Area code 651 serves the eastern portion of the Twin Cities metro area in Minnesota, including St. Paul, Maplewood, Woodbury, and Stillwater. It was created in 1998 from a split of the 612 area code and is now a key identifier for the state capital and its surrounding suburbs. St. Paul anchors the region with government institutions, historic neighborhoods, and cultural attractions. The 651 area has grown rapidly in both population and economic activity, with strong representation in healthcare, education, and commerce. Ten-digit dialing is required in the area. 651 is widely recognized as a distinct and important code for eastern Minnesota.