august 18, 2025
Megan Kelly, research scientist with the Department of Natural Resources Lands and Minerals Division, shares her Saint Paul Story,
"As a kid, my family would periodically come into Saint Paul for performances at The Ordway, visits to The Science Museum, Easter brunch at the St. Paul Grill and to admire the beautiful historic buildings around Rice Park. I ran the Winter Carnival half marathon with friends as a freshman in high school, my first real road race, which at the time finished right in Downtown. That definitely added to the excitement and made me want to do more!"
“I was based up north my first couple years on the job and then transferred here to Saint Paul in 2014. I was happy to get a job in Downtown Saint Paul because I knew I wanted to live nearby. I love the city amenities with so many great restaurants, theaters, and a full spectrum of venue sizes for live music, but also appreciate that it is laid back and small enough to not be overwhelming.”
I love how Megan sees the successes and wants to capitalize on them, "Downtown Saint Paul does successfully draw people in for things like concerts, sports, theater, and special events like the European Christmas Market at Union Depot, etc. It’d be great if there was a more visible and appealing street level scene, whether its shop fronts or open park areas, so those passing through might be encouraged to return and explore. Also, just getting creative with ways to remind people what is already here and ideas for how to take advantage of what the city has to offer."
Megan thoughtfully approaches the future, "The only thing constant is change, and while It’s been sad to see places come and go, I hope that what’s next will be a livable, accessible, enjoyable city anchored by the things and places that have always made it great. I plan to continue supporting the local landmarks that mean a lot to me, and encourage others to do the same."
Megan shares her favorite spots Downtown Saint Paul, "It’s hard to narrow down, but here are a few- My extended family is big on establishing traditions, and whenever they are in town we make sure to stop at Keys Cafe on Robert Street for a breakfast feast, with several extra cinnamon rolls for the table. The Palace Theater has been a favorite of mine since it reopened in 2017. I love being part of the crowd spilling out onto the pedestrian area after a great show, all lit up by the marquee sign. And though it’s not technically IN Downtown Saint Paul, the view of the city from the top of The High Bridge can’t be beat."
Megan uses her interests and talents to honor The Hortmans, "I’m participating in a Minnesota Master Naturalist course this summer, in hopes of becoming better connected with volunteer opportunities in conservation and education at a local level. I already spend a lot of time working and playing outdoors, but I wanted to give back a little more in that space where help is needed. This could include city environments like Downtown Saint Paul too, with things like small native gardens and cleanup along the beautiful river bluffs! We’ve heard about how much Rep. Hortman loved trees, so hopefully I’ll be able to plant a few in her honor someday."
Thank You for sharing your Saint Paul Story with the project, Megan. We're all connected by a thread🧵❤️