A Family Guide to Visiting Downtown St Paul With Kids: 16+ Exciting Things to Do

The capital of Minnesota, Saint Paul, offers a vibrant downtown filled with history and fun things to explore with kids. Named Pig’s Eye by early settlers, Saint Paul’s robust history forms a beautiful backdrop to its unique urban landscape, dedication to the arts, and exciting things to do. Saint Paul’s bustling downtown has also maintained its historic charm, seen in everything from its artful lamp posts to its architecture. Undoubtedly, Saint Paul makes for a fun day out with kids of all ages! When you’re ready to explore, use this family guide to fill your itinerary with the best kid-friendly things to do in downtown Saint Paul. Whether you are interested in museums, parks, unique places to eat, or a few hidden gems, this list has it all! Keep reading to discover our top picks for the best things to do in downtown St Paul with kids.

Fun Things to Do in Downtown Saint Paul for Families

If you want to find fun things to do with kids in downtown Saint Paul, you’re in luck! The downtown area boasts plenty of kid-friendly things to do, from libraries to urban parks, in a compact, walkable area. Here are a few of our favorite places to enjoy downtown Saint Paul with kids.

1. Rice Park

Rice Park is located in the heart of downtown Saint Paul. No matter which of the fun things on this list you choose to do in downtown Saint Paul with kids, you will probably pass by or be within walking distance of Rice Park. Undoubtedly, this green space is worth a stop all on its own!

Flanked by the Landmark Center, Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, and George Latimer Central Library, Rice Park radiates the vibrant history that has happened here since the park’s dedication in 1849 (kids will love learning this park is 175 years old!). Statues dot the park, giving you a unique look into Saint Paul’s past, from F. Scott Fitzgerald to Charles M. Schulz. The park features a beautiful fountain and several art installations (many with informational plaques) that you and your kids can explore. Encourage kids to find as many statues of the iconic Peanuts characters as possible (hint: Charlie Brown is near the Landmark Center).

Several benches surround the park, creating lovely spaces to stop and rest or to read newly borrowed books from the George Latimer Central Library. On your day out with kids, this is undoubtedly one of the best free things to do in downtown Saint Paul!

2. Landmark Center

One of the most historic buildings in downtown Saint Paul, the Landmark Center opened in 1902. Initially, this building served as the United States Post Office, Courthouse, and Custom House for the state of Minnesota. On the lower level, a wonderful exhibit highlights its early years as a post office. Once you walk through the doors, kids will be in awe of what’s inside. From its grand pillars to its unique exhibits, the Landmark Center is one of the best free things for families to do in downtown Saint Paul.

Inside the Landmark Center are eight museums and exhibits you can see (each has its own opening hours, so plan ahead accordingly). In particular, families love the Schubert Club Music Museum (it’s also one of our must-visit Twin Cities museums with kids!). This free museum offers galleries dedicated to hearing and playing instruments from around the globe (hands-on or through innovative technology!). Families may also be interested in the Landmark Gallery, the Uncle Sam Worked Here exhibit, the Gallery of Wood Art, and the Heritage Organization of Romanian Americans In Minnesota. Finally, besides these exhibitions, the Landmark Center hosts various events and programs for the public.

Parking information can be found here.

3. Kellogg Mall Park

If you want to stroll along the Mississippi River, Kellogg Mall Park is a lovely location to soak in those views! One of the best kid-friendly things to do in downtown Saint Paul, this 4.2-acre park features fountains, tree-shaded lawns, and excellent river views. You can meander through the park with kids, pointing out the Mississippi River, Harriet Island, and Raspberry Island. Kids will love using their imaginations to make up games near the fountain and pergola dripping with greenery. Then, several interpretive markers also share the history of this unique park and part of downtown Saint Paul.

4. Go to the Theater

Downtown Saint Paul is a beautiful place to introduce children to the theater. You can make a day of just that! Families will love getting dressed up, dining out together at one of the many nearby restaurants, and enjoying some of the best productions in Minnesota. Choose from various shows at outstanding theaters like Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, Park Square Theatre, Fitzgerald Theater, and Palace Theatre. Here is a quick snapshot of each of these family-friendly theaters!

