The Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown tops the list with a 9.1 rating and a 9.4 cleanliness score, putting you steps from the action. For a perfect location right next to the Xcel Energy Center, the Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Downtown offers a 9.5 location score and free breakfast. Both deliver prime proximity to Saint Paul’s core.
Looking for hotels near St Paul Minnesota? You want a spot that puts you close to Xcel Energy Center, the Science Museum, or just a short walk from a good meal. Here are the best options, ranked by guest scores and real proximity.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 11 properties and 4500+ total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing properties with an average guest score of 8.5/10 and clear proximity to downtown Saint Paul.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best overall: #1 Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown→ Rates
- Right next to Xcel Energy Center: #6 Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Downtown→ Rates
- Best for families: #1 Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown→ Rates
#4 Hyatt Place St. Paul→ Rates - Best value (quality for price): #9 SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown→ Rates
- Highest guest score: #11 Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown→ Rates
- Pet-friendly with shuttle: #2 Radisson Hotel St Paul Downtown→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown | (900+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Radisson Hotel St Paul Downtown | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 3. InterContinental St. Paul Riverfront by IHG | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Hyatt Place St. Paul | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Celeste of St Paul | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Downtown | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown by IHG | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 8. DoubleTree by Hilton St. Paul, MN | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 9. SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Courtyard by Marriott St Paul Downtown | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown | (50+ Reviews) |
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In-Depth Reviews: Top Hotels Near St Paul Minnesota
1. Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown
The Vibe
This 4-star property sits right in the thick of downtown Saint Paul, just 7 miles from MSP airport. Guests rave about the free breakfast and the indoor pool — staff scores a 9.4 across the board. You’re a short walk from the State Fairgrounds and Mall of America is nearby.
What You Actually Get
You get a solid 9.1 overall from 900+ reviews. The indoor swimming pool is a hit, especially for families (children 18+ are charged as adults, but younger kids are welcome). Private parking is available at the hotel, and the on-site restaurant takes reservations. A $50 damage deposit is collected by credit card on arrival. Wi-Fi clocks in at a respectable 9.0.
Choose this if: You want a top-rated downtown base with a pool, free breakfast, and stellar staff — you’re in Saint Paul for events or exploration.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown →
2. Radisson Hotel St Paul Downtown
The Vibe
Just off I-94 and a short walk from downtown, this Radisson scores an 8.8 for both staff and Wi-Fi. The free shuttle to Xcel Energy Center is a huge plus for concert-goers and Wild fans. The indoor pool and pet-friendly policy (with a $20/night pet fee) make it flexible for different traveler types.
What You Actually Get
The hot buffet breakfast includes eggs, sausage, and potatoes — guests specifically praise the fresh pineapple. Rooms come with a bathtub and air conditioning. Private parking is available, and the hotel has a fitness center. Note: groups booking more than 9 rooms face different policies. Wi-Fi is strong at 8.8, and the swimming pool is open to guests.
Choose this if: You’re heading to Xcel Energy Center, need pet-friendly accommodations, and want a shuttle to avoid parking hassles.
3. InterContinental St. Paul Riverfront by IHG
The Vibe
Perched right on the river in the heart of St. Paul, this InterContinental offers the best views in the list. The location score of 8.8 is the property’s standout — you’re within walking distance to the Science Museum and other downtown attractions. Guests mention quiet, comfortable rooms.
What You Actually Get
Guests must be 21 or older to reserve. The valet parking costs $38 (plus tax) for regular cars, and $48 for taller vehicles over 5’9″. The on-site restaurant serves a very good breakfast included in many rates. Free Wi-Fi is rated 8.1. Pets are allowed with charges, but groups booking more than 6 rooms face different rules. The fitness center is open to guests.
Choose this if: You value location above all else and want river views from your room — this is your best bet for a scenic downtown stay.
Check Tonight’s Price for InterContinental St. Paul Riverfront by IHG →
4. Hyatt Place St. Paul
The Vibe
This historic Hyatt Place sits along the Mississippi River, scoring a 9.3 in cleanliness and 9.2 in comfort — the highest in both categories among mid-range options here. Guests love the spacious rooms and the indoor pool that’s safe for younger swimmers. It’s just a mile from Xcel Energy Center.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi is rated 9.1, and you get a fitness center and on-site restaurant. Breakfast is included in many rates. Parking is available at the hotel for a fee. The property is pet-friendly (charges apply). You must be 21 to check in. The rooms are described as “beautifully redone” by recent guests.
