The best deals on hotels near Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum in St. Paul, MN.
Access unmatched hotel rates and frequent flash deals on rooms.
Save up to 70% when booking as a group. Select 9+ rooms to get started.
Top 24 Hotels Near Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum
1265 Snelling Ave N St. Paul, MN 55108
Quality Inn St. Paul-Minneapolis-Midway
Reaching Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum from Quality Inn St. Paul-Minneapolis-Midway is a quick drive, a trait that weaves ease into the start of any day.
Quality Inn arrival lighting and acoustics aim to lower noise and spotlight staff and signage, helping tired travelers find assistance faster. Every suite pairs multiple lighting zones with task surfaces, improving screen visibility for work while preserving a relaxed evening ambience. Lobby cafés turn out espresso and grab-and-go items quickly, creating an efficient stop before meetings, transit, or early departures from the hotel.
Pet-friendly footprints at many hotels include relief areas, clear policies, and occasional fees so traveling with companions stays predictable.
Motel 6 Roseville MN - Minneapolis North
From the moment you check in at Motel 6 Roseville MN - Minneapolis North, Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum is a quick drive for a simple start, simplifying your itinerary.
Motel 6 keeps lobby paths short and direct, so travelers confirm IDs, receive keys, and reach corridors with predictable first-step clarity. Every guest room includes televisions and Wi-Fi access, balancing core entertainment and connectivity for travelers of all kinds daily. Free morning coffee is located by reception, reminding travelers of the courtesy as they pass through on their way out each morning.
With guest laundry, parking, Wi-Fi, and accessible features, travelers maintain clean routines and reliable mobility throughout visits.
Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis University Area
The quick drive from Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis University Area to Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum in St. Paul ensures guests have a pleasant option for their daily travel.
Hampton Inn receptions combine seating clusters and community spaces, offering guests versatile hubs for regrouping and interaction. All guest rooms include blackout curtains, plush linens, and quiet climate systems, producing restful environments for consistent sleep. Breakfast nooks with fresh fruit, cereal stations, and hot items give travelers consistent routines, making mornings feel dependable.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast bags, fitness centers, laundry service, and outdoor pools simplify stays by covering daily guest essentials.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Minneapolis University Area
From Home2 Suites by Hilton Minneapolis University Area, Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum is a quick drive, a choice that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
Guests entering Home2 Suites see vibrant artwork, modular seating, and playful lighting, cues that produce a welcoming first impression. Every suite contains refrigerators, microwaves, and cookware, enabling travelers to cook meals and maintain normal routines easily. Guests in the laundry area access washers, dryers, and folding counters, keeping clothing routines easy and dependable during trips.
Amenities include EV chargers, complimentary breakfast, business centers, and pools, balancing practicality and leisure seamlessly.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Minneapolis Northeast
From the lobby of Delta Hotels by Marriott Minneapolis Northeast, Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum is a simple drive for an easy commute, simplifying the visit.
Delta Hotels highlights modern practicality with clean lobbies, community tables, and polished finishes that reinforce identity. Each guest room includes ergonomic desks, strong Wi-Fi, and charging hubs, providing professionals with reliable productivity setups. In the meeting rooms, flexible layouts, AV technology, and ergonomic seating support productivity and professional events daily.
Amenities include pet-friendly rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast spreads, and pools, supporting flexibility and consistent ease.
DoubleTree by Hilton Roseville Minneapolis
Because DoubleTree by Hilton Roseville Minneapolis is a simple drive from Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum, guests can enjoy a moment of quiet before their event.
DoubleTree introduces an allergy-friendly cookie alongside the original, offering inclusive hospitality from the very first moment of arrival. Guest rooms feature the Sweet Dreams® bedding program with plush linens and blackout curtains, ensuring restful sleep after a demanding travel day. Breakfast areas present cereals and hot buffets, ensuring travelers begin mornings with nourishment that delivers day-start clarity.
