Directions & Lodging
Directions
The address for Macalester College is:
1600 Grand Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55105
By Plane, Bus, and Train
If you are arriving in town by plane, bus or train, the campus is served by mass transit.
From the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
Take the METRO Blue Line light rail northbound (in the Downtown Minneapolis direction) to the 46th Street Station. Transfer to the A Line (bus rapid transit) or the #84 bus northbound to the stop at Snelling Avenue and Grand Avenue (Approximately 35-45 minutes). For the most up to date information on traveling at MSP and COVID-19 visit the MSP website.
From Union Depot in St. Paul
This location is the drop-off point for Amtrak trains and Jefferson Lines, Greyhound, and Megabus buses. From there, take the #63 Metro Transit bus westbound to the stop at Grand Avenue and Snelling Avenue (Approximately 30 minutes). For the most up to date information on traveling at Union Depot and COVID-19 visit the Union Depot website.
By Taxi
If you are arriving in town by plane, bus, or train, you can also take a taxi. We are approximately 15 minutes from all terminals. The fare should be $30-35.
By Car
Note: There are several road construction projects affecting major highways in the Twin Cities. Please check the Minnesota Department of Transportation road construction website for the latest information before planning your trip.
From Interstate 94, exit on Snelling Avenue and go south on Snelling Avenue to Grand Avenue. Turn right (west) on Grand Avenue .
From the north on Interstate 35, take 35E South into St. Paul. Exit to Interstate 94 westbound, and follow the directions above.
From the south on Interstate 35, take I-35E North into St. Paul. Exit at Ayd Mill Road (exit #104B). At the second light, take a left onto Grand Avenue (westbound). One block after crossing Snelling Avenue, turn left (south) onto Macalester Street.
Lodging
Below are area hotels that offer discounted rates for Macalester parents and families during orientation. To make your reservation, follow the links below to book online or call the reservation number. Please be sure to mention the name of your group block is Macalester College Student Orientation. Rooms are first come, first serve and subject to availability.
Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown
175 W 7th Street, St. Paul, MN
(651) 225-1515
$104.00 per night (Link expires on August 15, 2026; after August 15, call to check on block availability)
Please note that the room rate for 8/29 is substantially higher than the others due to a concert at Grand Casino Arena.
Book your group rate for Macalester College: Student Orientation here.
Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown
175 10th St. E
St. Paul, MN 55101
(651) 222-3337
Please note there are 2 room blocks for this hotel:
Book your group rate for August 25-31 here. (Link expires on July 27, 2026)
Reservations may also be made by calling 1-800-325-0720 and referring
to your group number 10190674.
Book your group rate for August 31 – September 4 here. (Link expires on July 31, 2026)
Reservations may also be made by calling 1-800-325-0720 and referring to
your group number 10190724.