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Saint Paul, Minnesota : The Weezle.io Guide to Eats, Beats, Sleeps, Sweats & Sights in the Capital City 🥨 || Weezle (2025)

  • WZL
  • Dec 2, 2025
  • 9 min read


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Is St. Paul, MN liberal or conservative?

St. Paul, Minnesota, is liberal, although historically it has been more moderate compared to its more progressive neighboring city, Minneapolis. The city has consistently voted for Democratic candidates and has a Democratic mayor. Like other major cities, St. Paul has a diverse population and a range of political viewpoints, but its overall political leaning is liberal. 

Can I drink tap water in St. Paul, MN?

Our treatment and testing processes are in strict compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act, Minnesota Department of Health, and Environmental Protection Agency guidelines.

Is St. Paul, MN safer than Minneapolis?

St. Paul has a lower violent crime rate than Minneapolis according to recent data, with St. Paul at 624 incidents per 100,000 people and Minneapolis at 1,132 per 100,000. However, both cities have safe neighborhoods and recent data also suggests that violent crime is seeing a downward trend in both cities. Crime perception varies by neighborhood, personal experience, and a person's specific circumstances. 

Is St. Paul, Minnesota LGBTQ friendly?

Unlike some larger cities that have one specific “gayborhood,” where most of the gay community lives, St. Paul tends to an LGBTQ community that is a bit more spread out across the city, as there are many neighborhoods that are great places to call home.


Key Takeaway: Saint Paul in 2025 is a city where you can devour a “flapper” pancake the size of your face, sip a craft cocktail in a hidden speakeasy, kayak the mighty Mississippi, and catch a Broadway show—all before your second cup of Cafe Astoria’s rainbow latte. Whether you’re a brunch-hunting millennial, a family wrangler, or a solo explorer with a taste for the quirky, this Weezle.io guide is your golden ticket to the best eats, drinks, sleeps, sweats, and events—all within Saint Paul city limits. Ready to spin the wheel of adventure? Let’s get Saint Paul’d!

🍽️ HUNGRY? Top Places to Eat in Saint Paul

Saint Paul’s food scene is a glorious mashup of Midwestern comfort, global flavors, and local legends. We’ve scoured Yelp, Google, and the collective wisdom of 10,000 “flapper” pancake fans to bring you the best in every flavor category—no franchises, no fakes, just the real deal.


🥞 American Food / Breakfast Spots

Name

Why Go?

Link

The Buttered Tin

Modern diner, custardy eggs, steak hash, and pastries that’ll make you question your life choices (in a good way).

Hope Breakfast Bar

All-day breakfast, frosting-topped pancakes, and a social mission that’ll warm your heart (and your belly).

Colossal Cafe

“Flappers” (yeasted pancakes), pork burritos, and scratch-made comfort food.

Mickey’s by Willy

24/7 retro diner, hashbrowns, eggs, and a side of nostalgia.


🍜 Asian Food

Name

Why Go?

Link

Hmongtown Marketplace

Massive food court, authentic Hmong and Southeast Asian cuisine, and a cultural experience you won’t forget.

Cheng Heng Restaurant

Family-run, Cambodian and Vietnamese specialties, and beef lok lak that’ll haunt your dreams (in a good way).

Bangkok Thai Deli

Thai curries, papaya salad, and a local favorite for affordable, authentic eats.


🥙 Middle Eastern Food

Name

Why Go?

Link

Babani’s Kurdish Restaurant

First Kurdish restaurant in the U.S., dowjic soup, biryani, and a taste of Kurdistan in the Midwest.

Shish Mediterranean Grill & Cafe

Shawarma, falafel, kebabs, and baklava—family-owned, fresh, and fabulous.

Demera Ethiopian Restaurant

Vegetarian and meat platters, injera, and warm hospitality.


🌮 Mexican Food

Name

Why Go?

Link

El Burrito Mercado

Iconic Mexican market and eatery, tacos, tamales, and a bakery that’ll make you forget you’re in Minnesota.