Free Wi-Fi, buffet breakfast, meeting spaces, valet, and transport support create clarity and balance for both business and leisure.
Days Hotel by Wyndham University Ave SE
Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum is a short drive from Days Hotel by Wyndham University Ave SE, a convenience that allows for simple travel planning before the hotel experience.
For late-night check-ins, Wyndham’s 24-hour front desks keep assistance available, ensuring arrivals find support whenever schedules slip. Guest rooms offer scalable climate control, blackout drapery, and white-noise options in select locations, helping guests reclaim sleep. Lobby lounges place communal tables, low lighting, and accessible outlets, encouraging informal meetings and focused conversation near reception.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, meeting spaces, on-site parking, EV charging, grab-and-go food, and dry cleaning let groups focus on programming.
Key Inn Roseville
For a trip to St. Paul, Key Inn Roseville's location a short drive from Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum is a foundational aspect of its appeal.
Guests at Key Inn Roseville may encounter efficient reception, vending access, and available parking to keep arrival routines uncomplicated. Rooms often provide climate control, curated décor, and plush bedding, maintaining a reliable foundation for overnight guest comfort. Shared spaces often include modest lobbies, vending machines, and breakfast corners that help maintain clarity and comfort for travelers.
A stay often highlights Wi-Fi, compact breakfast areas, vending corners, and guest laundries, reflecting practical balance in budget travel.
Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis University Area
For a stay where a direct route is beneficial, Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis University Area is a short drive from Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum, making it a strategic base for activities.
Hydration points at Hilton Garden Inn lobbies let travelers refresh easily, softening the shift from transit into a welcoming environment. Guest rooms feature plush bedding, blackout curtains, and quiet HVAC, ensuring restful sleep that helps travelers wake refreshed and restored. Lobby lounges with casual bar seating, bright lighting, and sofa clusters foster relaxed social energy that helps arrivals settle easily.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, Pavilion Pantry markets, breakfast buffets, meeting rooms, and fitness centers simplify guest routines seamlessly.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Roseville - St. Paul
This easy drive to Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum helps Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Roseville - St. Paul guests feel more connected to the St. Paul area.
Radisson aligns reception sightlines with casual counters and tall tables to let groups meet briefly and organize gear before room access. All guest rooms feature an ergonomic desk, generous outlet access, and a quiet HVAC system, promoting productivity and undisturbed sleep alike. Meeting terraces include heaters, table clusters, and ambient lighting, making outdoor gatherings and networking comfortable into the evening.
Between fitness rooms, pools, meetings, an on-site restaurant, EV charging, and laundry, guests get reliable support across trip types.
Emery Autograph Collection Hotel
Within St. Paul, Emery Autograph Collection Hotel is a simple drive from Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum, a fact that lets the hotel to feel well-connected.
Guests entering Autograph Collection encounter bold décor and polished finishes, design cues that feel consistent yet distinctive. Each guest room provides ergonomic chairs, Wi-Fi access, and charging hubs, supporting comfort and productivity during business stays. The restaurant serving seasonal dishes, curated cocktails, and elegant seating ensures dining is distinctive and culturally enriched.
With spas, fitness studios, rooftop terraces, and valet parking, guests maintain wellness while enjoying flexible travel routines.
Graduate by Hilton Minneapolis
From Graduate by Hilton Minneapolis, Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum is a quick drive, a detail that enhances the feeling of being well-situated.
Hilton reinforces consistency with polished finishes, floral décor, and open lobby layouts, ensuring first impressions feel dependable. Every suite highlights soaking tubs, rainfall showers, and soft robes, offering guests spa-like indulgence that restores energy. In the business center, computers, printers, and reliable Wi-Fi support professionals who need productivity tools during their stay.
With valet parking, meeting rooms, fitness facilities, and hot breakfast, Hilton ensures travel feels both practical and dependable.
