One of the best things to do in the Twin Cities is to visit the breathtaking Cathedral of Saint Paul. Located on the corner of Selby and Summit Ave, in St. Paul, Minnesota, this cathedral is home to the Shrine of the Nations. The Shrine honors the national patron of saints of many ethnic groups and immigrants who settled in Minnesota.
This monument of faith welcomes 200,000 guests and visitors annually. And tens of thousands make the pilgrimage to the Twin Cities to enjoy the spiritual benefits of the Shrine of the Nations. That’s because the Vatican established a bond of spiritual affinity between the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome and the Cathedral of Saint Paul and Shrine of the Nations in Minnesota. This is equivalent to praying at the tomb of the Apostle Paul in Rome.
A local’s guide to the Cathedral of Saint Paul, the Shrine of the Nations and FAQs
If you’re considering a visit to the Twin Cities or are a Minnesota local looking for a European-like experience without leaving the state, I highly recommend touring the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the Shrine of the Nations. Here are a few frequently asked questions and answers.
Is the Cathedral of Saint Paul open to the public? Does the Cathedral of Saint Paul in St. Paul, Minn. offer tours? Can I tour the Cathedral of Saint Paul on my own?
Open to the public, the Cathedral of Saint Paul in St. Paul, Minn. offers weekday one-hour tours Tuesday through Friday with the exception of holy days and civil holidays. The church is also an active place to worship so tours may be canceled for other reasons. You can also visit on your own and take a self-guided tour.
Note: Large groups should call and reserve time in advance.
When is the Cathedral of Saint Paul open to the public?
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is regularly open Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 12 to 6 p.m., and Sunday 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
What time is mass at the Cathedral of Saint Paul?
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is an active place of worship so please be respectful and time your visit outside of mass times.
- Monday through Friday: 7:30 a.m.
- Saturday: 5:15 p.m.
- Sunday: 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12 p.m. and 5 p.m.
- Confessions: Monday through Friday 3:45 to 5 p.m. and Saturday 3:30 to 5 p.m.
Where is the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the Shrine of the Nations located?
The Cathedral of Saint Paul and the Shrine of the Nations is located at 239 Selby Avenue, on the corner of Selby and Summit Avenue, in St. Paul, Minn.
Is parking available at the Cathedral of Saint Paul?
Yes, free parking is located directly across the street from the Cathedral of Saint Paul on the corner of Selby and Summit Ave. in St. Paul, Minn. You’ll also find lots of curbside parking on Summit Ave – the prettiest street in Minnesota.
What is the Shrine of the Nations?
The Shrine of the Nations is a Catholic church that meets certain criteria and is recognized for its cultural, historical and religious significance.
The Cathedral of Saint Paul became a National Shrine of the Apostle Paul by the Vatican in 2012. As noted earlier, this means a bond of spiritual affinity was created between the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome and Cathedral of Saint Paul. The Cathedral of Saint Paul actually possesses a stone from the ancient wall that surrounds the tomb of Saint Paul in Rome, a gift from the Vatican. In essence, you are receiving the same spiritual benefits as if you were praying at the site of Apostle Paul’s tomb in Italy.
Who was Saint Paul the Apostle?
Saint Paul was an apostle who spread the teachings of Jesus to the gentiles during the first century. He was not one of the original 12 disciples of Jesus.
How many national shrines located in the United States?
You will find 72 national shrines located throughout the United States.
When was the Cathedral of Saint Paul built?
The current Cathedral of Saint Paul in St. Paul, Minn. was built beginning in 1906, with the cornerstone laid in 1907 and completed in 1915.
However, the origins of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ in Saint Paul by Father Louis Hennepin dates back to 1680. A couple of centuries later – in the mid-1800s – a primitive log cabin served as its place of worship. That’s also when the settlement known as Pig’s Eye was renamed Saint Paul.
What kind of architecture is the Cathedral of Saint Paul in Minnesota?
The style of architecture of the Cathedral of Saint Paul is known as classical renaissance. This cathedral was built and inspired by the original St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, which was designed by Bramante and Michelangelo.
How many chapels are located inside the Cathedral of Saint Paul?
Chapels next to the Cathedral of Saint Paul sanctuary include the Chapel of St. Peter and the Chapel of the Sacred Heart of Jesus as well as six chapels located in the apse (the area of a church with a domed roof).
- St. Anthony of Padua
- St. John the Baptist
- St. Patrick
- St. Boniface
- Saints Cyril and Methodius
- St. Therese, aka The Little Flower
How tall is the Cathedral of Saint Paul in Minnesota?
The Cathedral of Saint Paul majestically sits on a hill overlooking the city of St. Paul, Minn. The church is 307 feet long and 216 feet wide and seats 3,000 to 4,000 parishioners. The height of the dome ceiling reaches 186 feet while the cross on the dome extends to about 307 feet.