Choose this if: Cleanliness is your top priority — this scores higher than most on the list, and you want a short walk to the Depot or Xcel.
5. Celeste of St Paul
The Vibe
The Celeste brings boutique energy to downtown St. Paul with a “vintage and modern” interior style that guests love. Wi-Fi scores a 9.5 — the highest on this list for connectivity. It’s within walking distance of the arena, and 6th-floor rooms offer stunning views over the city.
What You Actually Get
You’ll find a fitness center, terrace, and bar on-site. Breakfast is available for purchase. Parking runs $18 for self-park in the nearby World Trade Center garage, or $32 for valet. Guests must be 21 to book online, but the hotel makes exceptions for 18+ if you contact them directly. Pets are not allowed. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before arrival.
Choose this if: You want a stylish, Wi-Fi-strong boutique hotel within walking distance of Xcel Energy Center and downtown dining.
6. Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Downtown
The Vibe
This is the closest hotel to Xcel Energy Center — guests say it’s “as close as possible” and “right next door.” The location score of 9.5 is tied for highest in this list. The excellent breakfast and indoor pool make it a top pick for event-goers. Rooms are clean (9.4) and staff are highly rated at 9.3.
What You Actually Get
All rooms come with refrigerators, and suites add a microwave. The valet team handles parking in a temperature-controlled garage — they’ll work with oversize vehicles. Wi-Fi is rated 6.8, which is on the lower side. Pets are allowed with fees (groups over 9 rooms have different rules). The hotel has a fitness center and air conditioning.
Choose this if: You’re in town for an event at Xcel Energy Center and want to roll out of bed into the arena.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Downtown →
7. Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown by IHG
The Vibe
Another 9.5 location score, this Holiday Inn sits adjacent to the Grand Casino Arena and within walking distance of the Science Museum of Minnesota. Guests praise the helpful staff (9.1) and the recently updated rooms. The indoor pool and on-site parking ramp are practical bonuses.
What You Actually Get
Parking is $21 per car per night in the guaranteed ramp next door. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Breakfast is optional at €18 (about $20). A $100 damage deposit is required on arrival. Pets are not allowed. Check-in starts at 4:00 PM — later than most on this list. Wi-Fi scores 8.0.
Choose this if: You’re attending events at Grand Casino Arena and want guaranteed parking + a pool to unwind after.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown by IHG →
8. DoubleTree by Hilton St. Paul, MN
The Vibe
Located 6.2 miles east of downtown St. Paul off I-94, this DoubleTree is the most distant option from the city core — it’s about 4.6 miles from Xcel Energy Center. It’s a solid choice if you want easy freeway access and a quieter location. Cleanliness scores highest here at 8.2.
What You Actually Get
The highlight: every room comes with both a microwave and a refrigerator — ideal for longer stays or saving on meals. The hotel has an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant serving breakfast and dinner. Parking is available on-site. Pets are not allowed. The property is fully non-smoking, with smoking posts near exits.
Choose this if: You want a quieter, east-side location near I-94 with full in-room kitchen appliances for longer stays.
Check Tonight’s Price for DoubleTree by Hilton St. Paul, MN →
9. SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown
The Vibe
The SpringHill Suites earns a staff score of 9.5 — the highest on this entire list. Guests consistently call out the friendly, accommodating team. It’s located near the Grand Casino Arena in downtown, with excellent secure parking. Cleanliness and comfort both score 9.3.
What You Actually Get
Every room includes a hair dryer, mini fridge, microwave, and coffee maker. The secure, on-site heated parking costs $18/night with in/out access — one of the best parking deals downtown. You can cancel up to 48 hours before check-in. Pets are allowed with charges. Breakfast is included in many rates. The fitness center is on-site.
Choose this if: You want a downtown hotel with exceptional service, in-room kitchenettes, and secure parking at a fair price.
Check Tonight’s Price for SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown →
10. Courtyard by Marriott St Paul Downtown
The Vibe
Tied for the highest cleanliness score (9.5) and location score (9.5) in the entire list, this Courtyard is a powerhouse for event-goers. It sits near the Grand Casino Arena, with the metro bus stopping right in front. Staff scores 9.4 and facilities 9.4 — everything is firing on all cylinders.
What You Actually Get
Parking is valet-only at $35 per night, one vehicle per room. The hotel has an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Breakfast is optional at around €17 (~$18). A $50 damage deposit is required at check-in. No age restriction to book. Wi-Fi scores a low 2.5 — if you need strong internet, this isn’t the pick. Upper floors are accessible by elevator.
