There are certain places that just get romance. Rice Park in St. Paul, Minnesota? Oh, it absolutely gets it. Think cobblestone charm, historic architecture, and a splash of city magic. It’s the kind of place where you half expect a string quartet to start playing as soon as you step in front of the fountain. So naturally, it was the perfect backdrop for this Rice Park St. Paul engagement session!
I met this beautiful couple (and their perfectly coordinated outfits) downtown for an evening filled with giggles, cheek kisses, and strolls through one of the Twin Cities’ most timeless gems. Let’s just say the chemistry was giving rom-com finale — the ones where you ugly cry, but in a good way.
Why Rice Park is That Girl for Engagement Photos
If you’ve never been to Rice Park, picture this: European vibes meet Midwest soul. It’s nestled in the heart of downtown St. Paul, surrounded by some of the city’s most iconic architecture. The Landmark Center, the James J. Hill Library, the Ordway Center, and the Saint Paul Hotel all stand tall around this sweet square of serenity. And yes, we definitely took full advantage of all of them.
The park itself is a total vibe. There’s a central fountain (a must for that romantic, notebook-style photo op), twinkle lights during the holidays, lush greenery in the summer, and those beautiful benches that just beg you to sit and snuggle.
For engagement sessions, it’s a dream because every corner offers a new look. One minute you’re channeling classic elegance in front of the Landmark Center, and the next you’re giving modern city edge by the library’s stone arches. Aesthetic options? Endless.
A Little History for the Architecture Nerds (or Romantics.. Same Thing)
So here’s a fun fact: Rice Park is older than Central Park. Mic drop. It was originally donated to the city in 1849 and has been a gathering spot ever since. It’s been home to everything from political rallies to musical performances, and today, it plays host to winter carnivals, weddings, and — you guessed it — adorable engagement sessions.
The Landmark Center, that gorgeous castle-looking building that makes every photo feel ten times fancier, used to be a federal courthouse and post office. Now it’s an arts center with galleries, music, and events. The stone facade and turreted roofline? Chef’s kiss for romantic vibes.
Right next door is the James J. Hill Library, named after the railroad magnate. It’s a towering brick beauty with ornate windows and major Gatsby energy. If your couple loves a moody, dramatic photo moment, this is the spot.
What Made This Session So Fun
Aside from the serious cuteness these two brought to the table (seriously, the way they look at each other??), we had such a good time wandering around and just letting the city guide us. We started near the Landmark Center for those formal-meets-fairytale shots and made our way to the fountain where they shared the sweetest forehead kiss (and I nearly squealed behind the lens).
Then came the library, and WOW, that lighting hit just right. The sun was doing its golden hour thing, their energy was effortless, and I swear the buildings even looked proud to be part of the shot.
Style Goals
Let’s talk outfits real quick. She wore a white ruffle mini dress with a cropped pink sweater that popped perfectly against the historic backdrops. He kept it clean with a white button-up and jeans. Casual, classic, and exactly right for the vibe. They looked like they’d walked right out of a magazine spread, but better because it was their love story.
Planning Your Own Rice Park St. Paul Engagement Session
Here’s why Rice Park should absolutely be on your shortlist if you’re planning an engagement session in St. Paul:
- It’s easily walkable. You can hit three or four gorgeous backdrops without ever moving your car.
- The architecture gives you that wow factor without needing props or major styling.
- Whether it’s summer greens or winter sparkle, the park photographs beautifully in every season.
- There’s a mix of nature and city. Trees and fountains plus iconic buildings? Yes please.
Pro Tip: Weekday evenings are your best bet to avoid crowds. And don’t be afraid to dress up a little. The location totally supports a more elevated look.
Wrapping it Up (But Can We Go Back?)
This session was one of those where everything just clicked — the light, the location, the laughs. Rice Park never disappoints, and these two brought the kind of love that makes my job as a photographer in St. Paul feel like an actual dream.
If you’re thinking about a downtown St. Paul engagement session and want a setting that blends elegance with easygoing charm, this is your sign. Let’s hit the cobblestones, twirl under the city lights, and make some photo magic.
And if you’re in need of a wedding, elopement, or engagement photographer in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or the Smoky Mountains, I’ve got you. Head over to willowandrove.com and let’s plan your perfect session.
