Celeste of St. Paul Hotel + Bar is a historic boutique hotel at 26 E Exchange Street, St Paul, Minnesota 55101, in downtown’s Fitzgerald Theater area. Its 1909 Beaux-Arts building housed St. Agatha’s Conservatory of Music and Art and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. Travelers come for characterful rooms, breakfast in the former chapel, and cocktails within walking distance of downtown theaters, the Minnesota State Capitol, and Rice Park.
What to Expect at Celeste of St. Paul Hotel + Bar
St. Agatha’s was founded in 1884 and expanded under Mother Celestine Howard, whose name inspired the hotel’s. Completed in 1909, this larger home accommodated several hundred students, with the sisters living upstairs. Look for the copper cornice, unusual curving double staircase at the main entrance, and sixth-floor loggia originally intended for open-air recreation. The hotel opened in November 2019, following a reunion sleepover attended by former resident sisters. Its appeal lies in this retained institutional grandeur rather than a conventional chain-hotel layout.
Guest rooms and suites occupy the former educational and residential building; compare layouts on the official rooms page before choosing. Couples can prioritize a room for two, while travelers wanting separate lounging space should investigate suite configurations. Complimentary continental breakfast includes hot items and is served in the Chapel, making the morning meal part of the architectural experience. A 24-hour fitness room supports business and leisure stays. Downstairs, the intimate Celeste Bar opens daily at 4pm for bespoke cocktails, local draft beer, wine, and bar snacks; it works particularly well before a nearby theater performance.
- Beaux-Arts exterior: Copper detailing and paired curving entrance stairs distinguish the former conservatory.
- Chapel breakfast: Hotel guests receive complimentary breakfast in a repurposed religious space.
- Conservatory history: The building connects directly to the Sisters of St. Joseph and Minnesota arts education.
- Celeste Bar: Cocktails, Minnesota-area draft beer, wine, and snacks are available from 4pm daily.
- Round-the-clock fitness: The 24-hour exercise room accommodates early departures and late arrivals.
Celeste of St. Paul Hotel + Bar at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 26 E Exchange Street, St Paul, MN 55101 |
| Neighborhood / Area | Downtown, beside the Fitzgerald Theater |
| Operating Hours | Overnight accommodation; confirm check-in/check-out windows when booking. Bar opens daily at 4pm. Breakfast: Monday–Friday 6:30–9:30am; Saturday–Sunday 7–10am. |
| Admission / Price Range | $$$; paid accommodation with date-dependent rates; guest breakfast included. Bar purchases extra. |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 1 to 3 nights; 45 to 90 minutes for drinks |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | METRO Green Line, 10th Street station; paid downtown ramps and metered street parking nearby |
| Official Website & Phone | Celeste of St. Paul; +1 651-222-0848 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Book directly and compare room configurations before committing, especially for families needing additional sleeping space or couples seeking a suite. Theater evenings and major downtown events can increase demand. Ask about check-in and checkout times, luggage storage, cancellation terms, payment requirements, and current parking arrangements before arrival. For a quieter bar visit, arrive near its 4pm opening rather than immediately before a performance. Breakfast has an earlier weekday finish, so plan accordingly if your morning includes sightseeing.
The METRO Green Line’s 10th Street station on Cedar Street is roughly a five-minute walk away; check Metro Transit for service changes. Drivers should budget for paid parking and read meter restrictions carefully. The hotel has elevator access to upper floors, but its prominent exterior staircase means guests requiring step-free access should arrange the appropriate arrival route and accessible room directly. In winter, allow extra time for icy sidewalks. Pair your stay with the Minnesota State Capitol, Landmark Center, or Rice Park, each approximately 10–15 minutes away on foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the bar open, and when should I visit?
Celeste Bar opens daily at 4pm; ask the hotel for that evening’s closing time. Arriving at opening leaves time for an unhurried drink before theater plans.
How much does a stay cost, and is breakfast included?
This is a $$$ boutique-hotel stay, with rates varying by date and room category. Breakfast is complimentary for overnight guests; check the official booking calendar for your total and applicable terms.
How long should I stay?
Two nights allow a full downtown sightseeing day without rushing arrival and departure. A single night works well for a theater outing, while three nights leave room for wider Twin Cities exploration.
Is the hotel suitable for guests with limited mobility?
Elevators provide access to upper guest floors, but the historic entrance includes stairs. Discuss step-free arrival, bathroom fittings, and room dimensions with the hotel before reserving a specific room.
When planning your Saint Paul travel guide or comparing verified hotels and nightlife in Saint Paul, pair this stop with standout local spots including Kalsada, Great Harvest Bread Co., Minnesota History Center, and Sonder The Fitz (0.1 km away).
