Walking St. Paul Summit Ave. Victorian Homes Private Tour (2 Hrs)

Explore the elegant Victorian-era architecture that lines the prestigious Summit Avenue in St. Paul on this private walking tour. Admire the well-preserved estates built by the city’s wealthiest industrialists, showcasing a variety of architectural styles. Learn about the prosperous families who shaped this neighborhood as you discover the intricate details and ornate features of these grand residences. Though the tour focuses solely on the captivating exteriors, it promises an immersive glimpse into the charming history and preservation efforts that have kept this iconic avenue alive. Prepare to be transported back in time as you stroll along this architectural gem.

Key Points

• Guided tour showcases the well-preserved Victorian-era architecture along Summit Avenue in St. Paul, including a variety of styles like Queen Anne and Romanesque.
• Highlights the opulent homes of industrial-era tycoons and captains of industry, reflecting the wealth and extravagance of the gilded age elite.
• 2-hour personalized experience focuses on the captivating exteriors and compelling stories, without interior visits.
• Centralized meeting point at the historic James J. Hill House, with accessibility for strollers, wheelchairs, and service animals.
• Convenient tour with easy booking, free cancellation, and transportation options near public transit.

Overview of Summit Avenue Architecture

Summit Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota boasts a remarkable collection of well-preserved Victorian-era architecture, featuring a variety of styles including Queen Anne, neo-classical, Romanesque, and Georgian Revival.

These charming estates were built over 120 years ago by wealthy families and tycoons, reflecting the area’s prosperous history.

The guided tour allows visitors to discover the stories and preservation efforts behind these magnificent structures.

By exploring the exteriors of these grand homes, guests can gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and elegance that defined the Victorian era.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply curious about St. Paul’s past, this tour offers a unique window into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Highlights of Victorian Home Exteriors

Adorning the stately facades of these Victorian homes are intricate gables, ornate woodwork, and decorative chimneys that exude the opulence of the era.

Ornamental turrets and wrap-around verandas further accentuate the grand scale and architectural grandeur on display.

Traversing Summit Avenue, visitors marvel at the beautifully preserved Queen Anne, neo-classical, Romanesque, and Georgian Revival styles.

Delicate spindles, elaborate moldings, and textured brick bring a timeless elegance to these historic structures.

The tour guide shares fascinating stories of the influential families and business tycoons who commissioned these extravagant homes over a century ago, shedding light on St. Paul’s vibrant past.

This private tour offers a unique window into the city’s architectural heritage.

Wealth and Tycoons of Summit Avenue

The homes lining Summit Avenue showcase the incredible wealth and success of the tycoons who built them, telling the story of St. Paul’s booming industrial economy in the late 19th century. These captains of industry, including railroad pioneers, flour mill magnates, and lumber barons, constructed grand estates befitting their status and power. Their opulent, architecturally-stunning residences exude an air of prestige and accomplishment that reflects the rapid growth and prosperity of the era. Today, these preserved Victorian masterpieces stand as lasting testaments to the ambition and extravagance of St. Paul’s gilded age elite.

Tycoon	Industry	Residence
James J. Hill	Railroads	James J. Hill House
William McKnight	Flour Milling	McKnight Mansion
Lucius Ordway	Lumber	Ordway House

Tour Duration and Inclusions

The tour lasts for two hours, providing visitors with a personalized experience exploring the preserved Victorian homes along Summit Avenue. During this time, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the history and architectural styles of these grand estates built by St. Paul’s industrial titans over a century ago.

Though interior visits aren’t included, the tour focuses on the captivating exteriors and the compelling stories behind these unique structures and their former occupants. Restrooms aren’t available during the tour, but the experience includes discovering St. Paul’s history from the guide and learning about the ongoing preservation efforts of these magnificent homes.

The tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible, and service animals are permitted.

Meeting Point and Pickup Location

Visitors meet the guide on the sidewalk in front of the historic James J. Hill House, located at 240 Summit Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota, which serves as the starting point for the tour.

From here, the group will explore the charming Victorian estates along Summit Avenue.

At the end of the 2-hour tour, you will return to the original meeting point.

The tour is designed to be:

1. Convenient, with a centralized meeting location near public transportation.
2. Accessible, accommodating strollers and wheelchairs.
3. Flexible, allowing for a personalized experience through a private group format.

The tour concludes back at the James J. Hill House, where participants can continue exploring the historic site on their own.

Additional Tour Information

This private tour offers a lowest price guarantee, and guests can cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

Plus, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.

Guests can expect to receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability. The tour covers the preserved Victorian architecture and the stories of the wealthy families and tycoons who built the charming estates along Summit Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota.

While interior home visits aren’t included, the guided tour provides a rundown of the area’s rich history and preservation efforts.

Accessibility and Transportation Options

Conveniently, the tour is accessible for those using strollers or wheelchairs, and it’s located near public transportation options.

The meeting point at the James J. Hill House is just a short walk from several bus stops, making it easy for visitors to arrive by bus.

Plus, the tour itself is stroller and wheelchair friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the stunning Victorian architecture along Summit Avenue.

To summarize the accessibility and transportation options:

1. Near public transportation, including bus stops
2. Stroller and wheelchair accessible tour
3. Convenient meeting point at the James J. Hill House

This private tour of St. Paul’s historic Victorian homes offers an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking this private tour is easy, with confirmation provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows for cancellations up to 24 hours before the scheduled experience. This gives visitors the flexibility to plan their day without worry.

The tour also offers a lowest price guarantee, ensuring customers get the best deal.

With the tour being stroller and wheelchair accessible, and service animals allowed, it’s an inclusive experience for everyone.

The tour’s location near public transportation makes it convenient to access, allowing guests to focus on learning about the stunning Victorian architecture and the rich history of St. Paul’s Summit Avenue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, guests are generally permitted to take photos during the tour. However, photography may be restricted in certain areas or private properties. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific photography guidelines.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?

The tour follows current local COVID-19 safety protocols, which may include requirements for face masks and social distancing. Customers should check with the tour provider for the latest safety measures in place prior to the tour.

Is Food or Drink Allowed During the Tour?

Food and drink are not permitted during the guided tour. The tour focuses on the historical architecture and preservation of the homes, so participants are asked to refrain from consuming any food or beverages for the duration of the experience.

What Should I Wear for the Walking Tour?

For a walking tour, comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended. Dress in layers to be prepared for changes in temperature or potential rain. The tour involves exploring historical buildings, so casual, comfortable clothing is best.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

While the standard tour duration is 2 hours, guests can request to extend the tour if needed. The tour guide would be happy to accommodate a longer experience, subject to availability and additional fees.

Recap

This 2-hour walking tour provides a captivating glimpse into St. Paul’s Victorian-era grandeur.

Explore the well-preserved estates along Summit Avenue, showcasing a range of architectural styles and the prosperity of the area’s influential families.

The tour focuses on the charming exteriors, allowing visitors to admire the intricate details and preservation efforts without interior visits.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply curious about the city’s history, this tour offers an immersive experience.