What is the surrounding area like?

The Xcel Energy Center is in downtown Saint Paul, which is a twin city of Minneapolis. There's a big craft beer scene in the area and a healthy supply of restaurants, although don't expect nightclubs. If feeling energetic, you could walk the 15 minutes east along the river to Lowertown where hip bars are strewn around this old warehouse district.

Where are the best places to eat near Xcel Energy Center?

The Liffey

If it's Irish charm you're after, pull up a stool in this comfy pub. Punters can carry a signature pint up to the roof terrace to find a spacious seating area and views of Saint Paul. The menu is small but well-formed, including plates like pot roast sliders with caramelized onions, and the hummus plate with grilled naan bread.

Downtowner Woodfire Grill

Catch that whiff of smoky aroma? It might just be the oak-burning grill at this downtown restaurant. Diners can watch chefs work in the kitchen where sirloin steaks and swordfish are cooked till tender; the pizzas draw a crowd, too. As for their artichoke dip, it's so good someone gave it an award.

Mickey's Diner

This place makes you wish every diner was in an art deco-style railroad from the '30s. Stop by for some buttermilk pancakes, a bacon cheeseburger or a milkshake made on a spindle (that's the old-fashioned way, apparently). And don't restrict your visits to daytime, either. The diner is open 24 hours a day, year-round.

Sakura Restaurant & Sushi Bar

A colorful spectrum of sushi is prepared at this long-established restaurant, from pork gyoza and edamame, to lobster and asparagus rolls, plus alternatives like tempura and teriyaki entrée. Everything is freshly made and you can watch the cooking theatrics at the open sushi bar.

What are the 'must do' things in the area?

Mall of America

This place could be heaven or hell, depending on whether you like shopping. Ten miles from Saint Paul, the shopping mall is staggering in its size (and car park). More than 500 stores are spread over 4.2 million square foot. Yikes.

Cathedral of Saint Paul

Towering above the skyline, this cathedral offers the highest point in downtown Saint Paul. Regular organ concerts fill the grand architecture with live music and The Minnesota Orchestra can also be seen on the musical line-up.

Any other info visitors might want to know?

Like to pedal? Saint Paul is one of the most bike-friendly cities in America, with 84 miles of dedicated bike paths across the area.

View more restaurants near Xcel Energy Center

What's the best way to get to Xcel Energy Center?

Jump on the Metro Transit bus or light-rail which is free with some tickets. If driving, you'd be wise to check for any road closures before setting off. Here's a travel page with links.

How's the food and drink?

There are hot dogs, buffalo chicken wings, pizza, bratwurst... you get the drill. Look out for the center's own specially made "Loon" sausage stuffed with cheddar and wild rice.

Care for cutlery? You'll find five eateries including Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Club which serves regionally-inspired dishes, and the Club Carvery where diners tuck into favorites such as the slow-roasted sirloin topped with barbecue sauce.

Does the venue have WiFi?

Yep - it's free and venue-wide.

How much does parking at Xcel Energy Center cost?

$5.75 and upwards, depending on the event. Book your spot in advance to save driving around in a frenzy.

What time do doors normally open?

One hour before the event starts.

Any other info I might want to know?

Get out those felt-tip pens. Signs and banners are allowed (as long as they're not too big, see the low-down here).

Sorry folks, you can't bring a packed lunch/dinner.