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Stillwater, Minnesota: Where Fun and Adventure Meet – The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

The Lift Bridge has stood over the St. Croix River since 1931 and it still carries people across on foot. That is the pattern in Stillwater: the courthouse, the warden’s house and the staircase up the bluff are all still here and still in use. Main Street looks the way it did because nobody knocked it down. This is the birthplace of Minnesota and it behaves like it.

Planning a trip to Stillwater, Minnesota raises the question of where to start. The town is small and it covers outdoor adventures, historical landmarks and a food and drink scene that holds up. Solo, with friends or with family, there is more here than a weekend absorbs.

The historic Main Street and downtown area are the reason most people come to Stillwater. Walk it and the century drops away. The architecture is the point, and the shops and boutiques along it are worth the browse. A guided tour will fill in the history behind the buildings.

For outdoor time, Stillwater has the options. A scenic boat tour on the St. Croix River, hiking or biking the trails, or an afternoon in one of the town’s parks all work. When the walking is done, the restaurants and bars are close by, along with local vineyards and breweries.

Key Takeaways

• Stillwater, Minnesota offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
• The town’s historic Main Street and downtown area is a must-see, with its beautiful architecture and unique shops.
• Outdoor enthusiasts will love the many parks, trails, and water activities available in Stillwater.

The Charm of Stillwater, Minnesota

Stillwater, Minnesota is the birthplace of the state and a small town that gets under your skin. It sits on the St. Croix River and it is known for its historic architecture, its shops and its food.

The historic downtown is the most appealing part of Stillwater. The antique stores and boutiques will take hours and produce something one-of-a-kind. The eating runs from classic American food to international cooking, and most of it is good.

The shops and restaurants are not all of it. Stillwater carries parks and trails built for a slow walk or a bike ride. Take the path along the St. Croix River for the water, or one of the parks in town for somewhere to sit.

The architecture is what gives Stillwater its character. Victorian mansions and smaller cottages stand along the same streets. A walking tour covers the history behind them and is the fastest way to understand the town.

Stillwater, Minnesota is a small town that repays the trip. A quiet weekend or a full vacation both work here. Pack the bags.

Historic Main Street and Downtown Stillwater

Historic Main Street and Downtown Stillwater are the heart of the town. This is where the antique shops, the boutiques and the eating are.

Start with the antique shops. The stock runs from vintage clothing to antique furniture to genuinely odd small objects. It works like a treasure hunt without the digging.

Then the boutiques. Clothing, accessories and home decor are all here, and the standard is high without the prices matching it. Nobody in these shops will make you feel underdressed.

Then the food. Downtown Stillwater holds some of the best restaurants in the area, from casual cafes to fine dining. Most are locally owned, so the money stays in the town while you eat.

Main Street itself is the main attraction. The historic buildings, the storefronts and the lights at night make it genuinely picturesque. It looks like a Hallmark set because nothing was torn down, and a Hallmark set is no bad thing.

Take the wallet and the appetite down to Historic Main Street and Downtown Stillwater. It is the best half of the town.

St. Croix River Adventures

For adventure, the St. Croix River. The water here carries a range of activities and most of them get the heart moving.

Boats first, and not the drifting kind. A speed boat down the river gives you the scenery at pace. Water skiing and wakeboarding are the next step up. Hold on.

For a slower pace, a kayak tour. Paddle the river and take the quiet, and wildlife along the bank is a reasonable expectation. Guided tours are plentiful for beginners.

No account of the St. Croix River leaves out the St. Croix Crossing Bridge. The structure is genuinely impressive and the views from it are the reason to cross on foot or by bike.

However you take the St. Croix River, it will be the part of the trip you remember. Grab a life jacket.

Trails and Parks

Stillwater has some of the best trails and parks in the state. A leisurely stroll and a hard bike ride are both available here.

The Gateway Trail comes first. It suits biking, hiking and horseback riding, runs 18 miles, and takes you through the best scenery in the area. Picnic spots sit along it, so pack a lunch.

For something harder, Brown’s Creek Trail. The 5.9-mile route runs through forest, wetland and prairie. It is the better trail for birdwatching, and other wildlife turns up along it.

For a scenic walk, the St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail. The 4.7-mile route takes you across the Stillwater Lift Bridge with the St. Croix River underneath. It works for a slow walk in company or a family outing.

Pine Point Park finishes the list. Hiking trails, picnic areas, a playground and a beach make it the family day trip. Bring sunscreen and bug spray.

Take the bike, the boots or the picnic basket and use Stillwater’s trails and parks. They are the underrated half of the town.

Food and Drink Scene

The food and drink in Stillwater match the rest of the town. A dinner for two or a night out with friends are both properly covered.