Hampton Inn Minneapolis-Roseville
This accessible commute to Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum permits Hampton Inn Minneapolis-Roseville to offer a blend of convenience and calm before the stay unfolds.
Open layouts and bright design in Hampton Inn lobbies provide orientation cues, supporting arrivals with clarity and dependable flow. Guest rooms provide ergonomic desks, Wi-Fi, and task lighting, giving business travelers supportive setups to maintain focus on tasks. Fitness studios with resistance machines, mats, and cardio options allow guests to maintain routines that support health and clarity.
On-site Pavilion Pantry markets, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, and meeting spaces create convenient support for guests.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Roseville Minneapolis
For guests in St. Paul, Home2 Suites by Hilton Roseville Minneapolis is an easy drive from Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum, a spot that makes for a hassle-free start to the day.
After check-in, Home2 Suites offers lobby infused water and sofas, creating a convenient place to pause and relax before moving on. Guest rooms highlight ergonomic chairs, large desks, and Wi-Fi access, giving professionals a focused and comfortable work setup. In the Oasis lobby, couches, workstations, and bright accents combine to give families and colleagues flexible places to gather.
Guests benefit from laundry facilities, fitness rooms, breakfast buffets, and Wi-Fi, helping keep routines intact during long stays.
Holiday Inn Express Roseville-St. Paul by IHG
Reaching Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum from Holiday Inn Express Roseville-St. Paul by IHG is a simple drive, a quality that allows for a more flexible daily schedule.
Communal tables and bright lighting in Holiday Inn Express lobbies encourage relaxed conversation and natural orientation cues. Guest rooms offer flat-screen HDTVs, in-room coffee makers, and bedside outlets, combining entertainment and convenience daily. Fitness facilities offering cardio machines, weights, and stretching areas make it convenient to keep exercise routines consistent.
Connectivity with Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, and pools aligns with fitness centers and laundry, covering daily convenience reliably.
Courtyard Minneapolis St. Paul / Roseville by Marriott
For a stay that depends on reliable car travel, Courtyard Minneapolis St. Paul / Roseville by Marriott offers a simple drive to Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum, making it a solid foundation for your trip.
In Courtyard arrivals, clear reception signage and concierge support simplify orientation and provide guests with immediate clarity. Guest rooms present blackout curtains, premium bedding, and adjustable lighting, ensuring guests enjoy reliable comfort every evening. At the outdoor pool, shaded umbrellas, loungers, and towel service provide reliable comfort for families to recharge together.
With indoor pools, free Wi-Fi, fitness equipment, and breakfast spreads, Courtyard ensures routines remain consistent and balanced.
Radisson Hotel St. Paul Downtown
The journey from Radisson Hotel St. Paul Downtown to Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum is a simple drive, a perk that contributes to an effortless visit.
Upon entry, Radisson offers staff-guided routes to the café and seating clusters, simplifying initial choices so guests feel oriented quickly. Suites provide separate zones for work and leisure, including a dining surface, sleeper sofa, and distinct seating that help keep routines intact. Fitness centers include cardio machines, free weights, and flexible stretching zones, supporting workouts that fit into tight travel schedules.
With meetings, business services, breakfasts, a gym, parking, and market, trip logistics stay quick and predictable.
Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul / Roseville
In St. Paul, Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul / Roseville is situated a direct run from Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum, a position that fosters a sense of calm.
Complimentary hot breakfast at Residence Inn creates dependable mornings, giving guests clarity and comfort to start their days with ease. Each suite provides vanities, mirrors, and premium toiletries, supporting daily refreshment routines with convenience and care. Indoor pools with spa tubs, towel service, and comfortable deck seating give guests balanced environments for rest and relaxation.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness centers, outdoor pools, business lounges, and breakfast service provide dependable balance during each stay.
avid hotel Roseville - Minneapolis North by IHG
This accessible commute to Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum permits avid hotel Roseville - Minneapolis North by IHG to offer a blend of convenience and calm before the stay unfolds.
avid hotel Roseville - Minneapolis North by IHG typically offers easy front-desk service, complimentary parking, and a compact lobby intended for fast, practical arrivals. Each guest room may include hardwood finishes, compact seating, and rainfall showers, creating a practical yet stylish stay setting. Facilities may provide guest laundries, vending access, and compact breakfast spaces that keep routines straightforward for each stay.
