6 Historic Houses to visit — Verve Realty | Real Estate Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis and St. Paul are both cities with a rich history, and the houses that mark the city are no exception. Many of these historic landmarks are open to the public, and provide informational and guided tours. Here are just a few of the mentionable houses that you can explore.

1. James Hill House - St. Paul

The James Hill House is a well-known destination in St. Paul, open to tours and private events year-around. This 36,000 sq. foot mansion sits on famous Summit Avenue, and was built in in 1891 and was the most expensive and largest mansion in Minnesota at completion. This historical landmark has everything you would expect from a historic mansion - intricate woodwork, servant’s quarters, a pipe organ, an art gallery - and so much more. The mansion is now a part of the Minnesota Historical Society. Find out more and plan your visit here.

2. The Turnblad mansion - Minneapolis

A famous part of the American Swedish Institute, the Turnblad Mansion was built in 1903 for the Turnblad family, who had immigrated from Sweden. It was affectionately known as “The Castle”, and the family lived in the residence for only ten years before donating it to what would be the American Swedish Institute. The mansion is now open for tours, and gives visitors the opportunity to experience the grandeur of the estate. Visit the ASI website to find out more and to plan your visit here.

3. The Governor’s Residence

The Governor’s Residence was originally built for the family of Horace Hills Irvine, a lumberman and lawyer. The project was completed in 1910, where the families lived and enjoyed the residence. In 1947, the family donated the house to the State of Minnesota and it now serves as the primary residence for the Minnesota State governor and their family. Like many historical homes in the area, the Governor’s Residence offers tours of the mansion, find out more here.

4. The Ard Godfrey House - Minneapolis

This landmark yellow house was built in 1848, and is the oldest surviving frame home in the Twin Cities. It was originally the residence of Ard Godfrey, a millwright originally from Maine. Godfrey was one of the first individuals to help build and harness the water power of St. Anthony Falls. The house was moved to Chute Square Park in 1907 and became a public museum in 1917. Visitors can take tours provided by the Women’s Club of Minneapolis. Plan your visit here.

5. Alexander Ramsey House - St. Paul

This mansion was constructed between 1968-1972 for Alexander Ramsey, who served as the first governor of the Minnesota Territory, as well as the second governor of the state. This mansion premiered some of the latest technology of the time, such as running hot and cold water, hot water radiators, and gas lighting. Three generation of Ramseys lived in this residence, and preserved many of the original fixtures and artifacts until the mansion was given to the Minnesota Historical Society. Today, the mansion open for tours and special holiday events, find out more information here.

4901 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417

6. The John H. SteVens House

Built in 1849-1850, this house served as a social and civic center for new settlements along St. Anthony Falls. The building is known to have held some of the first gatherings to organize Hennepin County and to name the city. In 1896, the house was relocated to what is now known as Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis. It became a public museum in 1985, and is now open for public, private, and small group tours. Plan your visit here.

The Minneapolis-St. Paul area is FULL of history and historic homes to discover. Consider joining a local walking tour to experience these neighborhoods that were pivotal in the birth of the cities. Happy exploring!

St. Paul Walking Tours

Minneapolis Walking Tours