Downtown Saint Paul Quick Facts
County: Ramsey
Population: 7911
Size: 1.01 sq.mi.
Median Home Price: $0
Average Rent Price: $1337
Commute to Mpls: 20 min.
Commute to Stp: 0 min.
Utilities
Electricity: XCel Energy
Natural Gas: XCel Energy
Garbage / Recycle: City
House Styles Website
Downtown Saint Paul Overview
Downtown Saint Paul is the heart of the capital city of Minnesota, and even if it's not as well-known as its sister city (Downtown Minneapolis), but it has just as much character. It has a thriving economic market, and the Minnesota State Capitol is located in the northernmost part of Downtown Saint Paul.  There are plenty of cultural things to do as well, including theater (the Ordway is renowned for its excellence), orchestra (the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra is magnificent), and museums (the Minnesota Children's Museum is a must-visit, even for non-children). There are also plenty of sports to be watched in Downtown Saint Paul. The Xcel Energy Center opened in 2000 and is now the home of the professional hockey team, the Minnesota Wild. CHS Field, located in Lowertown, opened in 2015 and houses the Saint Paul Saints, who are a member of the American Association of Independent Professional Baseball. Downtown Saint Paul is a comfortably middle-class city with a fair amount of diversity, and there are many people who work as well as live in the downtown area. There are more renters than owners, and there is a nice mix of ages in the neighborhood. Downtown Saint Paul hosts the Saint Paul Winter Carnival every year, which is the oldest winter carnival in the country; the first one occurred in 1886. Downtown Saint Paul is underrated, but the residents don't mind it that way.
Downtown Saint Paul Boundaries
Downtown Saint Paul Then And Now
Downtown Saint Paul is the home of the Minnesota State Capitol, and construction on it started in 1896. It was finished in 1905 and stood proudly above the city for several decades. It started to experience some wear and tear in the 1990s, but actual renovation didn't happen for another twenty years. It started in 2013 and was finally finished in 2017.It was designed by Cass Gilbert, who designed many other prominent buildings around the United States. Downtown Saint Paul has been a magnet for corporations since early in the thirties, with some very big names, such as US Bancorp, Ecolab, and Travelers. It has also had a strong arts presence in the neighborhood of Lowertown, which is on the east-side of Downtown. Lowertown was a vital part of the Downtown rail and river identity, urban planning, and other architecture. In 1983, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places for these contributions. Today, Downtown is booming. The population is predicted jump 80% from 2014 (7,911) to over 14,000 in 2020. It follows the national trend of more people moving to downtown, especially in Midwest states, and it's easy to see why people would want to make Downtown Saint Paul their home. It has parks, theaters, museums, and sports, so there's something for everyone. (rev. 1/30/21)
Downtown Saint Paul Environmental / Green
Saint Paul has very little in environmental policies. Introduced in 2020, they are asking large buildings to monitor water and energy usage for benchmarking purposes. That's about it. (dec 2010) In December of 2019, St Paul adopted a Climate Action & Resilience Plan, in conjunction with the Great Plains Institute. In this document, St Paul is setting a goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. St Paul is pushing to have increase sustainability in a couple different ways. 1. They are looking to reduce carbon by making buildings more efficient. This would include changing the building codes to increase efficiency. 2. They are looking to have the transportation sector change to electric vehicles. They also want people to drive less.
Downtown Saint Paul Resident's Top Ten Pics
If you are wanting to search for homes, or list your home for sale, click on the links below.
Market Trends in Downtown Saint Paul, MN
Single Family

updated: 2023

Median Price:
$0

Average Age:
$0

Annual Number Sold:
$0

Avg Sqft:
$0

Dollars/Sqft:
$0
Condo / Townhouse

updated: 2023

Median Price:
$200000

Average Age:
$1983

Annual Number Sold:
$131

Avg Sqft:
$986

Dollars/Sqft:
$209
Downtown Saint Paul Parks
Mears Park - ( 221 5th St. E,, 251-266-6400, website)

Mears Park is a tranquil and scenic park in contrast to the business and busyness surrounding it. It has a covered bandshell with electricity, so there are concerts and other events occurring throughout the year. There is a stream that runs diagonally through the park, which is soothing to watch and hear. It participates in the Fitness in the Parks program in the summer, and it's home to festivals from time to time as well. It's a good blend of flora and fauna.

Pedro Park - ( 114 E 10th St.,, 651-266-6400, website)

Pedro Park is nearly a half acre of land donated to the city by the Pedro family with the intent to create a public park in Downtown St. Paul. With that in motion, it's currently the site of the Urban Flower Field, which was designed and implemented in 2014. It is described as "an intersection of art, science, a community and a civic process". The UFF uses the Fibonacci Sequence to emphasize the union of art and science. Currently, there are chairs placed around the 'petals' of the flower so people can have a respite during their busy days and be surrounded by vibrant spirals.