Accommodations may present Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and laundry facilities, reinforcing simple daily consistency.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Minneapolis St. Paul / Roseville
Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum is an easy drive of Fairfield Inn & Suites Minneapolis St. Paul / Roseville, a fact that ensures the journey there is as simple as the stay itself.
Fairfield Inn aligns reception sightlines with bench seating and power hubs to make short meetups, device top-ups, and quick planning straightforward. Guest rooms highlight plush bedding, climate control, and blackout shades, creating environments where travelers achieve restful, reliable sleep. Breakfast rooms serve cereals, baked goods, and hot options alongside coffee, creating predictable morning rituals that support family routines.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, self-parking, hot breakfast service, and fitness centers create reliable services that keep travel straightforward daily.
Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown
At Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown, Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum is within easy reach, a core aspect that enhances the freedom of the guest.
Courtyard lobbies feature modular furniture, bold lighting, and reception visibility, cues that help guests feel comfortable and secure. Suites supply curated minibars, spacious bathrooms, and plush robes, refreshing guests while maintaining daily consistency across visits. In the lobby lounge, modular seating, casual lighting, and community tables create consistent areas for social energy and relaxation.
Amenities include outdoor pools, valet parking, pet-friendly rooms, and business hubs, covering flexible needs across each visit.
Courtyard by Marriott St. Paul Downtown
In St. Paul, Courtyard by Marriott St. Paul Downtown's location a simple drive from Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum lets guests commute easily before their stay begins.
Guests at Courtyard enjoy beverage service in lobbies, reliable rituals that create comfort and highlight attentiveness on arrival. Each guest room contains ergonomic desks, large TVs, and bedside USB hubs, ensuring travelers stay connected and productive reliably. The fitness studio with mats, resistance gear, and cardio machines helps wellness-minded guests keep routines balanced every day.
Guests access fitness centers, The Bistro, complimentary Wi-Fi, and indoor pools, dependable features that maintain daily comfort.
Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown
From Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown, the direct automotive access to Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum is a welcome feature for travelers.
The Mix evening socials at Residence Inn serve drinks and light fare, providing hospitality rhythms that ease fatigue and encourage connection. Every guest room comes with refrigerators, stovetops, and counter space, allowing guests to cook meals that mirror the comfort of home. Lobbies with lounge adjacency, community-style tables, and curated décor create welcoming hubs that encourage guest connection.
EV charging, concierge support, complimentary breakfast, meeting rooms, and fitness areas deliver simplicity that makes travel effortless.
Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown by IHG
Guests at Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown by IHG can depend on Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum being a direct run to set a relaxed and convenient tone for their stay.
Lobby bars at Holiday Inn & Suites feature cocktails, lounge seating, and soft lighting, establishing casual hubs for conversation. All guest rooms feature plush beds, blackout shades, and digital thermostats, creating predictable comfort for nightly rest routines. Fitness facilities with cardio machines, free weights, and stretching mats enable travelers to maintain energy and balance on trips.
