An imposing Romanesque Revival federal courthouse built in 1902, now a cultural centre hosting performing arts, exhibitions, and civic events. The ornate interior — turrets, a central courtyard, and grand staircases — is worth seeing in its own right. Free guided tours on Thursdays and Sundays.
During Prohibition the building served as a federal courthouse where notorious gangsters stood trial, including John Dillinger's associate Homer Van Meter and members of the Barker-Karpis gang. Saint Paul was a safe haven for criminals by informal agreement with the police, and the courthouse saw plenty of action as a result.