Fans of model railroads will not want to miss the Twin City Model Railroad Museum, home of the world famous O-Scale exhibit. Thousands of volunteer hours have been dedicated to faithfully reproducing the entire Twin Cities’ railroad system from the 1930s-1950s in O-Scale. In addition to this impressive model, the museum hosts other traveling exhibits, a toy train division and other special events.
Learn about the mobster history in Saint Paul at Wabasha Street Caves. These Gangster Tours take you around the man-made sandstone caves in the Saint Paul area. Dressed up and in-character guides share information about the use of the caves in the 1920s, such as the Wabasha Street Speakeasy. Often frequented by gangsters like John Dillinger, these historical caves are also rumored to be haunted.
Use the luscious Marjorie McNeely Conservatory’s gardens and galleries as the romantic background for your date. This conservatory contains an abundance of artfully arranged botanical life as well as sculptures and beautiful architectural features. Stroll through the Japanese Garden or be awe-struck in the Enchanted Garden, filled with butterflies.
Visit the site of the Hopewell Native American burial grounds. Indian Mounds Park is home to the remaining 6 prehistoric mounds in the Saint Paul area, since the rest were destroyed as the town was developed. These burial mounds are protected for their historical significance, although you can picnic or play at the nearby playgrounds.