Cathedral of Saint Paul — Attraction in Saint Paul

The Cathedral of Saint Paul in Minnesota is one of the most awe-inspiring and spiritually rich places I have ever visited. From the moment you approach the building, its immense presence draws your eyes upward, almost instinctively lifting your heart and mind to something greater. The grand copper dome, standing as one of the tallest in the United States, signals both beauty and reverence, and serves as a visual anchor for the city. It’s not just a church—it’s a monument to the sacred and a testament to human craftsmanship inspired by divine purpose.

Stepping inside, the atmosphere changes entirely. There is an immediate stillness that surrounds you, not in a lifeless or cold way, but in a way that commands respect and silence. The soaring ceilings, marble columns, and exquisite stained-glass windows cast shifting patterns of light across the sanctuary. Even when others are present, the space feels vast and personal at the same time, as though the building itself is inviting you into solitude and reflection.

The architecture speaks volumes. Designed in the Beaux-Arts style, every detail—from the sculpted archways to the careful alignment of pews—draws your focus forward to the altar and the massive baldachin above it. Each chapel along the sides offers a different story, each statue a quiet witness to centuries of faith and devotion. There is no corner that feels forgotten or purely ornamental; everything seems to be built with a purpose and a prayer in mind.

But beyond the structure, what truly defines the Cathedral is its spiritual atmosphere. There is a deep sense of reverence in the air, whether you're attending Mass, lighting a candle for someone you love, or simply walking through. The blend of incense, quiet organ music, and whispers of prayer remind you that this is a living church, not just a museum or landmark. It’s a place where the sacred is still actively sought and found.

For anyone of faith—or even someone simply seeking peace or inspiration—the Cathedral of Saint Paul is not to be missed. It is one of those rare places where architecture, history, and the holy all meet in one space. As I sat in one of the pews, I thought of this verse from Psalm 27:4: "One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek Him in His temple." That verse truly captures the feeling of being in the Cathedral—of wanting to remain in that sacred stillness just a...

The building itself is beautiful. I have a lot of family history in this place.

On several occasions we have encountered people who have not matched the welcoming hospitality and beauty of this place. Not a slam just a tale: On a Saturday morning I brought my son with me to the Cathedral. We are not Catholic, but I went up front during the Eucharist and crossed my arms to receive a blessing. I returned to the pew and meditated (I didn't pray, I'm not a Christian). At the conclusion we were greeted by a woman. I thought she was going to say hi and extend a warm greeting, but instead she touched my seven year old son and said that his shirt was inviting evil into this place. His shirt had an image of a "candy skull" - I probably should have thought of that before we entered, but I still don't think that it was a big deal. My son, without me asking him to, removed his hat before we entered, and he was quiet and respectful the entire time. As far as I could tell he was the only child there. We left shaken by judgement and a lack of hospitality. Out of a desire to treat people in a respectful manner, I apologized to the woman, and I kept my mouth shut, but I wanted to give her a piece of my mind. On the way out I caught her glaring at me.

Long story short, practice good hospitality, and if you are able, don't wear anything that could be perceived as disrespectful.

1 Peter 4:9

We have also encountered extremely kind, loving, and hospitable people here. Not all bad, not all good - just like the rest of the world. Peace...

Went for à walk with a friend on Selby and decided to head towards the direction of the Cathedral. We were having some deep discussions on the nature of religion and the importance (or lack of) in modern day child rearing. We also discussed our childhood days and the impact Catholicism had on our lives and who we are today. As we passed the Rectory, we came to a stop but our discussion kept going until slowly we both were just taking in this magnificent structure. We stood in silence looking at the arches, the Heroic size marble statues of the four evangelists, the exterior walls (Rockville granite from Saint Cloud, MN) and, of course, the copper-clad dome (renovated in 2002!) and finally broke silence by having the most eloquent expression known to humanity "....wow...." This friend then commented the power of people coming together to build structures to something greater than the individual and creating a Landmark that will be here long after they are gone. This was humbling and empowering. I am proud to live only a few miles away from this magnificent Cathedral and also humbled at the free awe you can glean by just taking a moment to marvel at this beauty. I could use all my breath recommending to take this in but YOU should just go yourself. If you must capture the moment with your little magic rectangle, then do so, but I suggest closing your eyes, breathe deep and then open your eyes focusing on a specific part. Repeat this as many times as needed. You'll feel better, believe me. I...