The Best Small Town Getaway In Minnesota: Best Things To Do In Stillwater

As someone who's spent a decade or so living in Stillwater, Minnesota, I was constantly amazed, every time I made my way down the hill to the historic downtown area, at how lucky I was to live in such a beautiful little city - and I'm excited to share it with you. For a relatively small community, it's rich with history, culture, natural beauty, and nightlife. I promise: You will not have any trouble finding all the best things to do in Stillwater.

Tucked into the stunning St. Croix River valley, Stillwater was established as a logging center in 1843 and incorporated as a city in 1854. This makes it one of the oldest and most historic cities in Minnesota. It is often considered the "Birthplace of Minnesota," because the convention to begin the process of establishing the state occurred at the corner of Myrtle and Main Streets in 1848.

Its well-preserved, handsome, and walkable historic center has made Stillwater a destination for shoppers (especially those who love antiquing), day trippers, and folks looking for a Small Town Getaway - whether for adventure, romance, or both. So, join us for a weekend in the charming town of Stillwater, Minnesota - you're certain to remember it for a long time to come!

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Is Stillwater Worth Visiting?

Stillwater is absolutely worth visiting! It is surrounded by natural beauty, including the St. Croix River. The southern boundary of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway - a unit of the National Park Service - is just outside of town. There are also trails, lakes, and green spaces throughout Stillwater, as well as three gorgeous state parks and a state recreation area within 30 minutes of the city. So, if you enjoy outdoor activities - hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, or just walking - you will find plenty to enjoy in Stillwater.

You'll find historic sites and architecture throughout the city. Importantly, you'll also find plenty of spots to dine, drink, shop, and enjoy live music and dancing. Events and festivals happen regularly throughout the year in Stillwater, so just about any time is a good time to visit.

How To Get To Stillwater

Stillwater is located on the eastern edge of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. You can get there from the north or south via Minnesota Hwy. 95. Minnesota Hwy. 36 is the route to use if you're approaching from the west, and those coming from the east (Wisconsin) can get to Stillwater via Wisconsin Hwy. 35 and the St. Croix Crossing. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is about 40 minutes southwest of Stillwater (depending on traffic).

Getting Around Stillwater

Getting around downtown Stillwater is easy: It's an infinitely walkable town with sidewalks, paved trails, and riverfront promenades. Biking is also a great way to get around, and you'll find plenty of bike-friendly amenities, from racks to repair stations, throughout Stillwater.

You'll likely arrive in town by car or rental vehicle. So, generally, you'll want to park and leave your car there. For the most part, parking is free in Stillwater. Pay attention, though, as some spaces and lots are time-restricted. Certain hotels may charge a fee for you to park in their lots while you're here, but it's fairly nominal when compared with parking in larger cities.

Best Time To Visit Stillwater

There always seems to be something happening in Stillwater, and visiting any time of year can be wonderful. It really depends on what you like. Late winter and early spring are the least busy times, which makes it easier to get around and enjoy the city without crowds of other visitors. That said, there are plenty of reasons why so many folks enjoy visiting Stillwater during summer, fall, and around the holidays.

Summer

Summertime is beautiful in the St. Croix Valley. Trees are green, flowers are blooming, and on weekends, the streets are often packed with locals and visitors, alike, enjoying all that Stillwater has to offer.

The river is crowded with boaters, paddlers, and anglers.

Many weekends are booked with festivals and events, like the annual Lumberjack Days.

One thing that's a summertime rite of passage in Stillwater is lining up for a cone at Nelson's Ice Cream. The shop originally started as a grocery in 1923. But for the last 60 years, Nelson's has been serving Stillwater's favorite cool treats.

Fall

Autumn is beautiful in the St. Croix River valley, and the town's tree-lined streets turn Stillwater into a fairytale scene of autumn splendor - a sea of blazing color from the historic courthouse to the St. Croix River.

River cruises to see the fall foliage are popular things to do in Stillwater during the autumn.

Apple picking and agritainment are also popular pastimes when the air turns crisp in the St. Croix Valley. Aamodt's Apple Farm is right in town and a perfect place to spend an autumn day. Be sure to try the delicious Honeycrisp apples or, since it's a weekend, a Thor's Hard Cider.

You'll find plenty of events in Stillwater during the fall, as well, including the Rivertown Fall Art Festival and, of course, Stillwater Harvest Fest with the giant pumpkin weigh-off and pumpkin regatta (after the competition, intrepid paddlers race the giant pumpkins down the river).

Winter

Many folks will tell you that the holidays are the absolute best time to be in Stillwater, and frankly, who am I to argue? The town is absolutely magical in the winter.

The streets are decorated, the shops are brightly lit, and the restaurants are all festive.

Santa can pop in while you're eating breakfast at the Main Cafe, or you could be serenaded by strolling carolers as you shop.

Stillwater may just be the best holiday town in Minnesota, so early winter is also a fantastic time to visit this magical city.

Where To Stay In Stillwater

Most folks visiting Stillwater concentrate their activities in the downtown and historic areas, so we recommend reserving accommodations in this part of town to make getting around a little easier. Fortunately, in addition to many local vacation rentals - including some gorgeous historic homes - you'll find several hotels and inns right in the heart of downtown Stillwater. Because the number of rooms in downtown Stillwater is relatively limited, though, the rates tend to fluctuate quite a bit from season to season and weekday to weekend. At any of the following properties, you may find a weekday rate in March or April hovering around $100 and a summer or fall weekend rate above $300 - for the same room. Compare prices and book well in advance of your visit. If you can't find a reasonable accommodation downtown, consider staying at a property up the hill, where you may find a better price, but you may not be within walking distance of Main Street.

