Our St. Paul Neighborhood
St. Thomas is nestled within two popular residential neighborhoods: Merriam Park and Macalester-Groveland, filled with houses built in a variety of architectural styles, and populated by families, empty nesters, students, and university professors. Both our campus and surrounding neighborhoods are lined with sidewalks that are separated from the street by a boulevard.
The neighborhoods (and our campus) sit on either side of historic Summit Avenue, which runs from downtown St. Paul to the Mississippi River. Summit Avenue, full of grand houses and mansions, has a popular running/walking path in the wide tree-lined boulevard at its center, plus biking lanes. One block south of Summit Avenue is Grand Avenue with many local shops and restaurants.
To the west of the St. Paul campus you'll find the Mississippi River and its trails, only a 10 minute walk down Summit or through campus grounds. East of campus you'll primarily find houses, with churches and schools sprinkled in. Metro buses run on nearby main streets, and our Campus Shuttle makes it easy to move between the St. Paul and Minneapolis campuses.
We consider our neighbors to be a friendly community that welcomes you to experience the character and warmth of Minnesota's capital city.
Walking to the Mississippi River
One way to get to the Mississippi River from the St. Paul campus is to walk through the Grotto, a quiet and scenic section of south campus.
Nearby Mississippi River
The Mississippi River runs along the west side of campus, a 10 minute walk from the student center. The pathway along the river is a popular place for runners, walkers and skaters of all ages.
Walking along Summit Avenue
Students and neighbors walk along the sidewalk of Summit Avenue, separated from traffic by a boulevard.
Exercising along Summit Avenue
Summit Avenue is a popular location for planned 5K run events, as well as daily runners and bicycle riders.
Neighborly National Night Out
Campus neighborhoods embrace the August tradition of National Night Out, even during COVID times.
Helping Out in the Community
Student organizations on campus contribute to the community by participating in volunteer activities, such as organizing events to rake leaves for houses in the neighborhood.
Favorite Tommie Activities
Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or art lover, St. Paul has something special in store for you! Whatever your interests, you will find plenty of ways to Immerse yourself in the unique culture and charm of this Midwestern hub.
- Highland Movie Theatre = catch a movie
- Can Can Wonderland = play a round of mini golf or enjoy some old-school video games
- Mississippi River = bike, skate, run, or even walk along with nature
- Como Park Zoo & Conservatory = visit with the animals or explore the plants, flowers, and bonsai of the the conservatory gardens
- Mall of America = shopping of course, plus food, games, and rides including a zip line
Favorite Local Restaurants
Discovering a great place to eat near campus is never a challenge! St. Paul caters to every taste and occasion from a cozy café where you can grab a quick bite to a lively restaurant to gather with friends, the perfect spot is never too far away.
- Davanni’s Pizza and Hot Hoagies = delicious pizza, sandwiches, and pasta
- Groveland Tap = well-loved neighborhood spot with burgers, wraps, fries, plus beer
- Black Coffee and Waffle Bar = aptly named, you can get coffee and waffles with a variety of toppings
- Kim’s Chow Mein = asian noodle and rice dishes for take-out
- Pizza Lucé = more delicious pizza, including gluten-free and vegetarian options
- Colossal Cafe = breakfast and lunch, including homemade pastries
- Grand Ole Creamery = homemade ice cream and floats