Saint Paul Has a Lot of Unique Culture and History

The state capital of Minnesota is also the state's cultural capital.

Saint Paul Has a Lot of Unique Culture and History

St. Paul downtown skyline at sunset during Christmas

Not all cities are created equal. Some have arts, museums, diversity and every type of food you could ever want. The rare golden egg in the U.S. is public transit. And the biggest downside often is that more people usually means a higher crime rate.

But don't fret. A study by GoodHire found that some big American cities enjoy relative safety. Saint Paul, Minnesota, topped the list for cities with populations over 250,000 people. It ranked fourth (out of 100) for violent crime, sixth for property rank and 13th for society crime. Overall, its safety score was an impressive 6.6.

So what is there to do in Saint Paul? As one-half of the Twin Cities, the Minnesotan capital has impressive historic buildings like the state Capitol and the Cathedral of Saint Paul. It also has a myriad of museums, art galleries and microbreweries.

In terms of dining, the city's diverse population of just under 300,000 keeps things interesting for even the pickiest of eaters. Over 100 languages are spoken in the city, and diversity is celebrated. You can find global appeal and small-city charm here.

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

Where to Stay in Saint Paul

Saint Paul, Minnesota, skyline and river

Downtown St. Paul is the obvious choice when looking for accommodations. You'll be in the center of all the cultural action and nightlife, have easy access to the airport and be just blocks away from the large green urban spaces surrounding the Mississippi River.

Best luxury hotel in Saint Paul: Intercontinental Saint Paul Riverfront

Best mid-tier hotel in Saint Paul: SpringHill Suites by Marriott St. Paul Downtown

Best budget hotel in Saint Paul: Comfort Inn Saint Paul East

Flying Into Saint Paul

Another perk of big cities is that you're almost always guaranteed a nearby airport. Most people fly into Minneapolis−Saint Paul International Airport, which serves both of the Twin Cities.

There is also the smaller St. Paul Downtown Airport, but it is mostly used for cargo and charter flights.

Book flights to Saint Paul

Getting Around Saint Paul

Visiting Saint Paul without a car is entirely possible, especially if you stay downtown. The city has a public system that combines two light rail lines and five bus rapid transit lines. Combined with ride share apps, you can get pretty much anywhere in town.

But renting a car does have its advantages. For instance, you can easily do a day trip to Minneapolis and cross both Twin Cities off your list. Or you can have a nature-centered escapade and do the two-hour drive north to Duluth to enjoy the beauty of Lake Superior.

Rent a car in Saint Paul

Safest Big City Runner-Up: El Paso, Texas

El Paso's 17.8 safety score demolishes stereotypes about Southwestern border towns. You won't see shootouts like Hollywood wants you to believe, but you will get to experience Chicano culture.

Indulge in some delicious Tex-Mex food while listening to norteña music in this unique U.S. city.

Best luxury hotel El Paso: The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park

Best mid-tier hotel in El Paso: Aloft El Paso Downtown

Best budget hotel in El Paso: Palace Inn

Book flights to El Paso

Rent a car in El Paso