Ordway Center for the Performing Arts: This grand theater has welcomed families for nearly 40 years, showcasing everything from touring Broadway musicals and locally produced shows to orchestras, operas, and cultural performers. It’s an excellent choice for a family night out at the theater!
Park Square Theatre: Located just off Rice Park, Park Square Theater features two intimate stages and emphasizes contemporary theater and education. In fact, it offers wonderful kids’ summer camps!
Fitzgerald Theater: Did you know that F. Scott Fitzgerald was born in Saint Paul? His namesake theater, built in 1910, is the oldest active theater in Saint Paul.
Palace Theatre: One of the oldest theaters in Minnesota, it opened its doors in 1916 and was recently renovated in 2016. This live music venue features various music, comedy, and entertainment shows throughout the year.

No matter which theater you choose, attending a performance is one of the best things to do in downtown Saint Paul with kids!

5. George Latimer Central Library

Part of the Saint Paul Public Library System, George Latimer Central Library features an extensive collection of books and a lovely location on one end of Rice Park. If you’re looking for free things to do in Saint Paul with kids, this library is an excellent option for book lovers and young readers.

Named for George Latimer, who served as Saint Paul’s Mayor from 1976 to 1990, this library was one of the first established in the city. It continues to be the largest branch of Saint Paul Public Library and the heart of the entire system. Today, the library also offers several family-friendly community programs, including storytime. Then, a dedicated Youth Services wing is located on the first floor (completely separate from other library areas). As you enter, statues of iconic characters like Ramona Quimby welcome young visitors into the space. Then, there are plenty of books and play areas to keep them busy. Kids will delight in exploring such a unique, old building. Steeped in local history, this library is one of the best things to do in downtown Saint Paul with kids who love to read.

Parking information can be found here.

6. Union Depot

Nestled at the edge of downtown, Union Depot was completed in 1926 and has its roots as one of America’s great rail stations from the early 20th century. Today, it continues to serve as a major transportation center in the Twin Cities and a unique event space.

A hub for activity, Union Depot offers several fun things to do for families. Start with the public art installations around the historic building. Each installation was commissioned with Saint Paul’s unique history in mind – and Union Depot’s place within that history. Then, kids will have fun with the scavenger hunt, where they need to find items across the grounds. Nine stops in all, this scavenger hunt is a unique way to introduce kids to local history. Then, train enthusiasts can’t miss spending an afternoon at the Rail View Picnic Area. Featuring views of freight and passenger trains and aircraft from St. Paul Downtown Airport, it will surely be a hit with your kids! Finally, Union Depot hosts exciting public events (including free guided tours) throughout the year; you can find them here.

Parking information can be found here.

Museums in Downtown St Paul for Families

Saint Paul features some of the best museums in the Twin Cities for families with kids. From interactive exhibits on trains to free guided history tours, there are exciting museums in downtown Saint Paul for all ages and interests. Here are our top picks for the best museums in downtown Saint Paul for kids!

Girl riding on play bike at Minnesota Children's Museum in st paul minnesota — Image: Minnesota Children’s Museum

7. Minnesota Children’s Museum

The Minnesota Children’s Museum is a go-to destination in downtown Saint Paul for families looking for fun, interactive experiences with young kids. With several engaging spaces for babies, toddlers, and young kids, the opportunities for play and imagination here are endless. Kids can explore everything from creative arts exhibits to building imaginative structures and splashing at water tables! With so much to do, you’ll quickly see why this is one of the best museums for kids in Saint Paul.

Adventurous kids will love scaling the climbing area with a giant catwalk. Meanwhile, superhero-loving kids can navigate The Scramble. Explore Our World, an exhibit resembling a pretend town, allows littles to understand various roles in the community at places like the fire station and post office. Then, babies and toddlers can participate in sensory play with their caregivers at Sprouts. Weather permitting, take your kids outdoors to the Tip Top Terrace and The Backyard for additional play areas. Minnesota Children’s Museum promises to be one of the best things to do in downtown Saint Paul with kids!

Parking information can be found here. Income-qualified families can also purchase admission tickets at a reduced rate.

8. Science Museum of Minnesota

As one of the most kid-friendly things to do in Saint Paul, the Science Museum of Minnesota is the perfect choice for an engaging and enriching day out with kids. Filled to the brim with hands-on exhibits, the museum covers a wide range of scientific concepts, from physics and chemistry to unique facts about creatures from tiny spiders to enormous dinosaurs.