Boca Chica

Classic plates, margaritas, and a festive atmosphere since 1964.

Tavial Grill

Street tacos, burritos, and fast, friendly service.


🍕 European / Best Pizza

Name

Why Go?

Link

Mucci’s Italian

Roman-style pizza, house-made pasta, and fried dough that’s basically legal crack.

Cossetta’s

Sicilian pizza, Italian deli, bakery, and a multi-level Italian wonderland.

King Coil Spirits

Roman-style pizzas, craft cocktails, and a distillery vibe that’s pure Saint Paul.


Pro Tip:Can’t decide? Spin the Weezle.io wheel and let fate (and your stomach) choose your next meal adventure!

🍹 THIRSTY? Top Places for Beer, Cocktails & Coffee

Saint Paul’s drink scene is a choose-your-own-adventure of historic dives, speakeasies, and coffee shops that take their beans (and their bocce) as seriously as their beards.


Hipster, Dive, Historical, LGBTQ+ Bars

Name

Why Go?

Link

The Black Hart of Saint Paul

LGBTQ+ soccer bar, drag shows, and a community hub for all.

Camp Bar

LGBTQ+ friendly, cabaret, comedy, drag, and karaoke—bring your sass and your jazz hands.

The Spot Bar

Old-school dive, cash-only, live music, and unchanged for decades.

Half Time Rec

Classic Irish-American bar, bocce court, hearty food, and a local legend.

Skinner’s Pub & Eatery

Legendary pizza, beer specials, and a regulars’ favorite.

Shamrocks

Sports bar with dive bar charm, burgers, and local beers.

The White Squirrel Bar

Hipster vibe, live music, and creative cocktails.


🎶 Best for Music

Name

Why Go?

Link

Turf Club

Iconic live music venue, local and national acts, and the legendary Clown Lounge.

The White Squirrel Bar

Regular live music, indie/alternative focus, and a squirrel mascot that’s cuter than you.

Can Can Wonderland

Quirky brewery, mini-golf, live music, and art installations.


💃 Best for Dancing

Name

Why Go?

Link

Black Hart of Saint Paul

LGBTQ+ dance nights, drag shows, and an inclusive crowd.

Camp Bar

Drag, cabaret, and dance events—bring your best moves (or just your best friends).


🥃 Best Speakeasy, Brewery, or Hidden Bars

Name

Why Go?

Link

The Mudd Room

Hidden speakeasy, craft cocktails, and an intimate setting.

Nucky’s Speakeasy

Prohibition-style, secret entrance, and creative drinks.

Waldmann Brewery

Historic German lager house, 1857 building, and period decor.


🏈 Best Sports Bars

Name

Why Go?

Link

Shamrocks

Sports on big screens, burgers, and local beers.

Skinner’s Pub & Eatery

Pizza, wings, beer specials, and a regulars’ favorite.

Joe & Stan’s

Classic sports bar, weekday happy hour, and a neighborhood vibe.

Grand 7

40+ years in West 7th, classic sports bar, and a local institution.


☕ Best Coffee Shops

Name

Why Go?

Link

Cafe Astoria

Creative lattes, smoothie bowls, and Instagram-worthy drinks.

Claddagh Coffee

Cozy, Irish-inspired, local art, and a strong community feel.

Nina’s Coffee Cafe

Victorian-era building, local favorite, pastries, and art.

Cadence Records & Coffee

Coffee shop and record store, hidden gem, and a music lovers’ paradise.


Spin the Weezle.io wheel for your next happy hour or coffee crawl—because life’s too short for bad drinks!

🛏️ SLEEPY? Top Places to Sleep in Saint Paul

Whether you’re a luxury seeker, a history buff, or a budget traveler, Saint Paul’s got a pillow with your name on it.


🏨 Luxury Hotels

Name

Why Go?

Link

The Saint Paul Hotel

Historic luxury, elegant rooms, fine dining, and a prime downtown location.

InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront

Upscale, contemporary rooms, Mississippi River views, and Skyway access.

Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown

Modern, complimentary breakfast & evening snacks, indoor pool, and pet-friendly.


🏛️ Historical Hotels

Name

Why Go?

Link

Celeste of St. Paul Hotel + Bar

Former convent/arts conservatory, boutique style, historic charm, and a stylish bar.


💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels

Name

Why Go?

Link

Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown St. Paul

Modern, complimentary breakfast, indoor pool, and family-friendly.

Best Western Plus Capitol Ridge

Free breakfast, fitness center, pet-friendly, and close to the Capitol.

Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown

Extended-stay, full kitchens, free breakfast, and ideal for families.


🛏️ Boutique / Bed & Breakfast

Name

Why Go?

Link

Historic District B&B

Victorian mansion, gourmet breakfast, and walkable to downtown.

Covington Inn

Floating B&B on a renovated towboat, river views, and a unique experience.

The New Victorian Mansion Bed and Breakfast

Restored Victorian, themed suites, and a romantic ambiance.


🏢 Conference / Trade Show Hotels

Name

Why Go?

Link

DoubleTree by Hilton St. Paul Downtown

Modern, on-site dining, fitness center, and Skyway connected.

SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown

All-suite, event spaces, complimentary breakfast, and group rates.


Need help booking? Let Weezle.io plan your stay—just spin the wheel and pack your bags!

🏃 BE ACTIVE: Best Fitness, Outdoor, and Adventure Spots

Saint Paul is an urban playground with a park for every mood, a trail for every shoe, and a river for every kayak.


🏋️ Best Gyms & Fitness Studios

Name

Why Go?

Link

Statera Fitness

Community-focused, modern equipment, and group classes.

The Power House - Highland Park

Strength & conditioning, expert coaching, and a supportive community.

Element Gym

Boxing, HIIT, personal training, and a local favorite.

YWCA St. Paul

Inclusive, pool, group fitness, and youth programs.

Saint Paul Parks & Rec Fitness Centers

11 locations citywide, affordable memberships, and a community vibe.


⛳ Best Golf Courses

Name

Why Go?

Link

Highland National Golf Course

18 holes, Snoopy-shaped bunker, and a top public course.

Como Golf Course

Par-70, beginner-friendly, and a scenic park setting.

Phalen Golf Course

18 holes, lakeside, and city views.

Can Can Wonderland

Artist-designed indoor mini golf, arcade, and food.


🥾 Best Hikes, Trails & Parks

Name

Why Go?

Link

Hidden Falls Regional Park

Waterfall, wooded trails, and river access.

Lilydale Regional Park

Fossil hunting, scenic bluffs, and multi-use trails.

Gateway State Trail

18-mile paved trail, connects to regional network.

Battle Creek Regional Park

Paved/unpaved trails, mountain biking, and winter skiing.

Crosby Farm Regional Park

7 miles of trails, lakes, and birdwatching.

Fort Snelling State Park

18 miles of natural trails, wildlife, and history.


🌊 Lakes, Rivers & Water Activities

  • Mississippi Riverfront: Fishing, boating, kayaking, and birdwatching. stpaul.gov/mississippi

  • Phalen Beach: Swimming, kayaking, and paddleboard rentals. stpaul.gov/phalenbeach

  • Crosby Lake & Hidden Falls: Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing access.


❄️ Winter Sports

  • Battle Creek Regional Park: Groomed cross-country ski trails, sledding hills, and snowshoeing.

  • Como Park: Ice skating at Como Park Pavilion, cross-country skiing on the golf course.

  • Phalen Park: Cross-country skiing, sledding, and winter walking.

Feeling lazy? Spin the Weezle.io wheel for a random workout or outdoor adventure—your future self will thank you!

🎭 GO 2 EVENT: Best Entertainment, Art, and History

Saint Paul’s event scene is a choose-your-own-adventure of music, art, sports, and history. Here’s where to get your culture fix (and maybe a selfie with a polar bear or a Vulcan):


🦁 Best Zoos or Animal Attractions

Name

Why Go?

