Cathedral of Saint Paul (Minnesota)
Church Grand domed Roman Catholic cathedral and St. Paul landmark
Saint Paul’s Cathedral in Minnesota presents a large copper dome and classical interiors; tourists visit for city views, organ recitals and its role as the archdiocesan seat.
The Cathedral of Saint Paul in St. Paul, Minnesota, is the cathedral church of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis and a prominent early 20th-century basilica. Construction was carried out under architect Emmanuel Louis Masqueray and completed in 1915.
The building is known for its large dome, classical forms and richly finished interior marble and mosaics, which draw visitors for both worship and architectural interest. Its elevated site makes the dome visible across the downtown and river valley.
Construction took place in the early 1900s and the completed cathedral was dedicated in 1915; it has served as the archdiocesan seat since then. The design and materials reflect Beaux-Arts and classical influences promoted by its architect.
The cathedral stands on Cathedral Hill in the city of St. Paul, overlooking the Mississippi River and close to the downtown area.
- Viewing point: Best external views are from Cathedral Hill and the nearby Mississippi River bluffs, where the dome dominates the skyline.
How to Get to Cathedral of Saint Paul (Minnesota) #
The cathedral is on Cathedral Hill at 239 Selby Ave, about a 10-15 minute walk north of downtown Saint Paul and 5 minutes by taxi. From downtown Minneapolis, it’s 10-15 minutes by car across the river; regional buses stop within a short walk.
Tips for Visiting Cathedral of Saint Paul (Minnesota) #
- Walk the Cathedral Hill steps north of downtown for the best exterior photos at golden hour.
- Check the cathedral's website for organ concert dates - the pipe organ is a highlight.
- Arrive early on summer mornings to avoid tour buses and hear the city's cathedral bells uninterrupted.
Best Time to Visit Cathedral of Saint Paul (Minnesota) #
Late spring through early autumn offers pleasant weather and the chance to hear outdoor bell concerts; winter brings snow-dusted romanticism but limited walking comfort.
Weather & Climate near Cathedral of Saint Paul (Minnesota) #
Cathedral of Saint Paul (Minnesota)'s climate is classified as Hot-Summer Continental - Hot-Summer Continental climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -16°C to 29°C. Moderate rainfall (761 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -5°C and lows of -16°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -12°C. The driest month with just 19 mm and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -5°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 14°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (112 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 17°C. Significant rainfall (104 mm).
Comfort
Weather
August
August is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 16°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -12°C. Light rainfall and mostly overcast skies.