Explore upstairs and downstairs life in St. Paul’s largest house. Built for railroad titan James J. Hill, this 36,000-square-foot Gilded Age mansion was once the largest private residence in the state. With 13 bathrooms, 22 fireplaces, 16 chandeliers, a reception hall nearly 100 feet long, sophisticated technical systems, and a two-story, skylit art gallery, the house was a symbol of success, personal taste, and family life.

If you’re looking for an amazing free attraction in Saint Paul, check out the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Open 365 days a year!

At the zoo, you can see animals like the arctic fox, bison, cougars, giraffes, a green anaconda, seals, kudus, lemurs, lions, penguins, polar bears, sloths, snow leopards, wolves, Flamingos and more.

While there, you can also enjoy the variety of gardens where unique things are grown year-round in half an acre. Gardens include the Centennial Garden, a special bonsai collection, the Enchanted Garden, the Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden, Minnesota and Circle Gardens, a sunken garden, and more.

*Voluntary donations to the Como Zoo are greatly appreciated*

Walk through the Wabasha Street Caves. If you’re looking for a tour of a place that has been home to gangsters, a speakeasy, mushrooms, and a disco, you don’t want to miss the Wabasha Street Caves.