The exhibit dedicated to the Mississippi River Valley is a local highlight of the museum. You can even get a picturesque view of the river below from here! Meanwhile, the Ultimate Dinosaurs exhibit features life-sized dinosaur replicas, insights into their habitats and diets, and displayed fossils. It will undoubtedly be a favorite for any aspiring paleontologist. Then, at The Human Body Gallery, kids can experience interactive activities exploring the human body and learning about themselves. Those visiting the museum with babies and toddlers will enjoy the Wonder Years exhibit. Here, you will discover information about early childhood development. Finally, the IMAX theater screens fascinating films on science and nature that will appeal to all ages.

Parking information can be found here.

9. Minnesota History Center

There is no better place to embrace the rich history of Minnesota with kids than at the Minnesota History Center. With a fantastic downtown location, this museum has plenty of kid-friendly exhibits on local history, including topics featuring Native American history, Minnesota’s settlements, and its economic evolution. Plus, hands-on displays offer an interactive way to experience life in Minnesota during different historical periods.

As one of the best things to do with kids in downtown Saint Paul, the museum also features a dedicated kids’ activity area. Here, kids can try on period clothing and engage in historical games. Other exhibits include weather, climbing through a model grain elevator, and learning about remarkable Minnesota women! After exploring the many exhibits, head outside to enjoy the lovely grounds. Outside, you can stroll or ride bikes together on nearby trails. Or, have a picnic in the park! The Minnesota History Center is an educational and fun outing for families in downtown Saint Paul.

Parking information can be found here. Children aged four and under are always free.

10. Minnesota Transportation Museum

Located just north of downtown, the Minnesota Transportation Museum is an excellent experience for families with young kids. One of the best museums in Saint Paul for kids who love trains, this museum features tons of fun interactive displays highlighting the unique train, bus, and street car history of Saint Paul and the surrounding region.

All aboard! Begin your visit to the Museum at Jackson Street Roundhouse by exploring the 50 historic train cars on-site! Some are even housed inside, where you can go aboard and explore historic dining and sleeping cars. Kids will delight in walking down the hallways of these historic train cars. Between the train cars, informational displays share more about local train history, including the lives and legacies of their porters. Then, there are also areas where you can watch model trains race along the tracks. Plus, there are a few train tables where kids can get hands-on experience creating their own train routes.

On Saturdays, admission also includes a quick ride in a REAL train car that is over 100 years old! The ride is about 10-15 minutes and is an excellent opportunity for young kids to feel the rhythmic sway of riding in a train. Finally, as one of the most kid-friendly things to do in Saint Paul, there is even a special tot time on Wednesday mornings for young train enthusiasts.

11. Minnesota State Capitol

The seat of Minnesota’s government, the Minnesota State Capitol, is also one of the best free things to do in Saint Paul with kids. Free guided tours are offered Monday – Saturday. They are an excellent way for families to learn about its incredible architecture, art, and history.

As you approach the building, kids will marvel at its towering height and golden statues. Meanwhile, inside, they will adore the grand stairs, historic legislative chambers, and art installations. Not to mention the second-largest self-supported marble dome in the world. Overseen by the Minnesota Historical Society, the free guided tours provide an overview of Capitol history, art, architecture, and state government. Weather permitting, the tour includes a walk to the Quadriga (golden horses) on the roof! Tours leave at the top of the hour and are 45 minutes long. Finally, self-guided tours are also an option, with the following suggested itinerary.

Parking information can be found here.

12. Minnesota Museum of American Art

Located in the Historic Pioneer Endicott building in downtown Saint Paul, the Minnesota Museum of American Art is an excellent option for your next outing with young art enthusiasts, sketchers, colorers, and creatives. The museum features more than 5,000 pieces and centers on the unique voices of American artists from the 19th century to the present.

Minnesota’s oldest art museum, today, the M (as it is lovingly called), is also one of the best museums in Saint Paul for families. Its contemporary exhibitions will pique the interest of kids of all ages with their vibrant colors and patterns. Then, the unique window galleries give art and storytelling a new perspective that will captivate kids. Finally, free admission also makes the Minnesota Museum of American Art one of the best free things to do in downtown Saint Paul with kids. The museum is open Thursdays through Sundays.

Parking information can be found here.

Fun Places to Eat in Downtown St Paul With Kids

Now that you have explored some of the best things to do in downtown Saint Paul with kids, you’ve probably worked up quite an appetite! End your fun day out together with something yummy at one of these fun places to eat in Saint Paul with kids.

