Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Minnesota History Center

    4.5 (94 reviews)
    Closed Closed

    Services - Minnesota History Center

    Bartending services

    Catering services

    Post-event cleaning services

    Minnesota History Center Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Minnesota History Center

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Sara F.

    Such a wonderful place for kids and adults alike. They have wonderful permanent displays as well as changing special displays make this a place you can return to over and over. Consider a membership that is good for multiple sites across the state. If you want to just try before you buy, there are free hours one weeknight each week. Check the website to confirm time, day, and all special events.

    Julia Childs on screen.
    Ted R.

    Revised Version Bon Appétit. This exhibit at the Minnesota History Center tells the story of Julia Child's life, from college to the Office of Strategic Services (the precursor to the Central Intelligence Agency) to becoming one of television's first celebrity chefs. Julia's life story is one of adaptation and surprise. She grew up wealthy, went to Smith College, and joined the Office of Strategic Services because she was too tall for the Women's Army Corps (WAC). She was promoted from typist to the Secret Intelligence division. It was in this role that she met her husband, Paul Child, who also worked for the OSS. She later worked in several restaurants, developed recipes, and wrote best-selling cookbooks. Eventually, she became the host of the television show The French Chef, which debuted in 1962. She appeared on television until near the end of her life in 2004. The exhibit at the Minnesota History Center does an excellent job of presenting her entire life story, mostly through photographs and descriptions. It includes many of her cooking implements, handwritten notes, letters, and recipes. There are also several video displays showing episodes of The French Chef. However, I think the highlight of the exhibit is the giant (and I mean GIANT) cookbook display that scrolls through pages of the book. Another highlight is a replica of the kitchen studio she used on her TV show, which was designed by her husband, Paul. When we visited, there were many school groups. However, I don't feel this exhibit is really designed for kids, since most of them would have no idea who Julia Child was--even as a TV chef--since she died more than 20 years ago. I also don't think the exhibit is interactive enough to hold the attention of anyone in high school or younger. That's not really a criticism--just an observation. If I were a parent or school volunteer, I would probably steer kids toward some of the other exhibits in the History Center. One amusing moment came from a kid standing in the kitchen display and yelling, "I'm Gordon Ramsay!" I suspect Julia would have been disappointed in how some cooking shows have evolved since her time--but I have to admit, it was pretty funny.

    History Theater
    Elizabeth W.

    The Minnesota history center is a not so hidden gem in St. Paul. The museum hosts, both permanent and rotating exhibits focusing on differing aspects of Minnesota history. All of the exhibits are fascinating deep insights into topics that you may or may not know about Minnesota. It also has a theater, and that is what true is there last night. LeeAnn Chin's daughter is in town for the weekend performing a solo show about her growing up in Minnesota and her relationship with her mother. That too was excellent. I have been going to the Minnesota history center for years, and and I'm a bit sad that some facets of it has faded away post Covid. The gift store is excellent though a bit smaller. We used to come down to the cafeteria for lunch more often, but I think that post Covid they weren't able to fully support the restaurant in the same way., it just isn't as vibrant as it used to be. Nonetheless, it is so worth coming to the history center any day of the week. And if you're interested, but can't afford the ticket price you can get in for free on Thursday evening evenings.

    Nicole G.

    I hadn't been to the Minnesota History Center since maybe middle school (I think!), but finally made it back to cash in part 1 of my best friend's 1/2 birthday experience gift. We specifically came here for the Julia Child exhibit since we both love to cook and bake, so we were excited to check this out. It ended up being the perfect rainy Saturday activity! The building is big, beautiful, and super clean. I also love the location of the history center in St. Paul-- so easy to get to. Parking was great as well as its onsite and a minimal fee was required. Prices overall were reasonable to get in. There's a ton to explore and I loved wondering the Julia Child exhibit. Learning about random facts about her life that I had no idea about. I'd have to say the section with the cookbooks and the kitchen area was my favorite. We took our time and didn't feel rushed at all. The gift shop was also fun to browse. We were surprised they didn't have any Julia Child cookbooks for sale. Overall, it was a great time and I'm looking forward to visiting again sometime in the future.

    Sudan Mine experience
    Kathleen R.

    Went to the Minnesota Historical Society to see the Julia Child exhibit and it was a real hoot. Saw all the other exhibits too, because, why not? A nice day to spend time with friends while learning too, because adulting is hard. Ate at the cafe in the building and we all had wild rice soup, because when in Minnesota, right?

    Lisa S.

    A beautiful space in the heart of St Paul. I love the architecture, open stairways, and windows to frame the city views. I attended a speaker event that was related to their current exhibit Girlhood, It's Complicated. I appreciate how the speakers relate to their exhibits to provide additional education. The speaker event was very well done. I liked the exhibit. I could easily replace the 1980s basketball team pic with my own and you would never know the difference. Being a huge basketball fan, I appreciated the attention given to our amazing local talent. Great exhibit on menstruation as well. It's part of life. Why should anyone be afraid to talk about it. I didn't have a lot of time to see the other exhibits but I did like the feel of being in a mine and bellying up to the soda counter. Fun few hours.

