The Saint Paul Hotel

This historic hotel offers a unique blend of classic elegance and modern comfort, making it a true gem in downtown St. Paul. Its signature feature is its preserved "gilded age" ambiance, evident in its beautiful architecture and meticulously maintained interiors. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff, prime downtown location, renowned dining options, and overall cleanliness as key aspects of their stay. The hotel is an ideal fit for couples seeking a romantic and luxurious escape, business travelers who appreciate a quiet and convenient base for conferences, and event-goers attending concerts or shows at the nearby Xcel Energy Center or Ordway. To enhance your experience, consider confirming your room's view upon check-in, as some rooms may overlook less scenic areas, and be aware that valet parking is the primary option for vehicles.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently commend the hotel's well-preserved lobby and its inviting fireplace, which contribute to a warm and classic atmosphere. The charming garden at the entrance is also a noted feature, providing a pleasant outdoor space. For convenience, a coffee bar is available in the lobby, offering quick access to beverages. While the hotel does not feature a swimming pool, which some guests wished for, it does provide a fitness center for those looking to maintain their routines. Some guests experienced occasional slowness with the elevators during peak times. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, ensuring guests can stay connected, and provides ice machines and vending machines for additional convenience, though some noted a limited selection of sundries.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives high praise for its clean rooms and the overall tidiness of the property. Guests frequently commend the comfortable beds and the provision of fluffy towels and robes, contributing to a restful stay. Many rooms are described as spacious and quiet, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep. However, some guests noted that the room decor can appear dated or tired, with instances of worn carpets and a general need for renovation in certain areas. Issues with heating and air conditioning systems were reported, with rooms sometimes becoming too hot or cold, and some windows being drafty or unable to open. Additionally, some bathrooms experienced poor water pressure and slow tub drains, and a lack of sufficient electrical outlets and the absence of a microwave or adequately sized refrigerator in rooms were points of concern for several visitors.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options are a significant highlight for many guests, particularly the highly acclaimed St. Paul Grill, which is consistently praised for its outstanding food quality, including perfectly prepared steaks and delicious wild mushroom soup. Breakfast at The Drake restaurant also receives positive feedback for its quality and variety, though some found it to be overpriced. Room service is noted for being prompt, visually appealing, and offering excellent taste, with decent pricing for the convenience. The bar areas are described as fabulous and vibrant, especially after events, offering a wide selection of beverages, including an impressive array of whiskey. However, some guests expressed disappointment that the hotel's bars and restaurants tend to close early, typically by 10:30 PM, which can be inconvenient for late-night patrons. There was also mixed feedback regarding a specific holiday brunch experience at The Drake.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an unbeatable downtown location, making it exceptionally convenient for guests attending events at the Xcel Energy Center, which is within easy walking distance. Its proximity to cultural landmarks like the Ordway, Science Museum, and Landmark Center, as well as Rice Park, allows for easy exploration on foot. The hotel also offers direct access to the Skyway, providing sheltered passage to various downtown destinations. While the location is highly praised for its accessibility to attractions, parking is a notable consideration. The hotel primarily offers mandatory valet parking, which, while efficient and prompt for car retrieval, is often described as expensive and can involve long wait times during peak periods. Some guests also appreciated the availability of a courtesy van for transport to nearby attractions upon request.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives exceptional praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness, creating a welcoming atmosphere where guests often feel "like royalty" and remembered. The doormen are frequently highlighted for their warm greetings and assistance with luggage, while the front desk staff are commended for their quick check-in process and willingness to accommodate requests. The valet service is generally efficient and prompt, ensuring cars are retrieved quickly. Housekeeping is noted for being responsive to requests, though some guests reported instances of rooms not being serviced for multi-night stays unless specifically requested, or staff entering rooms despite a privacy sign. Overall, the dedication to customer service from all team members, including the barista and room service deliverers, is a recurring theme, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that mandatory valet parking is the primary option, which, despite its convenience, is an additional cost and can sometimes involve waits. The hotel's mini-bar is available, but some guests reported issues with unexpected charges or bottles missing upon arrival. While room service is generally well-regarded, there were isolated instances of orders being late or forgotten. A notable policy mentioned by some guests is the $20 daily fee for a microwave if requested, and the absence of trashcans on floors, requiring guests to take trash to the front desk. The hotel enhances its ambiance with historical memorabilia and seasonal holiday decorations, contributing to its unique charm. Some guests also noted a lack of sundries or a comprehensive "grab-n-go" selection in the lobby.