University Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and community. From its rich history to its modern-day attractions, University Avenue is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of St. Paul.
A Brief History of University Avenue
University Avenue has a long and storied history that dates back to the late 19th century. Originally known as the "Streetcar Suburbs," the area was developed in the 1880s as a suburban neighborhood for the growing city of St. Paul. The avenue was designed to be a main thoroughfare, with wide streets and grand homes that reflected the city's growing prosperity.
Over the years, University Avenue has undergone many transformations, from a bustling commercial center to a vibrant arts and cultural district. Today, the avenue is home to a diverse range of businesses, restaurants, and cultural attractions that reflect the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
Things to Do on University Avenue
University Avenue is a treasure trove of things to see and do, from cultural attractions to entertainment venues. Here are just a few of the many attractions that make University Avenue a must-visit destination:
- Weisman Art Museum: Located on the University of Minnesota campus, the Weisman Art Museum is a world-renowned museum that features a diverse range of art and cultural exhibitions.
- University Avenue Farmers Market: Every Saturday morning from May to October, the University Avenue Farmers Market offers a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food.
- Theater in the Round: This intimate theater company has been producing innovative and provocative productions for over 60 years.
- The Nook: This beloved neighborhood bar and restaurant has been a University Avenue staple for over 70 years, serving up classic American comfort food and craft beers.
Shopping on University Avenue
University Avenue is a shopper's paradise, with a wide range of unique boutiques, specialty stores, and antique shops. Here are just a few of the many great places to shop on University Avenue:
- The Store: This trendy boutique features a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods from local and national designers.
- Magers & Quinn: This beloved independent bookstore has been a University Avenue staple for over 20 years, featuring a wide range of new and used books, as well as author events and book clubs.
- The Antique Depot: This sprawling antique mall features a vast selection of vintage and antique items, from furniture to jewelry to collectibles.
Dining on University Avenue
University Avenue is a foodie's paradise, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up everything from classic American comfort food to international cuisine. Here are just a few of the many great places to eat on University Avenue:
- The St. Paul Grill: Located in the historic Saint Paul Hotel, this upscale restaurant serves up classic American cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
- El Meson: This family-owned Mexican restaurant has been a University Avenue staple for over 20 years, serving up delicious tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites.
- Khyber Pass Cafe: This casual Afghan restaurant serves up delicious and exotic dishes, including kebabs, curries, and naan bread.
University Avenue Nightlife
University Avenue is a great place to go out and have a good time, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Here are just a few of the many great places to go out on University Avenue:
- The Turf Club: This beloved music venue has been hosting live music acts for over 50 years, from rock and roll to jazz to folk.
- The Nook: This neighborhood bar and restaurant is a great place to grab a drink and catch a game or live music act.
- The Dakota Jazz Club: Located in the heart of downtown St. Paul, this intimate jazz club features live music performances every night of the week.
Getting Around University Avenue
University Avenue is easy to get around, with a wide range of transportation options available. Here are just a few of the many ways to get around:
- Metro Transit: The University Avenue neighborhood is served by several Metro Transit bus routes, including the 16 and 21.
- Light Rail: The Green Line light rail runs along University Avenue, with several stops in the neighborhood.
- Biking: University Avenue is a bike-friendly neighborhood, with several bike lanes and bike-share programs available.
Parking on University Avenue
Parking on University Avenue can be a challenge, especially during peak hours. Here are just a few tips for finding parking in the neighborhood:
- Metered Parking: There are several metered parking spots available along University Avenue, with rates ranging from $1 to $3 per hour.
- Parking Lots: There are several parking lots available in the neighborhood, including the University Avenue Parking Ramp and the Midway Parking Lot.
- Street Parking: There are also several street parking spots available in the neighborhood, although these can be limited during peak hours.
Living on University Avenue
University Avenue is a great place to live, with a wide range of housing options available. Here are just a few of the many benefits of living on University Avenue:
- Convenience: University Avenue is a convenient place to live, with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- Community: The University Avenue neighborhood is a vibrant and diverse community, with a wide range of community events and activities available.
- Culture: University Avenue is a culturally rich neighborhood, with a wide range of cultural attractions and events available.
University Avenue Real Estate
The University Avenue neighborhood has a wide range of real estate options available, from apartments to single-family homes. Here are just a few of the many options available:
- Apartments: There are several apartment buildings available in the neighborhood, ranging from luxury high-rise buildings to affordable studio apartments.
- Condominiums: There are also several condominium buildings available in the neighborhood, ranging from modern high-rise buildings to historic conversions.
- Single-Family Homes: The University Avenue neighborhood also has a wide range of single-family homes available, ranging from historic homes to modern new construction.
Conclusion
University Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and community. From its rich history to its modern-day attractions, University Avenue is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of St. Paul. Whether you're looking for a great place to eat, a unique shopping experience, or a vibrant nightlife scene, University Avenue has something for everyone.
What is University Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota?
+University Avenue is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in St. Paul, Minnesota that offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and community.
What are some things to do on University Avenue?
+Some things to do on University Avenue include visiting the Weisman Art Museum, shopping at the University Avenue Farmers Market, and catching a live music act at the Turf Club.
Where can I eat on University Avenue?
+Some popular restaurants on University Avenue include The St. Paul Grill, El Meson, and Khyber Pass Cafe.