This post is sponsored by Xfinity
Adventure Unlimited: St. Paul
🗺️ Overview of Your Day
They don’t call it “St. Small” for nothing—St. Paul has that tight-knit, everybody-knows-everybody feel that makes it incredibly welcoming. It’s a city with big charm and small-town vibes, where friendly faces, local pride, and community connections are part of the everyday experience.
From scenic riverfront parks to interactive museums and cozy neighborhood gems, there’s always something new to explore. Grand Avenue, in particular, is a must-visit—lined with charming shops, sweet treats, and local eateries perfect for a relaxed stroll with the kids. St. Paul also has a strong love for its small businesses, making it easy to feel good about every bite, sip, or souvenir you pick up along the way. Ready to see St. Paul through fresh eyes? Grab your Family Adventure Passport and create your own “choose your own adventure” experience! Whether your crew loves hands-on learning, nature strolls, hidden gems, or tasty local eats, the Passport helps guide your journey—with fun stops and surprises for kids and grown-ups alike.
XFINITY
Xfinity Stores across the Twin Cities offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet the diverse needs of customers. These modern retail locations provide hands-on experiences with Xfinity’s latest offerings, including high-speed internet, Xfinity Mobile, digital TV with X1, home security solutions, and Comcast Business services. Customers can also manage their accounts, pay bills, and exchange or upgrade equipment in-store.
GETTING THERE
🚗 Getting There
Saint Paul is easily accessible via I-94 E, Highway 52, or Shepard Road—a scenic alternative that winds along the Mississippi River and often avoids highway congestion. While the I-94/I-35E interchange can experience slowdowns during peak hours, most routes into downtown and surrounding neighborhoods are straightforward, with clear signage and well-maintained streets. Free and metered parking is available throughout the city, with especially convenient options near Como Park, the State Capitol, Grand Avenue, and the Science Museum of Minnesota.
MORNING KICK-OFF
🍩 Morning Kickoff: Breakfast or Coffee Spot
LOCATIONS
Coffee Cup: 1333 Randolph Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Bread and Chocolate: 867 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Claddagh Coffee: 459 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102
Coffee Cup in St. Paul is a classic hometown diner that’s been serving generous portions and welcoming families since 1952. It’s the perfect first stop to fuel up before spending a day exploring the sights and charm of St. Paul.
Bread and Chocolate is a family-owned bakery and coffee shop that has become a neighborhood favorite, known for its freshly baked pastries, including buttery croissants, cinnamon rolls, and scones, as well as a variety of sandwiches and salads. Patrons can savor their meals with a cup of Morningstar Coffee near the adobe fireplace during colder months or opt for charming outdoor seating in warmer weather.
Claddagh Coffee in St. Paul is a charming Irish-inspired café that offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere perfect for a casual bite or a relaxing coffee break. They make all of their bakery items in-house—except for the gluten-free options, which they thoughtfully source from Sift Gluten Free. With its Irish roots and community spirit, Claddagh delivers comfort, character, and connection in every visit.
EXPLORE & PLAY
🧗♂️ Morning Activity: Explore & Play
LOCATIONS
Children’s Museum: 10 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102
Como Zoo: 1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103
Twin City Model Railroad Museum: 668 Transfer Rd Ste. 8, St Paul, MN 55114
Assembly Union Park: 875 Mount Curve Blvd, St Paul, MN 55116
Waḳaƞ Ṭípi / Bruce Vento Nature Center: 4th St E, St Paul, MN 55106
Get WiFi on the go!
While you are out and about, Xfinity customers can look for mobile hot spots in the area to save you on your data. Xfinity offers more than 23 million such hot spots across the country, including throughout St. Paul, to help the whole family stay connected, wherever you go!
Spend a fun-filled day with the family at the Minnesota Children’s Museum, where kids can climb, splash, pretend, and explore to their hearts’ content. With hands-on exhibits like a giant climber, laser maze, and imaginative town, there’s something to spark curiosity and joy in every age.
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a cherished, year-round destination offering free admission to visitors. The zoo is home to an incredible variety of animals—from polar bears and gorillas to sea lions—and most excitingly, a baby sloth that we think makes the visit worth it all on its own! The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory showcases lush gardens and seasonal flower displays. Looking for more fun? Hop on the Cafesjian Carousel, which is a refurbished antique carousel with gorgeous horses to carry you up and down. If the carousel has you excited to try more rides than take the short walk over to Como Town and enjoy over 18 rides and attractions tailored for children aged 2 to 12, open daily May through September.
Assembly Union Park and Gateway Park in St. Paul’s Highland Bridge neighborhood make for a perfect family-friendly stop. Assembly Union Park, set on the former Ford plant site, features a modern playground, pickleball and basketball courts, picnic spots, and even a dog relief area—ideal for all ages. Just across the way, Gateway Park welcomes visitors with a skate trail and bowl, water feature, walking paths, and game tables, all nestled near the Mississippi River Boulevard Trail. Whether your crew is climbing, skating, splashing, or relaxing under the trees, these two connected parks offer a fun, easy outing right in the heart of the city.
Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary in Saint Paul, Minnesota—known to the Dakota people as Wakaƞ Ṭípi, or “Dwelling Place of the Sacred”—is a hidden gem where city and nature beautifully intertwine. This serene urban sanctuary offers accessible trails, sweeping views of the skyline, and striking limestone bluffs that tell stories both ancient and wild. Families can wander through prairie grasses, watch for birds and butterflies, and even spot a deer or two if luck is on your side! At its heart lies Wakaƞ Ṭípi Cave, a site sacred to the Dakota, making the space not just scenic but spiritually and culturally rich. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful walk, a burst of nature, or a deeper connection to the land’s heritage, Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary is a meaningful, must-visit destination that feels far away—yet is right in the heart of the city.
All aboard for big fun at the Twin City Model Railroad Museum in Saint Paul, Minnesota! This beloved spot is a dream come true for train lovers of all ages, with massive, meticulously detailed model railroads that chug through miniature towns, countryside scenes, and even a tiny State Fair. Kids will love pressing buttons to make the trains move and watching the glowing lights and tiny people go about their little lives. There’s a playful magic here that pulls you in—whether you’re a lifelong railfan or just along for the ride. Bonus: the museum regularly hosts themed events like “Night Trains” with twinkling lights and a cozy nighttime vibe that makes the whole experience even more enchanting.
LUNCHTIME FAVORITES
🥪 Lunchtime Favorites
LOCATIONS
Holman’s Table: 644 Bayfield St, St Paul, MN 55107
Cossettas: 211 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102
Highland Grill: 771 Cleveland Ave S, St Paul, MN 55116
Holman’s Table is a unique spot for families, located right at the Downtown St Paul Airport. Kids will love watching planes take off and land just outside the restaurant’s large windows or from the outdoor patio, making it a fun and memorable dining experience for all ages.
Cossettas casual, cafeteria-style setup makes it easy to grab a quick bite, and kids love picking out their own giant slices of classic, New York-style pizza. Make a quick pit stop at the bakery for a sweet treat, or explore the Italian market for fun snacks to take home.
Highland Grill is a great spot for families, offering a cozy atmosphere and a menu that caters to both kids and adults. Kids can enjoy fun meals like Mickey Mouse pancakes or mac & cheese, while parents will find creative comfort food and friendly service that makes dining with little ones easy. Maybe the best feature is goldfish at your table upon arrival, is there a better appetizer than that?
XFINITY
Before heading off to your next adventure, swing by the Xfinity Store locations in either Highland Park or West St. Paul. They are super easy stops and a game-changer for families on the go. Check out mobile plans that include a new unlimited, free line of Xfinity Mobile for a year to keep everyone connected—whether you’re snapping pics at the Cathedral or Landmark Center (see below) or pulling up directions to your next snack stop. Bonus: their parental controls and data options make it way easier to manage screen time without the drama. Plus, both stores are bright, friendly, and quick to get in and out of—win!
CREATE OR RECREATE
🎨 Afternoon Fun: Create or Recreate
LOCATIONS
Science Museum of MN: 120 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102
Can Can Wonderland: 755 Prior Ave N Suite #004, St Paul, MN 55104
Paddleford Riverboats: 205 Dr Justus Ohage Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107
The Science Museum of Minnesota is a hands-on museum offering engaging exhibits on dinosaurs, human biology, technology, and the environment. It features an impressive Omnitheater, interactive experiences like Sportsology, and a strong focus on science education and equity. It also houses the Mississippi River Visitor Center, where guests can learn about the river’s ecology and history through interactive displays and ranger-led programs.
Can Can Wonderland is a quirky, art-filled spot featuring an artist-designed mini golf course, vintage arcade games, and live entertainment—perfect for a fun and unique family outing. They also have fun events like Kids Karaoke on their calendar.
Padelford Riverboats is a great family-friendly spot where kids can enjoy fun river cruises, learn about nature and history, and take in beautiful views of the Mississippi River. Special themed cruises make it even more exciting for children.
SWEET TREATS
🍦 Sweet Treat Stop
LOCATIONS
Conny’s Creamy Cone: 1197 Dale St N, St Paul, MN 55117
Marc Heu Patisserie Paris: 156 Dale St N, St Paul, MN 55102
Treats Cereal Bar & Boba: 770 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Conny’s Creamy Cone has been a seasonal icon in St. Paul since 1985, instantly recognizable by its giant rooftop ice cream cone and bold red-and-white exterior. Beloved by locals, this no-frills neighborhood stand dishes up everything from burgers, chili dogs, and cheese curds to a dizzying array of frozen treats. The menu is a nostalgic dream: hand-dipped cones, flavored soft serve, malts, sundaes, flurries, slushies, floats—you name it, they serve it. With its old-school charm and endless options, Conny’s is a must-stop celebration of summer in cone, cup, or curd form.
