The museum is highly regarded for being engaging and enjoyable for families, with many interactive exhibits that cater to children of all ages.
Exhibit Quality
Visitors praised the quality and thoughtfulness of the exhibits, particularly the Julia Child and WWII exhibits, noting their educational value and interactivity.
Staff Experience
The staff received consistent positive feedback for being friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Accessibility
Free admission on Thursday evenings and ample parking were highlighted as significant benefits, making the museum accessible to a wider audience.
Mixed Reviews on Content
While many enjoyed the exhibits, some found certain displays confusing or lacking depth, indicating a need for improvement in exhibit focus.
JE
Josh E.
2 days ago
4.0
Not quite as interesting as Iowa history yet still interesting.
NB
Nancy B.
5 days ago
5.0
Great experience! Loved the Julia Child exhibit!! Nice exhibits of Minnesota History.
EE
Ethan
Jan 5, 2026
4.0
Still upset that they removed the grain elevator and "our house" exhibit.
The greatest generation exhibit has such good stories in it 👏
NN
Nancy
Jan 2, 2026
5.0
Took my 8 yr old grandson. We spent 2 hrs there and he loved it! The Mining and Weather exhibits were his favorites especially the tornado simulator!
AS
Abhishek Sharma
Dec 12, 2025
4.0
The Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) is a highly engaging historical institution that effectively uses interactive and multimedia exhibits to tell Minnesota's story. While the permanent museum space offers thematic depth rather than a massive chronological volume found in older, larger state societies, the History Center is also home to the Gale Family Library, providing serious history buffs with expansive archival and research collections.
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota History Center
What are the regular opening days and hours of the Minnesota History Center?
The Minnesota History Center is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and additionally open until 8:00 PM on Thursdays. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Is the Minnesota History Center open on public holidays?
The center is closed on some holidays like November 27 and December 24-25, but it remains open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on holidays like November 28, December 29, and January 1.
Where is the Minnesota History Center located?
It is located at 345 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55102, United States.
How can I contact the Minnesota History Center?
You can reach them by phone at +1 651-259-3000 or visit their website at https://www.mnhs.org/historycenter.
What type of museum is the Minnesota History Center?
It is a history museum offering exhibits and resources related to Minnesota's past.
Can you name some nearby attractions to visit along with the Minnesota History Center?
Nearby attractions include the Minnesota State Archives, Native American Initiatives at MNHS, and the Capitol of the State of Minnesota, all located close by and great to visit before or after the museum.
Are there places to eat near the Minnesota History Center?
Yes, nearby dining options include Market House café, Zen Room Kava Lounge coffee shop, and Sweetwater Grille and Bar for American and barbecue food.
Is there a place to shop for souvenirs near the Minnesota History Center?
The History Center Museum Store is nearby, offering museum-related shopping and gifts.
What educational programs are connected to the Minnesota History Center?
The Minnesota Historical Society offers programs like the MN Historical Society Internship Program and History Education at the Minnesota Historical Society, which provide educational opportunities.
What are some nearby services related to community support and libraries?
Nearby community services include the Gale Family Library, MHS - Gale Family Library, and organizations like Builders Association of Minnesota and Emotions Anonymous International Service Center.