13. Saint Paul Brewing

Saint Paul Brewing is a beloved family-friendly brewery on the historic Hamm’s Brewery grounds. It features house-brewed beer and seltzers for adults 21+ and offers non-alcoholic beverages and food. Proud of its rich brew history, Saint Paul Brewing has worked to restore much of its historic space and honor its unique part of Saint Paul’s history.

As a fun place to eat in Saint Paul with kids, families can munch on wood-fired pizzas, handhelds, burgers, and more delicious bites. The brewery also features tons of kid’s games, including Zingo! They even offer fun, family-friendly events throughout the year, like Hot Wheels Day and Kids Rock Day. In particular, it’s a summer favorite hangout for its vast, beautiful outdoor patio. Finally, those interested in learning more about the brewery and building can book a guided tour.

14. Cosetta Italian Market

Perhaps one of the most unique places to eat in downtown Saint Paul with kids, Cosetta Italian Market offers several distinct dining options for everything from groceries to dessert. The market first opened in 1911 and has been expanding and serving the community ever since. Over 100 years old, four generations of the Cosetta family have been creating Italian-inspired eats for all ages. Here’s a breakdown of the four family-friendly ways to eat at Cosetta!

The Market & Grocery: Featuring a deli, a butcher, a large cheese case, and several rows of Italian groceries, this market offers a little bit of Italy right here in Minnesota! Grab a few groceries to have a picnic, or select from some of their pre-made sandwiches, salads, or other items.
The Pasticceria: This bakery features a collection of Italian and other European desserts, from macarons and gelato to cannoli and more whimsical pastries. A few tables are available for on-site enjoyment of the pastries and drinks.
The Eatery: Designed to look like an Italian food hall, make your way through the line to select from an array of pizza, pasta, salads, and more. The two-story dining room seats 300 people.
Louis Ristorante & Bar: An intimate eatery featuring traditional and regional Italian cuisine, this restaurant is an excellent spot for all occasions. They even offer a dedicated kids’ menu. Plus, you’re going to love the view!

15. Afternoon Tea at The Saint Paul Hotel

Indulge in Afternoon Tea like royalty at The Saint Paul Hotel. One of the most elegant locations in downtown Saint Paul, The Saint Paul Hotel is more than just a hotel. It’s living history. The Saint Paul Hotel has been welcoming guests since 1910. Some of its most famous guests include historical figures like President John F. Kennedy and Charles Lindberg.

When you book one of their Afternoon Teas, you and your kids will be treated to an opulent dining experience filled with exquisite flavors. Served in the Lobby or Drake Landing, this afternoon tea experience is fashioned after England’s afternoon tea. It features many of the same elements, from tea sandwiches and scones to two tiers of sweets. Plus, the menu features seasonally-inspired and prepared items. While you dine, a pianist is there to play music and entertain guests. If you want a more instructive experience, Family Manners and Children’s Etiquette experiences are also available. Finally, the Holiday Afternoon Tea makes for a lovely holiday gift experience.

16. Holman’s Table

While technically just outside of downtown Saint Paul, Holman’s Table is a unique dining experience that can’t be missed! Located at Holman Field at the Downtown St. Paul Airport, young aviation enthusiasts will adore watching small aircraft take off and land during the meal. The restaurant features new American cuisine in a restored air terminal with vintage-chic decor. Undoubtedly, it’s one of the most unique places to eat with kids in Saint Paul.

Holman’s Table is a fun dining experience that celebrates the spirit of travel. Globe-trotting families will love ordering from the brunch (weekends only), lunch (weekdays only), or dinner (Monday – Saturday) menu, respectively. While brunch features tasty options like Lemon Ricotta Toast and Crab Cake Benedict, dinner features carefully crafted menu items like Espresso Crusted Elk, Hanger Steak, and Bucatini Pasta. Then, a dedicated kids’ menu is available for brunch and dinner service. Finally, if you are interested, you can reserve dinner before or after an on-site helicopter ride (each requires a reservation).

Keep Exploring Downtown St Paul with Kids

This family guide to the best things to do in downtown Saint Paul with kids has everything you need to know about exploring this vibrant part of Minnesota. From kid-friendly museums and urban parks to unique places to eat, downtown Saint Paul is the perfect spot for your next day out with kids! We hope this guide has given you many ideas to keep exploring together. Have fun in downtown Saint Paul with your kids!

Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.