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Timeless St. Paul Locations for Stunning Engagement Photos

February 26, 2025

Couples, Engagements

As a Minnesota wedding photographer with 8 years of experience and a St. Paul resident for the past 5, I’ve had plenty of time to scout the best spots for engagement sessions. And, let me tell you, I have opinions. As I sipped my morning hot cocoa (yes, I’m 31 and coffee is still a no-go—deal with it), I found myself reflecting on my three St. Paul favorites. What do they all have in common? Variety, baby. No matter how many times I shoot in these timeless St. Paul locations, there’s always something new to discover! Talk about endless opportunities for scroll-stopping, stunning engagement photos.

A couple leaning up against a light stone wall kissing.

Cathedral Hill

First up: the ever-quaint Cathedral Hill neighborhood. The charm in this corner of St. Paul will knock your socks off, my friends. Bursting with cobblestone walkways, historic brick buildings, Victorian-era homes, and gaslamp-style streetlights, there’s something to delight everyone. In autumn, this neighborhood truly shines—if you can time it just right, you’ll capture images bursting with vibrant yellows and warm oranges.

Still not sold? What if I told you there’s an optional coffee or cocktail involved? Start your session with a latte from Nina’s or a fancy drink from W.A. Frost, and suddenly, you’re not just getting photos—you’re creating memories over a romantic date night.

Couple wrapped up in each others arms, laughing just before kissing in the St. Paul Blair Arcade Building.
Couple sitting snuggled up in the orange fall leaves that have fallen to the ground on Summit Ave in St. Paul.
Black and white image of a couple holding hands and walking across a cross walk outside Nina's Cafe in St. Paul.
Couple laughing and walking arm-in-arm in Cathedral Hill, St. Paul, with vibrant yellow autumn leaves and historic buildings in the background.
A couple on a street corner kissing and dipping.

Como Park

Como Park is that friend who makes everything look easy. Want tall, dramatic pine trees? It’s got you. Dreaming of a cute little lake? Check. Into bridges, gardens, or quirky architecture? Done, done, and done. It’s basically the Swiss Army knife of engagement photo locations.

Springtime means blooms that’ll make your heart skip a beat, and winter? Bundle up, and let’s get cozy on the frozen lake because, yes, that’s a thing. Nervous about people staring during your session? Don’t worry—while this park can be busy, it’s spacious enough to find your own hidden little corners.

Bonus points: Como Park is a date-night MVP. In summer, grab a drink from Dock & Paddle and rent a Swan paddle boat. In winter, snag a permit and stroll through the Conservatory for a tropical escape from our frigid Minnesota temps. Spring is perfect for picnics under the cherry blossoms, and fall? Hammocks + pines + books = ultimate cozy vibes. Seriously, this place has it all.

Romantic scene of a couple- he is sitting against a pine tree while she lays her head in his lap as they talk and laugh.
Couple on a picnic blanket. He is laying down and she is sitting on her knees eating a pear.
Black and white slow shutter image of a couple from behind as they walk arm in arm and sneak a kiss.
A man hugging his fiance from behind as they giggle at each other in front of the Como Zoo Conservatory.
A couple kissing in front of fully bloomed cherry blossom trees at Como Park in the spring.

Rice Park

Last but not least: Rice Park, a cozy gem nestled in the heart of Downtown St. Paul. Flanked by the Landmark Center on one side and the St. Paul Public Library on the other, it offers stunning backdrops in every direction—so I usually use them all. 😉

In summer, the park’s paths are shaded by lush green trees, while winter brings a magical transformation with twinkling lights. If you’re looking for a location that feels timeless and enchanting, Rice Park is the perfect choice. It’s an ideal spot to dress up and channel a touch of vintage elegance. And, if you time it right, the golden hour here will gift you the dreamiest, most romantic photos.

A couple walking towards each other and smiling. They are out of focus and the Landmark center in St. Paul is behind them in focus.
Image of a couple holding hands and crossing a city street.
A couple walking hand in hand, grinning at each other in the city.
Black and white image of a couple chatting while he sits on a ledge and she leans up against it in the city
A couple holding both hands as they are covered in the golden light of a setting sun.
A man holding his fiance's hand as she spins around a vintage styled light pole.
A couple holding hands and walking away towards the St. Paul Public library at dusk.

No matter what vibe you’re going for—quaint charm, natural beauty, or downtown magic—St. Paul has no shortage of incredible spots for stunning engagement photos. Whether you’re strolling through the cobblestone streets of Cathedral Hill, cozying up under the pines at Como Park, or channeling timeless romance in Rice Park, these three timeless St. Paul locations deliver the perfect mix of variety, personality, and straight-up magic. The best part? Each one brings something unique to the table, ensuring your session feels as one-of-a-kind as your love story. So, grab your favorite person, pick your spot, and let’s create together!

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