Explore Saint James

Saint James, Minnesota, brings together trails around St. James Lake, railroad history, public art, and events. For your stay, the key distinctions are between a paved trail around the lake, a connecting route toward Long Lake, and seasonal or annual offerings.

Bike Trails at St. James Lake

The St. James Area Bike Trail is a paved, four-mile trail that loops around St. James Lake. The WatLine Trail connects to it, running five miles south to Long Lake; it opened in 2017. The trails differ in route and destination. If you’re looking for a loop around St. James Lake, you’ll find a different kind of route here than on the trail that heads south to Long Lake.

Parks and Outdoor Activities

Memorial Park at St. James Lake has three fishing piers, a skate park, and two sand volleyball courts. Fishing, skating, and volleyball are distinct activities available in one place. These specific facilities make the park another place to visit in addition to the bike trails.

Tiell Park Campground is also located on the paved St. James Area Bike Trail. St. James’s railroad-themed museums are within walking distance from there. The local layout thus brings outdoor trails and railroad history together, without requiring them to be the same kind of outing.

The municipal outdoor pool is seasonal. Its facilities include a large swimming pool, a diving board, a 150-foot water slide, and a kiddie pool for toddlers. Check current operating dates before your trip if the outdoor pool is part of your plans.

Railroad Heritage, Theater, and Art

The St. James Historical Railroad Museum includes a historic depot building, a caboose, a signal tower, and a sand tower. The St. James Chapter of the Watonwan County Historical Society also collects and preserves the history of St. James.

Another historic landmark is the Episcopal Church. It is considered the oldest “original” church building within the city limits. The Historic Princess Theater is in downtown St. James, Minnesota. Artwalk St. James offers a different focus: the art walk takes visitors through the community and includes 20 public art locations. While this art experience spans multiple locations, the theater and church are individual named sites.

Events Throughout the Year

Railroad Days is an annual weeklong event in St. James that celebrates the city’s railroad heritage. The Model Rail Club displays villages and trains in various scales, including hands-on activities for children. The program may change from year to year. The St. James Rail Run/Walk takes place annually in conjunction with Railroad Days.

Fireworks over St. James Lake are also part of the annual events; they are shown at dusk, while dates vary from year to year. The Watonwan County Fair takes place at the fairgrounds in St. James, and its dates also change from year to year. The St. James Community Golf Invitational takes place at the St. James Golf Course in conjunction with Railroad Days. Check the dates of the events you plan to attend before your trip.

For the broader travel overview: Watonwan County.