Cathedral of Saint Paul, Minneapolis (must see)

A century in the making—well, sort of. The Cathedral of Saint Paul, completed in 1915, owes its existence to the team of Archbishop John Ireland, architect Emmanuel Masqueray, and countless unsung artists, craftsmen, and laborers who chipped in (sometimes literally). The result is a 306-foot landmark topped by a recently restored copper dome, showcasing the grand Beaux Arts style.

Don’t let the austere Minnesota Rockville granite exterior fool you. Inside, the space soars with breathtaking artistry. Stained glass, intricate metalwork, statues galore, and rare marbles from every corner of the globe fill the space beneath the immense interior dome, which measures 175 feet high and 96 feet in diameter.

A standout feature is the Shrine of Nations—a semicircle of six chapels behind the altar. Each chapel honors an ethnic community that contributed to the cathedral’s construction, pairing statues of patron saints with marble medallions representing their homeland. For instance, Saint Patrick graces the Irish chapel, his likeness complemented by Connemara Green marble.

History buffs will appreciate a mural on the building’s north side that depicts Saint Paul’s first bishop, Joseph Cretin, arriving via canoe to meet Father Lucien Galtier, who gave the city’s its name. In the background, you’ll spot Saint Paul’s original church: a humble log cabin chapel that’s a far cry from the cathedral’s grandeur.

Want to experience it firsthand? Step right in. The cathedral is open daily, with free guided tours at 1 PM, Tuesday through Friday (excluding holy days, holidays, and scheduled liturgical events). Of course, you can also embark on a self-guided tour anytime and marvel at the splendor at your own pace.