Marc Heu Pâtisserie Paris in St. Paul is a little slice of Paris tucked right into the Twin Cities—and trust us, it’s worth swooning over. This chic, light-filled bakery is known for its flaky, buttery croissants that practically melt in your mouth, glossy fruit tarts that look like they belong in a museum, and rich seasonal desserts that rotate like art exhibits. Every treat is meticulously crafted by Chef Marc Heu, who trained in Paris and brings that same level of precision and passion to every box of pastries that walks out the door. Whether you’re grabbing an elegant pain au chocolat for your morning coffee run or picking up a box of jewel-like entremets for a dinner party, Marc Heu Pâtisserie makes everyday moments feel effortlessly elevated.
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Treats Cereal Bar & Boba offers a fun and colorful menu that combines cereal-infused soft-serve ice cream, boba teas, and creative waffles. Adults will love it for the nostalgic flavors—like Fruity Pebbles swirled into ice cream. With options like the “Berry Kiss” sundae and “Rainbow Magic” waffle, it’s a sweet spot that blends familiar favorites with a twist. Enjoy outside seating that overlooks Grand Ave.
SHOPPING STOPS
🛍️ Quick Shopping Stops
LOCATIONS
Xfinity Store by Comcast: 2050 Ford Pkwy, St Paul, MN 55116 OR 2037 Robert Trail South, Suite 200, West Saint Paul, MN 55118
Mischief Toy Store: 818 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Choo Choo Bob’s Train Store: 214 4th St E, St Paul, MN 55101
Pop into the Xfinity Store by Comcast in the Highland Center shopping center to explore hands-on displays of a variety of the latest mobile devices, tablets and watches, including how to get a free line of Xfinity Mobile with unlimited data for a year! Chat with an expert about Xfinity Internet and streaming services with a brand-new five-year price guarantee — all in a bright, modern, and friendly setting. Or, drop by Xfinity’s second location in West St. Paul, conveniently located on Robert Street near Hwys 52 and 62.
Mischief Toy Store in St. Paul is a vibrant, family-owned shop offering a curated selection of games, art supplies, pop culture gifts, and more, catering to all ages with a focus on creativity and hands-on fun.
Choo Choo Bob’s features an impressive model train display, interactive play areas with wooden train tables, and a wide selection of train-themed toys, books, and gifts. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that sparks creativity and curiosity, making it a perfect outing for kids and a nostalgic treat for parents. Check the website to see if you can stop by on Monday and Friday mornings to enjoy Story Time with Engineer Paul!
BONUS STOPS
🌳 Bonus Stops Nearby
LOCATIONS
Como Regional Park Pool: 1151 Wynne Ave, St Paul, MN 55108
Rice Park: 109 W 4th St, St Paul, MN 55102
CHS Field: 360 N Broadway St, St Paul, MN 55101
Como Regional Park Pool is a seasonal outdoor pool open from June to August. It features a lap pool, a children’s pool with a slide, a lazy river, diving boards, and an aquatic climbing wall.
CHS Field is a great place to visit, even if you’re not a baseball fan. This summer, enjoy themed nights like “80s Flashback Night,” “Superhero Night,” and “Tropical Luau Night,” along with plenty of activities during the game. It’s a fun-filled evening the whole family will love.
PACKING & PLANNING
🧳 What to Pack & Plan Ahead
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to making the most of a family day trip. From snacks to sunscreen, being ready for anything helps you stay in the moment—and turn your outing into an unforgettable adventure. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
— Sunscreen (and chapstick with SPF!)
— Bug spray
— Swimwear/swim shoes and a change of clothes
— Wet bags for swimwear
— Towels for drying off and for sitting on in the car
— External phone charger
— Sunglasses for the whole family
— SNACKS + water bottles
— Baby powder to help get sand off of little feet (trust us!)
INSTAGRAMMABLE MOMENTS
📸 Photo-Worthy Moments
LOCATION
Cathedral of Saint Paul: 239 Selby Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
Rice Park & Landmark Center: 75 W 5th St, St Paul, MN 55102
Looking for some seriously stunning backdrops in St. Paul? Start with the iconic Cathedral of Saint Paul—a hilltop marvel with sweeping steps, grand domes, and intricate details that make every angle feel photo-worthy. Whether you’re snapping a dramatic skyline shot or just pausing to admire the architecture, this historic cathedral never fails to impress.
Just a short walk away, Rice Park is a charming downtown escape lined with twinkly, elegant fountains, and statues that give off major storybook vibes. It’s especially magical in the winter when the trees are wrapped in lights and the whole square feels like a cozy movie set. Grab a coffee and take a lap—you’ll find new corners to love in every season.
Across the street, the Landmark Center stands tall with its castle-like facade and pink granite walls. Step inside for gorgeous arched windows, a sunlit courtyard, and all kinds of rotating exhibits and events. It’s one of those places where history and beauty collide—and your camera roll will thank you. If you’re there, be sure to check th calendar of events!
