St. Paul · Minnesota, MN
Hidden gems in St. Paul
Scout analyzed 84 St. Paul places and surfaced the ones that actually fit hidden gems.
Places analyzed
84
Matches
24
Typical spend
$15
Typical visit
1.5 hr
Scout-verified spots
Como Park
Como Park Golf Course
This is a municipal golf course suitable for a few hours of outdoor recreation. Expect to spend 3-4 hours and $25-50 per person for a round of golf, or less for a bucket of balls.
West Seventh - Fort Road
Bad Weather Brewing Company
Bad Weather Brewing is a solid stop for a casual outing to sample local beers, often paired with food truck eats. Expect to spend 1-2 hours and around $15-35 per person for drinks and a snack.
Northwestern Precinct
Rice Park
Rice Park is a free downtown park suitable for a relaxed stroll or a short break. It's an ideal stop before or after a meal in the city, especially during the winter festival when an ice rink is present.
West Seventh - Fort Road
Upper Landing Park
Upper Landing Park is suitable for a free hour or two outdoors, offering river views and a space for relaxation or a walk. It pairs well with a picnic or a nearby meal.
Outdoors
Jensen Lake Trailhead
Jensen Lake Trailhead is good for a free, leisurely hike that takes about 1.5 hours. It pairs well with a picnic or visiting a nearby park, making it suitable for a half-day outdoor activity.
Macalester - Groveland
Roots Roasting
Roots Roasting is a good spot for a quick coffee break or to do some work, easily paired with errands. Expect to spend $5-15 and stay for around 30 minutes.
Lexington - Hamline South
yellowbird coffee bar
A typical coffee shop for a quick solo stop or a casual meet-up, expect to spend under $15 for a drink and a light bite. It's suitable for a 30-minute break before or after other activities.
Outdoors
Tamarack Nature Center
Tamarack Nature Center is good for a few hours of outdoor family or solo time, exploring trails and the play area. It's a free activity suitable for pairing with a picnic or local lunch spot.
Riverview
Harriet Island Regional Park
Harriet Island is a good spot for a relaxed riverside stroll or picnic, offering paddle boats for an added activity. Expect to spend 1-2 hours here, with costs ranging from free entry to around $25 if renting a paddle boat.
Macalester - Groveland
Spyhouse Coffee Roasters | St. Paul
This coffee shop is suitable for a solo work session or a casual meet-up, pairing well with a walk around the neighborhood. Expect to spend 45-90 minutes and about $5-15 per person for coffee and a pastry.
Cathedral Hill
Nina's Coffee Cafe
Nina's Coffee Cafe is suitable for a casual solo or small group outing, perfect for a light breakfast or afternoon coffee and snack. Expect to spend about an hour and $5-$15 per person.
West Seventh - Fort Road
Forepaugh's Restaurant
Forepaugh's is an upscale restaurant in a historic mansion, ideal for a refined dinner outing that could pair with a pre-dinner drink or post-dinner stroll. Expect to spend 1.5 to 2 hours and $75-$150 per person.
West Bloomington
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
This park reserve is ideal for a half-day family outing, offering trails, a large playground, and nature center activities. Expect to spend little to no money unless you rent equipment or participate in specific programs.
South Como
Abogados Café
Abogados Café is a low-cost coffee shop suitable for a quick, relaxed solo visit or a casual meetup. Expect to spend $5-15 per person for coffee and a light bite over 30 minutes to an hour.
West Seventh - Fort Road
Emerald Lounge
Emerald Lounge is suitable for an evening out, offering food and cocktails. Expect to spend 1-2 hours and about $30-75 per person. It can serve as a primary destination or a pre/post-dinner spot.
Outdoors
Schaar's Bluff Trail
Schaar's Bluff Trail is ideal for a 1-2 hour outdoor excursion, offering scenic views and a chance to observe nature. It's a free activity that pairs well with a picnic or a drive to nearby towns.
Como Park
Como Park
Como Park is an ideal full-day family outing, offering free zoo and conservatory access alongside scenic trails. Plan for a few hours of walking and a potential donation at the entrance.
Concord-Robert
Holman's Table
Holman's Table offers a New American dining experience in a restored air terminal, suitable for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal. Expect to spend 1.5-2 hours and $50-120 per person for food and drinks.
Outdoors
St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park
This regional park is good for a half-day outdoor excursion, featuring hiking, a beach, and river views. Expect to spend $7-15 per person for park entry, suitable for families or solo adventurers.
West Seventh - Fort Road
Cafe Astoria
Cafe Astoria is a casual spot for breakfast, brunch, or a coffee break, suitable for an hour-long stop. Expect to spend $10-$25 per person on crepes, pastries, or coffee.
Highland Park
JS Bean Factory
JS Bean Factory is a good spot for a relaxed morning coffee or an afternoon study session, especially if you enjoy live music. Expect to spend $5-15 per person for coffee and pastries.
Outdoors
Thompson County Park
Thompson County Park is a free outdoor spot for a few hours of walking, playing, or wildlife viewing. It pairs well with a picnic and is suitable for all ages.
Lowertown
Mears Park
Mears Park is a free city park suitable for a relaxing hour-long stroll, a picnic, or enjoying a casual outdoor event. It pairs well with exploring the surrounding downtown area.
Cathedral Hill
Estetica Salon
This is a good spot for a self-care solo outing or to prepare for a special event. Expect to spend 1-3 hours and anywhere from $50 to $200 for services.
Under $35
Cheap dates and low-spend afternoons.
Worth the splurge
When the night needs to land.
Outdoors
Patio, trail, or open-air.
No reservation needed
Walk in tonight.
What Scout found
- 60 of the 84 analyzed St. Paul places fit hidden gems.
- 48% of matches are outdoor or partly outdoor.
- 52% have easy parking.
- Dominant moods: Relaxed, Social, Quiet, Scenic, Playful, Adventurous.
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