James J. Hill House, Saint Paul

Name: James J. Hill House
Address: 240 Summit Ave, Saint Paul, 55102-2194, United States
Telephone: +1 651-297-2555

#2 among attractions in Saint Paul

Museum, History museum, Top attraction, Romanesque architecture, More...

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Facts and practical information

Nestled in the historic region of Saint Paul, Minnesota, the James J. Hill House stands as a grand testament to America's Gilded Age. This stately mansion, now functioning as a history museum, offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of one of the nation's most influential railroad magnates, James J. Hill.

Constructed in the late 19th century, the James J. Hill House is a marvel of architectural design, featuring a blend of Romanesque and Renaissance Revival styles. The house spans over 36,000 square feet and boasts 42 rooms, making it one of the most expansive and elaborate homes of its time.

As a history museum, the James J. Hill House provides educational tours that detail the life and legacy of its original owner, along with the broader context of the era. The interior of the mansion is meticulously preserved, showcasing original artwork, furnishings, and intricate woodwork that reflect the grandeur of the period.

Visitors can explore the various rooms of the house, including the impressive art gallery, the grand reception hall, and the Hill family's private living quarters. The guided tours are conducted by knowledgeable docents who share fascinating stories and historical insights, ensuring an engaging experience for history buffs and casual tourists alike.

The museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and holiday-themed activities, which add to the allure of this cultural landmark. The well-manicured gardens and grounds provide a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls, and the gift shop offers unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

Built: 1891 (133 years ago)Coordinates: 44°56'42"N, 93°6'32"W

Address

240 Summit AveDowntown St. PaulSaint Paul 55102-2194 United States

Contact

+1 651-297-2555

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Day trips

James J. Hill House – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Xcel Energy Center, Cray Plaza, Cathedral of Saint Paul, Science Museum of Minnesota.

0.4 miE
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Xcel Energy Center, Saint Paul
10 min walk • Xcel Energy Center is a multipurpose arena in Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States. Completed in 2000, it is named for its locally based corporate sponsor Xcel Energy.
1 miE
Shopping, Shopping centre
Cray Plaza, Saint Paul
26 min walk • Cray Plaza, located in the Lowertown neighborhood of Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States, provides space for working, living, eating, and recreating on one square city block opened in 1986.
~700 ftN
Revered beaux arts landmark from 1915
Cathedral of Saint Paul, Saint Paul
4 min walk • The Cathedral of Saint Paul is a Roman Catholic cathedral in the city of St. Paul, Minnesota. It is the Cathedral of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis; the Co-Cathedral is the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis.
0.5 miE
Interactive exhibits and educational films
Science Museum of Minnesota, Saint Paul
14 min walk • Science Museum of Minnesota is an American museum focused on topics in technology, natural history, physical science, and mathematics education.
0.8 miSE
Park, Jogging paths and tracks, Bike trail
Harriet Island Regional Park, Saint Paul
21 min walk • The Harriet Island Pavilion, also known as the Clarence W. Wigington Pavilion, is a park pavilion on Harriet Island just across the Mississippi River from downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States. It was designed by Clarence W.
0.6 miE
Museum, Children's museum, Science museum
Minnesota Children's Museum, Saint Paul
16 min walk • The Minnesota Children's Museum is a children's museum in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Founded in 1981 in Minneapolis, the museum moved to St. Paul in 1995. The museum includes natural exhibits of Minnesota, developmental learning areas for small children, a creativity and problem- solving area, and national traveling exhibits.
0.6 miE
Museum, History museum, Romanesque architecture
Landmark Center, Saint Paul
15 min walk • St. Paul's historic Landmark Center, completed in 1902, originally served as the United States Post Office, Courthouse, and Custom House for the state of Minnesota. It was designed by Willoughby J. Edbrooke, who served as Supervising Architect of the U.S. Treasury Department in 1891–92.
~1890 ftNE
Museum, History museum, Library
Minnesota History Center, Saint Paul
10 min walk • The Minnesota History Center is a museum and library that serves as the headquarters of the Minnesota Historical Society. It is near downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota, and is considered one of Minnesota's finest public buildings.
0.5 miE
Music and shows, Nightlife, Music venue
Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, Saint Paul
14 min walk • The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is located in downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota and hosts a variety of performing arts, such as touring Broadway musicals, orchestra, opera, and cultural performers, as well as produces local musicals.
0.5 miE
Church, Romanesque architecture
Assumption Catholic Church, Saint Paul
13 min walk • The Church of the Assumption Catholic Church was dedicated in 1874 and is the oldest existing church in Saint Paul. It is located at 51 West Seventh Street, in downtown Saint Paul. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The parish was founded in 1856 by Bishop Joseph Crétin.
0.7 miSE
Concerts and shows, Theater, Boat or ferry
Minnesota Centennial Showboat, Saint Paul
19 min walk • Minnesota Centennial Showboat was a traditional riverboat theatre docked at Harriet Island Regional Park on the banks of the Mississippi River in downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is James J. Hill House open?

James J. Hill House is open:

Monday closed
Tuesday closed
Wednesday 10 am - 4 pm
Thursday 10 am - 4 pm
Friday 10 am - 4 pm
Saturday 10 am - 4 pm
Sunday 1 pm - 4 pm

Which popular attractions are close to James J. Hill House?

Nearby attractions include Cathedral of Saint Paul, Saint Paul (4 min walk), Justus Ramsey Stone House, Saint Paul (8 min walk), College of Visual Arts, Saint Paul (8 min walk), Boyd Park, Saint Paul (8 min walk).

How to get to James J. Hill House by public transport?

The nearest stations to James J. Hill House:

Bus

Ramp Entrance • Lines: 351, 351H (8 min walk)
5th Street & 7th Street • Lines: 351, 351H, 353, 363, 94D, 94F (10 min walk)

Light rail

10th Street • Lines: 902 (18 min walk)
Capitol/Rice Street • Lines: 902 (20 min walk)