West Saint Paul is directly south of Saint Paul -- the "west" part comes from its location along the Mississippi River. Snug along a bend in the river, West Saint Paul is known for its outdoor activities, especially boating and fishing. Nearby parks providing these activities include Lilydale/Harriet Island Regional Park and the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.
Located just blocks from downtown, West Saint Paul is near several important locations, including St. Paul Downtown Airport and the Science Museum of Minnesota. West Saint Paul features a large shopping district along South Robert Street, which features a variety of shops, grocery stores, and restaurants. The city features several parks, many featuring lakes like Garlough Park, Marthaler Park, and Thompson County Park. Thompson Oaks Golf Course, the Ice Arena, West St. Paul Sports Complex, and the Dodge Nature Center provide more entertainment.