Neighborhood Series: Merriam Park, Saint Paul
Posted by VIBE Realty on Tuesday, May 26th, 2020 at 9:52am.
Merriam Park, midway between the downtowns of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, is an attractive neighborhood snuggled up to the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. With its historic homes and prime riverside location, we love this neighborhood for the ambiance alone. Merriam Park still has some of the largest concentrations of late-19th-century housing in the Twin Cities, and most homes are wood frame structures in the Queen Anne style. You won't be disappointed by a stroll down these quaint streets.
Though this neighborhood is nestled between the two skylines, nature is still accessible. You can hit up Merriam Park Recreation Center which has children's play areas and sports fields open to all, or hop on the trails along the river which are popular for running, walking, and cycling. And we can't forget Meeker Island Dog Park for our furry friends out there. ;)
For more happening vibes, both Cleveland Avenue and Snelling Avenue are home to a mix of coffee shops, cafes, and small shops. Check out a curation of some Merriam Park spots that we've gathered below, and glance at Merriam Park listings here. If you're searching for the right neighborhood for you, get in touch with us by calling 651-808-VIBE or emailing info@vibemn.com. We'd love to help you with your home search!
Shadow Falls Park
Located between the University of St. Thomas and the Mississippi River, Shadow Falls Park provides a serene setting and a mini waterfall sighting. A perfect spot for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. Set up a picnic or hit up the biking and hiking trails nearby.
Photo courtesy of University of St Thomas
American Museum of Asmat Art
Looking for some culture? The American Museum of Asmat Art is a gallery exhibiting the art and culture of the Asmat people and is housed at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. Featuring more than 2,200 objects, it is one of the largest of its kind in the United States. The gallery includes a permanent display of Asmat works such as ancestor poles and canoes, and a rotating exhibition highlighting aspects of Asmat art and culture.
*Note the museum is currently closed due to COVID-19 and will reopen when it is safe to do so. Keep up to date on St. Thomas's website below.
stthomas.edu
Photo courtesy of University of St Thomas
Augustine's Bar & Bakery
Funky wallpaper paired with a deep beer and cider list? We're there. Augustine's Bar & Bakery is a happy combination of pastries and American eats with vintage and homey digs.
Support and enjoy during COVID-19: They are currently open for takeout Monday - Saturday from 11am - 8pm. Call 651.447.3729 to place an order. We also want to give a shoutout to their efforts for helping the community during COVID-19. They turned their dining room into a sewing room to make complimentary masks for anyone who needs them, and also provides free lunches for kids daily. Thank you, Augustine's!
augustinesmn.com

Black Coffee And Waffle Bar
For the waffle enthusiasts out there, here you can enjoy sweet and savory speciality waffles paired with a freshly brewed cup of Dogwood coffee. An easy going atmosphere and a worthy brunch spot. (Local tip: look into their secret menu for more creative waffle creations!)
Support and enjoy during COVID-19: Black Coffee And Waffle Bar is open at 50% capacity for indoor dining. Reservations for seating are required for now, so call (651) 313-5693 for dining options.
blackcoffeeandwaffle.com
Photo courtesy of @bcwb_mn
Blue Door Pub
The ultimate local pub experience with good bar bites. Hit up Blue Door Pub for a relaxed environment, stuffed burgers, and craft beer and wine. And just an underrated side-note, their chocolate chip cookies are top-notch.
Support and enjoy during COVID-19: You can order Blue Door takeout online and they are even offering what they call 'ding dong ditch delivery' for a safe no-contact delivery. Hours are Thursday - Saturday 4pm - 8pm and Sunday 4pm - 7pm.
thebdp.com
Photo courtesy of @bluedoorpub
Yellowbird Coffee
Yellowbird Coffee is located on Selby Avenue and offers specialty coffee while providing a bright and comfortable space that encourages community and authentic conversation. They are currently closed due to COVID-19, but when they do reopen, you can plan to setup camp with your laptop to do some work, or enjoy the company of a friend over a cup of good coffee.
Support and enjoy during COVID-19: Offering curbside pickup on weekdays from 7am - 5pm or a walkup service on weekends from 8am - 5pm.
yellowbirdcoffeebar.com
Photo courtesy of @yellowbirdcoffeebar