Saint Paul, MN

If you consider yourself a culinary aficionado, you'll definitely enjoy living in an apartment near downtown St. Paul. Some of Minnesota's most distinctive restaurants are located in this area, including urban Italian Pazzaluna and the award-winning French eatery Meritage. However, only the St. Paul Grill receives the distinction of being named the city's best restaurant year after year. The food at the St. Paul Grill may be placed firmly in the classic American category, but its preparation by some of Minnesota's finest chefs lends even its basic burgers a feeling of class.

St. Paul is a foodie paradise, but you don't have to be big on organic or local food to enjoy the local dining scene. If you're a fan of old school eateries, you'll love the iconic Mickey's Diner. The tiny restaurant is based in an old-fashioned dining car, giving it a unique vibe you won't find anywhere else. From burgers and fries to chocolate malts, you can enjoy all of your favorites at Mickey's. If, however, you're in the mood for the rare delight of an amazingly greasy pizza, be sure to stop by Red's Savoy Pizza. The most alluring greasy food in the Cities, however, is found at the Minnesota State Fair, where, for two weeks every summer, you can enjoy every imaginable culinary creation on a stick.

For the past several decades, getting around in the Twin Cities has been far easier for those equipped with cars. However, St. Paul cherishes an impressive transportation history; residents are eager to return the local transit system to its former glory. The early stages of this endeavor are being accomplished through improvements to the city bus system, as well as the addition of a light rail line connecting St. Paul to Minneapolis. This transit expansion ensures that, no matter which apartment you call home, you'll have no trouble getting where you need to go.

Union Depot serves as a transportation hub in St. Paul, connecting Amtrak trains, city buses and such regional bus networks as Greyhound and Jefferson. The historic structure serves as a cultural destination in its own right, with visitors coming from far away to marvel at Union Depot's wonderful architecture and historic splendor.

With a wide array of trendy boutiques and sophisticated consignment shops, St. Paul is a fashion lover's paradise! Anyone with an apartment in the Grand Avenue area is blessed to have the best Twin Cities shopping right at his or her doorstep. Women on the hunt for unique vintage items enjoy exploring the vast array of styles at My Sister's Closet, while those struggling to find trendy plus size clothing seek solace at Bombshell.

Grand Avenue may be St. Paul's classiest shopping destination, but it serves as just one of several options for local fashionistas. Antique obsessives prefer visiting the Mall of St. Paul, a Selby location boasting dozens of amazing antique dealers. For newer styles, the best spot in town is the trendy Karma Boutique, found in the distinctive Cathedral Hill neighborhood.

Xcel Energy Arena, Saint Paul Cathedral, Minnesota State Capitol, Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, James J. Hill House, Schmidt Artist Lofts, riverfront, Saint Paul Winter Carnival, Minnesota State Fair, Minnesota State Capitol, Landmark Center, Fitzgerald Theatre