The Alexander Ramsey House is a preserved Victorian home. The museum space hosts special events, including holiday celebrations and lectures on the methods of preservation that ensure the house is intact despite being a relic of the 1870s.
The James J. Hill House is a Gilded Age mansion made of massive stone. James J. Hill, who built the Great Northern Railway, also made a statement with his grand home, which was finished in 1891. There are enough nooks and crannies to make you want to come back to explore some more, and the docents love to demonstrate special features of the house.
Best Times to Visit the James J. Hill House
This site is in the middle of downtown St. Paul and has street parking, so you'll want to avoid busy times, like rush hour. Aim to visit around noon or 1 p.m., as there aren't too many visitors then and you can safely cross the streets without dodging too many cars. Hours of the James J. Hill House are Wednesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and Sunday from 1 – 3:30 p.m. The art gallery is open Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Must See at the James J. Hill House
Definitely take the guided tour. The docents open the 'secret' door, explain the purpose of the giant step in the middle of the front stairs, and discuss the current renovations and how the house has changed over the years. You'll also want to check out the art gallery, and see the pipe organ nestled between the gallery's two doorways.
Admission to the James J. Hill House
It's in the $10 range, with discounts for seniors, children ages 6 – 17, and college students. Children ages 5 and under are free.
Parking at the James H. Hill House
Sidewalks surround the front of the house, and the streets are well-paved and open. You can walk up, bike over, or park fairly close to the house itself. Call 651 – 297- 2555 or e-mail [email protected] for more information.
Food at the James J. Hill House
No food or beverages are sold at this location.
Insider Tip for the James J. Hill House
Just a short walk away is the Cathedral of St. Paul. This awe-inspiring church is beautiful, with stained glass, tremendous pillars, and a thundering pipe organ -– which is sometimes practiced during the day. While this is a working church with Mass and confession, visitors are welcome to respectfully come in and absorb some of the cathedral's grandeur.
Author's Bio: Old tales, antique furniture and curious details are Louisa Danielson's favorite part about visiting historic sites. She is a freelance writer who specializes in tourism and community event information.
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is a beautiful, peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of nearby downtown St. Paul, with beautiful architecture and a long history of serving parishioners and visitors alike. Looking for a place to get away, meditate, and collect your thoughts? Here it is.
Parking and public transit to the Cathedral of St. Paul
Some parking is available across the street from the Cathedral, on Selby Avenue. To reach the Cathedral via public transportation: From St. Paul: Take the 21 bus to the Selby Ave/Summit Ave stop. From Minneapolis: Take the Green Line eastbound toward St. Paul/Union Depot to the Western Ave Station and Platform, then take the 16 eastbound toward Univ Ave/ DT St. Paul to John Ireland Blvd/Kellogg Blvd, walk 0.2 miles to Cathedral.
When to go to the Cathedral of St. Paul
Doors are open to the public Sunday-Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Guided tours are available every Monday-Friday at 1:00 p.m., except on holy days and civil holidays. Masses are held Monday - Friday, at 7:30 a.m. and 5:15 p.m., and several times on Sundays.
Admission to the Cathedral of St. Paul
Admission is free and open to all.
Must see at the Cathedral of St. Paul
Take a guided tour, attend a mass, visit the Cathedral Museum, observe the architecture, or simply sit quietly and collect your thoughts in this beautiful, peaceful place.
Other places to visit nearby the Cathedral of St. Paul
Stop by Mickey's Dining Car (36 W. 7th Street) for a burger and fries, visit the Minnesota Children's Museum (10 W. 7th Street), or walk half a mile down the road to see the Minnesota State Capitol at 75 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.
Insider tip for visitors to the Cathedral of St. Paul
If you take the guided tour, gather in the front pews of the Cathedral just before 1:00p.m. so they'll be sure to find you.
Crystal G. Schneider is a home cook and freelance writer from St. Paul, Minnesota. Check out her blog at www.lifetoeatwith.wordpress.com.