

04
Landmark Center image 1
Historical landmark

Historic building features original courtrooms and upper-level balconies that create a magical, romantic vibe perfect for weddings. Events offer fun activities that keep kids entertained and invite repeated visits. Spaces support music and dancing, blending elegance with festive energy.

Events offer great fun and keep kids entertained. Exploring the space feels engaging and invites repeated visits.

People are saying

"The historical architecture here is beautiful and phenomenal."

"It's an elegant space with beautiful decorations."

"I found the fun activities here were free and really cool."

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.

05
Ordway Center for the Performing Arts image 1

Enjoy phenomenal acoustics and comfortable seating in an elegant, family-friendly theater. Shows feature great singing and dancing with fun storylines and high energy. Foyer activities add to the festive energy and overall fun experience.

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."

"Parking was easy to find nearby."

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.

06
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area Visitor Center image 1

Three stories of interactive exhibits blend natural history and science for all ages. Visitors enjoy a bird's eye view of the Twin Cities and explore national parks through fun, educational games. The space feels modest yet rich in local ecology insights.

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 a nice view 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.

07
Minnesota State Capitol image 1

Massive dome and detailed stonework showcase classical architecture. Tours and festivals offer fun activities for all ages. Roof access reveals golden sculptures and city views, while the plaza hosts community events and memorials.

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

"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.

08
Fitzgerald Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater offers intimate setting with excellent acoustics and cozy seating near the stage. Comedy tours bring lively atmosphere and fun events. Staff are kind and professional, making every visit memorable and enjoyable.

Intimate shows happen in a fun venue with kind, professional staff and security. Comedy tours and events create a lively, enjoyable atmosphere.

People are saying

"This intimate theater makes you feel close to the performing arts."

"It's a wonderful historic venue with beautiful architecture."

"It's a fun venue for a memorable show."

Good to know

1

There is no elevator, so consider orchestra seating for accessibility.

2

Parking is available nearby, but can be challenging to find.

3

The theater has only one bathroom per gender, which can lead to long lines.

09
Camp Bar and Cabaret image 1

Bar blends a chill atmosphere with a lively vibe on weekends. Groups enjoy darts and pool while watching Packer games. Diverse crowd, including many from the LGBTQ+ community, adds unique character.

Watching Packer games at the bar offers a lively and fun atmosphere. Camp Bar and Cabaret provides a fun bar experience with a lively vibe.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are amazing and always took great care of me."

"Britt made our pizza just right and kept our drinks fresh."

"I found it to be a fun bar with a lively vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday with 2-for-1 drinks.

2

Trivia night happens every Thursday and is a popular event.

3

Drink prices are generally affordable, with beers costing around $9.

10
Alary's Bar image 1
Sports bar

Sports bar features plenty of TVs and a full bar with games like darts and pool. Bright, clean space includes a beautiful outdoor patio and shuttle service to events. Friendly staff and lively vibe make weekends great fun.

Fun atmosphere and friendly staff create a lively environment. Drinks and service add to the overall great fun on weekends.

People are saying

"The brisket here is the best I've ever had."

"I loved watching the Live Sports here; the BBQ was amazing."

"It's a fun spot with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Breakfast at Alary's Bar starts at 9 AM and ends at noon.

2

They host Bar Trivia sessions available any time of day.

3

Alary's Bar offers validated parking in the ramp next door.

11
Rice Park image 1

Urban park shines with flower-lined paths and a large fountain. Music festivals bring lively scenes while Snoopy statues add playful charm. Peaceful vibe blends with diverse architecture for great photos and quiet moments.

Music festivals and skating create lively scenes. Scattered Snoopy statues and dogs add playful charm to walks.

People are saying

"This park is a beautiful, charming oasis in the heart of downtown."

"The scenery here is beautiful, with a great view of the Landmark Center."

"It's a fun place with charming benches, fountains, and statues."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging at Rice Park, especially during events.

2

Bathrooms are limited at Rice Park, so plan accordingly.

3

The park hosts outdoor skating every Friday from 5 pm to 8:30 pm.

12
SpringHill Suites by Marriott St. Paul Downtown image 1

Hotel boasts quiet hallways and modern rooms with comfy beds. Indoor pool has a kid-friendly section with fun water features. Secure, heated parking adds ease. Lobby feels calm, perfect for relaxing and connecting.

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 free breakfast here was amazing and well stocked."

"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 Childrenโ€™s Museum.

3

On-site paid parking is available for guests.

13
Laugh Camp Comedy Club image 1

Comedy club shines with intimate lounge and great acoustics. Improv shows bring lively fun and lots of laughs. Friendly staff and a cozy bar create a welcoming vibe for all guests.

Improv shows deliver lively fun with plenty of laughs. Friendly staff create a welcoming vibe that keeps the energy upbeat.

People are saying

"I'd come back for another great comedy show."

"It's a perfect venue for a fun date night."

"I found the improv show to be really fun and impressive."

Good to know

1

Tickets are cheaper when purchased online, typically around $26 each.

2

The comedy show runs for about an hour and a half, starting at 8pm.

3

An improv show follows the main comedy show at 10pm.

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Downtown, Saint Paul

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