Deco + Democracy: Inside St. Paul City Hall

Explore the Art Deco architecture of City Hall. Discover stories embedded in this Depression-era landmark - part of City Stories festival.

Step inside the historic Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse to discover a remarkable Depression-era Art Deco landmark filled with monumental spaces and powerful civic symbolism.

Completed during the Great Depression, this building reflects a moment when architecture was used to express optimism, democracy, and civic pride. Its striking design, elegant materials, and carefully crafted details reveal how architecture helped shape the public identity of Saint Paul during a challenging era in American history.

Led by a guide from the Ramsey County Historical Society, this tour invites participants to explore the building’s architecture while uncovering the stories behind its design, artwork, and role in local government.

This program is part of City Stories, a week-long festival celebrating the architecture, design, and cultural stories of the Twin Cities.

What You’ll Experience

During this guided tour, participants will:

• Explore the Art Deco architecture of Saint Paul City Hall
• Learn about the building’s Depression-era origins and civic symbolism
• Visit monumental interior spaces rarely explored in depth
• Discover the stories behind the building’s artwork and architectural details
• Gain insight into how architecture reflects the ideals of democracy and public life

Additional Details

• The tour will begin in the lobby near the Vision of Peace statue.
• Participants are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for security screening.

Photography Disclosure

Rethos staff, volunteers and contract employees may document this event for future promotional materials, fundraising or advertising of Rethos as well as Doors Open and City Stories events. By attending this event, participants grant full permission to Rethos to use photographs, videotapes, motion pictures, or any other record of this event, for any legitimate purpose without any monetary payment.

If you prefer not to be photographed, please notify a member of the event staff.

About City Stories

City Stories is a multi-day festival celebrating the architecture, history, and cultural stories of the Twin Cities through tours, talks, and experiences across the region. Buy tickets to other City Stories events here.