Link

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Free admission, polar bears, big cats, and the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory.


🏟️ Best Sporting Events / Local Sports Teams

Name

Why Go?

Link

St. Paul Saints (Baseball)

Minor league baseball, lively atmosphere, and CHS Field in Lowertown.

Minnesota United FC (Soccer)

MLS soccer, modern Allianz Field, and a raucous fan base.

Minnesota Wild (NHL) & Minnesota Frost (PHF)

NHL and women’s pro hockey at Xcel Energy Center.

Minnesota Roller Derby

High-energy bouts at Roy Wilkins Auditorium.


🎭 Best Plays / Music Venues

Name

Why Go?

Link

Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

Broadway musicals, concerts, dance, and local productions.

Fitzgerald Theater

Historic venue for concerts, comedy, and live radio shows.

Palace Theatre

Major touring acts, indie bands, and special events.

Park Square Theatre

Local and regional plays, youth theater, and community events.


🖼️ Best Art Events / Locations

Name

Why Go?

Link

Minnesota Museum of American Art (The M)

Rotating exhibitions of American art, local artists, and community programs.

Saint Paul Art Crawl

Biannual citywide open studio event, hundreds of artists and galleries.

Chroma Zone Mural & Arts Festival

Live mural painting, art markets, and performances in the Creative Enterprise Zone.


🏛️ History & Must-See Attractions

Name

Why Go?

Link

Minnesota History Center

Interactive exhibits, family programs, and special events.

Landmark Center

Historic courthouse, free art galleries, music, and cultural events.

James J. Hill House

Guided tours of a Gilded Age mansion and local history.


🎉 Notable Annual Events

  • Saint Paul Winter Carnival: Jan 23–Feb 2, 2025. Ice sculptures, parades, and Vulcan shenanigans. wintercarnival.com

  • Grand Old Day: June 1, 2025. Parade, live music, and the official kickoff to summer. grandave.com/grand-old-day

  • Minnesota State Fair: Aug 21–Sept 1, 2025. Food, concerts, art, and rides. mnstatefair.org/tickets/

  • Twin Cities Jazz Festival: June 20–21, 2025. Free jazz in Mears Park. twincitiesjazzfestival.com

  • Irish Fair of Minnesota: Aug 8–10, 2025. Irish music, dance, and food on Harriet Island. irishfair.com

  • Hmong International Freedom Festival: June 28–29, 2025. Sports, music, and Hmong culture at Como Park. hmongfest.com

Don’t know what to do tonight? Spin the Weezle.io wheel or let us plan your next event, date night, or spontaneous adventure!

🏆 Saint Paul’s Top Spots 2025: Quick Reference Table

Category

Top Pick

Why Go?

Link

Eat

The Buttered Tin

Best breakfast/brunch, inventive, local favorite

Drink

The Black Hart of Saint Paul

LGBTQ+ soccer bar, drag shows, community

Sleep

The Saint Paul Hotel

Historic luxury, downtown, fine dining

Be Active

Hidden Falls Regional Park

Waterfall, trails, river access

Event

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Free zoo, conservatory, family fun


🤙 Final Thoughts & Weezle.io Call to Action


Ready to make your Saint Paul trip legendary?


Spin the Weezle.io wheel, let us plan your next event, or DM us for a custom itinerary. Whether you’re hungry, thirsty, sleepy, active, or just want to soak up some culture, Weezle.io has your back. Are you a local business owner? Want to get featured or need marketing magic? Contact us at Weezle.com and let’s make your business the next big thing!


⚠️ Disclaimer

This guide was crafted using the latest reviews, local guides, and official sources as of 2025. Weezle.io does not own or claim rights to any businesses listed. If you are a business owner and wish to update or remove your listing, please contact us. This post is for educational and entertainment purposes only—by reading, you acknowledge Weezle.io is not liable for any experiences, and all trademarks belong to their respective owners.

Thanks for reading! NowtPaul2025 #WeezleWanderer

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