For a taste of local cuisine, head over to the Lift Bridge Brewery for a pint of their famous craft beer. Not only is their beer delicious, but the brewery itself is a great place to hang out and meet new people. If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, try The Dock Cafe, a trendy restaurant with a stunning view of the St. Croix River. Their menu is a mix of classic American dishes and unique creations that will leave your taste buds dancing.

If you’re a wine lover, you won’t want to miss Saint Croix Vineyards. Their award-winning wines are made from grapes grown right here in Minnesota, and the vineyard itself is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. For a more laid-back atmosphere, check out Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop, a classic diner that serves up delicious burgers and malts.

Wherever you eat and drink in Stillwater, you will do well. Grab friends and indulge in what the town has.

Historical Landmarks

Stillwater, Minnesota carries a great deal of history and the landmarks are where you find it. These are the historical spots worth the time:

Lift Bridge

A visit to Stillwater without the Lift Bridge is incomplete. The bridge spans the St. Croix River and has been a landmark here since 1931. It no longer carries vehicles, which makes it a good walk, and the views of the river from the middle are the reason to cross. Take the photograph.

Washington County Historic Courthouse

History readers should not miss the Washington County Historic Courthouse. The building went up in 1870 and served as the county courthouse until 1975. It is open to the public now for tours and events, and walking the halls does more for the period than any exhibit.

Historic Stillwater

Walk Historic Stillwater and the century falls away. The area is full of historic homes, unusual shops and good restaurants, and the architecture rewards a slow pace. The Stillwater Trolley runs a tour of it if you would rather sit.

Historic Stairs

For a workout with a view, the Historic Stairs in Stillwater. They were built in the 1800s so residents could get from the top of the bluff down to the river, and people still use them for exercise. There are over 100 of them, so pace yourself.

Warden’s House Museum

For the history of the Minnesota prison system, the Warden’s House Museum. The Victorian home was built in 1853 and housed the warden of the Minnesota Territorial Prison. It is open for tours covering the prison system and the families who lived in the house.

History reader or not, these Stillwater landmarks hold up. Bring a camera.

Events and Entertainment

For entertainment in Stillwater, the events calendar is fuller than the size of the city suggests. Live music, cultural events and plain good fun all appear on it.

Harvest Fest is the most popular event in Stillwater, running every October. The festival marks the fall season with live music, food vendors and craft booths. The giant pumpkin weigh-off is the highlight, drawing growers from across the country.

If you’re a music lover, you’ll be happy to know that Stillwater has a thriving live music scene. You can catch local musicians performing at various venues throughout the city. From blues to rock to country, there’s always something happening. Check out the music calendar at Discover Stillwater for a list of upcoming shows.

In addition to live music, Stillwater also hosts a variety of other events throughout the year. From art fairs to parades to food festivals, there’s always something happening. Be sure to check the Discover Stillwater events calendar to stay up-to-date on all the happenings in the city.

When it comes to entertainment, Stillwater has plenty of options. You can catch a movie at the St. Croix Cinema, go bowling at the Stillwater Bowl, or check out a play at the Zephyr Theatre. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find something to keep you entertained in Stillwater.

Stay in Stillwater

For somewhere to sleep after a long day in Stillwater, the lodging here covers most needs. A luxurious stay and a small bed and breakfast are both available.

The Water Street Inn is the popular choice in Stillwater. The historic inn sits on the St. Croix River with views over the water. The rooms are comfortable and the staff are genuinely helpful. Charlie’s Irish Pub is on site for a pint and decent pub food.

For something more upscale, the Lora Hotel. The boutique hotel sits in the heart of downtown Stillwater with modern amenities and careful decor. The rooms are spacious and The Long Goodbye, the rooftop bar, is where to take the view.

For something smaller, one of Stillwater’s bed and breakfasts. The inns are personal and many occupy historic homes. The Rivertown Inn and The Elephant Walk Inn are the two most people name, and both do a serious breakfast.

Wherever you stay in Stillwater, the town looks after you. Book the room and get on with the trip.

Stillwater runs along the west bank of the St. Croix River under a bluff. Historic Main Street and the downtown sit on the flat between the water and the hill, holding the antique shops, the boutiques, the restaurants and the Water Street Inn. The Lift Bridge crosses the river at the end of it. The Historic Stairs climb the bluff behind, with the Washington County Historic Courthouse and the Warden’s House Museum at the top. Lowell Park is on the waterfront. The Gateway State Trail and Brown’s Creek Trail run out of town, and Pine Point Regional Park is at the far end of the Gateway.

Shopping in Stillwater

For shopping in Stillwater, Minnesota, the options are broader than the size of the town suggests.