Free breakfast, pet policies, and Wi-Fi connect with laundry and parking, simplifying routines for extended or family travel.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum Local Area Guide
The Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum in St. Paul is a historic venue known for hosting a variety of events, from agricultural showcases and concerts to sporting competitions and community gatherings. This guide serves as an orientation for visitors, offering insights into navigating the fairgrounds, understanding event day logistics, and discovering nearby attractions and dining options. Whether you're attending a major event or a local festival, this guide will help you plan your visit and make the most of your time in the St. Paul area. Discover practical tips for arrival, transit, and maximizing your experience at the Coliseum and its surroundings.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum (St. Paul, MN)
The Minnesota State Fairgrounds, and by extension the Coliseum, are prominently situated in the Falcon Heights neighborhood, nestled between the cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis. This central location offers excellent accessibility via major thoroughfares, including Snelling Avenue North, Larpenteur Avenue West, and Como Avenue. Primary access to the fairgrounds is typically via Snelling Avenue, which connects directly to Interstate 94 (I-94) and Interstate 35W (I-35W), providing straightforward routes from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and the surrounding metropolitan area. Drive times from MSP typically range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, with heavier congestion expected during peak commute hours and major fairground events. Public transportation options include Metro Transit bus routes that service the area extensively, making it a viable alternative to driving. Rideshare services are also readily available, though drop-off and pick-up points may be consolidated and managed during large events. For optimal arrival, especially during the annual State Fair or major concerts, arriving at least 60 to 90 minutes before your event is highly recommended to account for parking procedures and potential security lines.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum
The Minnesota State Fairgrounds area offers a concentration of lodging options, primarily situated a short drive away in neighboring St. Paul and Minneapolis neighborhoods, as well as in suburban communities like Roseville and Falcon Heights. While there are no hotels directly on the fairgrounds, a cluster of hotels can be found within a 2- to 5-mile radius, particularly along the main arterial roads such as Snelling Avenue and University Avenue. These accommodations cater to a range of budgets and preferences, from well-known hotel chains to independent motels. Many visitors choose to stay in areas that offer easy access back to the fairgrounds, minimizing travel time. Demand for lodging spikes significantly during the Minnesota State Fair itself (late August through Labor Day) and for major concert series or special events held at the Coliseum, so booking well in advance is crucial. For those attending events during the State Fair, consider hotels slightly further afield in St. Paul or Minneapolis that might offer more availability or competitive pricing, keeping in mind the potential for increased traffic. Utilizing hotel booking filters for distance and amenities will be helpful when securing a reservation.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) · 25 min drive
- Use designated fairground entrances; arrive early to navigate parking queues.
- Find nearby cafes and eateries along Snelling or University Ave for casual meetups.
- Explore Como Park Zoo & Conservatory or local breweries for indoor entertainment.
- Meet up at the historic Grandstand or a central fairground plaza.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive at least 60-90 minutes before your event's scheduled start time, especially for popular concerts or the State Fair. Utilize the main entrances along Snelling Avenue or Como Avenue, following signage for specific parking areas designated for the Coliseum. Be prepared for potential traffic backups and allow extra time for parking, walking from your vehicle, and passing through security checkpoints. Consider grabbing a quick bite or drink at one of the numerous food vendors within the fairgrounds before heading to the Coliseum to avoid rush periods. Familiarize yourself with the layout of the fairgrounds upon arrival to easily locate the Coliseum and any desired pre-event gathering spots.
During the Event
Once inside the Coliseum, orient yourself to the nearest restrooms and concession stands, which can become busy during intermissions or popular segments. If attending a concert or performance, be aware of designated break times when crowds may move between seating areas and concessions. For sporting events, consult the event schedule for key moments or breaks where you might comfortably navigate to amenities. Stay hydrated by visiting water fountains or purchasing beverages, and be mindful of designated seating or standing areas. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings throughout the event.
Post-Event & Departure
Exiting the fairgrounds can be congested after a major event concludes. Have a plan for departure, whether it's returning to your vehicle, meeting a rideshare, or accessing public transportation. If driving, consider waiting 15-20 minutes after the event ends to allow the initial surge of traffic to dissipate. Follow traffic direction from event staff and law enforcement to ensure a smooth exit from the parking areas. If using rideshare, proceed to the designated pick-up zone and communicate clearly with your driver. For public transit users, check schedules in advance and head to the nearest bus stop promptly.
