Visitors to Saint Paul must overcome the parking challenge. The city offers diverse reasons for travel, including business trips and site exploration. Our guide will show you how to manage your parking situation and the most accessible parking alternatives in Saint Paul, including budget-friendly garages and streets where parking is allowed. Thus, you can experience the city without parking-related stress.
Downtown Saint Paul
Visitors exploring Saint Paul’s central hub will discover extensive parking choices downtown, fulfilling every parking need. Because this area offers various duration options, your parking needs will be addressed no matter how long you plan to stay.
Best Parking Garages in Downtown
Downtown Saint Paul stands out because it contains numerous parking garages that provide easy access for drivers who want to walk throughout the area. Here are a few notable ones:
The Lawson Parking Ramp
Walking distance from downtown attractions includes the Xcel Energy Center, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and the Minnesota State Capitol. This parking garage maintains affordable rates and operates twenty-four hours daily, providing dependable services to passing visitors and extended users.
The RiverCentre Parking Ramp
Visitors who plan to see events at Saint Paul RiverCentre or Xcel Energy Center should use the RiverCentre Parking Ramp as their parking solution. Drivers can easily reach the convention center and nearby venues because the parking facility stands directly opposite the RiverCentre. You will find affordable parking rates here, and lots of empty spaces are available, mainly on weekdays.
The City Hall Ramp
Visitors who need parking near the stunning Saint Paul City Hall and its surrounding attractions can easily find spots at the City Hall Ramp. The building is visible in the background, and multiple entrances throughout the building will help you secure a spot without delay. After parking, you can easily explore the neighborhood because this location is near multiple eateries and shops.
Street Parking in Downtown
Residents who choose public street parking will find metered and non-metered spots in downtown Saint Paul. Metered parking is available throughout Wabasha Street, Robert Street, and Washington Street. Street parking downtown operates under metered enforcement from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, so you need to monitor the time.
If budget is a consideration, you should check out non-metered parking areas beyond downtown’s core. Located outside main attractions, these spots provide cost-effective parking if you want to walk.
Capitol Area: Historic and Convenient
Visitors interested in touring the Minnesota State Capitol or historic district can take advantage of multiple excellent parking choices in this location.
Capitol Complex Parking
The Minnesota State Capitol is a top attraction in Saint Paul, making it easy for visitors to find accessible parking near the site. The Capitol Parking Ramp is directly across the street from the Capitol building, perfect for people wanting convenient access to legislative activities. The ramp operates with flexible payment systems, including hourly and daily rates, in a secure facility with good lighting.
Street parking around Park Street and additional roads near the Capitol provide an affordable parking solution. When finding a space near the Capitol, following parking rules while obeying meter enforcement schedules is important, as some lucky people find a spot right by the building.
Nearby Public Lots
Affordable public lots throughout the Capitol area offer parking alternatives for people looking to save money. Visitors will find these parking lots empty compared to other parking options and are generally more affordable. The State Office Building Lot provides its parking services through hourly rates in a location accessible by foot from Capitol grounds. The parking lot sits at the intersection between Sherburne Avenue and Capitol Boulevard.
Lowertown: Arts, Culture, and Great Parking
Tourists enjoy exploring Lowertown because of its blend of artistic atmosphere and interesting historic structures throughout the district. Many restaurants and galleries operate in this location alongside local businesses, and parking spots remain accessible throughout the area.
The Lowertown Parking Ramp
The Lowertown Parking Ramp provides excellent parking options for people who want to be near downtown action. The 5th Street East parking facility provides budget-friendly rates to customers who walk conveniently to CHS Field Union Depot and other significant Lowertown attractions. The ramp’s prime location connects visitors to various art galleries and restaurants, making it a good starting point for exploring Lowertown.
Street Parking in Lowertown
Lowertown features street parking as an alternative to parking ramps through both metered and free evening and weekend options. Street parking in Lowertown features meter enforcement between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, after which free parking becomes available. Examining the posted signs will help you avoid unexpected situations.
Grand Avenue
The combination of convenient parking options and dining and shopping facilities defines Grand Avenue. Saint Paul residents flock to Grand Avenue for shopping and dining because this district brings together independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Although you should find parking spots easily throughout the day, most people experience some congestion while searching for a spot, especially during busy weekend times.
Como Park: A Day at the Park with Plenty of Parking
Saint Paul residents love Como Park’s combination of zoo exhibits, conservatory displays, and scenic pathways for walking visitors. The site offers ample parking areas for families planning outings and individuals wanting to spend time in nature.
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory Parking
Multiple large parking facilities surround the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, so visitors can easily find parking before enjoying the park’s numerous attractions. The zoo’s main lot, open even on crowded weekends, offers free parking. Other nearby lots, including one adjacent to the Como Lakeside Pavilion, offer extra parking spaces.
Street Parking Around Como Park
After all parking lots reach capacity, visitors can find street parking throughout the park areas. Pay attention to the warning signs, as a few zones enforce time restrictions and require special authorization. On weekdays, a wide range of street parking spaces should be available.
Summit Hill: Historic Neighborhood with Great Parking
The Saint Paul community of Summit Hill is a scenic area where grand housing meets tree-lined urban landscapes. It provides convenient parking, especially when visiting the James J. Hill House or walking on Summit Avenue.
Street Parking in Summit Hill
Numerous street parking spots are available daily throughout Summit Hill’s main thoroughfare, Summit Avenue, and nearby streets. Most parking spots are free, but you should watch the time limits and avoid spaces marked with residential restrictions. Visitors planning to see the James J. Hill House should check available parking spaces on-site because property parking options are restricted.
Conclusion
Saint Paul offers parking options that adapt to every visitor’s transportation requirements. The city provides multiple cost-effective parking options throughout its centers, from business appointments to Capitol area tours and Como Park activities. A sound parking experience starts with planning, checking signage, and using parking apps to locate optimal deals and availability.