Jewelry first. Art n’ Soul carries handmade jewelry and accessories, and the range is wide enough that something will catch you.

For antiques, Mid-Town Antique Mall. Over 70 vendors trade there, which means the stock turns over constantly and the good finds are real ones.

For accessories, Alfresco Casual Living. The leather goods there are the draw, and a purse or a wallet from them will outlast the trip.

For oils and spices, Savory Spice. The selection of spices, blends, oils and vinegars is long, and the staff know what goes with what.

For general shopping, Downtown Stillwater. The boutiques and shops along it cover most tastes, and the restaurants and cafes handle the break when the walking gets long.

Jewelry, antiques, accessories, oils, spices or a plain browse, Stillwater covers all of it. Happy shopping.

Tours Around Town

For an easy way into Stillwater, a guided tour. Board the Stillwater Trolley and take the route around town. It covers the sights and the history in one pass.

The tour is the fastest way to see Stillwater’s architecture and landmarks. The Victorian homes, the historic courthouse and the shops and restaurants that give the town its character are all on the route.

The best thing about the Stillwater tour is that you stop navigating. Sit down and let the guide work, and the insider detail you get is not in any guidebook.

It is also where you meet other people visiting Stillwater. Conversations start easily on board, and on a hot day the shade is its own argument.

For an easy and enjoyable way to see Stillwater, take the guided tour. It earns the fare.

Nearby Attractions

Stillwater, Minnesota fills a weekend on its own, and the area around it holds more. These are the nearby attractions worth the drive:

For a big city, Minneapolis. It is about 30 minutes from Stillwater and packed. The Mall of America has over 500 stores and attractions. The Walker Art Center has the art. Sports fans get Target Field and US Bank Stadium.

St. Paul is the other city worth the trip, just across the river from Minneapolis. The Cathedral of St. Paul and the Science Museum of Minnesota are the two anchors, with the Minnesota State Capitol and a walk through Como Park to fill the rest.

To stay closer to Stillwater, Hudson, Wisconsin has a good downtown and plenty of outdoor activity. The Twin Cities Premium Outlets in Eagan, Minnesota are the other option, with over 100 stores and restaurants.

Whatever the interest, something nearby covers it. Get in the car and drive out.

Museums and Historical Societies

The museums and historical societies in Stillwater are better than the words suggest. You get the history of Minnesota and the surrounding area without the tedium.

The Washington County Historical Society comes first. The museum exists to preserve the history of Washington County and the area around it, and the collection of artifacts and exhibits is substantial. The early settlers, the logging industry and a replica 19th-century schoolhouse are all covered.

For something harder-edged, the Minnesota Territorial Prison. The museum occupies the prison that operated from 1853 to 1914, and you tour the actual cells. The exhibits cover the prison and the justice system in Minnesota around it.

Stillwater has more museums than those two. The Stillwater Depot, the Warden’s House Museum and the Ice Castle Museum each carry their own exhibits and artifacts.

Take the history of Stillwater and Minnesota seriously; the museums here make it easy. They are educational and genuinely enjoyable at the same time.

Local Vineyards and Breweries

A visit to Stillwater should include the local wine and beer. The vineyards and breweries here are plentiful and good.

Saint Croix Vineyards is the most popular vineyard in Stillwater. The family-owned operation has been running since 1992 and pours everything from dry reds to sweet whites. The “Frontenac Gris” is made from locally grown grapes. Take the tour and finish with the tasting.

For beer, Lift Bridge Brewery. The award-winning brewery pours a broad list, from the Farm Girl Saison to seasonal beers like the Irish Coffee Stout. The taproom has the beer and the local food trucks handle the rest.

Maple Island Brewing is the other one. The brewery is small and the taproom is comfortable, pouring beers like the “Bourbon Barrel Aged Porter” and the “Hop Hill IPA.” The outdoor patio is where to take the glass on a clear day.

Whatever you drink, Stillwater’s vineyards and breweries will have it. Cheers.

Outdoor Activities

Stillwater, Minnesota suits outdoor enthusiasts. Biking, wildlife, golf and kayaking are all properly covered in this small town.

Biking

For a scenic bike ride, the Gateway State Trail. The route runs over 18 miles from St. Paul to Pine Point Regional Park, passing through Stillwater on the way. The surface is smooth and the St. Croix River supplies the views. Bring a helmet.

Wildlife

For wildlife, Pine Point Regional Park. Deer, foxes and the occasional coyote all live here. Walk the park’s trails slowly and watch for them. Keep your distance.

Golf

Golfers have options in Stillwater. Oak Glen Golf Course runs 18 holes of challenging play with views over the St. Croix River. Applewood Hills Golf Course is the relaxed one, built for a casual round with friends.

