Some of the city's largest and most elegant homes frame Lake of the Isles. This man-made lake is well stocked with panfish, attracting anglers of all ages in the warm months as well as the cold. Swimming is not advised, but the setting is delightful for sunbathing, a picnic or reading a book under a large shade tree. In winter, park officials designate skating areas and erect a warming house. Walking, jogging or biking around its 2.7 miles of shoreline provides outstanding views of the downtown and the surrounding neighborhood. The serene atmosphere of Lake of the Isles makes it the lake of choice for canoeists. The southern portion of the lake is connected to the city's largest lake, Lake Calhoun, by a quiet channel.
The Warden's House Museum is a monumental museum site which was home to the wardens of the Minnesota Territorial Prison, also known as the Minnesota State Prison, in the past. The house stands stern on 602 North Main Street and was constructed in the year 1853. It housed as many as 13 wardens from the prison between 1853 to 1914. The building is a fine example of Italianate, Federal and the Greek Revival styles of architecture. The 14 distinctive rooms are specially decorated in a manner depicting the late 19th century and early 20th Century. There exhibits related to the lumbering industry, Stillwater prisoners, and few other items at this place.
Enjoy a splendid day out at the Lake of the Isles Park. With exquisite views of the blue waters, the park offers a cozy picnic area, kid's playground, trails for walking as well as plenty of fishing opportunities. There is a separate area where you can walk your dog on a leash. One can also book the park for picturesque weddings.
Designed by the widely renowned firm of Feick, Purcell and Elmslie, the Edna S. Purcell house is a classic example of the Prairie School-style architecture. Built in 1913, the Purcell-Cutts House (as it also popularly known as) served as the living quarters of noted architect William Purcell and his family. Located close to Lake Isles in Minneapolis, this historic dwelling was bequeathed to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts in 1985. Open for tours during the second weekend of every month, this historic house is the ideal spot for educational field trips as well as casual sightseeing.
One of the country's largest and most spectacular churches, the Cathedral of St. Paul sits high on a hill (aptly known as Cathedral Hill) overlooking downtown and the Mississippi River Valley. The structure opened in 1915, although extensive interior work continued for several more years. The massive copper dome is 300 feet above the nave's floor and the walls are covered in pale Minnesota granite. A pair of carillon towers flanks the building's Summit Avenue façade and the sanctuary seats 3000 worshipers. Guided tours are offered on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1p.
A romantic landmark in the city, the 640.08 meter (2100 feet) long Stone Arch Bridge used to be a railway bridge for the Manitoba line. It is the second oldest bridge across the river. Erected in 1883 by James Hill, a railway tycoon, it spans proudly across the Mississippi river in a curve. The twenty-three arches are a sight to behold and serve as a scenic welcome for travelers to the city. Tourists love to watch the ships sail past here. Today, the bridge is open for pedestrians and bikers.