Explore the historic charm of St. Paul’s renowned Summit Avenue with a private walking tour through its stunning Victorian homes. Led by the knowledgeable guide Douglas Kline, this 2-hour journey showcases the neighborhood’s architectural gems, from Queen Anne to Beaux Arts styles. Along the way, you’ll uncover the captivating stories of notable residents like F. Scott Fitzgerald, while taking in iconic landmarks like the James J. Hill House. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply seeking a glimpse into St. Paul’s past, this tour promises an accessible and engaging experience. What secrets does Summit Avenue hold?
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Tours In St Paul Minnesota.
Key Points
- This private walking tour explores the renowned Victorian homes along Summit Avenue in St. Paul, showcasing diverse architectural styles from the Gilded Age.
- The 2-hour tour covers key sites like the James J. Hill House, Summit Overlook Park, and the Cathedral of Saint Paul, led by an experienced guide.
- Participants can learn about the lives of notable residents like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Garrison Keillor who were drawn to the stately mansions on the avenue.
- The tour is wheelchair-accessible and caters to history and architecture enthusiasts, with a casual pace allowing for detailed discussions and exploration.
- Praised for its exceptional guide, the tour provides an immersive and informative experience, highlighting the rich history and architectural heritage of St. Paul’s Summit Avenue.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The private walking tour of Victorian homes on Summit Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota, offers a unique glimpse into the city’s architectural history.
Priced at $195 per group of up to 8 participants, the 2-hour tour allows visitors to explore historic sites like the James J. Hill House, Summit Overlook Park, and the Cathedral of Saint Paul.
The tour doesn’t include home interiors or restrooms, but it does provide insights into various Victorian architectural styles, from Queen Anne to Beaux Arts.
Participants can also learn about notable residents, including F. Scott Fitzgerald and Garrison Keillor.
The casual strolling pace and wheelchair accessibility make this tour ideal for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
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Itinerary and Highlights
What does the itinerary and highlights of the private walking tour entail?
The tour begins at the James J. Hill House and includes visits to historic sites along Summit Avenue, such as Summit Overlook Park, Nathan Hale Park, Cochran Park, The Commodore Bar & Restaurant, Maiden Lane, and the Cathedral of Saint Paul.
During the approximately 1-mile walk, the guide will share stories about notable residents and educate participants on various Victorian architectural styles, including Queen Anne, Italianate, Georgian Revival, Neo-classical, Romanesque, Beaux Arts, and Tudor.
The casual strolling pace allows for detailed views and engaging conversation, making this tour ideal for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
Experience and Accessibility
This private, guided tour is designed to provide an immersive experience for visitors. The casual strolling pace allows for detailed views and engaging conversation.
Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique local experience, this tour caters to diverse audiences. Accessibility is ensured, as the tour is wheelchair-friendly, making it accessible to all.
With a professional guide leading the way, you’ll explore the rich history and architectural styles that define the charming Summit Avenue neighborhood. This intimate, group-only tour promises a personalized and memorable exploration of St. Paul’s Victorian heritage.
Guide Information
Douglas Kline, a professional with extensive experience in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Stillwater, leads the private walking tour of Summit Avenue’s Victorian homes.
An engaging storyteller, Kline caters to diverse audiences including families, groups, and international visitors.
With his wealth of knowledge about the local history and architecture, Kline expertly guides guests through the tour, sharing captivating stories and insights.
Attendees consistently praise Kline’s communication skills and appreciate his ability to tailor the experience to their interests.
Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique local experience, Kline’s expertise ensures an informative and enjoyable tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews
Travelers consistently praise the private walking tour of Summit Avenue’s Victorian homes, awarding it an impressive 5/5 rating across 3 reviews.
Reviewers highlight the guide’s exceptional knowledge and engaging storytelling ability, which brings the neighborhood’s history and architecture to life. Customers appreciate the casual, conversational pace that allows for detailed exploration and discussion.
The tour is recommended for history buffs and those seeking a unique local experience, with reviewers noting it’s an ideal way to discover the hidden gems of St. Paul.
Historic Sites Along the Tour
The tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Summit Avenue’s historic landmarks, providing an immersive glimpse into St. Paul’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
Guests will explore the majestic James J. Hill House, a stunning example of Gilded Age opulence. They’ll then visit the enchanting Summit Overlook Park, offering panoramic views of the city.
The tour continues to Nathan Hale Park and Cochran Park, showcasing the neighborhood’s beautifully preserved green spaces. Along the way, guests will marvel at the diverse array of Victorian-era architectural styles, from Queen Anne to Romanesque.
The tour also includes a stop at the iconic Commodore Bar & Restaurant, a local landmark with its own captivating history.
Architectural Styles Showcased
As visitors meander along Summit Avenue, they’ll be captivated by the diverse array of Victorian-era architectural styles on display.
The tour highlights notable examples, including the Queen Anne style with its ornate detailing, the Italianate with its distinctive bracketed cornices, and the Georgian Revival with its symmetrical façades.
The stately Romanesque style, featuring heavy stone construction and arched windows, is also showcased, as is the elegant Beaux Arts, characterized by its grand scale and classical embellishments.
Plus, the tour explores the Tudor-inspired homes, with their half-timbered and stone exteriors.
This architectural diversity reflects the wealth and prominence of Summit Avenue during the Victorian era.
Renowned Residents of Summit Avenue
Summit Avenue’s storied history is intertwined with the tales of its renowned residents. One of the most famous was F. Scott Fitzgerald, the iconic American novelist who immortalized the avenue in his works.
Garrison Keillor, the renowned author and host of "A Prairie Home Companion", also called Summit Avenue home. These literary giants were drawn to the avenue’s stately Victorian mansions and the vibrant community that thrived there.
The tour provides insights into the lives of these notable figures, offering a glimpse into the past that shaped the character of this iconic St. Paul neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is allowed during the tour. The guide encourages guests to take photos of the historic architecture, parks, and landmarks along the route to capture the unique sights and experience.
Can We Stop for Refreshments Along the Way?
The tour doesn’t include stops for refreshments, but participants are welcome to purchase food or drinks at The Commodore Bar & Restaurant along the route. There are no planned breaks during the 2-hour walking tour.
How Much Walking Is Involved on This Tour?
The tour involves approximately 1 mile of walking at a casual strolling pace, allowing for detailed views and conversations along the way. The pace is designed to be comfortable for participants.
Can We Customize the Tour to Our Interests?
The tour can be customized to focus on participants’ specific interests. While the standard itinerary covers highlights, the guide is flexible and will tailor the experience to accommodate the group’s preferences.
Do You Offer Any Discounts for Larger Groups?
Yes, the tour operator offers a discounted group rate for larger groups. Parties of 9-16 people receive a 10% discount off the per-group price, making the total cost $175.50 for groups up to 16 participants.
Recap
This private walking tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the charming Victorian homes and historic landmarks along St. Paul’s renowned Summit Avenue. Guided by the knowledgeable Douglas Kline, the leisurely 2-hour stroll showcases the area’s architectural styles and captivating stories of notable residents. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply seeking to learn about St. Paul’s history, this tour offers an accessible and engaging experience.
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