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Top 24 Hotels Near College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University
2850 Abbey Plaza Collegeville, MN 56321
AmeriVu Inn & Suites - Avon
The journey from AmeriVu Inn & Suites - Avon to College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University is an easy drive, a benefit that contributes to a hassle-free visit.
AmeriVu Inn & Suites - Avon typically includes efficient check-in, basic lobby seating, and available parking for a no-frills arrival process. Rooms may highlight compact layouts, tasteful interiors, and in-room coffee, helping guests maintain clarity and comfort while traveling. Public areas may highlight vending machines, laundry facilities, and compact seating that reinforce simple routines for traveling guests.
A stay often features Wi-Fi, coin-operated laundry, parking, and compact breakfast spaces, sustaining practical travel routines for guests.
Rodeway Inn Saint Joseph
College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University is a simple drive of Rodeway Inn Saint Joseph, a convenience that allows for easy travel to other local points.
Guests arriving at Rodeway Inn may encounter wall-mounted directories and regional maps to help locate rooms and explore local options. Guest rooms provide free Wi‑Fi, flat-screen TVs with cable, and a desk or table, giving travelers tools to stay connected and productive. Vending areas carry drinks, chips, and microwavable meals, giving guests around-the-clock access to snacks without needing to leave.
Features include coin laundry, air-conditioned rooms, flat‑screen TVs, vending access, free Wi‑Fi, and public coffee in shared zones.
Asteria Inn & Suites - St. Cloud / Waite Park
Serving as a practical base, Asteria Inn & Suites - St. Cloud / Waite Park keeps College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University a simple commute away.
Asteria Inn & Suites - St. Cloud / Waite Park often begins the stay with elegant décor, attentive staff, and complimentary infused water that create a polished check-in experience. Guest rooms typically provide spacious layouts, elegant décor, and spa-style bathrooms designed to reflect a sophisticated atmosphere. Facilities may provide stylish cocktail lounges, spa-inspired areas, and full-service dining for a refined and comfortable orientation.
A visit often highlights plush bedding, spa facilities, fine dining, and Wi-Fi, balancing indulgence with reliable daily convenience.
Hilton Garden Inn St. Cloud
Reaching College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University from Hilton Garden Inn St. Cloud is a direct drive, a trait that allows guests to ease into their day's schedule.
Lounge areas adjacent to bars at Hilton Garden Inn create visible social hubs, encouraging relaxed conversation before guests move on. Suites contain spacious vanities, rainfall showers, and premium bath products, offering guests refreshment and comfort after long travel. Fitness centers with treadmills, weights, and stretching mats allow guests to maintain consistent exercise routines while traveling.
Pet-friendly options, complimentary internet, outdoor pools, breakfast service, and meeting rooms ensure travel flexibility for guests.
Residence Inn by Marriott St. Cloud Waite Park
The hotel's spot as a practical base gives Residence Inn by Marriott St. Cloud Waite Park guests a easy way to engage with the surrounding area.
Residence Inn begins mornings with complimentary hot breakfast stations, giving guests dependable nourishment to start their day energized and at ease. Each suite offers dining tables, coffee makers, and microwaves, giving guests flexible setups that support meals or snacks anytime. Business lounges with shared desks, Wi-Fi connectivity, and quiet corners allow travelers to remain productive in comfortable settings.
Outdoor pools, breakfast service, business centers, pet-friendly options, and complimentary internet ensure comfort for varied guest needs.
Riverside Inn
For guests in the Collegeville region, Riverside Inn is a practical base, a spot that makes for an unhurried start to the day.
Arrivals at Riverside Inn may feature modest reception areas, self-serve coffee, and parking options to support guest convenience. Each guest room typically includes blackout curtains, plush bedding, and Wi-Fi, supporting both rest and digital connection during visits. Shared spaces may include modest lobbies, vending corners, and breakfast areas that sustain clarity and comfort for overnight stays.
Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, vending areas, laundry facilities, and parking, helping maintain straightforward balance each day.
Quality Inn St. Cloud West
In the Collegeville region, Quality Inn St. Cloud West boasts a accessible location, serving as a practical base for visiting College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University.
Upon arrival Quality Inn sightlines guide guests from doors to elevators and parking, reducing wayfinding friction for first-time visitors. Every guest room features a flat-screen TV with streaming and reliable Wi-Fi, combining entertainment with easy connectivity for calls. Pre-function areas adjacent to meeting suites supply staging space, water, and coffee so sessions start punctually and transitions stay organized.
