Guide to the Gilded Age Tour

“Good breeding consists in concealing how much we think of ourselves and how little we think of the other person”. Mark Twain

Join Sister Celeste on this historic walking tour as she explores the vast homes and singular landscapes on Summit Avenue and the Hill District’s southern edge. Learn about the conventions that shaped the Gilded Age and forever changed St. Paul’s cityscape.

A product of the Gilded Age who was “in the world but not of it”, Sister Celeste reveals the concealed messages hiding out in the open in the palatial homes and beautifully maintained gardens of some of the city’s earliest and most prestigious citizens. This tour unveils how the hidden languages of the era conveyed secret messages in a society that demanded buttoned-down decorum over uncovered passion in polite society.

But all that glitters is not gold for everyone in the Gilded Age! Learn why as we explore the lasting influence of a host of noted architects who left their calling cards on the nation's most celebrated boulevard.

The tour starts and finishes in Summit Overlook Park (aka Lookout Park) on Summit Avenue and Ramsey Hill.

How Long: 90 + Minutes

Length: 1.3 Mile

Meeting Location: Summit Avenue and Ramsey Hill's Overlook Park (aka Lookout Park) in St. Paul

General Admission: $24

Confirmation will be received at time of booking.

Cancellation: You may cancel for a full refund up to 24 Hours before the tour. You can cancel by following the instructions posted on Eventbrite. A processing fee may apply. If you are unable to join us on the actual day of the tour, you may re-schedule the tour for another available date by phoning in advance of the tour.

All sales are final after the tour begins.

Minimum numbers for each tour apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough people taking the tour. In the event of this happening you may elect to reschedule the date or receive a full refund. Tours run from April through September or privately by appointment.

Liability Waiver: By signing up for this tour you must agree to read and sign the online waiver located at link below:

Not recommended for heart problems or other serious medical conditions. Moderate walking is involved.

NOTE: Ticket sales typically close online one hour before the tour begins. However, you can purchase the tickets in person on-site on the day of the event.

Call or text 651-243-1707 the day of to confirm ticket availability.

Please stay home if you have symptoms of COVID-19, or if you have been in recent contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Summit Overlook Park, 418 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul, United States