    Nahree K.

    I visited the Minnesota history center last Saturday to see the Mill city Quartet perform music by women composers for women's history month. Parking was spacious and available for $6. When I walked in, I was immediately in love with the space: it felt warm and inviting and the natural beauty of the building was breathtaking. The auditorium is an acoustic delight, and the performance was so captivating. I appreciate their diverse programming and free events offered throughout the month. There was an exhibit by the Smithsonian on girlhood and women's history, and other informational exhibits about the various historical elements of Minnesota's development. I can't wait to come back and see the other exhibits!

    Learning about the different parts of the bison.
    Scott P.

    One of the best history museums I've ever been to. Big, beautiful building, immaculately clean, friendly staff, and well thought out, informative exhibits. My girlfriend, nine year old son and I came here on a Saturday morning in March. We are from NJ and loved learning about Minnesotan history. It wasn't crowded at all and we were able to enjoy all of the exhibits at a leisurely pace, including the special exhibit about Charles Schulz, hometown hero and creator of the comic strip Peanuts. My son especially enjoyed the tornado room, the mining section, grain elevator playground, and learning about how native Americans used the different parts of the bison. Definitely recommended for people who enjoy history and for people with children.

    Minnesota Historical Society - History Center
    Mary T.

    A couple of months go, I had found out about the Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz exhibit on FOX 9 Good Day. As someone grew up reading Peanuts comic strip, it made sense to check it out. I purchased a ticket online. It was $12. You get a receipt, which is your ticket. This exhibit runs until June 9, 2024 at the Minnesota History Center. I dropped by early last month on a Sunday afternoon. It was a gloomy, rainy day. It was perfect to be indoors. I had no problem heading over to the downtown Saint Paul area. I am kind of used to it because I see Wild hockey games at Xcel Energy Center. Minnesota History Center is close by. The first thing I noticed was a clear view of the Minnesota State Capitol. I would learn later that you can view it well inside the Minnesota History Center itself! I found the parking lot. It's $6 for parking. I paid with a credit card with the help of the parking attendant. Done! No one checks your ticket. It's the honour system. There is a ticket counter where you can purchase tickets if you didn't have a chance to get them online. The Schulz exhibit was excellent. It's a self-guided tour where you get to see Peanuts comic strips and their characters, and fascinating details about them and the cartoonist. I loved a map that pinpointed Schulz's life and where he lived in the Twin Cities. I learned about how comic strips were coloured before they went digital. I also loved that every Peanuts character got a special profile, including when it was first introduced, its character profile, the history behind the character's development, and comic strips featuring that character. Excellent! Charlie Brown was the first character that Schulz introduced in October 2, 1950. He felt that he was an ordinary looking person in appearance. When he developed Charlie Brown, he made the character have a round, ordinary face. This centre has other exhibits that were equally fun and informative: - Our home: Native Minnesota - Then and Now - Weather Permitting Our home: Native Minnesota put the spotlight on each nation and its culture. I learned about its struggles, the need to preserve their customs and culture, and more. Seeing how detailed their clothes were for various ceremonies and personal accounts from Native Minnesotans was amazing and thought-provoking. This exhibit was excellent. Then and Now was the most interactive out of the exhibits. You could simulate being a miner by drilling and working in an underground iron mine. There was a teepee that you could explore. I liked standing next to the Jolly Green Giant. It was a feat trying to pose for a photo with it because I looked so tiny! There is an actual Jolly Green Giant statue in Blue Earth, MN. It's apparently 55 feet high and green. Weather Permitting is exactly what you think the exhibit's theme is about. It's warm in the summer in the state, but can get super frigid in the winter. I learned about the weather ball on top of the Northwestern National Bank building. The ball changed colour based on the weather condition. The ball died in 1982. Both the building and ball were demolished in 2000. This centre has stairs and elevators. It's a stunning building architecturally. It was enjoyable walking around it. There were also washrooms that were well-maintained. I visited the museum shop. I finally found a Minnesota keychain that has my name on a replica licence plate. I was thrilled! I also got a small Snoopy pouch and a cute Minnesota state plushie. The woman at the payment counter was extremely nice and personable. I paid with a credit card and got a small paper bag for my items. I thanked her and headed out the door. The centre closes at 4 pm on Sundays. There is a cafe, Market Place, that you pass by between the parking lot and the actual center. It closes an hour before the center does, which I found a bit sad. I feel that they should both close at the same time, likely because I hadn't had lunch yet! I will be getting a membership to the Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS). I had a fabulous time. It makes sense to support the society's efforts putting together the research and artifacts behind the exhibits. A membership provides free admission to 26 historic sites and museums in the state. You also get free parking at the Minnesota History Center and Historic Fort Snelling. I also like the 10% discount at all MNHS museum stores an its online store. It's a steal to show your support for MNHS. If you are looking for a touristy place that is fun and affordable, come here. I look forward to returning. I had an excellent experience. (357)

    Soda fountain shelves
    Michele B.

