The Saint Paul Hotel

The Saint Paul Hotel has been the address in downtown St. Paul since 1910, and it is the best choice if you want to base yourself in the quieter, more historic of the Twin Cities. It overlooks Rice Park, the elegant square at the heart of downtown St. Paul, surrounded by grand civic buildings and lit with lights in the winter, and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is within walking distance, which makes it a favourite for theatre and concert evenings. The hotel has the feel of a classic grand hotel, with a stately lobby, traditional décor and attentive service. Food and drink are a big part of its appeal. The St. Paul Grill, with its clubby, wood-panelled room, serves lunch, dinner and cocktails and is a long-standing St. Paul institution, The Drake serves breakfast and brunch, and The Lobby Bar Cafe is handy for a coffee or a light bite. Guests have use of a fully equipped fitness centre, and overnight valet parking is available. It suits couples, culture lovers and travellers who want old-world comfort, and it is an excellent base for the Cathedral of Saint Paul, Summit Avenue and the State Capitol.

Location and getting around: the hotel is at 350 Market Street in downtown St. Paul, on Rice Park. The Ordway, the Landmark Center and the riverfront are a short walk, the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the start of Summit Avenue are a little further uphill, and the light rail Green Line runs through downtown St. Paul to Minneapolis. The airport is about twenty minutes away by car, depending on traffic; the hotel does not run an airport shuttle.

Rooms: room types range from standard single-queen rooms to deluxe kings, deluxe doubles and suites, including the Ambassador Suite. Ask for a room overlooking Rice Park for the classic view, especially in December when the park is lit up.

Who it suits: couples, theatre-goers, history lovers and business travellers in St. Paul. It is also a good option for a quieter stay than downtown Minneapolis.

Good to know: check-in is from 4pm and check-out at noon. Breakfast is not included with every rate, but The Drake serves breakfast and brunch. Pets are not permitted, except trained service animals. Overnight valet parking is available.