Cathedral of Saint Paul
A magnificent Beaux-Arts cathedral in St. Paul, MN, featuring a grand dome, vibrant frescoes, and stunning rose windows.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Cathedral of Saint Paul
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Beaux-Arts cathedral in St. Paul, MN, featuring a grand dome, vibrant frescoes, and stunning rose windows.
"The Cathedral of Saint Paul is nothing short of breathtaking. From the moment you approach it, the grand architecture captures your attention."
Free Self-Guided Tours
Enjoy a self-guided tour for free! Guided tours offer deeper insights, book ahead. :ticket:
Climb for Views
Ascend 528 steps for a workout and incredible views! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Dome
Central Nave
A soaring copper dome that dominates the skyline and interior, a true architectural marvel.

Intricate Frescoes
Ceilings and Walls
Vibrant and detailed frescoes adorn the ceilings, depicting religious scenes with incredible artistry.

Stunning Rose Windows
Various Chapels
Beautifully crafted rose windows cast colorful light, adding to the serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Self-Guided Tours
Enjoy a self-guided tour for free! Guided tours offer deeper insights, book ahead. :ticket:
Climb for Views
Ascend 528 steps for a workout and incredible views! :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Beauty
Photography is encouraged to capture the stunning architecture and art. :camerawithflash:
Check Service Times
Be mindful of Mass times to ensure a peaceful visit or to attend a service. :church:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Self-Guided Tours
Enjoy a self-guided tour for free! Guided tours offer deeper insights, book ahead. :ticket:
Climb for Views
Ascend 528 steps for a workout and incredible views! :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Beauty
Photography is encouraged to capture the stunning architecture and art. :camerawithflash:
Check Service Times
Be mindful of Mass times to ensure a peaceful visit or to attend a service. :church:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cathedral of Saint Paul for its breathtaking architecture and serene atmosphere, calling it a must-see landmark. Many highlight the intricate details, stunning frescoes, and awe-inspiring dome. While some note minor issues like warmth on hot days or difficulty hearing during Mass, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing its beauty, history, and welcoming spirit.
"The Cathedral of Saint Paul is the most magnificent cathedral that I have visited to date!! It is beyond breathtaking.
We attended 7:30 AM Mass on a Monday morning, and we were in awe… We did not take advantage of the guided tour, but we did return to purchase items from the gift shop.
If you’re hoping to join the guided tour, I encourage you to call or fill out the tour availability form online.
Visiting Cathedral of Saint Paul is highly recommended for all!!"
Janey Lee Caravallo Maciel
"I only visited the Cathedral of Saint Paul once, but it left a big impression. The architecture is stunning — massive, detailed, and beautiful inside and out. Walking in, you immediately feel the history and sense of peace. Even if you’re not religious, it’s worth stopping by just to take in the design and the atmosphere. Definitely one of the most breathtaking landmarks in Saint Paul!"
Kalli Adsit
"The weekend guard made an already awesome visit both informative and welcoming. Many thanks for keeping this wonderful treasure open most of the time -- its cousin St. Paul's in London charges 35 pounds sterling to visit! (and it's not that much bigger than ours, the third largest US cathedral and sixth largest church in the nation)"
V Crawford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is located at 239 Selby Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55102. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options, including bus routes, also serve the area. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing services.
Yes, there is parking available near the Cathedral. Street parking can be found, and there are also nearby lots. It's advisable to check for any event-related parking restrictions.
Absolutely! Several Metro Transit bus routes stop near the Cathedral of Saint Paul, making it an accessible option for those relying on public transportation. Check the Metro Transit website for specific route information.
For stunning exterior shots, approach from the front on Selby Avenue to capture its full grandeur. For unique perspectives, explore the surrounding streets for interesting angles and city backdrops.
The Cathedral is generally accessible, with ramps and elevators available to assist visitors. It's always a good idea to contact the Cathedral directly if you have specific accessibility concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A self-guided tour of the Cathedral of Saint Paul is free! Guided tours may have a fee or require advance booking. It's best to check their official website for the most current information on tours and any associated costs.