Pet policies vary by property, often include fees and limits, but many locations provide waste bags, relief areas, and check-in guidance for companions.
AmericInn by Wyndham St. Cloud MN Shopping Area
From AmericInn by Wyndham St. Cloud MN Shopping Area, College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University is within driving reach, a detail that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
Front-of-house markets at Wyndham stock travel basics and chilled beverages, helping families settle kids before heading to the room. Every suite provides a sitting area, premium toiletries, and a roomy closet, helping families spread out and stay organized. Business centers provide printers, dedicated workstations, and fast internet, enabling last-minute prep or printing without leaving the hotel.
Fast Wi-Fi, streamable TVs, meeting planners, on-site dining, laundry services, and secure parking support events and leisure stays.
Super 8 by Wyndham St. Cloud
In Collegeville, Super 8 by Wyndham St. Cloud's role as a practical base serves as a key asset for visitors who value easy travel.
Reception areas at Super 8 are brightly lit and symmetrical, ensuring arrivals are stress-free and orientation cues remain obvious. All guest rooms offer coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges, supporting predictable convenience for both short and long trips. Breakfast counters serving cereals, fruit, and coffee reinforce clarity and help families and professionals begin mornings easily.
Complimentary breakfast, vending stations, and Wi-Fi combine with pools and parking, creating clarity for simple and balanced stays.
Albany Merchants Hotel
A defining quality of the Albany Merchants Hotel experience is its role as a sensible base with College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University within driving reach.
Albany Merchants Hotel often provides quick arrivals with a simple front desk, vending access, and on-site parking for easy travel support. Standard guest rooms may feature hardwood accents, compact seating, and rainfall showers, reinforcing a polished yet practical experience. Facilities typically present vending access, compact breakfast rooms, and guest laundries that emphasize functional routines consistently.
A visit often provides Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, vending corners, and laundry access, ensuring consistent routines for travelers.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson St. Cloud West, MN
When staying in the Collegeville area, the uncomplicated drive from Country Inn & Suites by Radisson St. Cloud West, MN to College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University is a low-stress start to the day.
Upon arrival, Radisson places communal tables and charging hubs near check-in so you can top up devices and sort plans before heading upstairs. Each guest room positions blackout curtains, bedside reading lamps, and a supportive mattress to ensure consistent sleep across varied itineraries. Bar and lounge areas present high-top seating, small plates, and evening drink service, offering a low-effort unwind after packed travel days.
For families, pool access, kitchenettes in some rooms, laundry, breakfast, and Wi-Fi make multi-night stays easier to manage.
Hampton Inn & Suites St. Cloud MN
From Hampton Inn & Suites St. Cloud MN, College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University is an easy regional drive, a detail that enhances the feeling of being well-situated.
Hampton Inn starts each morning with its On the House breakfast buffet, giving guests dependable nourishment that begins the day with clarity. Suites offer microwaves, refrigerators, and counter space, allowing guests flexibility to prepare light meals or store refreshments easily. Business centers with computers, printers, and ergonomic seating allow travelers to complete tasks, keeping productivity steady on the road.
Complimentary internet, indoor pools, breakfast buffets, laundry access, and self-parking provide dependable routines for all stays.
Homewood Suites by Hilton St. Cloud
The primary advantage of Homewood Suites by Hilton St. Cloud as a base in Collegeville is keeping College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University an easy regional drive away.
Guests entering Homewood Suites encounter sofas and tables in clusters, providing families with a place to regroup before heading upstairs. Each guest room provides modern showers, fresh towels, and stocked toiletries, refreshing guests with reliable comfort every evening. Guests using the indoor pool enjoy loungers, fresh towels, and calm lighting, creating a space for families to relax and recharge daily.
Indoor pools, fitness centers, Suite Shop® markets, and pet policies support families with convenience and travel balance combined.
Holiday Inn & Suites St. Cloud by IHG
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives Holiday Inn & Suites St. Cloud by IHG guests a easy method for managing their time.
Lobby designs at Holiday Inn & Suites emphasize modern finishes and bright lighting, maintaining predictable first impressions. Guest rooms offer in-room coffee makers, mini-fridges, and ample outlets, keeping essential conveniences close at hand during stays. Lobby lounges featuring communal tables, lounge chairs, and natural light create orientation points where guests can regroup easily.
Pet-friendly rooms, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi combine with laundry and pools, supporting comfort for families and groups.