Things to Do Near Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum
Walkable
Minnesota State Fairgrounds
The Minnesota State Fairgrounds themselves are a major destination, especially during the annual Great Minnesota Get-Together. Beyond the fair, the grounds host various events year-round, including concerts, festivals, and agricultural expos. Even outside of scheduled events, the expansive grounds offer opportunities for walking, cycling, and exploring. Landmarks include the historic Grandstand, the Eco Experience, and numerous exhibit buildings. Familiarizing yourself with the layout can be helpful for understanding the scale and scope of the fairgrounds, which are a vibrant hub for activity and community engagement throughout the year.
Fairgrounds · On siteComo Park Zoo & Conservatory
Located just a short walk or drive from the fairgrounds, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory offers a refreshing escape with diverse attractions. The zoo features a variety of animals from around the world, including primates, big cats, and aquatic life, often in naturalistic exhibits. Adjacent to the zoo, the Conservatory boasts stunning botanical gardens within its geodesic domes, showcasing tropical plants, seasonal flowers, and a tranquil Japanese garden. It's a popular spot for families and nature enthusiasts, providing a peaceful retreat with free admission to both the zoo and conservatory, though donations are encouraged.
1225 Estabrook Dr, St. Paul · 1.3 mi5–15 Minutes Away
University Avenue (St. Paul)
University Avenue · 1.5 miHighland Park Golf Course
The Highland Park Golf Course offers an 18-hole public course known for its challenging layout and mature trees, providing a scenic round of golf for players of all skill levels. The course is situated within Highland Park, a large urban green space that also features walking paths, picnic areas, and athletic fields. It’s a popular destination for local golfers looking for a well-maintained course with a classic feel. Reservations are often recommended, especially during peak season, to secure a tee time. The clubhouse also provides a convenient spot for post-game refreshments.
580 N Hamline Ave, St. Paul · 2.0 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate vicinity, the Twin Cities metro area offers a wealth of attractions. Consider visiting the vibrant Dinkytown neighborhood near the University of Minnesota for its eclectic shops and student-friendly eateries, or explore the museums and entertainment districts in downtown Minneapolis, including the Walker Art Center and the Mill City Museum. The Minneapolis Chain of Lakes provides extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation and scenic beauty.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum
Inside & Adjacent
Fairview Cafe
The Fairview Cafe, located within the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, offers a convenient spot for casual dining, particularly during large events or the annual State Fair. It serves classic American fair food, providing attendees with easy access to meals and snacks without having to leave the grounds. Expect typical fair fare like burgers, fries, and sandwiches, making it a go-to for quick and accessible refreshments while you're enjoying the day's activities. It's a straightforward option for refueling during a busy day at the fairgrounds.
Fairgrounds · On siteCossetta Alimentari
Cossetta Alimentari is a St. Paul institution, offering a multi-level Italian dining experience that includes a bustling marketplace, a casual cafeteria-style eatery, and a more formal sit-down restaurant. The marketplace is ideal for picking up imported Italian groceries, cheeses, and charcuterie, while the eatery serves up delicious pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches in a lively atmosphere. For a more refined experience, the upstairs restaurant provides classic Italian entrees with a view. It's a comprehensive destination for Italian food lovers and a popular choice for group gatherings.
21 N 7th St, St. Paul · 3.0 miNearby Gathering Spots
The Lexington
The Lexington is a historic St. Paul restaurant known for its classic American cuisine and elegant, timeless atmosphere. This iconic establishment has been a staple in the community for decades, offering a sophisticated dining experience with a menu featuring steaks, seafood, and expertly crafted cocktails. It’s an ideal spot for a business dinner, a special occasion, or simply an elevated night out. The ambiance strikes a balance between upscale and welcoming, making it a versatile choice for various dining needs.
