The Twin Cities area, particularly St. Paul and its surrounding communities, is a haven for those who appreciate fresh, local produce and the vibrant atmosphere of farmers markets. In fact, the City of St. Paul oversees 18 such markets across the city—from tranquil weekly neighborhood setups to its always bustling flagship Saturday and Sunday markets downtown—and whether you're a local or a visitor looking to explore, there's always something for everyone. Below is a guide to some of the best spots to find farm-fresh goods in St. Paul and its neighboring communities, including Mendota Heights, Sunfish Lake, West St. Paul, and Edina.
St. Paul Farmers Market (Downtown)
290 5th Street E, St. Paul
Saturdays and Sundays, 7:00 am – 1:00 pm
Saturdays and Sundays, 7:00 am – 1:00 pm
For a more traditional farmers' market experience, head to downtown St. Paul Farmers Market. This market has been a staple in the community for 170 years—it's the longest-running market in Minnesota—and is held every Saturday and Sunday from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm. It's a go-to spot for fresh, locally grown produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. The market's commitment to selling only products grown or produced within 50 miles ensures that everything you purchase is as fresh and local as it gets. Whether you're looking for seasonal vegetables, farm-fresh eggs, or handmade crafts, this market has something for everyone.
House of Hope Market
797 Summit Avenue, St. Paul
Fridays, 1:15 pm – 5:00 pm
Fridays, 1:15 pm – 5:00 pm
Located in the charming Summit Avenue neighborhood, the House of Hope Market is a small yet beloved farmers' market that operates every Friday from 1:15 pm to 5:00 pm. This market is perfect for a leisurely Friday afternoon stroll, where you can pick up fresh flowers, local honey, and organic produce while enjoying the historic surroundings.
West Side Farmers Market
63 George Street W, St. Paul,
Saturdays, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, June through October
Saturdays, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, June through October
Situated in the heart of the West Side neighborhood, this market is a community-centered event held every Saturday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. The West Side Farmers' Market is known for its welcoming atmosphere, where local farmers and artisans come together to sell their goods. From freshly baked bread to organic vegetables, this market offers a variety of options that highlight the diversity and creativity of the West Side community.
Signal Hills - West St. Paul
Signal Hills, 1225 S Robert St, West St. Paul
Fridays, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fridays, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
West St. Paul may be a small community, but it has access to some of the finest local produce, thanks to the St. Paul Farmers' Market at Signal Hills. Open every Friday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, this market is a convenient option for locals who want to grab fresh fruits, vegetables, and other locally sourced goods before heading into the weekend. The market's intimate setting makes it a favorite among those looking to avoid the crowds while still enjoying high-quality, farm-fresh produce.
Hmongtown Marketplace
217 Como Ave, St. Paul
Daily, 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Daily, 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Located on Como Avenue, the Hmongtown Marketplace is a unique and bustling spot that offers a glimpse into the vibrant Hmong community, among the largest anywhere in the world. Open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, this marketplace is more than just a farmers' market—it's a cultural experience. Here, you can find an array of fresh produce, traditional Hmong herbs, and handmade goods, all within a lively atmosphere that feels like a cross between a farmers' market and a street fair. The marketplace is a treasure trove for those looking to explore different flavors and foods that are hard to find elsewhere.
Centennial Lakes Farmers' Market
Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave, Edina
Thursdays, 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm (ends October 3)
Thursdays, 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm (ends October 3)
Nestled in the heart of Edina, the Centennial Lakes Farmers' Market is a must-visit for those seeking fresh, locally sourced produce while avoiding the bustle of the urban centers to the north. Situated in the scenic Centennial Lakes Park, this market offers more than just shopping; it provides an experience. The market runs every Thursday from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm until October 3, making it a perfect late-afternoon destination. You can browse a variety of stalls featuring everything from organic vegetables to artisanal cheeses, all while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of the park's 25-acre lake. This market is not just about the food; it's a community gathering space where neighbors meet, families stroll, and everyone leaves with a smile.
Minneapolis Farmers Market
312 East Lyndale Ave North, Minneapolis
Wednesday through Friday, 7:00 am – 1:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday, 6:00 am – 1:00 pm
Wednesday through Friday, 7:00 am – 1:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday, 6:00 am – 1:00 pm
Considering its proximity 20 minutes from St. Paul's farmers market, it's worth mentioning Minneapolis' own gathering of local farmers, vendors, and artisans, among the region's largest and most well-known markets. Located on Lyndale Avenue North, the Minneapolis Farmers Market is a bustling hub of activity from Wednesday through Sunday, featuring over 170 vendors. Whether you're searching for fresh produce, locally made crafts, or ready-to-eat foods, the Minneapolis Farmers Market has everything. Its central location and extensive selection make it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the best of what Minnesota's local farmers and artisans have to offer.
St. Paul Community Gardens
In addition to these vibrant farmers' markets, the communities around St. Paul are home to several community gardens. Here, locals grow their own produce, often sharing the bounty with neighbors or donating it to local food shelves. Some of the most well-known include the Garden on the Hill adjacent to First Presbyterian Church and the community garden at Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul. In Edina, the community garden is located adjacent to Adams Hill Park.
These gardens are a testament to the region's commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
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Whether you're in St. Paul, Edina, or the surrounding areas, there's no shortage of opportunities to connect with local farmers, enjoy fresh produce, and support the community. Each of these markets and gardens proffers a unique glimpse into the local culture, making them essential stops for anyone looking to experience the best of the region's homegrown produce.
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*Header photo courtesy of Visit Saint Paul
