West St. Paul

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with West St. Paul's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Local Parks
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Cultural Deep Dive
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Start your family adventure at a local bowling alley for some lighthearted competition. Enjoy breakfast at the alley and see who can knock down the most pins. This fun activity is perfect for families and friends alike.

afternoon
:

Visit the West St. Paul Farmers Market to gather fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with local vendors and learn more about the community's sustainable practices while enjoying a leisurely afternoon. Don’t forget to sample some delicious local snacks.

evening
:

Wrap up the day by making a delicious family dinner with your fresh produce. Enjoy this time together while preparing your meal and then sit down to share stories about your day. A movie night with popcorn is the perfect way to end the family fun.

day 4
Outdoor Adventure
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a biking session along the Mississippi River Trail. Breathe in the fresh air while enjoying the picturesque views of the river. The trails are scenic and cater to all skill levels.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch and stop at one of the scenic overlooks for a leisurely picnic. After lunch, consider kayaking or canoeing in the river to fully immerse yourself in the beautiful outdoors. This afternoon is all about adventure and relaxation in nature.

evening
:

Head back to the city to clean up before heading out for a sunset dinner at a riverside restaurant. Enjoy the vibrant views as the day transitions into night. End the evening with a walk along the riverbank, soaking in the calming sounds of the water.

day 5
Local History Day
morning
:

Visit the South St. Paul Historical Society for a fascinating start to your day. Explore the museum exhibits and learn about the area's historical significance. Interact with knowledgeable curators who can provide deeper insights.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a self-guided walking tour to visit historical landmarks in West St. Paul. Use a local guidebook or app to navigate, making sure to capture photos of significant sites. This exploration will deepen your appreciation of the town's history.

evening
:

Conclude your day by enjoying a meal at a restaurant with historical significance in the area. Savor the local flavors while surrounded by the ambiance of history. Reflect on your historical journey over dinner with friends or family.

day 6
Community Connections
morning
:

Join a local volunteer project to begin your day with purpose. Helping out at a community organization can be fulfilling and enlightening. You'll get to meet new people while making a positive impact in West St. Paul.

afternoon
:

After volunteering, enjoy lunch at a community café where locals gather. This is a great chance to continue connecting with residents and sharing experiences. Take your time to appreciate the vibrant community spirit.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a social event such as a community meeting or gathering. Engage with residents and contribute your ideas to local initiatives. This interaction will deepen your understanding of the community's values.

day 7
Food Discovery
morning
:

Start with a breakfast food tour at popular spots around West St. Paul. Taste your way through local favorites while chatting with restaurant owners. Each dish tells a story of the community's culinary journey.

afternoon
:

Next, indulge in a cooking class at a culinary school within the area. Learn new cooking techniques and recipes that you can take back home. This hands-on experience is perfect for food enthusiasts and aspiring chefs.

evening
:

Finish your day with a restaurant that specializes in fusion cuisine. Enjoy a delightful dinner that represents the culinary diversity of West St. Paul. Make sure to savor every bite and perhaps even make new friends at communal dining tables.

day 8
Nature and Wildlife Day
morning
:

Visit the local nature center to kickstart your day in a serene environment. Engage in nature exploration programs that highlight the local wildlife. This immersive experience sets the stage for a day of adventure.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon wandering through nearby nature reserves and observing wildlife. Bring along binoculars for birdwatching or capture photographs of the stunning scenery. This connection with nature will refresh your spirit.

evening
:

Conclude your adventure with a barbecue at one of the local parks. Gather friends and family to share stories and enjoy the outdoor ambiance as night falls. The warmth of the grill and company will cap off your wildlife-inspired day.

Discover West St. Paul

Read more in our West St. Paul 2025 Travel Guide.

West St. Paul Travel Guide