Kayaking

To get on the water, the St. Croix River. Rent a kayak from one of the local outfitters and paddle down it with the scenery either side. Whitewater kayaking on the rapids is the harder version. Wear a life jacket.

Take the bike, the binoculars, the clubs or the paddle and get outdoors in Stillwater. There is more here than a day covers.

Sweet Treats

A visit to Stillwater should include something sweet. Bakeries through to candy shops, these are the best places for it:

Bakeries

If you’re looking for some freshly baked goodies, head over to the Buttercream Bakery and Cafe. They have a wide selection of cakes, cupcakes, and pastries that will make your mouth water. Plus, they offer gluten-free and vegan options, so everyone can enjoy a sweet treat.

Another great option is Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop, which has been serving up classic diner fare since 1951. Their homemade pies are a must-try, especially the apple pie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Trust us, it’s worth the calories.

Ice Cream

When it comes to ice cream, there’s only one place you need to go: Nelson’s Ice Cream. They have been making homemade ice cream since 1923, and their flavors are out of this world. From classic vanilla to unique options like lavender honey and cinnamon roll, there’s something for everyone.

Candy Shops

For a sweet treat that you can take home with you, check out Candyland. They have been making candy by hand since 1932, and their selection is impressive. From gummies to chocolates to fudge, you’ll find something to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Another great option is Rocket Fizz, which has a wide selection of nostalgic candies and sodas. It’s a fun place to browse and find some unique treats that you may not have seen in years.

A slice of pie or a scoop of ice cream, Stillwater has both. Wear something forgiving.

Unique Experiences

Stillwater, Minnesota carries a few experiences you will not get elsewhere. Gondola rides through to apple orchards, the range is unusual.

Gondola Rides

Take a gondola ride on the St. Croix River with someone you like. Bringing your own wine and cheese is permitted and improves it considerably. Stay inside the boat.

Aamodt’s Apple Orchard

For a family day, Aamodt’s Apple Orchard. Pick your own apples, take the hayride and eat the apple cider donuts. The petting zoo covers the children. Watch the goats; they are quicker than they look.

Ice Cream and Cheese

For ice cream and cheese, there is a pair worth finding. The Nelson Cheese Factory carries a wide selection including its famous Brick cheese. Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop has the ice cream. Pace yourself; the rest of Stillwater still has to be eaten.

A quiet evening or a family day, Stillwater, Minnesota covers both. Bring the people you like.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Stillwater, MN? Is it worth a visit?

Stillwater is the birthplace of Minnesota, standing where the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers meet. History and small-town character run through the whole of it. It is worth the visit.

Are there any fun activities for kids in Stillwater?

Yes. Teddy Bear Park is the one for young children and it is better than the name suggests. For anyone who likes trains, the Minnesota Transportation Museum will hold them for an afternoon.

What are the must-see places in Stillwater?

The Stillwater Lift Bridge is the landmark. The historic downtown area is the walk, with the boutiques, restaurants and antique shops on it. For a different angle, a riverboat cruise gives you the town from the water.

Any recommendations for a winter visit to Stillwater?

Winter suits Stillwater. Go ice skating at the Lowell Park rink or cross-country skiing at the nearby William O’Brien State Park. The Stillwater Ice Castles are the third one, closer to something Elsa would have built than anything else in the state.

Can you suggest some unique shops to visit in Stillwater?

Yes. For vintage finds, Midtown Antiques. For Minnesota-made goods, the Stillwater Olive Oil Company. For home decor, Alfresco Casual Living. Happy shopping.

Frequently asked questions about Stillwater, Minnesota

How old is the Stillwater Lift Bridge?

It has spanned the St. Croix River since 1931 and it no longer carries vehicle traffic, which is what makes it better than the newer crossing for a walk across. The St. Croix Crossing Bridge is the alternative if you want the wider view, and it takes bikes as well as walkers. Do the Lift Bridge in the evening, when the light is on the water.

Which trail is best for biking near Stillwater, Minnesota?

The Gateway State Trail, 18 miles of smooth surface running from St. Paul to Pine Point Regional Park through Stillwater. Brown’s Creek Trail is the harder pick at 5.9 miles, cutting through forest, wetland and prairie, and it beats the Gateway for birdwatching. The St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail is the shorter scenic one at 4.7 miles.

What can you see at the Warden’s House Museum?

A Victorian home built in 1853 that housed the warden of the Minnesota Territorial Prison, now open for tours covering the prison system and the families who lived inside it. The Minnesota Territorial Prison is the harder-edged alternative, since there you tour the actual cells rather than the house. Do the Warden’s House first, because it makes more sense of the other one.

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