How much are tickets to tour the Cathedral of Saint Paul and Shrine of Nations? Does it cost anything to visit the Cathedral of Saint Paul?
No, it does not cost anything to visit or tour the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul. However, they do appreciate a $2 donation per person (and feel free to donate more).
Can you take photos inside the Cathedral of Saint Paul?
Yes, you may take photos without the flash inside the Cathedral of Saint Paul. If you’re taking photos with your mobile device, make sure you turn it to silent when inside the sanctuary especially.
However, you may not take photos during liturgies or other events. Additionally, photo shoots using the Cathedral of Saint Paul as a backdrop to photographing people are not allowed. Exceptions are made for wedding parties.
You can schedule professional photography shoots with the Cathedral of Saint Paul.
While the Cathedral belongs to everyone, please be respectful as it is a sacred place of worship. See their website for more photography guidelines.
Does the Cathedral of Saint Paul have a visitor center? A gift shop? A museum?
Yes, you will find the Cathedral of Saint Paul visitor center, gift shop, and museum on the lower level. Hours vary depending on volunteer availability.
Are public restrooms available at the Cathedral of Saint Paul?
Yes, you can find public restrooms inside the Cathedral of Saint Paul in the main level and lower level.
Are there other points of interest near the Cathedral of Saint Paul?
Yes, you are near several points of interest and cool things to do when visiting the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the Shrine of Nations in St. Paul, Minn.
As a guest of the Minnesota Historical Society, I took 10 Twin Cities history walking tours in the summer and fall of 2019. Several of the St. Paul walking tours with the Minnesota Historical Society focused on the gorgeous Summit Ave. and Cathedral Hill neighborhoods. Local guides shared stories about the social history and architecture.
Architectural masterpieces such as St. Paul’s own Downton Abbey, the historic James J. Hill House (located diagonally across from the Cathedral of Saint Paul), to a couple of St. Paul native F. Scott Fitzgerald’s homes and stomping grounds (including a National Historic Landmark) to many more gilded mansions and architectural wonders all line the iconic Summit Ave.
Things to do and see near the Cathedral of Saint Paul in St. Paul, Minn.
See my related posts:
- Prettiest street in the Twin Cities: The historic and beautiful homes of Summit Ave.
- Behind the scenes of the James J. Hill House – St. Paul’s own Downton Abbey
- The top 10 history walking tours in the Twin Cities – Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minn.
Other great things to do near the Cathedral of Saint Paul include:
- Minnesota State Capital
- Minnesota Wild hockey games or concerts at the Xcel Energy Center (you can actually see it from the Cathedral of Saint Paul).
- Minnesota Children’s Museum
- Science Museum of Minnesota
- Minnesota Historical Society
- Dakota County Historical Society
- Minnesota Museum of American Art
- Bell Museum
- Twin City Model Railroad Museum
- Minnesota Transportation Museum
- Fort Snelling State Park
- Alexander Ramsey House
If you have any additional questions about visiting the Cathedral of Saint Paul, the Shrine of the Nations, or the Twin Cities in general, please leave a note in the comments section below or contact me online.
Pin it for later –  Guide to the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the Shrine of the Nations
I had not heard of the Shrine of the Nations before, so this was an interesting read. Thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome and my pleasure. The Cathedral of Saint Paul in Minnesota is so beautiful…love the history and architecture. It’s a moving experience to visit.
Wow, I had no idea this Cathedral was in St. Paul, MN. Looks gorgeous, thanks for including visiting and mass hours, too. Another great state park ~40 minutes away is Willow River State Park in Wisconsin.
Thank you. The Cathedral of St. Paul in the Twin Cities is so beautiful. Love Willow River State Park!
This cathedral is so beautiful! I love visiting beautiful churches and would love to see it in person. that is really cool that the design was inspired by the Basilica in Rome.
Thank you! I love visiting churches like the Cathedral of Saint Paul. Love the architecture and history.
This is a great guide to visiting this cathedral! It looks like it should be in Europe so I’m loving the architecture here. Thanks for sharing these tips on visiting!
Thank you and my pleasure! The Cathedral of Saint Paul is very reminiscent of European cathedrals.
I did not realize such a magnificent cathedral was in St. Paul. It’s as beautiful as those cathedrals throughout Europe. I love the marble and terrazzo columns.
I agree! The Cathedral of Saint Paul in the Twin Cities is breathtaking.
This looks like a gorgeous cathedral to visit in St. Paul / the Twin Cities! Love the history of it and hope I can visit one day!
I hope you get the opportunity to tour the Cathedral of Saint Paul. It’s one of the top things to do in the Twin Cities and Minnesota.
The Cathedral at St. Paul’s is stunning. I know I would love walking around to see all the statues but I’d also love just taking in the sanctuary.