Choose this if: You value cleanliness and location above all else, and don’t need strong in-room Wi-Fi for work.
Check Tonight’s Price for Courtyard by Marriott St Paul Downtown →
11. Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown
The Vibe
With a 9.4 overall score and a perfect 10.0 for Wi-Fi, this Residence Inn is the highest-rated property in this guide. Guests say it’s “an amazing hotel” — clean (9.5), comfortable (9.5), and spacious. The pool and spa are open, and the location is praised for its proximity to downtown attractions.
What You Actually Get
The indoor pool and fitness center are guest favorites. Breakfast is continental and included in many rates. Parking is behind the hotel, with overflow valet across the street. Pets are allowed with charges. Children 12+ are charged as adults. Check-in starts at 4:00 PM — later than most. No rooms have in-room hot tubs (common for Residence Inn properties).
Choose this if: You want the highest-rated hotel in the guide, with top-tier Wi-Fi, a pool, and spacious rooms for a longer stay.
Check Tonight’s Price for Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#1 Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown
Top scores across staff, cleanliness, and facilities (all 9.4) with a pool, free breakfast, and prime downtown walkability.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown →
💰 Best Value
#9 SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown
An 8.9 score with a 9.5 staff rating, in-room kitchenettes, and $18 heated parking — quality service without the luxury price tag.
Check Tonight’s Price for SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown →
🏟️ Best for Xcel Energy Center
#6 Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Downtown
A 9.5 location score puts you right next to the arena, plus an excellent breakfast and indoor pool to start your game day right.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Downtown →
How We Ranked These Hotels
We evaluated 11 properties with 4500+ total guest reviews, focusing on properties within or just outside downtown Saint Paul. Each hotel was ranked on guest scores, verified review count, and proximity to key attractions like Xcel Energy Center, the Science Museum, and the State Fairgrounds.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.0+ overall and 50+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and staff scores — the categories that drive repeat bookings for downtown stays
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (pools, parking, breakfast) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Proximity to St. Paul’s core, Xcel Energy Center, and walkable dining and entertainment
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these St. Paul hotels?
Yes, several properties in this guide welcome pets. The Radisson Hotel St Paul Downtown charges a $20 per night pet fee. Drury Plaza, Hyatt Place, Hampton Inn & Suites, SpringHill Suites, and Residence Inn also allow pets with applicable charges. Celeste of St Paul, Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown, DoubleTree by Hilton, and Courtyard by Marriott do not allow pets. Always confirm fees directly with the property before booking.
Which hotels offer free cancellation?
SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown offers free cancellation up to 48 hours before check-in. Celeste of St Paul allows free cancellation if you cancel 24 hours prior. For most other properties, cancellation policies vary by room type — always check the specific conditions when booking. The Radisson and InterContinental also have policy variations depending on your room choice.
What’s the best time to visit Saint Paul, Minnesota?
Summer (June to August) is peak season, with the Minnesota State Fair in late August drawing huge crowds — book hotels near the State Fairgrounds well in advance. Fall offers crisp weather and fewer tourists, while winter (December-February) brings cold temperatures but lower rates at downtown hotels. For hockey season (October to April), the area around Xcel Energy Center is especially busy on game nights.
How do I get from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport to downtown hotels?
MSP Airport is about 7 miles from downtown St. Paul. The Blue Line light rail connects the airport to downtown Minneapolis, but for St. Paul you’ll need the Green Line — take it from the airport to Union Depot. Ride-sharing and taxis cost roughly $30-40. The Radisson Hotel offers a shuttle service to Xcel Energy Center but not directly from the airport. Most downtown hotels are a short walk from Union Depot.
Which St. Paul hotel has the best location for parking?
If you’re driving, the Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown guarantees a spot in its parking ramp for $21 per night. The Drury Plaza Hotel offers private parking at the hotel. SpringHill Suites provides secure heated parking with in/out access for $18/night. For budget-friendly parking, Celeste of St Paul has self-park in the nearby World Trade Center garage for $18. Avoid the Courtyard by Marriott if you don’t want valet-only parking at $35/night.
What’s the most walkable area for hotels near St Paul Minnesota?
Downtown St. Paul around West 7th Street and Kellogg Boulevard is the most walkable area. The Hampton Inn & Suites (location score 9.5), Holiday Inn (location score 9.5), and Courtyard by Marriott (location score 9.5) are all within walking distance of Xcel Energy Center, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and numerous restaurants. The Celeste of St Paul and Drury Plaza are also within easy walking distance of downtown attractions and dining.