Rice Park - ( 109 4th St. W,, 651-266-6400, website)

Rice Park is a small and simple park in Downtown St. Paul with a magnificent fountain that is the  main attraction of the park. There is the Wells Fargo WinterSkate ice rink adjacent to the park, and it is available in the winter for free outdoor rink skating. It also participates in the Fitness in the Park program in the summer. There are many festivals that occur in the park, including the annual Saint Paul Winter Carnival (Rice Park is the primary area in which events happen). The Ice Sculpture Garden, a signature event of the carnival, is hosted in this park.

Wacouta Commons - ( 465 Wacouta St.,, 651-266-6400, website)

Wacouta Commons is right in the heart of Downtown St. Paaul, and it offers a stunning view of the city around it. It had woodsy walkways as well as covered walkways if you want to take a leisurely stroll through the commons. There are benches when you want to take a quick break and enjoy your surroundings. There is a playground which is fun for the younger set.

Downtown Saint Paul Restaurants
Keys Cafe & Bakery - ( 500 N Robert St.,, 651-222-4083, website)

Keys Cafe & Bakery is family owned, and there are several sprinkled throughout Minnesota (and one in Wisconsin as well). They believe in giving back to the community and are involved in several charities, such as the Ronald McDonald House. The decor is sleek and contemporary which complements the relaxed atmosphere. The service is friendly and welcoming, too. The menu has tempting items such as Cajun Breakfast, Monte Cristo, Fish n' Chips, and HoHo Cake. They have specialty coffees, too.

Meritage - ( 410 St. Peter St.,, 651-222-5670, website)

Meritage was opened in 2007 by Russell and Desta Klein, and it has become a cherished favorite of many in the neighborhood ever since. It's a upscale French bistro with contemporary chic decor and polished, friendly staff. They have an oyster bar, a terrace, and their regular dining room. Their menu is seasonal and includes such dishes as Moules Frites, Soupe à l’Oignon Grâtinée, Escargots Bourguignon, and Honey & Thyme Glazed Minnesota Magret Duck Breast. They have an extensive drinks list as well, including The Parisian, Grannde Absente, and St. George's.

 

Ruam Mit - ( 475 St. Peter St.,, 651-222-7871, website)

Ruam Mit was opened in 1989 by a family who wanted to share Thai and Lao food with the community. In the time since, the restaurant has gone through many changes, including moving to the current location in 1996. Throughout all the changes, the one thing that has remained constant is the daily homemade food using family recipes. The decor is minimalist and the service is friendly. The menu includes Pha Ram Long Song, Nua Pad Nam, Manh Hol, Spicy Noodle Special, Wonton Soup, and Sriracha Fried Rice. Try the Thai Custard with Sweet Sticky Rice or Fresh Mango with Sweet Sticky Rice (Seasonal) as a satisying end to dinner.

Sakura - ( 350 St. Peter St.,, 651-224-0185, website)

Sakura was opened in 1990 by Miyoko Omori as she wanted to share her passion for Japanese food with the community. Sakura means cherry blossom, and there's a painting of a cherry blossom on one of the walls. The decor is contemporary and contemplative, and the service is friendly and warm. It has become a staple of the neighborhood, and Omori's intent on building community has worked. The menu includes Yakiniku, Makunouchi Bento, and Sushi & Tempura Teisyoku (set dinner). The sushi menu includes Sakura Sushi, Tamago, Saba, and more. The rolls include ECOLAB, The Leipold Roll, and Dancing Eel.

Downtown Saint Paul Shopping
Anthony Scornavacco Antiques - ( 23 W 6h St.,, 651-222-0046, website)

Anthony Scornavacco Antiques is owned and run by Anthony Scornavacco, a nationally-respected arts dealer who has been involved in collecting antiques since he was very young. Everything he sells has been handpicked by him, and his sources are mostly local and private. He has participated in several high-end charity auctions across the country and it was his primary focus for many years. His inventory includes paintings, books, furniture, statues, jewels, and much more.

Candyland - ( 435 Wabasha St. N,, 651-292-1191, website)

Candyland was opened as Flavo Korn in 1932, selling fudge and popcorn. In 1950, they included a line of candies and chocolate, and the name was changed to Candyland. It is now owned by Doug and Brenda Lamb, and it's been so successful, they've expanded to four stores in total. They evoke a powerful sense of nostalgia with old-timey treats such as popcorn balls, saltwater taffy, and root beer barrels. Their trademarked Chicago Mix is a popular favorite, and it's a combination of their signature seasoned popcorn, cheddar cheese popcorn, and caramel popcorn. They have gourmet chocolates as well such as truffles that are hand-dipped and made from scratch.