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is typically open daily, but hours can vary, especially around holidays and during services. It's recommended to check the official Cathedral website for the most up-to-date opening hours before your visit.
Yes, the Cathedral of Saint Paul holds regular Mass services. Visitors are welcome to attend. Check the Cathedral's schedule for specific times and days.
While there isn't a strict dress code, visitors are asked to dress respectfully, especially if attending a service. Modest attire is appreciated out of reverence for the sacred space.
A self-guided visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the architecture and history. If you opt for a guided tour or attend a service, plan for additional time.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the magnificent dome, the intricate frescoes covering the ceilings, and the stunning stained-glass rose windows. The sheer scale and detailed craftsmanship are awe-inspiring.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the Cathedral's history and architecture. It's advisable to inquire about availability and book in advance.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing you to capture the breathtaking beauty. However, be respectful of ongoing services and avoid flash photography.
Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, religious items, and books related to the Cathedral's history and art.
Visitors consistently describe the atmosphere as peaceful, reverent, and awe-inspiring. The grand architecture and spiritual ambiance create a sense of tranquility.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the Cathedral of Saint Paul. However, the surrounding Selby Avenue and downtown St. Paul area offer a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit all tastes and budgets.
The area around the Cathedral boasts numerous dining options. You can find everything from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Exploring Selby Avenue or heading downtown will provide plenty of choices.
It's generally best to consume food and beverages outside the main sanctuary of the Cathedral to maintain its sanctity and cleanliness. Water bottles may be permissible, but it's wise to confirm with staff.
📸 📸 Photography
The front lawn on Selby Avenue offers a classic, grand view. For unique angles, explore side streets or consider elevated viewpoints in nearby buildings if accessible.
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the Cathedral. However, be respectful of worshippers and avoid using flash, especially during services.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the vast interior spaces and the dome. For exterior shots, a standard zoom lens will be versatile. Even a good smartphone camera can capture stunning images.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around significant landmarks due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to assume drone photography is not permitted without explicit authorization.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday can provide bright, even light for interior photography, especially when sunlight streams through the stained glass.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more manageable, plan for a shorter exploration, focusing on a few key highlights like the dome and a prominent rose window. Bringing a small notebook and crayons for kids to sketch what they see can also add an interactive element. The gift shop offers a chance for a small souvenir to remember the visit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside, the dome and rose windows are prime subjects. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to encompass the vastness of the nave and the intricate details of the ceiling frescoes. Natural light filtering through the stained glass creates beautiful, colorful patterns on the floors and walls. Remember to be respectful of services and avoid flash photography to preserve the ambiance and protect the artwork.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there, you can admire the stunning dome, intricate frescoes, and beautiful rose windows. If you wish to delve deeper, consider joining a guided tour, which may have a nominal fee, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of this historic landmark. The surrounding area also offers various affordable dining options.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: A Beaux-Arts Masterpiece
The cathedral's interior is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. The frescoes adorning the ceilings and walls depict biblical narratives with vibrant colors and dynamic figures, created by renowned artists. The rose windows, with their complex geometric patterns and luminous stained glass, are another highlight, casting ethereal light that shifts throughout the day. These elements, combined with the classical proportions and decorative motifs, create an atmosphere that is both spiritually uplifting and visually stunning.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Cathedral of Saint Paul is a significant cultural landmark in Minnesota. It serves as a spiritual center for the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis and is a testament to the enduring power of faith and art. Its scale and beauty have earned it a place among the most impressive religious buildings in the nation, drawing visitors who come to admire its architecture, learn about its history, or simply find a moment of peace.
Experiencing the Cathedral: Beyond the Visual
For those seeking a deeper understanding, guided tours are highly recommended. These tours, often led by knowledgeable docents, provide insights into the cathedral's history, architectural details, and the symbolism behind its artwork. Some tours even offer access to areas not typically seen by the public, such as the Triforium, which houses hidden treasures like a historic library.
Many visitors also appreciate the warm hospitality they encounter. Staff and volunteers are often described as welcoming and eager to share information, making the visit feel personal and memorable. Whether attending a service, taking a tour, or simply exploring on your own, the Cathedral offers an experience that resonates on multiple levels.
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