St. Paul, the capital city of Minnesota, is not only rich in history but also full of fun and unique trivia. From its lively neighborhoods to its historic landmarks, there is so much to learn about this vibrant city. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, you’ll find that St. Paul has plenty of interesting facts waiting to be uncovered. Have you ever wondered about the origin of its name or the stories behind some of its famous buildings? This city has a lot to offer beyond the usual tourist spots.
Today, we will share some fascinating trivia about St. Paul that will surprise you. Did you know that the city was originally called “Pig’s Eye” after a local tavern owner? Or that it is home to one of the largest collections of murals in the United States? These fun facts and more will give you a better understanding of what makes St. Paul special. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at your next trivia night or just want to learn something new, this trivia about St. Paul is sure to entertain and inform!
Trivia St Paul
Whimsical Wonders of St Paul
1. What is the oldest standing building in St. Paul? (Answer: The Alexander Ramsey House)
2. Who was St. Paul named after? (Answer: Saint Paul of Thebes)
3. What river runs through St. Paul? (Answer: The Mississippi River)
4. Which famous park in St. Paul was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted? (Answer: Como Park)
5. In what year did St. Paul become the capital of Minnesota? (Answer: 1849)
6. How many bridges connect St. Paul to Minneapolis? (Answer: 12)
7. What is the name of the historic theater that opened in 1921? (Answer: The Fitzgerald Theater)
8. St. Paul is known for which famous annual festival celebrating winter? (Answer: The St. Paul Winter Carnival)
9. How many murals are featured in St. Paul’s collection? (Answer: Over 2,000)
10. What landmark is known as the tallest building in St. Paul? (Answer: The Wells Fargo Place)
Charming People of St Paul
1. Who is a famous author that originated from St. Paul? (Answer: F. Scott Fitzgerald)
2. What popular actor known for his comedy was born in St. Paul? (Answer: Louie Anderson)
3. Which U.S. president was born in Minnesota and often visited St. Paul? (Answer: Calvin Coolidge)
4. What famous musician famously said, “The Minnesota sound” came from St. Paul? (Answer: Prince)
5. What pioneering woman of aviation is associated with St. Paul? (Answer: Charles Lindbergh’s mother, Evangeline Lindbergh)
6. Which renowned explorer is linked to the early history of St. Paul? (Answer: Zebulon Pike)
7. What legendary boxer spent time training in St. Paul? (Answer: Muhammad Ali)
8. Who is the famous African American civil rights leader that has strong ties to St. Paul? (Answer: John Lewis)
9. What influential far-right political figure was raised in St. Paul? (Answer: Michele Bachmann)
10. Who was the first African American mayor of St. Paul? (Answer: Mayor Melvin Carter)
Culinary Delights of St Paul
1. What famous food is St. Paul known for? (Answer: Juicy Lucy burger)
2. What iconic dish do many locals enjoy during the Winter Carnival? (Answer: Hotdish)
3. What annual event in St. Paul celebrates local food and beverages? (Answer: The Taste of Minnesota)
4. Which brewery is known as one of the oldest in St. Paul? (Answer: Schmidt Brewery)
5. What local dish features a combination of tater tots and various toppings? (Answer: Tater Tot Hotdish)
6. What popular ice cream shop is a favorite amongst St. Paul residents? (Answer: Izzy’s Ice Cream)
7. Which type of cuisine has a large presence in St. Paul’s food scene? (Answer: Scandinavian)
8. What dessert is a must-try when visiting St. Paul? (Answer: Swedish Glogg)
9. St. Paul is home to many food trucks. What is their popular name? (Answer: Food on Wheels)
10. What local coffee is highly praised by residents? (Answer: Peace Coffee)
Historical Highlights of St Paul
1. What war significantly impacted St. Paul’s growth? (Answer: The Civil War)
2. What was the original name of St. Paul, referencing a local tavern? (Answer: Pig’s Eye)
3. In which year was the first newspaper published in St. Paul? (Answer: 1849)
4. What historic building served as the first capitol in Minnesota? (Answer: The Old State Capitol)
5. What event, taking place annually, commemorates the city’s history? (Answer: The St. Paul Historical Society’s Annual Dinner)