1096 Grand Ave, St. Paul · 2.5 miFlat Earth Brewing Company
While a bit further out, Flat Earth Brewing Company in Oakdale offers a relaxed atmosphere and a wide selection of craft beers brewed on-site. They often feature seasonal brews alongside their core lineup, providing plenty of options for beer enthusiasts. The taproom is typically lively, with a focus on community and good conversation. It's a great spot to unwind after an event, especially if you're looking for a more laid-back setting and a taste of local brewing culture, though it does require a short drive.
5775 5th St N, Oakdale · 8.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
W.A. Frost and Company
W.A. Frost and Company is celebrated for its enchanting atmosphere, particularly its patio gardens, which are a sought-after dining destination in St. Paul. The restaurant offers a refined American menu with seasonal influences, complemented by an extensive wine list and craft cocktails. It's an ideal setting for a romantic dinner, a celebratory meal, or a sophisticated gathering. The historic building adds to its charm, providing a unique and memorable dining experience that captures the essence of St. Paul's culinary scene.
374 Selby Ave, St. Paul · 3.2 miRevival St. Paul
Revival is renowned for its exceptional Southern comfort food, most notably its legendary fried chicken. The St. Paul location, situated on the edge of the University of Minnesota campus area, brings its popular menu to a lively setting. Expect generous portions of classic dishes like mac and cheese, collard greens, and fluffy biscuits alongside their star attraction. It’s a perfect spot for a hearty, satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and authentic, popular with locals and visitors alike.
56 Malcolm Ave SE, Minneapolis · 4.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on Snelling Ave and Como Ave can be significantly heavier on event days, requiring patience and adherence to posted detours.
- Parking fees vary; pre-purchasing parking passes online when available can sometimes save time and money.
- The fairgrounds are vast; comfortable walking shoes are essential, whether attending an event or simply exploring.
- Many local businesses near the fairgrounds, especially along University Avenue, observe unique hours; check ahead if planning a visit.
- Public transit can be a reliable alternative to driving during major events, particularly if you are comfortable with bus routes and schedules.
Weather & Seasons at Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum
- Winter: Winter in St. Paul is cold, with average high temperatures often remaining below freezing. Visitors should pack heavy coats, hats, gloves, and insulated footwear. Indoor events at the Coliseum are common, but getting to and from the venue requires dressing warmly. Roadways can be icy, so allow extra travel time and exercise caution when driving.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer bring milder temperatures, with daytime highs gradually warming into the 60s and 70s. It’s wise to dress in layers, as mornings can be cool and afternoons pleasant. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for evenings. Outdoor events become more frequent, and walking around the fairgrounds is comfortable.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer, particularly July and August, can be hot and humid, with temperatures frequently reaching into the 80s and 90s. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are highly recommended for daytime events. Stay hydrated, as heat exhaustion is a risk during outdoor activities.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp air and comfortable temperatures, with highs typically in the 50s and 60s, cooling into the 40s as the season progresses. Layers are key, including a medium-weight jacket or fleece. The autumn foliage can be beautiful, making it a pleasant time for outdoor exploration before the colder weather arrives.
- Rain & snow: Rain is possible throughout the year, while heavy snow is characteristic of winter. Be prepared for changeable conditions; always check the forecast before your visit. Umbrellas or rain gear are advisable during warmer months, and waterproof boots and careful driving are necessary during snow events. Indoor facilities offer shelter from inclement weather.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary venue: Minnesota State Fairgrounds Coliseum
- Neighborhood: Falcon Heights
- Nearest airport: Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
- Parking: On-site lots with fees, variable by event
- Walkable district: Fairgrounds are extensive; limited outside immediate area
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Cub Foods (approx. 1.5 mi)
- Pharmacy: CVS Pharmacy (approx. 1.2 mi)
- Urgent care: Allina Health Urgent Care (approx. 2.0 mi)
- Downtime: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, local coffee shops
- Pro tip: Download a fairgrounds map for easier navigation during large events.

