St Paul Cathedral Hill Food Tour

A Practical, Authentic Food Tour through St Paul’s Historic Neighborhoods

If you’re seeking a taste of Minnesota’s capital city beyond just the food, the St Paul Cathedral Hill Food Tour is a delightful way to explore the city’s most scenic and storied neighborhoods. For $96 per person, you’ll spend about three hours walking through St Paul’s iconic landmarks, historic mansions along Summit Avenue, and the majestic Cathedral of Saint Paul. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this small-group experience promises a curated selection of local favorites and fascinating stories of the city’s past.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines culinary tastings with cultural insight. You get to enjoy generous food samples that reflect local flavors, all while walking through a neighborhood filled with mansions of Victorian-era magnates and historic buildings. It’s an engaging, relaxed way to get a sense of St Paul’s unique character.

One thing to consider is the tour’s pace—you’ll be walking and standing quite a bit, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility and a reasonable level of fitness. Also, since the tour is limited to 15 participants, expect a more intimate experience, but it’s wise to book early.

This experience is perfect for history buffs, food lovers, and anyone curious about the storytelling behind the streets. If you enjoy culinary adventures paired with cultural exploration, this tour hits all the right notes.

Key Points

• Historic Neighborhoods: St Paul’s heritage sites and iconic streets are at the heart of this tour.
• Curated Tastings: Enjoy generous samples that showcase local flavors and culinary traditions.
• Architectural Highlights: See the longest stretch of Victorian mansions in the U.S. along Summit Avenue.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visit the Cathedral of Saint Paul, a striking 100+ year old structure.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 15 travelers, it’s personalized and engaging.
• Authentic Stories: Learn fascinating tales of notable figures like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Cass Gilbert.

Exploring the St Paul Cathedral Hill Food Tour in Depth

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at The Gnome Craft Pub on Selby Ave, a cozy local spot that sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly experience. Here, your guide will introduce you to the neighborhood’s stories and give a brief overview of what’s to come. Expect to meet a small group of like-minded explorers eager for a mix of history, architecture, and cuisine.

The Cathedral of Saint Paul

Your first stop is the Cathedral of Saint Paul, a prominent feature of the skyline. This hundred-year-old building is much more than just a pretty face—it’s a symbol of the city’s spiritual and architectural ambitions. Standing outside, you’ll appreciate the gleaming dome and impressive stonework. Inside (if you choose to peek in), you might find the ornate interiors equally worth a look, but the focus here is on the story of the cathedral’s place in the city’s development.

The best part? It’s a free stop that offers a great photo op and sets a grand tone for the tour.

Summit Avenue – The Victorian Gold Coast

Next, you’ll stroll along Summit Avenue, home to the longest uninterrupted stretch of Victorian mansions in the United States. This street is a living museum of Gilded Age opulence, with many homes built by wealthy industrialists and railroad barons. While you won’t go inside each mansion, your guide will point out some of the most famous homes, including the railroad baron’s palatial residence.

Walking here, you’ll get an authentic feel for the affluence and ambition that once defined this neighborhood. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide brought the mansions’ stories to life,” making the architecture more than just beautiful facades.

Historic Hotels and Hidden Tales

Continuing along Summit Avenue, you’ll pass a former luxury hotel from the Jazz Age, which during Prohibition must have hosted some rather secretive gatherings. The tour also takes you to one of St Paul’s famous hills, where the dome of the cathedral gleams in the distance, providing stunning views over the city and Mississippi River.

Your guide doesn’t just point out the sights—they share stories of the residents, from notorious figures like Ma Barker to famous authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald, whose early days in St Paul left an indelible mark.

Culinary Tastings and Local Favorites

Throughout the tour, you’ll stop at several historic and luxurious locations to sample some of the area’s best bites. These are not just quick snacks—they’re generous tastings that showcase local favorites, possibly including tapas-style plates or signature dishes that highlight the neighborhood’s culinary heritage.

The reviews emphasize how delicious the food is, with one noting, “The tastings were more than enough for a full meal, and each bite was packed with flavor.” These curated food experiences are designed to give you a real taste of St Paul’s local cuisine and the stories behind it.

The Final Stop: Moscow on the Hill

Your tour concludes at Moscow on the Hill, a well-loved local restaurant that’s a fitting end to your culinary journey. Here, you can reflect on what you’ve seen and tasted, perhaps even lingering over a coffee or a drink.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour costs $96 per person, which includes all taxes and fees. The duration is approximately three hours, and you’ll be walking for most of this, so comfortable shoes are a must. Since the tour begins at 2:00 pm, it’s perfect for an afternoon activity—ideal if you’re staying in or near St Paul.

The small group size (maximum 15 travelers) fosters a more personalized experience, and the professional guide (not named here but skilled in storytelling) makes sure everyone stays engaged. The meeting point is at the Gnome Craft Pub, conveniently located near public transportation options, making logistics straightforward.

While gratuities are not included, tipping your guide is customary if you enjoyed the experience, especially since they share fascinating stories and culinary tips.

Considerations

This tour is quite walking-intensive, so those with difficulty standing or walking long distances might want to consider this before booking. Also, since it’s a curated experience, no refunds are available once booked—so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk through beautiful neighborhoods filled with stories and stunning architecture, this tour is well worth it. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and want to combine cultural insights with great local food.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a compelling blend of architectural beauty, local history, and delicious bites. You’ll come away with a richer understanding of St Paul’s past, alongside a satisfying taste of its present. The curated food tastings are a highlight—treating you to more than just snacks, but a well-rounded culinary snapshot of the neighborhood.

For those seeking an authentic experience that’s not just about ticking landmarks but truly connecting with the place, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially valuable if you’re interested in architecture, history, and local cuisine all rolled into one enjoyable afternoon.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including walking and tastings.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at The Gnome Craft Pub on 498 Selby Ave in St Paul.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the walking and standing may be tiring for some. Service animals are allowed.

What is included in the price?
All taxes, fees, and tastings are included, along with a professional local guide.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are separate and at your discretion.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

Is there parking nearby?
While not specified, the meeting point is near public transportation, which suggests accessible options.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you’ll be on your feet most of the time.

Will I see inside any buildings?
The main stops are outside, but some buildings like the cathedral are visible, and your guide may share interior details if relevant.

In short, the St Paul Cathedral Hill Food Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore one of Minnesota’s most picturesque neighborhoods. It strikes a pleasing balance between history, architecture, and culinary delights, making it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary in St Paul.