Thank you! The Cathedral of St. Paul in the Twin Cities is stunning. It’s also a beautiful and peaceful place for prayer and reflection.
What a beautiful cathedral! I like visiting older chrurches. The architecture is wonderful and they are all so different.
Thank you! I love visiting old churches and cathedrals. Grateful I took the time to visit the Cathedral of Saint Paul on my Minnesota staycation. Mesmerizing!
Visiting Saint Paul’s cathedral would be a beautiful place to see! So cool it has symbolism as if going to Rome.
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is so beautiful-love all the detail. It is one of the top things to do when visiting the Twin Cities in Minnesota.
My mom taught me to love the architecture of beautiful churches. I would really love to visit the Cathedral of St. Paul and then visit the home of F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Love that she shared that with you. I think you would love the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the F.Scott Fitzgerald’s homes and old stomping grounds where he lived and wrote.
Wow, it is a very magnificent cathedral. If I hadn’t read the post, I would have thought the photos were taken somewhere in Europe.
Thank you! So blessed this architectural masterpiece is so close to me. Love the beautiful Cathedral of St. Paul in Minnesota.
What a detailed post. This cathedral reminds me so much of the cathedrals all over Europe as well. Nice that you don’t have to go so far from home to visit it!
Thank you! It is so nice that the Cathedral of Saint Paul is so close to me here in Minnesota – one of my favorite things to do in the Twin Cities.
What a beautiful cathedral! It looks like it belongs in Europe somewhere, so I was surprised when you said it was in Minnesota! I feel like you could spend hours here in peace just looking at the beautiful architecture 🙂
Yes! The beautiful Cathedral of Saint Paul is a very serene and peaceful place of worship. One of the best things to do in Minnesota.
I am always blown away with the architecture. The vision and design put in to this beautiful cathedral is amazing.
Same here! So much creativity, vision, and craftsmanship to build such stunning architecture like the Cathedral of Saint Paul in the Twin Cities.
Goodness what an beautiful cathedral! It’s funny, I grew up near amazing buildings like this in the UK…but I never expect to see them in the United States too. The Cathedral of Saint Paul is just as gorgeous as the fabulous Cathedrals back in Europe. 🙂
Thank you! I agree! I think the Cathedral of Saint Paul here in Minnesota is just as beautiful as those I’ve toured in Europe.
What a beautiful cathedral – and I had no idea it was here in the Midwest!
Thank you! It is a beautiful cathedral in St. Paul, Minnesota.
This cathedral looks so majestic! I love all the details and the statues. Thanks for this guide!
Thank you and my pleasure! I also love all the beautiful details and stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Saint Paul in the Twin Cities.
What a beautiful cathedral! Really interesting read, thank you 🙂
Thank you. So much intricate detail in the Cathedral of Saint Paul.
The cathedral of St Paul is stunning! I love how intricate all the details are. Thanks for such detailed great information!
You’re welcome and my pleasure. Love sharing the beautiful Cathedral of Saint Paul.
Stunning! Such a great treasure to enjoy!
Thank you! The Cathedral of Saint Paul offers stunning architecture.
The Cathedral is beautiful. We have not been there yet. Looking forward to visiting.
I hope you get the opportunity to visit the Cathedral of Saint Paul in Minnesota. So beautiful.
What a gorgeous cathedral. I enjoy touring them. Such sacred places. And so much to do nearby!
Thank you! Love the beauty, history and architecture of the Cathedral of Saint Paul. One of many cool things to do in the Twin Cities, Minnesota.
What a beautiful cathedral. It was interesting to learn about its history and architectural style. And it was also good to know about other things to see in the area.
Thank you! The Cathedral of Saint Paul in the Twin Cities is so beautiful- love all the architectural details.
These are great photos of the inside of the cathedral. I’m not particularly religious but I do enjoy the art and history. However, I’ve never heard of bonds of spiritual affinity. Are these relatively common and well known? Do they all have some kind of relic from another religious site contained within?
Those are really good questions – will need to research. I agree that the Cathedral of Saint Paul in Minnesota is absolutely stunning!
The cathedral looks impressive and worth visiting, even if only for its architecture and interior design!
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is so beautiful and inspirational.
The Cathedral of Saint Paul looks beautiful and I love the renascence architecture. I’d definitely visit if I was in the twin cities.
I hope you get the opportunity to visit the Twin Cities one day. The Cathedral of Saint Paul is just one of the best things to see.
I’ve never heard about national shrines before. What a fascinating concept. The church looks beautiful!
I hadn’t heard of the National Shrine either until I toured the Saint Paul Cathedral in Minnesota. It’s so beautiful- inside and out.
We stopped by a couple of years ago but did not go inside. Although the outside is gorgeous, I feel like we really missed out on the beautiful inside!
I’ve admired the exterior of the Cathedral of Saint Paul for years. I only learned recently that it is open to the public and that they offer tours.