St. James Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in St. James, Minnesota with our comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, we've got you covered.


Introduction to St. James

Located in Southern Minnesota, St. James is a small town that offers visitors a taste of Midwest hospitality and charm. With a rich history dating back to the mid-1800s, there is plenty to discover in this picturesque town.

Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking and biking or prefer to explore museums and cultural attractions, St. James has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will take a closer look at the top things to do and see in St. James, as well as offering tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get there.

List of Places to Visit in St. James

  • Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
  • Natural Attractions of St. James: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
  • Hiking/Biking Routes of St. James
  • Best Things to Do in St. James: Activities and Tours
  • Week-Long Itinerary for St. James
  • Food and Drink Scene of St. James
  • Where to Stay in St. James: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
  • What to Buy in St. James: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
  • Local Culture and Customs of St. James
  • Best Time to Visit St. James
  • Do’s and Don’ts of St. James
  • Safety and Health
  • Getting to St. James: Transportation Options and Logistics
  • How to Get Around in St. James
  • Where to Go Next from St. James: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning about the rich history of St. James, there are a number of museums and historical places that are worth a visit. The Watonwan County Historical Society offers exhibits and tours of the county’s early history, including Native American artifacts and pioneer life.

Another must-see attraction is the St. James Depot Museum, which is housed in a restored train depot that was once a hub for transportation in the area. The museum features exhibits on local rail history, including a restored steam engine that visitors can climb aboard.

Natural Attractions of St. James: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For outdoor enthusiasts, St. James offers a variety of options for exploration. The Watona Park offers hiking and biking trails through lush forests, as well as scenic overlooks of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also enjoy camping, picnicking, and fishing at nearby Karns Lake.

If you’re looking for a more leisurely way to explore the great outdoors, head to the St. James Golf Course. The course offers stunning views of the rolling hills and prairies of southern Minnesota, as well as a challenging 18-hole layout for golfers of all skill levels.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. James

St. James is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with many gorgeous trails and routes to explore. The Watona Park offers several miles of hiking trails, as well as a paved bike path that circles the park, offering a scenic and safe ride.

The Lake Hanska Regional Trail is another popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. This multi-use trail offers stunning views of Lake Hanska, as well as a variety of hiking and biking options for visitors.

Best Things to Do in St. James: Activities and Tours

In addition to outdoor activities and cultural attractions, St. James offers a variety of activities and tours that are fun for all ages. One popular option is the St. James Pizza Ranch Fun Zone, which features arcade games, laser tag, and a play area for kids.

For a more laid-back activity, head to the St. James movie theater for a new release. The theater offers a cozy and comfortable atmosphere for a night out at the movies.

Week-Long Itinerary for St. James

If you’re planning a week-long stay in St. James, there are plenty of things to do and see to keep you busy. Here is a sample itinerary for your visit:

  • Day 1: Visit the St. James Depot Museum and take a train ride through the countryside.
  • Day 2: Go hiking or biking at Watona Park and enjoy a picnic lunch.
  • Day 3: Take a day trip to the nearby town of New Ulm to explore its German heritage and visit the August Schell Brewery.
  • Day 4: Play a round of golf at the St. James Golf Course, followed by a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant.
  • Day 5: Visit the Watonwan County Historical Society and learn about local history and culture.
  • Day 6: Enjoy a day of fishing, camping, or picnicking at Karns Lake.
  • Day 7: Take a leisurely bike ride along the Lake Hanska Regional Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Food and Drink Scene of St. James

St. James offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Here are some must-try dishes during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Juicy Lucy: a classic Minnesota dish featuring a burger with melted cheese inside the patty.
  • Wild Rice Soup: a creamy and hearty soup made with wild rice, chicken, and vegetables.
  • Walleye: a freshwater fish that is a staple of Minnesota cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Grain Belt Beer: a classic Minnesota beer that has been brewed in the state since 1893.
  • Wine from Morgan Creek Vineyards: a local winery that produces a variety of red, white, and fruit wines.

Where to Stay in St. James: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

St. James offers a variety of options for lodging, from cozy bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Some popular options include:

  • Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham St. James: a contemporary hotel featuring comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
  • St. James Motel: a budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Fairmont, MN: a nearby hotel offering modern amenities, including a fitness center and pool.

What to Buy in St. James: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

During your visit to St. James, be sure to pick up some souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some ideas:

  • Minnesota-made cheese and meats from local farmers’ markets
  • Handmade pottery and ceramics from local artists
  • Souvenir T-shirts and hats featuring the St. James logo

Local Culture and Customs of St. James

St. James is known for its friendly Midwestern hospitality, and visitors can expect a warm welcome from locals. It’s common to greet others with a smile and a friendly wave, and small talk is a way of life.

Best Time to Visit St. James

The best time to visit St. James depends on your interests. Summer is a popular time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking, while fall offers stunning foliage and harvest festivals.

Winter can be cold and snowy, but it also offers opportunities for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Spring is a quieter time of year, with the countryside coming back to life after a long winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. James

Do:

  • Be polite and friendly to locals.
  • Explore the outdoors and enjoy the local natural beauty.
  • Try the local dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Drive recklessly on the roads.

Safety and Health

Safety in St. James

St. James is a safe town with a low crime rate. However, it’s always a good idea to take common-sense safety precautions when traveling, such as locking your car and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in St. James

St. James has a modern healthcare system, with a hospital and clinics offering a variety of services. However, it’s always a good idea to have adequate travel insurance when visiting any destination.

Getting to St. James: Transportation Options and Logistics

St. James is located in Southern Minnesota and is accessible by car or bus. Some nearby airports include:

Airports Near St. James

  • Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP): 109 miles from St. James
  • Rochester International Airport (RST): 98 miles from St. James
  • Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD): 148 miles from St. James

Bus Stations Near St. James

  • Jefferson Lines: departs from Mankato and St. Paul
  • Greyhound: departs from Mankato and Worthington

Other Options

St. James is also accessible by car via Interstate 90, which runs through the town. Visitors can also take advantage of regional ridesharing and taxi services to get around the town.

How to Get Around in St. James

St. James is a small town that is easy to explore on foot or by bike. However, if you need to get around by car, there are several rental car options available in nearby Mankato.

Where to Go Next from St. James: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re interested in exploring other nearby attractions, here are some options to consider:

  • New Ulm: a charming German town with a brewery and historic sites
  • Mankato: a larger city with shopping, dining, and nightlife options
  • Pipestone National Monument: a scenic area featuring quarries used by Native Americans for thousands of years

Conclusion

St. James offers visitors a taste of Midwest hospitality and charm, with a variety of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and dining options to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, hiking, or just relaxing in a small town atmosphere, there is something for everyone in St. James.