The city of Saint Paul is the capital and second most populous city in the US state of Minnesota.

Nestled on the north bank of the Mississippi River and downstream of the river's confluence with the Minnesota River, Saint Paul is an aesthetically pleasing city and is ideal for a family getaway.

Its positioning right near the city of Minneapolis, has earned it their title, "Twin Cities". This close proximity makes it the ideal place to base yourself if you wish to explore one of the country's largest metropolitan areas.

It offers a wealth of attractions and activities for tourists or those wanting to escape the demands of everyday life.

1. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

Located in the historic and beautiful Como Park, this zoo and conservatory is the perfect place to visit to mark the beginning of your holiday in Saint Paul. The zoo is most famously known for its Californian sea lion exhibit, but the cat display, gorillas and giraffes are equally enjoyable. Walking through the zoo will also allow you to discover the African Hoofed Stock, the Aquatic Animal Building and the Tropical Encounters exhibit.

Once you have visited the animals, take a stroll down to the conservatory where you will be transported into a whole other world. The indoor and outdoor gardens will simply take your breath away and will leave you in awe of the true beauty of nature.

2. Minnesota Children's Museum

If you are on a family trip, make sure you make time in your schedule for a visit to the Minnesota Children's Museum. This completely interactive museum allows the kids to explore their world through climbing, touching and splashing exhibits that will open their minds and arouse their curiosity.

Discover permanent galleries such as Earth World, Our World and the Rooftop ArtPark. These galleries offer diverse perspectives that will enrich the lives of your children and broaden their learning abilities.

3. The Saint Paul Gangster Tour

Known as the 'local crooks tour', the Saint Paul Gangster Tour offers an interesting, somewhat crooked insight into Saint Paul's past. This tour allows you to explore the sites of nightclubs, kidnappings and gun battles associated with the 1930's gangsters like John Dillinger, Ma Barker and Babyface Nelson. Discover the most infamous gangster hideouts and uncover just how famous Saint Paul truly is.

The tour takes approximately 2 hours and is the ideal way for history buffs to spend an afternoon.

4. Minnesota State Capital

Take a drive along Dr Martin Luther King Jrr Boulevard and you will come to the masterpiece that is the Minnesota State Capitol. Take a scheduled tour of this grand structure to discover one of the country's greatest artistic masterpieces.

Built in 1905, this structure features stencilled ceilings, murals, marble and sculptures that will simply take your breath away. This is a great place to visit because essentially is a building of the people, by the people and for the people.

5. Minnesota Museum of American Art

The Minnesota Museum of American Art is housed in a beautiful historic building and is the perfect attraction for those who love art. The collection here includes over 3500 object that depict the 19th century of art. There is a strong focus on regional and Minnesota artists, ensuring you get a taste of the local arts scene.

If you are looking for a laid back city that focuses on the artistic and cultural side of life, you will be pleased to find Saint Paul. Full of exciting things to do, the city offers pleasant contrasts between fun and relaxation, ensuring you are always doing something that you can enjoy.

Christine Barton