Cafe Minnesota

Learned a lot about the history of MN. Went on a school field trip with my son, chaperoning. There was an educational class, the students got learn about the fur trade and stocks. They have great modules, we got to experience a tornado while in a basement back in the 1960. And, experience a soldier perspective preparing for war on an aircraft. Kids loved the bison and it’s organs learning uses. And the mining shaft and explosion experience. Loved how the kids worked together arranging the sitting cubes to match the diagrams on the wall. The crew members were extra patient and educational. Each exhibits we had visited, they always had a knowledgeable crew member explaining or demonstrating the history uses of the items. Please bring your kids and educate them on the history of MN. Would recommend and love to return back again!! Please note there are no public parking available on their premises, only drop off or must park in ramp and pay.

Attended a private event here after hours. This place is beautiful and the exhibits were open for viewing. We loved everything and want to come back to spend more time in the museum. At night they have a beautiful, unobstructed view of the capitol building. Highly recommend for special events or just casual visits.

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 disappointed.

As an out of stater looking to learn from scratch the history of this area, this fell short. I guess I expect a museum to flow better and tell a cohesive story. This seems to be a disorganized assortment of facts disconnected stories that’s honestly frustrating to piece together. Maybe it’s intended for residents that already know the foundational knowledge to come and randomly explore with their families.