    Fantastic first visit to the history center in St Paul. Went for the current Snoopy/Shultz exhibit stayed for all of the other amazing experiences and information! Really enjoyed all of the exhibits! When we toured it included Life & Art of Charles Schulz, Our Home Native MN, Then Now Wow, Grainland, Weather zPermitting, and Minnesotas Greatest Generation. Each one had a standout item for everyone in our group! Tracing Snoopy, the Sod House exhibit, D-day transport plane, the iron ore mine, the fur post, stories in a tipi, 1930s soda fountain, climbing up a grain elevator, learning about the Native peoples! So many great interactive exhibits all on one floor! Check this fabulous museum out!! Free parking behind the building. I had a difficult time navigating that for some reason. Navigating the exhibits was much easier!

    Travis H.

    Fun times are always had at the History Center! We decided to go to "free" day and we had a good time. We checked out some cool exhibits and had some fun as well. They do a great job on showing you the history of Minnesota and what makes us great. 2 best exhibits: the tornado one and the world war 2 airplane one. They explain history very well and make you feel like you're actually there. Parking can be tight on busier days but plenty to do around there.

    Mine replica

    Went to the Minnesota Historical Society to see the Julia Child exhibit and enjoyed it. Saw all the other exhibits too. A nice day to spend time with friends while learning too. Ate at the cafe in the building and we all had wild rice soup - a Minnesota tradition.

    Caitlyn S.

    This has been one of my favorite Saint Paul stops since I was a kid. It's such an incredible experiential museum - so interactive and informative. Perfect for kids *and* adults. And with admission only $12 for non-members, it remains an affordable option for a fun experience. This time, I came for the Sherlock Holmes exhibit, which is a must see! It's gorgeous, informative, and you get to solve an actual mystery. What could be better?! I loved that it went deep into the history of Holmes and the real science behind the books, and I enjoyed how visually stunning it was. Getting to do stamps in the passport, rubbings of evidence, and recreate the scene was so fun! Even though it was a busy Saturday, it wasn't packed. Plenty of room to distance. Some other must-sees are the tornado simulator, the D-Day parachuting immersive exhibit (and the Greatest Generation exhibit as a whole), and the mining exhibit. A real treat for kids and grownups alike, and a great spot to go solo or with a group. If you have time, check out the Gale Library. But be forewarned, you might spend the day in there alone. Parking is a steal at $6.

    Tornado Exhibit

    See all

    13 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    21 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    16 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 13
    Thanks 2
    Love this 14
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ed L.
    992
    2767
    10464

    2 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Fun Very fun I am 13 and went there with family and it was cool to interact with the things there. It was fun

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Leslie D.
    5000
    343
    36622

    6 years ago

    Helpful 31
    Thanks 0
    Love this 36
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Amy R.
    342
    1514
    1364

    15 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Gary K.
    2
    71
    81

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jason K.
    547
    1934
    1328

    17 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    18 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Pretty good museum. They had lots of different exhibits. Nice pace to get out of the weather.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Minnesota History Center

    Review Highlights - Minnesota History Center

    Went to the Minnesota Historical Society to see the Julia Child exhibit and it was a real hoot.

    Mentioned in 4 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Museums 1,054 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    James J Hill Center

    James J Hill Center

    4.6
    (16 reviews)

    The Reading Room is an excellent space for an intimate wedding. There were about 150 guests and the…read moreceremony took place in the front of the room, with elegant tables behind for the plated dinner reception. Waitstaff circulated with hors d'oeuvres as we waited in the receiving line, keeping everyone engaged. I loved the library theme, from the Save The Date library book cards to the tables identified by famous authors. We were seated at Dickens, our dinner preferences printed out on beautiful bookmarks. The three-story ceilings are reached by massive bookshelves with upstairs hallways for reaching those high books. The flowers were gorgeous and organic and the catered food was delicious from salad to dessert. It's not an inexpensive venue, but it is warm and intimate once you get here. We ran into detours, slow trains, and closed roads so we had our Uber let us out about a 1/4 mile away because we were about to be late. We literally made it in as the ceremony started. Road construction, closed roads, detours, and slow freight trains don't show up on your travel map!

    A stunning interior historic space and building. If I were doing research here, I think I'd find it…read morevery enjoyable. Using it as a meeting space wasn't the greatest, since the speakers had power point presentations with lots of writing, and because the seating had to be deep and narrow, it was hard for those in the back. Sound also was splotchy, and the bathrooms are small and at the front, so you have to walk in front of everyone to reach them. As a stop to see something beautiful--it's a must if you're in this city.

    Minnesota History Center - museums - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...