St. Paul: Historical Walking Tour With Local Guide

Discover the rich history and captivating stories of St. Paul on this engaging walking tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore the city’s iconic landmarks, from the grand Cathedral to the stately Capitol building. Along the way, you’ll uncover hidden pasts and explore the city’s gilded-age architecture. With a mid-tour coffee break and a concluding craft beer, this tour promises a memorable experience that will leave you wanting to know more about St. Paul’s fascinating past.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 2 Walking Tours In St Paul Minnesota.

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Key Points

Offers a 3-hour historical walking tour of St. Paul, including key sites like the Capitol, downtown areas, and Summit Hill homes.
Tour conducted in English by a knowledgeable local guide and includes a mid-tour coffee break and local craft beer at the end.
Tour meeting point is the front steps of the Cathedral of Saint Paul, and guests should look for a guide with a blue umbrella.
Tour has an overall 4.8/5 rating based on customer reviews, with positive feedback on the guide’s informative nature and the tour’s organization and mix of history.
Recommends comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and a camera to capture the architecture and views during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The St. Paul: Historical Walking Tour with Local Guide provides a captivating 3-hour exploration of the city’s rich history.

Priced from $49 per person, this English-language tour allows visitors to discover St. Paul’s key sites, including the Capitol and downtown areas, as well as the gilded-age homes of Summit Hill.

The knowledgeable local guide will share stories about the city’s hidden past, including secret caves. Participants can enjoy a mid-tour coffee stop and finish with a local beer.

With a convenient meeting point at the Cathedral of Saint Paul and a 4.8/5 rating, this tour is an excellent way to experience the city’s captivating heritage.

Fascinated by the past? Here are other historical experiences we've covered in St Paul Minnesota

Experience Highlights

Explore St. Paul’s rich history with a knowledgeable local guide.

Visit key sites like the majestic Capitol and vibrant downtown areas. Discover the gilded-age charm of Summit Hill’s grand homes.

Enjoy a mid-tour coffee break and finish with a local craft beer.

Throughout the journey, engage with captivating stories about the city’s hidden past, including mysterious secret caves.

This expertly curated tour offers a perfect blend of historical insights and culture, ensuring an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in uncovering the unique facets of St. Paul’s heritage.

Meeting Details

Guests meet the tour guide on the front steps of the Cathedral of Saint Paul.

Look for a guide holding a blue umbrella to identify them. The tour starts promptly, so it’s best to arrive a few minutes early.

The walking tour covers downtown St. Paul and the historic Summit Hill neighborhood, lasting approximately 3 hours. Along the way, the guide shares stories about the city’s rich history and hidden gems.

Guests are encouraged to ask questions and engage with the guide to get the most out of the experience.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the St. Paul Historical Walking Tour.

With an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 12 reviews, the tour is a hit among visitors.

Judy highlighted the guide’s informative nature, while Annette appreciated the accommodations made for her needs.

Tami enjoyed the tour’s organization, mix of history, and social aspect at the end.

The tour offers:

Engaging stories about the city’s hidden past, including secret caves
A mid-tour coffee stop and a local beer at the end
A knowledgeable local guide to lead the way through key sites

This comprehensive tour is a must-do for anyone interested in exploring St. Paul’s rich history.

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What to Bring

To make the most of the St. Paul Historical Walking Tour, come prepared.

Come prepared to make the most of the St. Paul Historical Walking Tour.

Wear comfortable shoes that can handle several miles of walking. Dress in layers, as the weather in Minnesota can be unpredictable.

Bring sunscreen and a hat if it’s sunny, or grab an umbrella if rain is in the forecast. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning architecture and scenic views.

Stay hydrated by packing a water bottle. Following these simple tips will ensure you have an enjoyable and memorable experience exploring the rich history of St. Paul with your knowledgeable local guide.

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Exploring St. Paul’s Gilded-Age Homes

As the walking tour makes its way through the city, guests are treated to a glimpse into St. Paul’s gilded-age grandeur.

Strolling along the historic Summit Hill neighborhood, the guide points out the stunning mansions that once housed the city’s elite.

These opulent homes showcase:

Intricate architectural details, from ornate facades to sweeping porches
Lavish interiors with high ceilings, fine woodwork, and exquisite furnishings
The wealth and status of their former owners, industrialists, and railroad barons who shaped St. Paul’s prosperous past.

The tour provides a fascinating look into the city’s gilded-age history and the lives of its prominent figures.

Uncovering the City’s Hidden Past

Beyond the shimmering gilded-age homes, the walking tour delves into St. Paul’s hidden past. The knowledgeable guide shares stories of the city’s underground caves, long forgotten by many.

Visitors learn about the prohibition-era speakeasies that thrived in these subterranean spaces. The tour also uncovers the secrets behind the grand cathedral’s construction, including the challenges faced by the builders.

Guests gain a deeper appreciation for St. Paul’s rich history, uncovering the layers that lie beneath the surface. The tour culminates with a local beer, allowing participants to reflect on the city’s captivating past.

FAQ

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour’s group size is not specified in the provided information. The details focus on the tour’s itinerary, meeting details, and customer reviews rather than the maximum group size.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the 3-Hour Tour?

The tour itinerary doesn’t explicitly mention scheduled restroom breaks, but it’s likely the guide will accommodate any needs during the 3-hour duration. Participants are advised to plan ahead and use facilities before the tour starts.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Families?

The tour is suitable for families, though it may not be ideal for young children. The pace and content are geared more towards adults and older children who can engage with the historical information presented.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, though visitors should be mindful not to block the group or obstruct the guide’s view. Guests are encouraged to capture the historic sights and architecture at their own discretion.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and beverages on the tour. However, the tour includes a mid-tour coffee stop, so you may want to save your snacks for after the tour when you can enjoy a local beer.

Sum Up

Discover St. Paul’s rich heritage on this engaging walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide. Explore iconic landmarks, uncover hidden pasts, and enjoy a mid-tour coffee break and local craft beer. This memorable experience offers an insightful and interactive way to explore the city’s captivating history.