Eclipse Records - ( 419 Wabasha St. N,, 651-224-2500, website)

Eclipse Records was opened in 1999 and is an independent vinyl-only record store. It has local and national recognition as a quality record store, and it offers several different genres of music including (but not limited to) rock, jazz, soul, and the blues. They have new, used, and collectible records for your perusal.  They also have a few arcade machines if you're i n the mood for that.

Gypsy Moon - ( 141 4th St. E, Suite #220, 651-440-9633, website)

Gypsy Moon is a quirky gift store and the second one opened in St. Paul. It is located in the Pioneer Endicott Building. The store is cozy and crammed full of interesting items, and the staff members are friendly and welcoming. The items include women's clothing, jewelry, and accessories, as well as candles, home goods, vintage furniture, cards, and more.

Heimie's Haberdashery - ( 400 St. Peter St.,, 651-224-2354, website)

Heimie's Haberdashery has a long and storied past, and it was opened by Heimie Andler in 1921. Step inside the timeless store, and you'll be treated with courtesy and graciousness. The staff members are eager to help each customer find the perfect suit or whatever else is needed. They specialized in tailored clothing, and they take that very seriously. In addition to their haberdashers, they have a tobacconist, a barber shop, WHEI streaming radio, and wedding consultation. You'll leave the store feeling--and looking--like a million bucks.

Legacy Chocolates - ( 141 4th St. E, Suite #229,, 651-340-5252, website)

Legacy Chocolates is owned by Mark & Lorraine Dixon, and they are committed to making and selling the finest chocolates to their customers. The store is sleek and contemporary, and the service is cheerful and friendly. The owners believe in homemade, natural ingredients, nutrients, and high quality at an affordable price. Their tasty treats include Himalayan Caramel (truffle), Sipping Chocolate, Legacy Blend (Medium Roast), Chocolate Butterscotch (muffins), and Almond Joy (nutrition bar). Their menu varies from day to day, but everything they offer is delicious.

SubText Books - ( 6 W 5th St.,, 651-493-2791, website)

SubText Books was opened in 2012 by Sue Zumberge and moved to the current location in 2015. It is an independent bookstore, the only one currently in the city center. It is a cozy shop with friendly and helpful staff who are eager to find the perfect book for each customer. They have a used book section, and they have staff picks as well. Their books offer a diverse range including Kao Kalia Yang, Ibram X. Kendi, Jacqueline Woodson, Joy Harjo, and many more. They have online shopping as well.

Downtown Saint Paul Nightlife
Amsterdam Bar & Hall - ( 6 W 6th St.,, 612-285-3112, website)

Amsterdam Bar & Hall was opened in 2011 by Jon (father) and Jarret (son) Oulman, owners of the 331 Club in NE Minneapolis, with the intent of livening up St. Paul's nightlife culture. It has become the premier live music venue in St. Paul, and it's a very popular destination. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed until there's music, and then it's lively and entertaining. The menu includes kippenbout, loempias, and broodjes. Their drinks include Tecate, Loon Juice, and Le Vielle Ferme Rose.

Camp Bar Twin Cities - ( 490 N Robert St.,, 651-292-1844, website)

Camp Bar Twin Cities was opened in 2007, and it's become a popular spot in the neighborhood. It is a proud Green Bay Packers supporter with the games playing on the TVs. It is a colorful space with a pool table, a sidewalk patio, and a small stage with a piano--frequently providing live entertainment. On the food side, they get food catered from Sawatdee, Key's Cafe, and Heggies Pizza. Drinks-wise, they have 16 craft beers on tap, specialty cocktails (such as Soho Sling, Minnehattan, and Pucker Lemon Drop), and wine. They also have a space called The Cabaret @ Camp, which is available for rent for events such as wedding receptions, burlesque shows, and fundraisers.

History Theater - ( 30 E 10th St.,, 651-292-4323, website)

History Theater was founded in 1978 by Lynn Lohr and Lance Belville with a focus on the rich history of the state and on life as an American. They have won several awards in the industry for being willing to push boundaries and tackling tough sociopolitical issues. They have staged more than 100 world premieres and have worked with nationally-recognized playwrights, such as Kim Hines, Craig Wright, and Kira Obolensky. They tour around the state, sharing their works throughout the state and in Twin City area schools. Some of their recent productions include Not in Our Neighborhood, Superman Becomes Lois Lane, and Runestone! A Rock Musical.

Palace Theatre - ( 17 W 7th Pl.,, 612-338-8388, website)

Palace Theatre originally opened in 1917 as a vaudeville theater, and the performers included the Marx Brothers and George Burns. The theater went through many twists and turns after that, and it shut down in 1977. It remained mostly fallow until it was bought by the City of Saint Paul in 2015, and it was renovated and modernized because it sorely needed it. Then, with the hands of First Avenue and Jam Productions at the helm, it opened as a concert venue in 2017. It has become one of the premier locations for music since it's re-opening, showcasing such acts as The Pixies, The Jayhawks, and a Bon Iver/Tu Dance collaboration.

