Best Things to Do in St. Paul, Minnesota: Why MSP Food Tours Is a Must-Do Experience
If you’re searching for the best things to do in St. Paul, Minnesota, there’s one experience that rises above the rest in a way you might not expect: a guided food tour through the heart of the city.
This past weekend, my wife and I had the privilege of joining one of the very first inaugural tours from MSP Food Tours—founded by my son, Mark Moran. As proud parents, we were excited to support him. But as travelers, storytellers, and people who genuinely love discovering great experiences, we were curious: would this actually deliver?
It did. And then some.
What unfolded over the next few hours was far more than a series of restaurant stops. It was a journey through history, culture, and flavor—woven together in a way that made St. Paul feel alive, layered, and deeply personal.
A Different Way to Experience St. Paul
Most people think they know how to explore a city. You find a few restaurants, maybe visit a landmark or two, and call it a day.
But a great food tour flips that on its head.
Instead of wandering aimlessly, you’re guided. Instead of surface-level experiences, you’re given stories. Instead of just eating, you’re connecting—to the people, the past, and the place itself.
That’s exactly what MSP Food Tours delivers.
Book your MSP Food Tour Now and receive a 5% Discount! Promo Code: RI2HJ4GT
Stop 1: DeGidio’s Restaurant & Bar – A Taste of St. Paul’s Gritty Past
We began in the historic West 7th neighborhood at DeGidio’s Restaurant & Bar, a place that immediately feels like stepping into another era.
Founded in 1933 by former bootlegger Joe “Kid Bullets” DeGidio, the restaurant carries the weight of St. Paul’s gangster-era history in its very walls. You can almost imagine deals being made in hushed tones as Prohibition came to an end.
But today, it’s something else entirely—a warm, welcoming, family-run institution that has stood the test of time.
We started with their stromboli, and it set the tone perfectly. Rich, satisfying, and unmistakably authentic, it wasn’t just food—it was tradition on a plate.
Stop 2: Waldmann Brewery – Immigrant Stories Come to Life
From there, we made our way to Waldmann Brewery, a place that quietly holds one of the most remarkable distinctions in the city—it’s the oldest surviving commercial building in St. Paul.
Here, the story shifted to the city’s German immigrant roots. As we enjoyed perfectly crisp potato pancakes, we were reminded that so much of what defines American food culture today was shaped by those who came here generations ago, bringing their traditions with them.
There’s something powerful about eating food that connects directly to history. It slows you down. It makes you appreciate not just the flavors, but the journey behind them.
Stop 3: Irvine Park – Where History Was Almost Lost
No food at this stop—but honestly, none was needed.
Walking through Irvine Park feels like stepping into a preserved moment in time. Established in 1849, this historic district nearly disappeared before preservation efforts stepped in to save it.
Mark shared stories of the neighborhood’s past, including the haunting lore surrounding the nearby Forepaugh’s Mansion. Whether you believe the legends or not, they add a layer of intrigue that sticks with you.
It was a reminder that cities aren’t just built—they’re saved, protected, and passed on.
Stop 4: Rice Park & Landmark Center – The Heart of the City
Next came the vibrant center of it all: Rice Park and the iconic Landmark Center.
Here, the narrative expanded. From gangster-era trials held within Landmark Center to the cultural heartbeat represented by the nearby Ordway, this stop connected the past to the present in a powerful way.
Standing there, surrounded by architecture, art, and history, you begin to see St. Paul not just as a city—but as a story still being written.
Stop 5: Candyland – Sweet Nostalgia
Then came one of the most fun—and nostalgic—stops: Candyland.
Founded in 1932, Candyland has been delighting generations with handmade chocolates and classic treats. Whether it was a popcorn ball or a bite of chocolate, the experience tapped into something deeper than taste.
It felt like childhood. Simple, joyful, and timeless.
A Walk Past an Icon: Mickey’s Diner
Not every stop involves food—and that’s part of what makes this tour so engaging.
As we passed Mickey’s Diner, we learned how this iconic diner was built in New Jersey and shipped to St. Paul by rail.
Recognized as one of the top diners in the United States and featured in films, it stands as a testament to classic American culture.
Even just walking by, it adds texture to the experience.
Stop 6: Cossetta’s – A Slice of Tradition
Next up was Cossetta’s, a cornerstone of St. Paul’s Italian heritage.
Founded in 1911, this multi-generational, family-run market has grown from a small grocery into a beloved destination. The slice of pizza we enjoyed was simple, classic, and deeply satisfying.
But more than that, it represented something bigger—the way immigrant traditions become woven into the fabric of everyday American life.
Final Stop: Back to DeGidio’s – A Sweet Ending
We returned to DeGidio’s Restaurant & Bar for the final course: cannoli.
This classic Sicilian dessert, with roots dating back centuries, was the perfect way to bring everything full circle.
From bootlegging history to immigrant traditions, from savory to sweet, the tour didn’t just end—it resolved.
More Than a Food Tour
By the time it was over, one thing was clear: this isn’t just about food.
It’s about connection.
It’s about understanding a city through its stories, its people, and its flavors.
And perhaps most importantly, it’s about experiencing something intentional—something curated with care.
As a photographer, I spend a lot of time chasing meaningful experiences. This was one of them.
As a father, watching my son bring this vision to life made it even more special.
Why MSP Food Tours Should Be on Your List
If you’re looking for the best things to do in St. Paul, Minnesota, MSP Food Tours deserves to be at the top of your list.
Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor wanting something more than the typical tourist experience, this tour delivers something truly unique.
It’s engaging. It’s delicious. And it’s memorable in all the right ways.
Plan Your Experience
Book your MSP Food Tour Now and receive a 5% Discount! Promo Code: RI2HJ4GT
If this sounds like something you’d enjoy, I highly recommend checking out the tour details and booking your spot:
Note: This article reflects a specific inaugural tour experience. Tour routes, stops, and menu items may change at any time. Be sure to visit the website for the most up-to-date details when planning your visit.
Final Thoughts
Some experiences are enjoyable. Others stay with you.
This one does both.
And if you find yourself walking the streets of St. Paul, tasting incredible food, and hearing stories you never knew existed, don’t be surprised if you walk away seeing the city in a completely new way.
If you have any questions, be sure to Contact Us. And until next time, get out and capture the adventure.
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Best Things to Do in St. Paul, Minnesota: Why MSP Food Tours Is a Must-Do Experience
Written by Wayne Moran - Visit Websitemoran.wayne@gmail.com
