This popular neighborhood, located just blocks east of downtown Saint Paul, is filled with historic buildings, yoga studios, art galleries, and more. It has been revitalized in recent years and is now one of the fastest-growing areas in the city. In fact, soon it will be home to a new St. Paul Saints Stadium!
St Paul Farmers’ Market
Photo by Jerri Jo Brandt
Morning: Grab a locally roasted espresso drink from Black Dog Coffee & Wine Bar and then hit the Lowertown Farmers’ Market (weekends April-November). This farmers’ market is unique because nearly every item is produced within 50 miles of Saint Paul.
Noon: Take a relaxing stroll around Mears Park, a block-sized green space located in the center of Lowertown. If you’re in the park on the right day, you can catch a free concert or two. If you feel like taking a longer stroll, head to the Minnesota Children’s Museum for hands-on, educational experiences for the whole family. You can also explore the Union Depot, a recently refurbished transportation hub that now houses public spaces, restaurant options, and retail opportunities.
Night: The neighborhood’s revitalization has made it a go-to nightlife spot. At Barrio you can get authentic Mexican food and delicious, top-shelf tequila drinks. The Bulldog, located right next door, offers everything from salads and hot dogs to burgers and fries. Go a touch fancier at Heartland, where James Beard-nominated chef Lenny Russo serves up decliciously local offerings (named best new restaurant in 2010 by this very magazine). If you’re up for a little something more, see what’s happening at the Fitzgerald Theater, located a few blocks away. Maybe you’ll catch Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion, a national author’s book reading, the latest Wits show, or a local concert.
Mears Park Photo by Todd Buchanan
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