Whether it’s a brisk winter eve or a soothing summer morn, St. Paul provides ample opportunity for visitors to enjoy an evening out, whether it’s strolling along the reflective waters of the Mississippi or navigating the bustle of the city’s downtown for grub and entertainment. Planning a night out can leave some with sweaty palms, struggling to find the best activity for an enjoyable evening. From the casual to the spooky, St. Paul isn’t short on fun activities that create lasting memories. Struggling to put together an evening itinerary? Here are some ideas for you.

Get Lost in an Entertainment Wonderland

A one-stop shop for all things fun sounds too good to be true, but St. Paul’s Can Can Wonderland is no figment of the imagination. The expansive space is brimming with activities perfect for an evening get-together, from 18 holes of whimsical mini-golf to an arcade floor stocked with over 150 free-play machines. Who can resist competing for the high score on a classic pinball machine? Catch Can Can on the right night, and you can add live entertainment to the mix. Brave the spotlight with an evening of karaoke or enjoy the sounds of a live musical artist. Can Can offers events for all tastes, making it a go-to destination for the perfect night out for all personalities.

Cozy Up on a Ghost Tour

The haunted Chauncey Griggs Mansion in St. Paul – Copyright US Ghost Adventures

The haunted Chauncey Griggs Mansion in St. Paul – Copyright US Ghost Adventures Horror movies are often the go-to staple for a night out, but why watch a fictional tale unfold when you can walk where true horrors lie? A St. Paul ghost tour navigates the darkness of Minnesota’s capital, with stops at haunted hotspots like the Chauncey Griggs Mansion and the Fitzgerald Theater. Follow a knowledgeable guide as they uncover the grim realities of St. Paul’s past, with eerie ghost stories and spooky accounts of run-ins with the other side. Like some of the other suggestions on this list, a ghost walk is a low-cost experience that you can enjoy alone or with friends or colleagues. This one’s made even cheaper with promo code CANNA10, which saves 10% off your ghost tour of St. Paul that blends history with the unknown. Lift the veil at iconic landmarks and haunted locations for a once-in-a-lifetime nighttime activity that’s sure to stick with you.

Spend the Night at the Park

Night shot of the fountain statue in Como Park – Public Domain

Night shot of the fountain statue in Como Park – Public Domain Many parks are better suited for daytime fun, but Como Regional Park keeps its grounds open until 11 p.m. nightly to cater to those who want to enjoy a stroll under the stars. Walk along more than 2 miles of paved trails or simply admire the beauty of St. Paul and Como Lake as the sun sets behind the Como Conservatory. Pay attention to the park’s event calendar, and you may even catch local talent serenading a crowd. Shortly after the arrival of spring and just before the first signs of autumn, Lake Como offers evening rides in glowing swan boats. Of course, a picnic on the manicured grounds beneath the cosmos can be just as beautiful, no pedaling or hard exercise required.

Catch a Live Performance

Throughout St. Paul, many venues host a variety of live entertainment, from musical acts to stage productions of beloved favorites and quirky originals. Share an appreciation of the arts at the Ordway and Park Square Theatre, or enjoy an evening of local acts and lesser-known artists at the Amsterdam Bar & Hall. Locations like the Palace Theatre bring in bigger acts, while the Grand Casino Arena welcomes everything from Minnesota Wild NHL games to AAA performers. Choosing which venue works for your St. Paul night out is all about budget and preference. Looking for a more intimate experience with a partner? Then the Amsterdam Bar & Hall may be better suited for a date. Always wanted to go to Broadway? The Ordway has you covered with an experience pulled right from New York City. There’s something for everyone in the Saintly City.

Grab a Bite at a Local Favorite

In the heart of Minnesota’s capital, you will have no issue finding the perfect establishment to sit down and enjoy a quiet evening. Examples include highly rated favorites like The St. Paul Grill, a steakhouse with a menu that’s as rich as its furnishings; Meritage, serving up French cuisine for refined palates; and Tongue in Cheek, for something on the more casual side. Should you find yourself downtown, you’ll have your pick of virtually anything. Do you love sandwiches? Try the locally renowned Afro Deli. From pizzas to burgers and everything in between, Downtown St. Paul can satisfy all tastes and cravings.