Two-Day Getaway to Saint Paul
The other “twin,” Saint Paul’s energetic neighborhoods give Minnesota's state capital a personality all its own.
Day 1
Century-old mansions make for a pretty walk on Summit Avenue, and one street over, upscale businesses line Grand Avenue.
Stops include Golden Fig Fine Foods, Cooks of Crocus Hill kitchenware shop and culinary school, and The Grand Hand Gallery, which specializes in fine art from Minnesota and around the region.
Legendary turtle cake tempts at gourmet cafeteria-style Cafe Latte.
The Science Museum of Minnesota delves into three P's-paleontology, physical science and physiology.
Brick walls, Oriental rugs and fireplaces mellow the mood for fine dining at W.A. Frost and Company.
Chris Thile hosts A Prairie Home Companion at the 1910 Fitzgerald Theater.
It's all about elegance in the 254 rooms and suites at the renovated Saint Paul Hotel, where Gene Autry once stayed and Lawrence Welk once played.
Day 2
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory's serene sunken garden stands in sharp contrast to the 4 acres of rides like bumper cars and tea cups at nearby Como Town.
Sunken Gardens at the Como Zoo and Conservatory.
Cross the Mississippi River to Minneapolis, where the ruins of a flour mill now incorporate glass walls and the Mill City Museum.
About a block behind the mill lies St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail, a 1.8-mile loop along the river.
Back in Saint Paul, try one of 11 innovative variations on the classic Jucy Lucy (a burger stuffed with cheese) await at Blue Door Pub.
More information: Visit Saint Paul (800) 627-6101; visitsaintpaul.com