Saint Paul MN

Saint Paul, MN – Known as the quieter twin in the Twin Cities duo, Saint Paul charms visitors with its rich history, beautiful riverfront views, and welcoming Midwestern spirit. From stately Victorian architecture to vibrant arts and culture, this capital city blends tradition with a modern twist. Whether you're exploring quirky museums, enjoying cozy cafés, or strolling along the Mississippi River, Saint Paul offers a warm and authentic Minnesota experience.

• Population: ~310,000
• Weather: Cold, snowy winters (10-30°F); warm summers (70-85°F); colorful fall and blooming spring.
• Places To Visit: Minnesota State Capitol, Science Museum of Minnesota, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, Cathedral of Saint Paul, Historic Summit Avenue.
• Top Activities: Ice skating at Rice Park, riverboat tours on the Mississippi, experiencing Winter Carnival, catching a Saints baseball game, exploring local breweries.
• Famous Food: Juicy Lucy burgers, wild rice soup, Scandinavian pastries from Finnish Bakeries, and craft beers from Summit Brewing Company.

Saint Paul, Minnesota is a vibrant city with a diverse economy based on government, education, healthcare, and manufacturing. As the capital of Minnesota, Saint Paul offers a wide range of career opportunities across both public and private sectors. Below are some of the most in-demand jobs in the city today.

Top 5 Jobs in Saint Paul, MN

Saint Paul, MN offers a blend of historic charm and modern flair, making it an ideal place for students to unwind and find entertainment. Whether you're into art, nature, or vibrant city life, Saint Paul has something to fit your style.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory – This place is perfect for a relaxing day out. You can wander through lush gardens, visit the zoo animals, or simply enjoy a picnic by the lake. Admission is free, making it a student-friendly option.

Grand Avenue – A lively strip packed with boutique shops, cafes, and eateries. It's a great place to grab a coffee, browse unique stores, or enjoy brunch with friends.

West 7th Street – Known for its chill vibe and cool spots to hang out. You can find everything from local music venues to casual food joints. It's the perfect spot for an evening with friends.

Science Museum of Minnesota – For the science lovers, this museum offers fascinating exhibits and an impressive Omnitheater. It's both educational and fun, perfect for a casual day of learning and exploration.

Summit Avenue – Take a walk or bike ride down one of the longest stretches of Victorian architecture in the U.S. The tree-lined avenue is beautiful year-round and offers a peaceful escape from campus life.

Lowertown – This area has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and studios galore. Plus, it's home to the Saint Paul Farmers Market where you can grab fresh, local produce and maybe a snack or two.

Lake Phalen – A wonderful spot for outdoor activities. Here you can hike, bike, or simply relax by the water. It's a great way to de-stress and soak in some natural beauty.

Saint Paul, MN is home to a vibrant mix of public and private institutions that offer top-quality education in liberal arts, sciences, business, healthcare, and technical fields. The city boasts a strong academic tradition and provides students access to both research-focused universities and career-oriented colleges.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Saint Paul

Metropolitan State University – Serving primarily adult learners and non-traditional students, this public university offers flexible undergraduate and graduate programs in business, nursing, computer science, and criminal justice. Its urban campus supports a diverse student body and focuses on career readiness.

Saint Paul College – A public two-year community and technical college offering a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs. It is known for programs in culinary arts, health sciences, business, and skilled trades. Saint Paul College ranks high in student satisfaction and transfer success.

Century College – Located near Saint Paul, this comprehensive community and technical college provides strong academic support and workforce training. It excels in programs like dental hygiene, cybersecurity, and liberal arts. Century College is also a leader in inclusive education and sustainability initiatives.

Inver Hills Community College – A short drive from Saint Paul, this public college offers affordable education with well-regarded associate degree programs and transfer pathways to four-year universities. Its academic strengths include nursing, psychology, business, and paralegal studies.

University of Minnesota – Twin Cities (Saint Paul Campus) – Though part of the larger UMN system based in Minneapolis, the Saint Paul campus specializes in agriculture, environmental sciences, and biological sciences. It supports world-class research and offers unique hands-on learning experiences through its labs and natural areas.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Saint Paul

University of St. Thomas – Minnesota’s largest private university, offering rigorous programs in business, engineering, education, and law. Its Saint Paul campus merges strong Catholic values with a commitment to innovation and leadership. St. Thomas is recognized for small class sizes and solid job placement rates.

Macalester College – A nationally recognized liberal arts college known for its academic excellence and global focus. Macalester offers strong programs in political science, economics, international studies, and the arts. It attracts students from across the world and prides itself on diversity and civic engagement.

Concordia University, St. Paul – A faith-based university offering accessible education in fields like business, exercise science, information technology, and education. It is praised for affordability and career-oriented degree programs, including flexible online options and graduate studies.

Hamline University – The oldest university in Minnesota, Hamline offers a rich liberal arts education with strong programs in law, creative writing, business, and education. It is known for innovation, community involvement, and a strong focus on ethical leadership and social justice.

Bethel University (Saint Paul area) – A Christ-centered institution that combines faith with learning. With bachelor’s and graduate programs in nursing, business, theology, and education, Bethel emphasizes academic excellence and spiritual development. Its supportive campus culture nurtures personal growth and career preparation.

Saint Paul, Minnesota, is home to several outstanding high schools that focus on academic excellence, character development, and preparing students for future success. Whether you're looking for top-ranked public schools or elite private institutions, the city offers a strong variety of exceptional educational options.

