For a dose of St. Paul charm, head to Mickey’s Diner, just a 5-minute walk from both The Saint Paul Hotel and the InterContinental Riverfront. Housed in a 1930s Art Deco railcar, this beloved landmark has been serving up classic American comfort food for generations. It’s the perfect place for a no-frills breakfast, a late-night bite, or a milkshake with a side of local history. With its neon lights and diner-counter vibe, Mickey’s is as much a photo op as it is a great little meal.

For a fun, casual dining experience just a short walk from both The Saint Paul Hotel and the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront, check out New Bohemia Wurst + BierHaus at 222 7th St W. This modern beer hall specializes in gourmet sausages—ranging from classics like the Surly Beer Brat to adventurous options like wild boar with blueberries and merlot. They also offer hand-crafted burgers, Belgian-style fries with a variety of dipping sauces, and indulgent desserts like mini doughnuts with cinnamon sugar. With 28 of their 36 beer taps dedicated to local craft brews, it’s a great spot to savor local flavors in a lively atmosphere. Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a pre-event bite.

For a cozy neighborhood hangout with great food and even better beer, check out The Gnome Craft Pub, located about a 5-minute drive or a pleasant 20-minute walk from both The Saint Paul Hotel and the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront. Set in a charming old building on Selby Avenue, The Gnome offers elevated pub fare—think pork belly wings, giant pretzels, and hearty sandwiches—alongside a curated list of over 60 beers on tap. With its leafy patio and relaxed vibe, it’s a perfect place to gather with friends between wedding events or wind down in the evening.

If you’re in the mood for a cozy cocktail or a special meal, W.A. Frost is a local favorite tucked into a historic brownstone on Cathedral Hill. Just a short walk or quick rideshare from either hotel, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a lingering brunch. Inside, you’ll find candlelit charm and classic elegance, while the lush garden patio is one of the most beautiful spots to dine outdoors in St. Paul. It’s a great way to experience a little local magic while you’re here for the wedding.

Meritage is a fabulous restaurant located near the venue and hotels - (500 feet from the St. Paul Hotel, a couple of blocks from the Intercontinental) here you'll find oysters on the rocks, french cuisine and a whole lot of atmosphere. Be sure to make a reservation - it'll be hoping on a Friday!

For a fun and flavorful morning, stroll over to the Saint Paul Farmers’ Market, just a few blocks from both hotels in the Lowertown neighborhood. Open on weekends, this open-air market is packed with local charm—think fresh flowers, seasonal produce, handmade pastries, and live music. It’s a great place to grab a coffee, pick up a little souvenir, or just soak up the community vibe before a day of wedding festivities. Go early to catch it at its liveliest!

For a peaceful nature escape just minutes from downtown, visit Hidden Falls Regional Park. This 130-acre park along the Mississippi River features a serene, spring-fed waterfall nestled within a wooded ravine, accessible via paved and natural trails. The park offers 6.7 miles of trails, picnic areas, a boat launch, and scenic river views. It’s an ideal spot for hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in a natural setting.

From The Saint Paul Hotel or the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront, it’s about a 10-minute drive. Head west on Kellogg Blvd, then south on Mississippi River Blvd to the park’s north entrance near Magoffin Ave. Parking is available near the picnic shelter, and the trail to the falls begins just beyond.

For a refreshing stroll with beautiful river views, we recommend walking to Raspberry Island, a quiet green space nestled right in the Mississippi. From either The Saint Paul Hotel or the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront, head south toward Kellogg Boulevard, cross over, and follow the path down to Upper Landing Park. Continue east along the river, and you’ll reach a pedestrian bridge leading to Raspberry Island. It’s a peaceful loop with skyline views, water on all sides, and plenty of benches to sit and take it all in—perfect for a morning coffee walk or a break between wedding festivities.

History lovers, don’t miss the chance to tour the James J. Hill House, just a short drive or a 15-minute uphill walk from both The Saint Paul Hotel and the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront. Built for railroad titan James J. Hill, this 36,000-square-foot Gilded Age mansion was once the largest private residence in Minnesota. With 13 bathrooms, 22 fireplaces, 16 chandeliers, and a nearly 100-foot-long reception hall, the house is a stunning symbol of turn-of-the-century wealth and craftsmanship. You’ll also find surprisingly advanced 1890s technology and a breathtaking two-story, skylit art gallery. It’s a fascinating peek into the opulence and ambition of a bygone era—well worth the visit.

If you’re traveling with little ones, the Minnesota Children’s Museum is a fantastic spot to explore—and it’s just a 5-minute walk from both The Saint Paul Hotel and the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront. With three floors of hands-on exhibits, a giant indoor climbing structure, and interactive play zones, it’s designed to spark curiosity and creativity in kids of all ages. It’s the perfect place for families to let off some steam, especially between wedding events, and it’s just as delightful for grown-ups as it is for the kids.

Just up the hill from both The Saint Paul Hotel and the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront, the Cathedral of Saint Paul is a breathtaking place to wander. A short walk brings you to this stunning landmark. With its massive copper dome, intricate stained glass, and sweeping views of downtown from the front steps, it’s well worth the visit.

For a truly immersive cinematic experience, visit the William L. McKnight-3M Omnitheater at the Science Museum of Minnesota, located at 120 W. Kellogg Blvd, just a 5-minute walk from both The Saint Paul Hotel and the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront. This state-of-the-art domed theater features a massive screen that wraps around the audience, showcasing breathtaking films on nature, science, and space. Admission to the museum includes one Omnitheater show, with additional films available for $9.95 each. It’s an unforgettable experience that’s both entertaining and educational.

For an afternoon of elevated, local shopping, head to Cathedral Hill, just a 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from both The Saint Paul Hotel and the InterContinental Riverfront. Start at the corner of Selby & Western Avenue, where you’ll find a cluster of stylish boutiques like IDUN for women’s fashion, BlackBlue for elevated menswear, Lula Vintage, and gift shops like Patina and Gypsy Moon. It’s a beautifully walkable stretch full of charm, perfect for picking up something special or simply browsing in a picturesque neighborhood.

Begin your shopping adventure at the intersection of Selby Avenue and Western Avenue. This historic crossroads is the heart of Cathedral Hill’s boutique scene, featuring beautiful architecture and a variety of unique stores.