Days Inn by Wyndham St. Cloud
In the Collegeville region, Days Inn by Wyndham St. Cloud is situated as a convenient base, a spot that provides a simple commute.
Wayfinding at Days Inn puts elevator ranges, exits, and amenity icons in one sightline, reducing hesitation as newcomers orient. Every guest room positions an HDTV near seating with a clear channel guide, making downtime and quick highlights easy to navigate. Lobby nooks group armchairs, café tables, and outlet strips so quick calls, charging, and regrouping happen smoothly before elevator rides.
Pet-friendly rooms at many locations plus outdoor space, Wi-Fi, and a small market keep walks, returns, and snacks uncomplicated.
Baymont by Wyndham Albany MN
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives Baymont by Wyndham Albany MN guests a direct way to start their day of travel.
Curb-to-desk routes at Baymont use wide clearances for carts and strollers, so movement stays smooth during peak arrival periods. Each guest room offers Wi-Fi included and a comfortable chair at the window, supporting reading or calls while light stays controlled. Indoor pools post depth markers, railings, and towel return, creating a simple cooldown that’s close to elevators and restrooms.
With a fitness room, hydration points, and fresh towels plus Wi-Fi and breakfast, movement and mornings keep an easy cadence.
AmericInn by Wyndham Sartell
Within the region, AmericInn by Wyndham Sartell is a convenient base, a detail that delivers a simple solution for daily travel to College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University.
For late-night check-ins, Wyndham’s 24-hour front desks keep assistance available, ensuring arrivals find support whenever schedules slip. All guest rooms, so remote work flows without interruption from the room, feature free high-speed Wi-Fi, a large work desk, and streaming access. Indoor pools feature heated waters, adjacent seating, and towel service, helping families or athletes unwind after a full day of activity.
Mobile check-in, fast Wi-Fi, coffee bars, conference rooms, pool towel service, and pet room options reduce extra planning and delays for travelers.
Courtyard St. Cloud
Upon leaving Courtyard St. Cloud, College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University is a simple commute for flexible planning, simplifying your visit.
With infused water dispensers and lobby coffee stations, Courtyard ensures dependable rituals that reduce stress and feel familiar. Each guest room presents ergonomic seating, ample outlets, and fast Wi-Fi, supporting professionals with reliable setups. Guests visiting the business center use shared computers, Wi-Fi, and printers, practical amenities that support productivity daily.
Amenities such as breakfast service, meeting hubs, outdoor seating, and complimentary Wi-Fi create consistency across all properties.
GrandStay Residential Suites Hotel - Saint Cloud
Upon leaving GrandStay Residential Suites Hotel - Saint Cloud, College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University is within driving reach with no car needed, simplifying your visit.
At GrandStay Residential Suites Hotel - Saint Cloud, arrivals may include a basic reception, complimentary parking, and modest lobby seating for guest convenience. Accommodations often provide premium bedding, climate control, and functional desks, supporting comfort and productivity for guests. Shared spaces may include modest lobbies, vending corners, and breakfast rooms that provide practical places for guests to gather daily.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, parking, and laundry support, giving visitors a reliable base during budget-friendly stays.
Best Western Plus Kelly Inn
College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University is within driving reach from Best Western Plus Kelly Inn, a convenience that makes the hotel a logical choice.
With labeled meeting points and corridor arrows, Best Western helps groups reunite after check-in, keeping movement organized and predictable. Every guest room maintains ample outlets at beds and desks, so phones, tablets, and laptops recharge while routes and tickets refresh. Breakfast corners at café tables keep routines steady while maps load and schedules are reviewed, aligning groups on next steps.
Between indoor pools, fitness studios, Wi-Fi, and sauna or hot tub where offered, travelers weave wellness into schedules without extra detours.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson St. Cloud East, MN
This practical function as a base is a key feature of Country Inn & Suites by Radisson St. Cloud East, MN, because it makes the stay both simple and enjoyable.
With visible grab-and-go cases and a lobby café, Radisson helps late arrivals secure snacks and drinks without wandering or added delay. Standard guest rooms offer a stable desk, task lighting, and multiple outlets, making it simple to run calls or finish work without leaving the room. Indoor social zones mix banquette seating, ottomans, and charging stations, creating informal meeting points that support group plans and work.
Offering Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant, meetings, a gym, laundry, and pet amenities, properties blend comfort with practical utility.
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites St. Cloud
This sensible location enables Americas Best Value Inn & Suites St. Cloud to provide a convenient yet peaceful setting before the easy drive to College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University.