6. Who was the famous abolitionist that gave speeches in St. Paul? (Answer: Frederick Douglass)
7. What significant transportation development contributed to St. Paul’s growth in the 19th century? (Answer: The railroad)
8. What is the name of the original Native American tribe in the St. Paul area? (Answer: Dakota Sioux)
9. In what decade did the ice industry flourish in St. Paul? (Answer: The 1900s)
10. What significant fair was held in St. Paul in 1884? (Answer: The World’s Fair)
Vibrant Culture of St Paul
1. What well-known art venue is located in St. Paul? (Answer: The Walker Art Center)
2. What type of music event is held at the State Capitol every summer? (Answer: The Capital Concerts)
3. What annual event showcases St. Paul’s cultural diversity? (Answer: The St. Paul Festival of Nations)
4. What local theater is known for supporting new plays? (Answer: The Penumbra Theatre)
5. What popular film festival takes place in St. Paul? (Answer: The Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival)
6. What is the name of the famous local magazine that focuses on arts and culture? (Answer: City Pages)
7. Which annual celebration includes a parade, music, and food trucks from different cultures? (Answer: The Twin Cities Pride Festival)
8. What farmer’s market in St. Paul is known for its organic produce? (Answer: The St. Paul Farmer’s Market)
9. What festival promotes local artists and crafts in St. Paul? (Answer: The St. Paul Art Crawl)
10. What art installation is a prominent feature near the Mississippi River in St. Paul? (Answer: The “Walking Man” sculpture)
Noteworthy Landmarks of St Paul
1. What is the iconic building that houses Minnesota’s government? (Answer: The Minnesota State Capitol)
2. Which famous park is known for its beautiful gardens and zoo? (Answer: Como Park Zoo and Conservatory)
3. What historic hotel is located on St. Paul’s Rice Street? (Answer: The St. Paul Hotel)
4. What beautiful cathedral is located in the heart of St. Paul? (Answer: The Cathedral of St. Paul)
5. Which historical structure served as a hub for the city’s railroads? (Answer: The Union Depot)
6. What popular site in St. Paul features a large amphitheater? (Answer: The RiverCentre)
7. What museum highlights the history of the Minnesota Vikings? (Answer: The Minnesota Sports Hall of Fame)
8. The Stone Arch Bridge connects which two cities? (Answer: Minneapolis and St. Paul)
9. Where can you find a giant statue of Alexander Ramsey? (Answer: The Ramsey County Courthouse)
10. What famous landmark of St. Paul is known for its wrought iron design? (Answer: The Wabasha Street Bridge)
Enchanting Events of St Paul
1. What annual celebration includes activities like ice sculpture contests in winter? (Answer: The St. Paul Winter Carnival)
2. Which event offers a popular street fair with local food and music? (Answer: The Grand Old Day)
3. What Halloween-themed event takes place at Como Park? (Answer: The Halloween Haunt)
4. Which event celebrates the arrival of spring through local arts and crafts? (Answer: The St. Paul Art Fair)
5. What sporting event features local marathon runners in St. Paul? (Answer: The Twin Cities Marathon)
6. What winter-themed event features snowshoeing and outdoor activities? (Answer: Winter in the Wilderness)
7. What educational event aims to raise awareness on environmental issues? (Answer: The EcoFun Fest)
8. Which event focuses on diverse cultural performances and foods? (Answer: The Festival of Nations)
9. What major craft fair occurs annually in the fall in St. Paul? (Answer: The American Craft Council’s Craft Show)
10. What fall festivities are known for pumpkin patches and family-friendly activities? (Answer: The Pumpkin Festival)
Final Thoughts
St. Paul is a city rich with history, culture, and vibrant community events. From the unique origin of its name to its diverse festivals, there’s an endless list of facts and trivia that highlight the character of this capital city. The array of famous people, amazing landmarks, and culinary delights truly make St. Paul a notable place. Exploring these fun facts can enhance your appreciation of this incredible city.
If you are interested in learning more about other cities like St. Paul, don’t miss out on exploring the trivia for St. Pete at Trivia St Pete or dive into more about the state with Minnesota trivia at Minnesota Trivia.
The charm and character of St. Paul continue to make it a special destination worth exploring.