Bars and Nightlife near Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota: Top Pubs, Craft Cocktails, and Late-Night Hotspots for an Unforgettable Experience

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Planning a night out in downtown St. Paul and looking for the perfect spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat before catching an event at Xcel Energy Center? Look no further! We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the most popular bars near the arena so you can focus on enjoying your evening without the stress of finding the perfect hangout. From cozy wine bars to lively sports saloons, there’s something to suit every taste and vibe. Let’s dive in!

Top 10 Bars Near Xcel Energy Center

Enjoy the best the local bar scene has to offer, all within walking distance of Xcel Energy Center. Here’s the breakdown of the hottest spots to check out:

1. Wild Bill’s Sports Saloon

Location: 175 West 7th Street, St. Paul
Distance from Xcel Energy Center: 0.1 miles
Average Prices: Moderate, burgers range from $15–$20
Food Available: Yes, burgers, BBQ ribs, wraps
Environment: Laid-back western theme with multiple sports TVs

Sports enthusiasts will love the electrifying atmosphere at Wild Bill’s. It’s perfect for pre-event drinks and classic American comfort food.

2. Alary’s Bar

Location: 139 E 7th St, St. Paul
Distance from Xcel Energy Center: 0.3 miles
Average Prices: Moderate to low, typical pub fare
Food Available: Yes, American pub food
Environment: Chicago Bear-themed with outdoor patio and shuttle service to events

Known for its law enforcement and firefighter-friendly crowd, Alary’s Bar boasts a welcoming vibe and convenient shuttle service—a big plus if you’re running late!

3. Zamboni’s on 7th

Location: Near Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul
Distance from Xcel Energy Center: 0.1 miles (adjacent)
Average Prices: Moderate, $15–$25 per meal
Food Available: Yes, pizzas, cheesesteaks, buffalo wings
Environment: Lively sports bar with famed thin-crust pizza

Loved by locals, Zamboni’s is a crowd favorite for its diverse menu and unbeatable convenience to the venue.

4. Herbie’s on the Park

Location: 317 On the Park, St Paul, MN
Distance from Xcel Energy Center: 0.3 miles
Average Prices: Upscale-casual, $15–$30 per meal
Food Available: Yes, gourmet burgers, sandwiches
Environment: Historic landmark with upscale sports bar ambiance

An iconic spot in St. Paul’s dining scene, Herbie’s blends fine dining with a lively, casual sports vibe for a unique experience.

5. The Liffey Irish Pub

Location: 175 W 7th St, St Paul, MN
Distance from Xcel Energy Center: 0.1 miles
Average Prices: Moderate, $10–$25 per meal
Food Available: Yes, traditional Irish dishes
Environment: Authentic Irish atmosphere with live music

The Liffey is your go-to for Irish comfort food, a pint of Guinness, and possibly catching some live music.

6. Big River Grille & Brewing Works

Location: 500 Mears Park, St Paul, MN
Distance from Xcel Energy Center: 0.5 miles
Average Prices: Moderate, $15–$30 per meal
Food Available: Yes, American brewery fare
Environment: Lively atmosphere great for beer lovers

Lovers of craft brews and local beers will appreciate the vibe and selection at Big River Grille.

7. 333 On The Park

Location: 333 Mears Park, St Paul, MN
Distance from Xcel Energy Center: 0.5 miles
Average Prices: Upscale-casual, $20–$40 per meal
Food Available: Yes, fine dining with local ingredients
Environment: Upscale vibe with outdoor seating

If finer dining and a premium drink selection are more your style, 333 On The Park is worth the extra couple of blocks.

8. Black Dog Coffee and Wine Bar

Location: 308 E Prince St, St Paul, MN
Distance from Xcel Energy Center: 0.6 miles
Average Prices: Low to moderate, $5–$15
Food Available: Yes, light bites, baked goods
Environment: Cozy coffeehouse and wine bar atmosphere

For a quieter, intimate pre-event spot, Black Dog is a charming choice with its cozy atmosphere and locally curated drinks.

9. Saint Genevieve

Location: 490 Mears Park, St Paul, MN
Distance from Xcel Energy Center: 0.5 miles
Average Prices: Moderate, $15–$30 per meal
Food Available: Yes, French-inspired dishes
Environment: Elegant with a lovely patio

Saint Genevieve offers a sophisticated dining option and French-inspired menu for those looking for something more refined.

10. Bad Waitress Diner

Location: 2 E 6th St, St Paul, MN
Distance from Xcel Energy Center: 0.4 miles
Average Prices: Low to moderate, $8–$15 per meal
Food Available: Yes, breakfast and diner fare
Environment: Playful, retro diner ambience

The Bad Waitress Diner is a fun and quirky pick for all-day breakfasts or a quick snack before heading to the arena.

Conclusion

Whether you’re in the mood for an upscale meal, a casual pint, or a lively sports bar, the bars near Xcel Energy Center truly offer something for every vibe and craving. Plan your visit to one of these local gems and elevate your next trip to the arena. Don’t forget to check for happy hour specials, as many of these spots have excellent deals!

Ready to level up your pre-game or post-show experience? Pick one from this list and head out to make your evening unforgettable. For more food and drink recommendations, check out Visit Saint Paul.

Notes: Meta description: “Explore the best bars near Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, MN. Discover their distances, prices, food options, and unique vibes to plan your perfect night out.” Tags: bars near Xcel