Part of our in-depth series exploring Sioux Nation Forts
Historic Fort Snelling
Fort Snelling History Center
St. Paul, MN 55111
E-mail: [email protected]
Discover an 1820s military outpost once the focus of a small settlement but now at the center of Minnesota's Twin Cities metropolitan area.
On Mondays and Tuesdays in June, July and August, enjoy a variety of guided tours by the fort's expert staff. The full living history program with costumed guides is presented on Wednesdays through Sundays during the summer, and on weekends in May, September and October.
This restored stone fortress opens its gates to welcome you to frontier life. Imagine that the year is 1827, and as costumed guides greet you, that you've just arrived via steamboat up the Mississippi River.
Enjoy the sights and sounds of the past. Hear musket fire, the cannon's roar and the fife's shrill tunes. Take part in the fort's everyday life. Shoulder a musket, mend clothes, smell the stew, scrape a hide or sing along with the soldiers.
Take tea with Mrs. Snelling or sample the soldiers' bread ration. Swing a hammer in the blacksmith shop or barter with the sutler - but remember that his store is the only one for miles around!
The Fort's costumed guides demonstrate crafts, present historical skits and practice military drill and weapons firings. Join them in 1827 or explore other areas of the site's long history in the exhibits.
Location
St. Paul
At the junction of Minnesota Highways 5 and 55, one mile east of the
Twin Cities International Airport.
Hours
Office hours
Monday through Friday, 8am to 4:25pm. Closed on federal holidays except Memorial Day and Veterans Day
Guided tours: inquire.
Visitation Hours
April-October (Daylight Savings): Monday through Friday (7:30am - 8:00pm), Saturday, Sunday & Federal Holidays (8am - 8pm)
October-April: Monday through Friday (7:30am - 5pm), Saturday, Sunday & Federal Holidays (8am - 5pm)
School tour season includes weekdays in April, May, September
and October. Reservations required.
Phone
612-726-1171
Admission
$8 adults, $7 senior citizens, and $4 children ages 6-12. Free for children under age 6 and MHS members. Different fees may apply for special events. Please see the official information.
Rental
Evening site rental, including interpretive programming, is available for groups. A variety of options, including food service, is available. Please contact the site manager at 612-726-1171 for further information.