Americas Best Value Inn entry areas include focal touches like art, planters, or seasonal accents so the lobby reads welcoming without added clutter. Standard guest rooms feature blackout drapes, quiet HVAC, and supportive mattresses to encourage restorative sleep after long travel days. Breakfast counters place grab-and-go items beside coffee taps so early travelers can fuel up quickly and keep to tight itineraries.
Between EV charging, self-parking options, reliable Wi-Fi, and grab-and-go shelves, vehicle and meal needs stay straightforward, keeping routines simple.
Travelodge by Wyndham Motel of St. Cloud
For guests in the Collegeville area, Travelodge by Wyndham Motel of St. Cloud is a practical base, a location that supports an efficient and enjoyable itinerary.
Travelodge reception spaces are symmetrical and clearly signed, ensuring arrivals progress smoothly and orientation is stress-free. Each guest room contains microwaves, fridges, and coffee makers, offering everyday convenience for both short and extended stays. Vending areas inside lobbies stocked with snacks, drinks, and packaged meals support guests with predictable access to essentials.
Pet-friendly rooms, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi pair with parking and laundry, simplifying family travel with daily clarity.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites St. Cloud by IHG
For a trip to the area, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites St. Cloud by IHG's location as a convenient base is a foundational element of its practical charm.
Reception desks at Holiday Inn Express are brightly lit and clearly marked, ensuring arrivals complete check-in smoothly and efficiently. Guest rooms contain sofa seating, flat-screen HDTVs, and bedside USB ports, creating comfortable setups for rest and connection. Meeting facilities featuring projection equipment, breakout tables, and seating flexibility make professional events run smoothly.
Free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, and fitness centers pair with indoor pools and business spaces, keeping work and leisure in clear balance.
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College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University Local Area Guide
This guide serves as a comprehensive orientation for visitors traveling to the College of Saint Benedict (CSB) and Saint John's University (SJU) in Collegeville, Minnesota. Whether you're attending an academic event, a campus athletic competition, or a performing arts production, this resource provides essential information to help you navigate the campuses and surrounding areas with ease. Understand the rhythm of campus life, discover convenient dining and lodging options, and make the most of your visit to this unique dual-campus institution.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University (Collegeville, MN)
Nestled in the heart of central Minnesota, the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University are situated in Collegeville, a small community just west of St. Cloud. The campuses are easily accessible via major roadways, primarily Highway 23, which connects to I-94 for broader regional travel. The nearest major airport is Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), approximately a 75-mile drive east, typically taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes depending on traffic. Driving directions usually involve taking Highway 23 directly to the university entrances. Parking is ample, with designated lots available across both campuses, though specific event parking may be communicated in advance. Rideshare services are available, but due to the semi-rural location, pre-booking or ensuring driver availability for departures is advisable. For optimal arrival, aim to reach campus at least 30-45 minutes prior to scheduled events, especially during peak academic or athletic seasons, to allow time for parking and navigating to your specific destination within the interconnected campuses.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University
The immediate vicinity of CSB and SJU is largely characterized by the campuses themselves and surrounding agricultural land, with the closest significant hotel accommodations found in the nearby city of St. Cloud, approximately 10-15 minutes away. St. Cloud offers a range of hotel options, from national chains to local inns, catering to various budgets and preferences. Within the campuses, there are limited on-site accommodations, primarily for visiting scholars or specific programs. For those attending events, booking lodging in St. Cloud is the most practical approach, with many hotels situated along the Highway 15 and Highway 23 corridors, offering convenient access back to the university. Demand for lodging can spike during major academic events, alumni weekends, or significant athletic competitions, making early booking a necessity. When searching for hotels, utilize map filters to target accommodations within a 15-minute drive of the campuses to minimize travel time, and consider weekdays for potentially lower rates compared to weekend event dates.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is about a 75-mile drive, taking 1.5 hours.
- Use campus maps and designated event parking for smoother arrival and departure.
- The historic Saint John's Abbey and Bookshop offer a quiet, walkable exploration.
- Consider lodging in St. Cloud for more dining and entertainment options during inclement weather.
- Campus dining halls or local St. Cloud restaurants serve as convenient regrouping spots.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan your arrival to allow ample time for navigating campus and finding parking, particularly if attending a popular event. Campus maps are essential tools for locating your specific building or venue. Consider arriving 45 minutes to an hour before the scheduled start to account for walking from parking areas and to familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings. Many events may have specific entry points or check-in procedures, so reviewing any pre-event communications is highly recommended to ensure a seamless entry process. Enjoying the scenic campus environment before an event can also add to the overall experience.