The Lowell Inn

The venerable Lowell Inn opened in 1927 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. But don't let that fool you - its rooms are romantic and modern with a taste of old-world charm. The inn is also a popular and historic dining destination for locals and visitors, alike. Its weekend brunch is particularly popular. It's a block off of Main Street, so it can feel like a bit of an escape from the busyness of town.

Water Street Inn

Housed in the refurbished Lumber Exchange and updated in 2019, the Water Street Inn is the best place to stay in Stillwater if you're hoping for an unobstructed river view from your room. And if you can't get it in your room, you can certainly find it at the inn's rooftop bar and restaurant, Papa's. Right on Lowell Park and adjacent to the historic lift bridge, you can't do much better location-wise than this hotel.

Lora

The hotel Lora anchors the south end of Main Street. Located in a historic former brewery built into the bluff, Lora does an incredible job of marrying Stillwater's present and past into a seamless lodging experience. That's just one of the reasons we think Lora is one of the best boutique hotels in Minnesota.

Hotel Crosby

Notwithstanding Water Street Inn's remodel, Hotel Crosby is the newest hotel in downtown Stillwater. Closer to the north end of Main Street, it also offers an excellent location right in the heart of things. With a contemporary aesthetic and plenty of amenities, Hotel Crosby offers an excellent option for accommodations in town.

Day 1 Itinerary

On your first day in Stillwater, we're going to keep you close to the river that gave birth to the city and point you toward some of our favorite places to eat and drink while we're at it.

Start your day with a coffee from the Daily Grind. Sit on the patio and enjoy views of the St. Croix or carry it with you as you stroll the riverfront walkway, as I enjoy doing:

After you've had your coffee and explored the river, pop your head into a few of the shops, then grab lunch at Leo's Grill and Malt Shop. It's an old-school soda fountain, where you'll find great sandwiches and, if you're up for it, mouthwateringly good malts.

Then loosen your legs with a walk to Wisconsin across the historic Lift Bridge. It was converted from automobile to pedestrian and bike traffic after the St. Croix Crossing opened in 2017.

If you're feeling like a longer walk, you can keep going after you cross and follow the 4.5-mile loop from the Lift Bridge to the St. Croix Crossing and back. Allow a couple of hours to finish it, so you have time to enjoy the views.

Next, you should get out on the water. A paddleboat tour along the St. Croix is one awesome way to do it. Walk up tickets are sometimes available, but we recommend getting your tickets in advance. Tickets run between $30 and $40 for adults and include a meal. Visit Stillwater River Boats for schedules and more details.

If you're looking for something a little more intimate, head to the little silver booth on Nelson Street with the gondola sign above the window.

You can book a ride on an authentic Venetian gondola through Gondola Romantica. A party of two can expect to pay $60 to $75 per person, depending on the package you choose. Reserve your spot or learn more at Gondola Romantica's website.

After your cruise, plan to have dinner at Domacin Restaurant and Wine Bar.

It's an intimate setting with amazing food and a deep wine selection.

Afterward, head a block north to Velveteen Speakeasy - just look for the Rorschach rabbits across from the Lowell Inn.

Grab a craft cocktail and a dessert or, if you prefer, a cheese course. You'll be amazed and the master mixology that goes on here. And you won't mind the cozy quarters, either. When you've had your fill, head back to your hotel and get ready to do it again.

Day 2 Itinerary

For your second day, we're going to explore a little more of Stillwater and its history. We'll get you up the hill a little bit, but you'll finish the day along the river where you should be.

Start your day off right with breakfast at The Main Cafe. With a deep selection, you're sure to find something on its menu to make you smile.

The meander down Main Street - or along the river - to the Stillwater Trolley Co. Hop aboard for a narrated tour where you'll learn all about Stillwater and its rich history. Adults can expect to pay around $15 for a 45-minute tour. You can book in advance on the Stillwater Trolley Co. website.

After the tour, head to the top of the bluff on the iconic Stillwater Stairs. You'll find them about a block north of the trolley stop next the Lora.

It's a bit of a workout, but the views of the town along the way are worth it.

Once at the top, head toward the historic courthouse, and explore its grounds and architecture. Cross the street to pay a visit to the city's Veteran's Memorial.

Since you're on the hill, I recommend you walk a couple of blocks south of the courthouse to Meister's Bar and Grill and grab what I (and many others) consider the best burger in Stillwater.

An optional side trip that may require a Lyft or an Uber is to Lift Bridge Brewing - Stillwater's best-known brewery - for a beer to wash down your burger. It's about two miles from Meister's, away from downtown.

On the other hand, you could just head back downtown from the courthouse and grab lunch at Brian's. It's a casual spot with great bar food. I vouch for the tacos.

Either way, take some time to explore as you head back down. You never know what'll find around the next corner. For example, whimsical Teddy Bear Park is carved into the side of the bluff, but you wouldn't know it was there if you didn't poke your head inside the gate.

Explore the town a little more, and then plan to have dinner along the river. If you're looking for something a little more upscale, head to the Dock Cafe.

Score a patio seat if you can. You can't get any closer to the river for dinner in Stillwater!

If you're feeling a little more casual, head to the venerable Freight House, a Stillwater mainstay for decades. There's plenty of room on the deck and the views are awesome.

End your evening with some live music and dancing on the riverfront at PD Pappy's if you're visiting during warmer weather. Pappy's is only open seasonally.

I hope you've enjoyed exploring one of my adopted hometowns and discovering all the best things to do in Stillwater, Minnesota. If you've never visited, I encourage you to make the trip - you won't be disappointed! And if you have, we look forward to seeing you again, soon!