St. Paul Tour & Mississippi River Cruise

If you’re considering a way to get a good feel for Minnesota’s twin cities without spending an entire day wandering aimlessly, the St. Paul Tour & Mississippi River Cruise might be just what you’re looking for. This experience offers a balanced mix of city sights and scenic river views, all wrapped into a little over five hours of sightseeing. From Victorian mansions and historic landmarks to bald eagles soaring over the Mississippi, it’s designed to give you a snapshot of the area’s charm and history.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of land-based city touring with a relaxing boat cruise—a rare pairing that allows you to see both the urban and natural sides of the area. Plus, with professional guides who bring the stories to life, you’ll get more than just a list of sights; you’ll get some context and background that makes the experience memorable.

That said, there are a few things to consider. The boat is not ADA compliant, which might be a sticking point if you have mobility concerns or are traveling with someone who needs accessible facilities. Also, some reviews mention that the river cruise itself is somewhat underwhelming if you’re expecting dramatic river vistas; it offers more of a peaceful float than a sightseeing extravaganza. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a good combination of history, scenery, and storytelling—but don’t expect a rugged adventure.

This tour suits those who love guided sightseeing combined with scenic cruising and are looking for a value-packed half-day experience. It’s ideal for visitors with limited time, families, or anyone eager to explore the twin cities with a knowledgeable guide at their side.

Key Points

• Combines city sightseeing with a scenic Mississippi River cruise
• Guided by experienced, knowledgeable guides, often praised for their storytelling
• Provides a mix of urban landmarks and natural scenery
• Offers a convenient pickup from a central location (Mall of America)
• The boat cruise may be less engaging for some, especially if expecting dramatic river views
• Cost-effective at $54 per person, offering good value for a half-day tour

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins conveniently at the Mall of America Bus/Shuttle location in Bloomington. This is a smart pick for travelers staying in or near Minneapolis, as the Mall is a major hub and offers easy access via public transportation. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics—no need to worry about navigating to different parts of the city on your own. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, helping keep the experience more personal than a large bus crowd.

The Land Tour: Exploring Saint Paul’s Landmarks

Once onboard, your guide will steer the motorcoach through the streets of Saint Paul, pointing out notable sights along the way. Highlights include Victorian mansions, which reveal the city’s historic wealth and architecture, and the Minnesota State Capitol building, a grand symbol of governance and history. Although you’ll drive past the Capitol without stopping, the guide’s commentary will help you appreciate its significance.

Another highlight is the copper-domed Catholic cathedral, a stunning piece of religious architecture that’s worth noting for its distinctive appearance. The guide’s insights breathe life into these landmarks, transforming mere sights into stories of the city’s past and present.

A key feature of this land segment is the stroll through a historic downtown district for lunch on your own. While the tour doesn’t include the meal, the area offers diverse options—whether you’re craving a quick sandwich, a local brewpub, or a cozy café. It’s a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the city vibe.

The Mississippi River Cruise: A Relaxing Float

After lunch, the tour transitions to its most scenic part—the cruise aboard a boat departing from Harriet Island. The boat itself is described as “a certain age,” which means it might not be fully ADA compliant, and some travelers noted that the cruise is more peaceful than dramatically scenic. Still, you’ll enjoy views of the St. Paul High Bridge, Pig’s Eye Cave, the mouth of the Minnesota River, and Pike Island.

One of the main attractions on the river is the chance to see bald eagles, which several reviews mention as a memorable highlight. The calm water and quiet surroundings allow for some excellent birdwatching, especially if you’re lucky enough to see eagles soaring overhead.

Honest Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers paint a picture of a generally positive experience, with lots of praise for the guides. One reviewer summed it up as, “Our tour guide Doug was a wealth of knowledge and information,” highlighting the importance of a good guide in enriching the experience. Many said it was more than they expected—offering a comprehensive look at both cities and the river.

However, the river cruise did receive some mixed reviews. One traveler said, “The river ride is not worth it. You literally see nothing,” which is an important note for those expecting sweeping river vistas. Conversely, others appreciated the peaceful nature of the cruise and the chance to see eagles.

Practical Aspects and Value

At $54 per person, the tour is priced quite fairly considering it includes both city touring and a river cruise—two experiences that would likely cost more if booked separately. The approximate 5-hour duration makes it a manageable half-day activity, perfect for travelers with tight schedules or those who want an overview without feeling exhausted.

The mobile ticket option and pickup service add convenience, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local transit. Just remember, the boats are not ADA compliant, which might impact travelers with mobility issues, so it’s worth discussing accessibility beforehand.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is a good fit for history buffs, first-time visitors, and those who appreciate guided storytelling. It’s especially suitable if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see the highlights of Saint Paul and Minneapolis without spending a full day or arranging multiple tours. Families, couples, and solo travelers will find value here, especially if they enjoy scenic boat rides and city lore.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

The St. Paul Tour & Mississippi River Cruise offers a solid introduction to Minnesota’s twin cities, blending urban sights with peaceful river views. The tour’s success hinges on knowledgeable guides and a relaxed pace, making it a good choice for those who want a well-rounded, informative experience.

While the river cruise may not be a highlight for everyone, the combination of landmarks, local storytelling, and eagle sightings makes it worth considering. The value for money is strong, especially given the convenience and variety packed into just over five hours.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local history, appreciates scenic views, and doesn’t mind a modest boat ride, this tour is likely to satisfy. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a streamlined, guided overview of the area with minimal fuss.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the Mall of America location, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes, offering a manageable half-day experience.

What is the price? $54 per person, which offers good value considering both land and river experiences.

Are the boats accessible for travelers with mobility issues? No, the boats are not ADA compliant, so travelers with mobility concerns should check with the provider in advance.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, especially if you’ll be outside during the city tour and the boat cruise. Consider bringing binoculars for eagle sightings.

Is lunch included? No, lunch stops are part of your own exploration time; the tour includes a stop in a historic downtown district.

What highlights can I expect on the river cruise? Views of the St. Paul High Bridge, Pig’s Eye Cave, the Minnesota River mouth, Pike Island, and possibly bald eagles.

How many people are in the group? The maximum group size is 50 travelers, helping keep the experience friendly and manageable.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor weather may result in rescheduling or refund.

Who is the tour provider? Gray Line Minnesota, a reputable operator with years of experience in guided tours around the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area.

In the end, this tour offers a good balance of education, scenery, and convenience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to get your bearings or someone looking for a relaxing way to see both the cities and the river, it’s a solid choice—just keep your expectations in check regarding the river cruise’s scope.