During the Event
Once inside, orient yourself with the venue's layout, including restroom locations and any available concessions or seating areas. If attending an academic lecture or performance, ensure you are settled in your seat before the official start time to avoid disrupting others. For athletic events, familiarize yourself with the spectator areas and any posted rules regarding prohibited items or behavior. Staying aware of campus signage will help you move efficiently between different locations if your visit involves multiple stops. This is also a good time to connect with other attendees or participants.
Post-Event & Departure
As an event concludes, be patient with departure traffic and pedestrian flow. Follow campus traffic directionals and be mindful of others exiting. If you parked a distance away, allow extra time for your walk back to your vehicle. For those utilizing rideshares, pre-arranging your pickup location and time can help avoid delays. Consider staying a few extra minutes to allow the initial rush to subside, or perhaps visit a campus landmark like the Abbey Arboretum for a final moment of reflection before heading to your next destination.
Things to Do Near College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University
Walkable
Saint John's Abbey Arboretum
Explore the serene beauty of the Saint John's Abbey Arboretum, a vast natural space offering miles of trails winding through diverse landscapes. This arboretum is a sanctuary for native plants and wildlife, providing a peaceful escape and opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and contemplative walks. Key features include the iconic pebble mosaic, diverse woodlands, and peaceful meadows, making it an ideal spot for quiet reflection or light exercise. Informational kiosks throughout the trails offer insights into the local flora and fauna, enhancing the educational aspect of your visit.
Collegeville, MN · On siteSaint John's Pottery
Discover the renowned Saint John's Pottery, a workshop and gallery celebrated for its artistic ceramic creations. This studio is part of Saint John's University's commitment to the arts and crafts, producing high-quality liturgical and decorative pieces. Visitors can often view artists at work, observe the intricate process of pottery making, and perhaps browse the gallery for unique, handcrafted items. The pottery's historical significance and artistic output make it a distinctive cultural stop on campus.
Collegeville, MN · On site5–15 Minutes Away
Pattison State Park (Munsinger Clemens Park)
Experience the natural beauty of the Mississippi River at Munsinger Clemens Park, a sprawling urban oasis in St. Cloud. The park features scenic paved trails perfect for walking or biking, winding along the riverbanks and through mature trees. It's an ideal location for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or simply enjoying the views of the water. The park also offers access to the Bernard's Landing and Lake George areas, providing varied landscapes and recreational opportunities for visitors seeking outdoor relaxation.
St. Cloud, MN · 7.2 miPioneer Place on Fifth
Immerse yourself in local arts and culture at Pioneer Place on Fifth, a historic venue in downtown St. Cloud that hosts live music, theater performances, and community events. This charming establishment provides an intimate setting to enjoy local and regional talent. It serves as a hub for entertainment, offering a taste of the vibrant arts scene in the area. Checking their schedule in advance can help you plan to catch a specific show or performance during your visit.
St. Cloud, MN · 6.8 miBeyond the Event: Venture further into the St. Cloud area to explore a wider array of shopping centers, historical sites, and recreational parks. The Stearns History Museum offers a deep dive into the region's past, while the outdoor spaces around Lake Ripley provide opportunities for boating and fishing. For those interested in more active pursuits, local golf courses and indoor sports facilities are also readily available within a short drive from the campuses.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University
Inside & Adjacent
Saint John's University Dining Services
The dining halls at Saint John's University, such as Refectory and Guild Hall, offer convenient meal options for students and visitors alike. These facilities provide a variety of cafeteria-style choices, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. Operating hours typically align with the academic calendar, and visitors can often access these dining services with proper identification or by checking current visitor policies. It's a straightforward way to experience campus life and grab a meal without leaving the university grounds.
Collegeville, MN · On siteCollege of Saint Benedict Dining Services
Similar to SJU, the College of Saint Benedict provides multiple dining venues, including Sexton Commons and Bernie's. These locations offer diverse menus in a casual setting, perfect for students, faculty, and guests. Visitors may be able to access these cafeterias, particularly during specific campus events or by arrangement, offering a range of hot meals, salads, and grab-and-go options. Dining here provides an authentic taste of campus life and is a practical choice for those on campus for extended periods.
