Things To Do
in West St. Paul
West St. Paul is a residential city on the east bank of the Mississippi River, just across from St. Paul. It offers tree-lined streets, parks, and a friendly small-town feel with convenient access to the Twin Cities. The city blends historic neighborhoods with modern amenities and family-friendly charm.
Outdoor spaces and easy day trips make it a comfortable base for exploring the metro area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at Canfield Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. Engage in some light exercise or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Consider bringing a picnic breakfast to enjoy in the beautiful surroundings.
After lunch, head to the nearby Thompson Park for some outdoor activities. Explore the trails, visit the playground, or play a game of frisbee on one of the open fields. This park is perfect for rejuvenating and connecting with the community.
Conclude your day with a visit to a local eatery for dinner. Treat yourself to some delicious West St. Paul cuisine, followed by a relaxing stroll in the park as the sun sets. Take in the beauty of the evening sky while reflecting on the day.
Begin with a visit to the local library, where you can explore historical exhibits about the area. Spend some time reading or engaging in a community workshop. This will give you insights into West St. Paul's rich heritage.
Next, visit one of the art galleries highlighting local artists’ work. Immerse yourself in the creative expressions and perhaps meet some of the artists during an afternoon event. This experience will enrich your understanding of the local culture.
End your cultural exploration by attending a community theater performance. Enjoy the vibrant local arts scene while making new connections with fellow attendees. Sharing your favorite moments over dinner afterwards is the perfect way to wrap up the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚗Taxi or rideshare (1 mile) | $5-8 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $30-50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to St. Paul and Minneapolis attractions
- Quieter, family-friendly neighborhoods
- Parks and outdoor spaces are abundant
- Affordable dining options
- Limited nightlife within West St. Paul itself
- Shorter tourist infrastructure compared to central Minneapolis/St. Paul
- Public transit options within West St. Paul are more limited
Places to Visit in West St. Paul
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic riverfront spot with views of the Mississippi and the city skyline, especially striking at sunrise or golden hour.
Rimmed with trees and water vistas, these trails offer elevated viewpoints over the river.
Photogenic brick storefronts and classic street scenes along the Main Street corridor.
Food in West St. Paul
West St. Paul Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting baked casserole typically featuring meat, vegetables, and flour-thickened sauce with a crispy top.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried or grilled walleye served on a bun with tartar sauce, a Minnesota favorite from lake country.
Creamy soup highlighting Minnesota wild rice, often with chicken or vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Urban market offering fresh produce, dairy, baked goods, and local specialties; great for sampling local ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Minnesota Nice – be polite, make small talk, and queue patiently.
Arrive on time for reservations and appointments, as punctuality is valued in the community.
Safety
Tipping in West St. Paul
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% before tax; for bar staff 1-2 dollars per drink; tipping for rides is customary.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; mobile wallets and contactless payments are common in most venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days begin to appear, but expect rain showers; parks and trails come alive with birds and flowers.
Warm to hot days; ideal for riverfront strolls, outdoor dining, and longer park visits.
Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage; great for photography along river bluffs and woodland trails.
Cold with occasional snow; dress in layers and enjoy winter activities in nearby parks and neighborhoods.
West St. Paul at Night
Hiking in West St. Paul
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking and mountain bike trails in nearby Eagan.
Scenic river views with easy to moderate trails.
Airports
How to reach West St. Paul by plane.
Major international airport 20-30 minutes from West St. Paul by car depending on traffic.
Small regional airport closer to downtown St. Paul for general aviation.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families attracted by the suburb feel and good schools.
Some residents commute to the Twin Cities for work.
A portion of residents are retirees seeking a quieter suburb with access to city amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport in Minnesota; local youth and adult leagues around the metro.
Popular through high school and college levels; Vikings games in the metro area.
Local leagues and fan culture around the Twin Cities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting West St. Paul.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many West St. Paul eateries offer meat-free options; ask for veggie sandwiches, salads, and pasta.