Minnesota History Center — Attraction in Saint Paul

We recently visited on a Sunday morning...and...it was not busy at all. We have been here before but...it had been several years. They have many permanent exhibits...along with other temporary ones. Some of our favorites are: 'Then...Now...Wow!'...and...the tornado simulator in the 'Weather Permitting' gallery. The two-story wooden play structure replica of a grain mill [Grainland] is a huge hit with little ones. You can go inside an actual-sized tipi...mud house...or...even an old Saint Paul streetcar. Minnesota has deep roots in Native American culture...history...and...heritage...and...you will find quite a few references to that impact at the History Center. It is an entertaining option for most age groups...from younger to older...as there are many hands-on pieces to learn from. I would say you could spend around two hours here to get the full experience. They do have a research library onsite...hours are by appointment only. There is also a gift shop...auditorium...and...a small cafe with light dining options. It is conveniently located right in downtown Saint Paul with both the state Capitol...and...Cathedral of Saint Paul just a few short blocks away. You get nice views of each from different places inside/outside the History Center. There is a paid onsite surface parking lot...pay as you enter...with plenty of spots. We really dig this place...it's always fun to return to see favorites...and...appreciate the visiting exhibits. If you get the chance...definitely check this place out...you won't be...

The Minnesota History Center is a wonderful place for families and anyone interested in Minnesota history as well as history in general. The exhibits are always perfectly done and work for people who want to stop and read everything and those who just want to look and move on. There are several permanent exhibits, such as "The Greatest Generation " that features the World War II generation and the fascinating children's exhibit, When, Where, How" that is just as interesting to adults. There are additional exhibits to explore that are enjoyable. Besides the permanent exhibits there is a feature exhibit that focuses on a specific topic that may be relevant to Minnesota history or of national interest.

One of my favorite activities at the History Center is Nine Nights of Music, which features free outdoor concerts every Tuesday, July through August. The evening features a live band and dance lessons. Dancing is optional, but it is so much fun to watch the kids doing their own thing.

I can't say enough good things about the Minnesota History Center. The History Center is free after 3:00 and open until 8:00 on Tuesdays and free for Minnesota Historical Society members and children 4 and under. Admission is $12. for adults, $10. Seniors, Active military and college students. Hours are 10-5 Wednesday through Saturday and noon-5:00 on Sunday.

There is an on site restaurant that is open during museum hours. Parking is...

I’ve been here easily over a dozen times in my life between school field trips and just coming here with family and friends. I LOVE the special exhibits they bring in. Just went to the Somalis + Minnesota exhibit and 1968 exhibit. I loved the Somali exhibit even more seeing as it featured local Minnesotans who I actually know (so yes, I’m biased) and I also loved that there were some sections about the history of Somalia. I do wish this was a more linear exhibit however instead of it being in two rooms spread apart and I wish that it perhaps made it much much clearer to the average museum-goer WHY the Somali community has become so integral and important to MN and why it is so significant to our state specifically. I’m aware of those reasons since I have multiple close friends in the Somali-American communities here, but many people are unaware and I could easily see them not getting a better, more full picture than they (the average person) would get by going through the exhibit.

As far as the overall museum goes though, I must say I’m exceptionally impressed by it. The gift stores have a wonderful selection of Mn-themed gifts, books and children’s items too. The cafe has some good food that’s decently priced and the parking is convenient to access if you’re driving to it. Definitely...