Collegeville, MN · On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Badlands Bar & Grill
Located in the charming town of St. Joseph, just a short drive from campus, Badlands Bar & Grill offers a relaxed atmosphere with a menu featuring American classics. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors, known for its burgers, sandwiches, and hearty entrees. The bar also serves a selection of drinks, making it a suitable place for casual get-togethers or post-event refreshments. Its proximity to the campuses makes it an easily accessible option for a sit-down meal.
St. Joseph, MN · 3.2 miThe Pizza Factory
The Pizza Factory in St. Joseph is a go-to destination for pizza lovers, offering a variety of specialty pizzas and classic favorites. This casual eatery is great for families and groups looking for a straightforward and satisfying meal. Beyond pizza, they often provide other quick-service items like sandwiches or salads. It's a convenient and family-friendly option for a relaxed dining experience after a day of campus activities.
St. Joseph, MN · 3.2 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Axel's Restaurant and Bar
Axel's Restaurant and Bar in St. Cloud provides a more upscale dining experience, specializing in steaks, seafood, and contemporary American cuisine. With a refined ambiance, it's an excellent choice for business dinners, special occasions, or simply enjoying a higher-quality meal. The restaurant also features a well-stocked bar, offering craft cocktails and an extensive wine list. Reservations are often recommended, especially on weekends.
St. Cloud, MN · 6.9 miVal's Restaurant & Bar
Val's Restaurant & Bar is a well-regarded establishment in St. Cloud known for its diverse menu that includes Italian-inspired dishes, seafood, and American favorites. It offers a comfortable setting suitable for both casual diners and those seeking a slightly more formal meal. The bar area provides a convivial atmosphere, and their attentive service aims to enhance the overall dining experience. Val's is a solid choice for experiencing local St. Cloud culinary offerings.
St. Cloud, MN · 7.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Campus traffic can be moderate during class changes and large event arrivals, plan accordingly.
- St. Joseph and St. Cloud offer the closest variety of off-campus dining and evening entertainment.
- Weekend events, especially during fall and spring, can draw significant crowds to campus and nearby towns.
- Public transport options are limited; a personal vehicle or rideshare is generally recommended for flexibility.
- Local weather can change rapidly; always check forecasts and pack layers for outdoor campus exploration.
Weather & Seasons at College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University
- Winter: Winter in Collegeville is characterized by cold temperatures, often dropping well below freezing, with significant snowfall common from November through March. Visitors should pack heavy coats, insulated boots, hats, and gloves. Outdoor activities are limited by the weather, and driving conditions can be challenging; expect slower travel times and potential delays. Indoor events are plentiful, and campus buildings are well-heated.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer bring milder temperatures, with averages ranging from the 40s to the 70s Fahrenheit. Expect a mix of sunny days and rain showers. Layers are key, including light jackets and sweaters. This is a beautiful time on campus, with nature awakening, making it ideal for exploring the arboretum and enjoying outdoor campus spaces. Travel is generally easy, though occasional spring storms can occur.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer temperatures typically range from the 70s to the 80s Fahrenheit, with occasional heat waves. Humidity can be noticeable. Light clothing, sunscreen, and hats are recommended. Outdoor campus activities are at their peak, and evenings are pleasant for strolling. Travel is usually straightforward, with minimal weather-related disruptions, though thunderstorms are possible in the late afternoon.
- Fall season: Fall brings crisp air and stunning foliage, with temperatures gradually cooling from the 60s to the 40s Fahrenheit from September through October. Light to medium jackets and comfortable walking shoes are advisable. This season is popular for visits due to the vibrant autumn colors and active campus schedule. Travel is typically smooth, though early winter snow can sometimes occur by late fall.
- Rain & snow: Rain is common in spring and fall, while heavy snow is characteristic of winter. Visitors should always check the forecast before traveling and pack appropriate waterproof gear and footwear. Snowfall can significantly impact driving conditions, requiring caution and potentially adjustments to travel plans. Indoor activities and venues are unaffected, providing reliable options regardless of precipitation.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: SJU Johnnies / CSB Bennies (NCAA DIII)
- Neighborhood: Collegeville (rural university setting)
- Nearest airport: Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP)
- Parking: Designated campus lots, event parking available
- Walkable district: Extensive on-campus paths and arboretum
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Coborn's (St. Cloud) or local convenience stores
- Pharmacy: Walgreens or CVS (St. Cloud)
- Urgent care: CentraCare Clinic - St. Cloud Hospital
- Downtime: Campus libraries, arboretum trails, local cafes
- Pro tip: Utilize campus visitor information services for event-specific parking and access details.