Pillbox Tavern - ( 400 Wabash St. N, #220, 651-756-7566, website)

Pillbox Tavern was opened in early 2020 by Bill Ashton and Matt Bakke with the intent to have a contemporary sports bar in the neighborhood. It's warm and inviting, and the service is friendly. It's named after the Pillbox Stadium which briefly housed the Saints in 1902. With Executive Chef Graham Messenger at the helm, the menu is seasonally based and changes every 6 - 8 weeks. The menu includes Chuckwagon (sandwich), Muffuletta Juicy, and Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts. They have gluten-friendly options and vegan options, too. On the drink side, they have wine, beer, and other drinks. They have patio seating, weather permitting.

Downtown Saint Paul Community Arts & Recreation
Minnesota Children's Museum - ( 10 W 7th St.,, 651-225-6000, website)

Minnesota Children's Museum (MCM) first opened across the river in 1981. It became a big success and moved to St. Paul in 1986 when it outgrew its original building. It eventually found its current home in 1995 which had new exhibits and a pioneering gallery for toddlers. It has continued to expand over the years, and there is even a Minnesota Children's Museum of Rochester that opened in 2012. MCM is a dream come true for children of all ages, and it has several self-directed activities such as a laser maze, a pretend town, and a four-story climber with a spiral slide.

The Fitzgerald Theater - ( 10 E Exchange St.,, 612-338-8388, website)

The Fitzgerald Theater was built in 1910 and is St. Paul's oldest standing theater. It has a long and interesting history on its way to becoming one of the most respected theaters in the state. It has been owned by prominent entities such as MPR and now, First Avenue. While owned by the MPR, the name was changed from The World Theater to The Fitzgerald Theater after the famous native  Minnesotan son, F. Scott Fitzgerald. It hosts musical groups, theatrical productions, and also guests from MPR.

The Minnesota Museum of American Art - ( 350 Robert St. N,, 651-797-2571, website)

The Minnesota Museum of American Art (the M) has a long and storied history as one of the oldest visual arts organizations in Minnesota, back to its first iteration in 1894. Through many twists and turns, it has evolved and changed with the times. It is located in the historic Pioneer Endicott Building, and it has emerged as one of the best museums in the state. It has focused on diversity and art as rooted in environment and society. To that end, in recent years, they have sponsored 1.5: A Southeast Asian Diaspora Remix, Black Art in the Era of Protest: A Virtual Conversation, and History is Not Here: Art and the Arab Imaginary. They also have rental spaces and online events.

Downtown Saint Paul Events
JAN: Saint Paul Winter Carnival - ( 175 W Kellogg Blvd.,, 651-223-7400, website)

The Saint Paul Winter Carnival is a longstanding annual event that is hotly (coldly?) anticipated every year, and it first occurred in 1886. It was established to rebut East Coast reporters who stated that Minnesota was "another Siberia, unfit for human habitation". Now, it is a two-week celebration of winter in Minnesota with highlights such as the ice sculptures and the ice carving competitions, a winter run, a giant snow slide, parades, and fireworks. The ice sculptures are the talk of the town, and they are quite a spectacular view.  The events happen all over Downtown St. Paul and in other St. Paul areas. The Landmark Center is available so you can warm up after all this winter outdoor fun.

MAY: Festival of Nations - ( 175 W Kellogg Blvd.,, 651-647-0191, website)

The Festival of Nations is an annual event held in late April/early May in the Saint Paul RiverCentre and is eagerly anticipated every year since its inception in 1932. It is a celebration of cultures from all around the world over one weekend. There is a cafe (food booths), an international bazaar, performances from different cultures, folk art demonstrations, and cultural exhibits. It's an experience for all the senses, and you'll be able to have pierogies, mango lassi, and injera all in one meal while watching a dance from Thailand, see the crowd-pleasing Taiwanese cultural exhibit, and then buy baubles from Norway. There are also 'passports' that are issued which you can take to the cultural exhibits area and use to interact with people at the different exhibits.

DEC: Minnesota Hmong New Year - ( 175 W Kellogg Blvd.,, 651-447-2074, website)

The Minnesota Hmong New Year was celebrated for the first time in 1979 and is now an annual event in late November/early December. It is hosted by The United Hmong Family, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to recognizing and promoting Hmong culture. St. Paul has the largest Hmong population of any city in the United States, and the Minnesota Hmong New Year is a great way to highlight this fact. There are vendors who dispense food, flowers, and other merchandise. There are also opportunities to have your picture taken, toss a ball, and participate in other ways.  There is a dance competition, a singing competition, and an essay contest as well.

© Copyright 2021 - Steven Hong - All Rights Reserved. Each office independently owned and operated.
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