St. Louis Park Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and scenic St. Louis Park, Minnesota with this comprehensive travel guide, including natural attractions, hiking routes, food scene, and transportation options.


Introduction to St. Louis Park

St. Louis Park is a charming city located in Twin Cities, Minnesota. Home to scenic parks, natural attractions, dynamic culture, and incredible food, this city has everything to delight travelers.

St. Louis Park is a historically significant place, primarily known for the success of its commerce and industry. Additionally, it is home to some of the most renowned museums and historical landmarks.

List of Places to Visit in St. Louis Park

Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, history, or scenic views, St. Louis Park has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mill City Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of flour milling in the Mississippi River area. Here visitors can learn about the importance of flour mills in the region’s heritage.

  • Walker Art Center: A contemporary art museum with a vast collection of modern art that dates back to the 1950s. The museum is home to several exhibitions, preserving the traditional and modern history of US art.

  • Historic Fort Snelling: Known for its historical significance, this fort played an essential role in Minnesota’s history, particularly during the civil war. Visitors can visit its exhibitions reflecting the Native American history of the area.

Natural Attractions of St. Louis Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Minnehaha Falls Park: A grand waterfall located in the Mississippi Gorge. This park makes for an excellent spot for outdoor experiences, hiking, and picnic area.

  • Chain of Lakes Regional Park: A park offering unique scenic views. Its rich history and green spaces make it popular among sightseers, families, and sports enthusiasts.

  • Lake Calhoun: A serene lake with several beaches and recreational spots. Visitors can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and hiking at this popular destination.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. Louis Park

St. Louis Park has several hiking and biking routes that offer fantastic views and an unmatched experience. The Cedar Lake Trail and Theodore Wirth Parkway Trail are perfect options for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in St. Louis Park: Activities and Tours

  • Action City Fun Center: An exciting arcade with a range of games for individuals of all ages. Visitors can indulge in thrilling activities like laser tag, bowling, and mini-golf courses.

  • The Escape Game: An escape room game where individuals or groups are required to solve a series of puzzles and mysteries to escape from a room. A fantastic option for groups and families seeking a unique experience.

  • Ghost & Graveyards Trolley Tour: A historical and cultural sightseeing tour of the city. The tour involves visiting some of the famous landmarks and historical places, providing insight into the city’s rich heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for St. Louis Park

Day 1: Mill City Museum, Cedar Lake Trail Day 2: Walker Art Center, Minnehaha Falls Park, Chain of Lakes Regional Park Day 3: Historic Fort Snelling, Theodore Wirth Parkway Trail, Lake Calhoun Day 4: St. Louis Park Farmer’s Market, Action City Fun Center Day 5: Break the Code Escape Room, Paint-your-pet Picasso’s Palette Day 6: The Escape Game, Ghost & Graveyards Trolley Tour Day 7: St. Louis Park Aquatic Park, World Wildlife Safari

Food and Drink Scene of St. Louis Park

No vacation is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. St. Louis Park has a range of exciting food and drink options.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Juicy Lucy: A local famous dish consisting of a hamburger patty stuffed with cheese. One of the must-eat dishes in St. Louis Park.

  • Walleye: A local fish dish that is widely popular in St. Louis Park. Visitors can enjoy this dish with a range of side items available at local restaurants.

  • Cheese Curds: These cheese curds are fried to perfection and make for a great appetizer.

Local Beverages

  • Summit Brewing Company: Established in 1986, this brewery offers a range of locally brewed craft beers. Beer enthusiasts can choose from their vast selection of brews.

  • Vine Park Brewery: A brewing company focused on serving locally brewed beers, ciders, and soda pops. It offers excellent options for those who love to try new craft beer styles.

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

St. Louis Park offers several accommodation choices to meet the needs and budget ranges of different types of travelers. Some great options include Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Westin Hotel, and Hampton Inn.

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

St. Louis Park has several options for souvenirs and local products. Visitors can grab locally roasted coffee from Isles Coffee & Roastery, organic food and products from Fresh & Natural Foods, or handmade crafts from St. Louis Park Farmers Market.

Local Culture and Customs of St. Louis Park

St. Louis Park, Minnesota, has a rich culture and history that deserves exploration. Travelers should be respectful of the people, customs, and traditions of this place.

Best Time to Visit St. Louis Park

The best time to visit St. Louis Park is between June and August. This period has a pleasant climate, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city at large.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. Louis Park

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their customs.
  • Explore the natural attractions of the city.
  • Try the local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the city.
  • Disrespect the local traditions.

Safety and Health

St. Louis Park is a safe city and is relatively crime-free. However, travelers are advised to take safety precautions and be mindful of personal belongings.

Safety in St. Louis Park

  • Stay wary of pickpockets and scammers.
  • Avoid deserted and isolated areas.
  • Seek help from the local authorities in case of an emergency.

Health in St. Louis Park

St. Louis Park has several health centers and hospitals in case of medical emergencies. Visitors can consult the local health center at Park Nicollet Clinic.

Getting to St. Louis Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

St. Louis Park is well-connected to the rest of the state, with several transportation options.

Airports Near St. Louis Park

  • Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport
  • St. Cloud Regional Airport
  • Duluth International Airport

Bus Stations Near St. Louis Park

  • Minneapolis Greyhound
  • Jefferson Lines Terminal

Other Options

Alternatively, visitors can take taxis, rent cars, or choose rideshare options like Uber or Lyft.

How to Get Around in St. Louis Park

St. Louis Park has several transportation modes, including buses, taxis, trains, and car rentals. Visitors can rent cars from Avis Car Rental or opt for Uber or Lyft to get around the city.

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

St. Louis Park is surrounded by several beautiful destinations that visitors can explore. Some popular nearby destinations include Minneapolis, Eden Prairie, and Bloomington.

Conclusion

St. Louis Park, Minnesota, is a beautiful city filled with sights and experiences that cater to the needs of all types of travelers. Whether it is the rich cultural heritage, natural attractions, or incredible food scene, there is something for everyone. With this travel guide in hand, visitors can explore the city and create memories that will last a lifetime.