Top Public High Schools in Saint Paul

• Highland Park Senior High School – Known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Highland Park is a diverse school with strong college-prep courses and extracurricular activities.
• Central Senior High School – One of the oldest and most respected high schools in Saint Paul, Central boasts Advanced Placement (AP) classes, strong arts programs, and high graduation rates.
• Como Park Senior High School – Offers a range of academic electives and pathways, including STEM and business. It’s also known for community involvement and a supportive learning environment.
• Washington Technology Magnet School – A specialized STEM high school that prepares students for careers in science and technology. The campus features state-of-the-art labs and real-world learning experiences.
• Harding Senior High School – With a strong focus on academics, athletics, and student leadership, Harding provides a comprehensive education to a diverse student body.

Top Private High Schools in Saint Paul

• Cretin-Derham Hall – A Catholic, co-ed college preparatory school with a strong record of academic success, leadership training, and competitive sports programs.
• St. Paul Academy and Summit School – A prestigious independent school known for small class sizes, exceptional teaching, and a rigorous curriculum that includes arts, sciences, and social responsibility.
• Convent of the Visitation School – An all-girls Catholic school that emphasizes academic achievement, character development, and leadership in a nurturing environment.
• Hill-Murray School – A private Catholic school offering a robust curriculum with strong support for both academic and personal growth. Renowned for its arts and athletic programs.
• Twin Cities Academy High School – Though technically a charter school, it preserves private-school-like standards with small classes, dedicated teachers, and a college-preparatory focus.

Saint Paul, Minnesota may be known for its charming neighborhoods and historic architecture, but it's also home to passionate sports fans and professional teams that bring excitement to the Twin Cities area year-round.

🏒 Hockey – Minnesota Wild (NHL)

• Minnesota Wild – Based in Saint Paul, the Wild have been a part of the National Hockey League since 2000. While the team is still chasing its first Stanley Cup, it has seen several successful seasons and playoff appearances. The Wild play their home games at the Xcel Energy Center, one of the premier arenas in the league. Notable players have included Mikko Koivu, Kirill Kaprizov, and Ryan Suter.

⚽ Soccer – Minnesota United FC (MLS)

• Minnesota United FC – Also known as the Loons, this Major League Soccer team began play in 2017. Although officially located in Saint Paul, the team represents the entire Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area. They play at Allianz Field, a state-of-the-art stadium that opened in 2019. Minnesota United has made significant strides and developed a loyal fan base since joining the league, with players like Emanuel Reynoso and Robin Lod leading the team’s charge.

⚾ Baseball – St. Paul Saints (Minor League)

• St. Paul Saints – The Saints are a Triple-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins and play in the International League. They were founded in 1993 and became an affiliated minor league team in 2021. Known for their unique promotions and fun game-day atmosphere, the Saints play at CHS Field in downtown Saint Paul. The team has been a springboard for players moving up to the Major Leagues and remains a local favorite.

🏈 Nearby Football – Minnesota Vikings (NFL)

• Minnesota Vikings – Though the Vikings are based in Minneapolis, they have a huge fan base in Saint Paul and throughout Minnesota. The team began play in 1961 and has appeared in four Super Bowls, though they are still in search of their first championship win. They play at U.S. Bank Stadium, one of the most modern and visually stunning venues in the NFL. Legendary players include Fran Tarkenton, Randy Moss, and Adrian Peterson.

🏀 Nearby Basketball – Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA) & Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)

• Minnesota Timberwolves – Playing in nearby Minneapolis, the Timberwolves were founded in 1989. Known for their loyal fan base and exciting young talent, they’ve been a playoff contender with stars like Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards. Former MVP Kevin Garnett is one of the franchise’s most iconic players.
• Minnesota Lynx – One of the most successful teams in the WNBA, the Lynx have won four league championships (2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017). With legends like Maya Moore, Lindsay Whalen, and Sylvia Fowles, they have built a dynasty and continue to be strong contenders.

Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. As one of the Twin Cities, it offers unique attractions and quirky stories that make it an exciting place to explore. Here are some fun facts about Saint Paul, MN:

1. One of Two Twins – Saint Paul and Minneapolis are known as the “Twin Cities,” but Saint Paul is the state capital of Minnesota.
2. Peanuts Connection – Charles M. Schulz, the creator of Peanuts, was born in Minneapolis and spent much of his youth in Saint Paul.
3. Winter Wonderland – Known for embracing winter, Saint Paul hosts the annual Saint Paul Winter Carnival, started way back in 1886!
4. Gangster History – In the 1930s, infamous gangsters including John Dillinger and Baby Face Nelson used Saint Paul as a hideout thanks to corrupt law enforcement deals.
5. Wabasha Street Caves – These caves were once speakeasies and gangster hangouts during the Prohibition era and now host ghost tours and events.
6. Historic Architecture – The Cathedral of Saint Paul is one of the largest churches in the U.S. and sits majestically atop Cathedral Hill.
7. Mississippi River Beauty – Saint Paul is one of only a few cities built directly on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River.
8. Science Museum Star – The Science Museum of Minnesota in Saint Paul is famous for its dinosaur exhibits and interactive learning experiences.
9. Comic Book Inspiration – Marvel superhero Moon Knight was once written as a character from Saint Paul.
10. Rice Park Magic – Located downtown, Rice Park has been called the city’s "mini Central Park" and transforms into a twinkling light display each winter.