To go Back at any time,
use Browser's "Previous Page"
Today we chose to drive to St. Paul and explore as many of its attractions as possible before the expected rain set in in earnest. Our first stop was Como Park. The main feature of this park for us was the unusual conservatory, built in 1915. In one complex are show gardens (excellent!), Japanese gardens (good) and a small zoo (we skipped in lieu of the gift shop).
From the steps of the Capitol Building, there is a fine view of the Cathedral of St. Paul. Also opened in 1915, this structure is larger than it looks, with a seating capacity of 3000. Its style is reminiscent of St. Peter’s in Rome.
Despite the drizzle, which began about noon, we enjoyed our stroll around the downtown area, admiring its clean, open appearance. This little “Park Square” alley hosts a Farmers Market on the other end:
We’re sure it would have been crowded had it not been for the rain.
Adding to the delight of downtown St. Paul are the many sculptures of the Peanuts gang:
Cartoonist Charles Schultz grew up in St. Paul and found inspiration among his coworkers and in his own personal life. So, it is altogether fitting that these sculptures decorate his old stomping grounds. We found them all in various places: Charlie Brown and Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Pigpen, and all the rest. They made us smile.
With rainy conditions still upon us, we may wait until Saturday to do Minneapolis. There’s no shortage of indoor activities here.