Marine on St. Croix MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota.
1. William O'Brien State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
William O'Brien State Park offers visitors beautiful hiking trails along the St. Croix River with diverse landscapes to explore. Visitors should be cautious of poison ivy that grows abundantly along the sides of the trails. The park provides opportunities for camping, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the St. Croix Valley throughout the seasons.
2. Marine General Store
HISTORIC LOCAL LANDMARK
The Marine General Store represents an authentic piece of small-town history that visitors can't miss when passing through Marine on St. Croix. This charming establishment offers a genuine old-fashioned general store experience with friendly service. Travelers often describe it as 'the real McCoy' and a must-visit destination in this historic river town.
3. Marine Community Library
COZY LITERARY HAVEN
The Marine Community Library provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for book lovers in this small river town. Visitors appreciate the friendly environment and well-curated selection of books, including free books available on shelves in the hallway. The library serves as a community gathering space that feels both cozy and inviting to locals and tourists alike.
4. Stone House Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Stone House Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of Marine on St. Croix and the surrounding St. Croix River Valley. Visitors can explore artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of this historic river town's development. The museum offers insights into the area's past, including its logging history and early settlement.
5. Big Marine Park Reserve
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Big Marine Park Reserve offers expansive outdoor recreation opportunities centered around Big Marine Lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking in this natural setting. The park provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and families seeking lakeside activities near Marine on St. Croix.
6. Judd Street Exchange
CHARMING SHOPPING DESTINATION
Judd Street Exchange welcomes shoppers with its friendly atmosphere and unique selection of specialty items and gifts. Visitors appreciate the reasonable prices and helpful staff at this sweet little shop in Marine on St. Croix. The store offers a delightful shopping experience that keeps travelers returning during visits to the area.
7. Marine Mills Folk School
TRADITIONAL CRAFT EDUCATION
Marine Mills Folk School invites people of all backgrounds to discover the joy of traditional crafts and skills through hands-on classes. The non-profit organization offers pottery workshops, cooking classes, and other traditional craft experiences. Visitors can strengthen community connections while learning heritage skills in this unique educational setting.
8. Marine Mill Historic Site
FIRST COMMERCIAL SAWMILL
The Marine Mill Historic Site preserves the ruins of Minnesota's first commercial sawmill, which operated from 1839 to 1895. Visitors can explore the grounds where the Marine Lumber Company once stood, with interpretive signs explaining the site's historical significance. The site offers beautiful views of the St. Croix River while telling the story of the industry that shaped the region's development.
9. Nickelodeon Universe
INDOOR THEME PARK
Nickelodeon Universe offers an exciting indoor theme park experience located within the Mall of America, about an hour's drive from Marine on St. Croix. Visitors can enjoy numerous rides and attractions featuring beloved Nickelodeon characters in this all-weather entertainment destination. The park provides thrilling experiences for families looking to complement their St. Croix Valley visit with some high-energy fun.
10. Minneapolis Institute of Art
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
The Minneapolis Institute of Art houses an impressive collection of artwork spanning 5,000 years of human creativity, located about 45 minutes from Marine on St. Croix. Visitors can explore galleries featuring everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces in this renowned cultural institution. The museum offers free general admission, making it an accessible cultural destination to complement a St. Croix Valley vacation.
11. Walker Art Center
CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM
The Walker Art Center stands as one of the nation's leading contemporary art museums, located less than an hour from Marine on St. Croix. Visitors can experience cutting-edge exhibitions, performances, and the famous Minneapolis Sculpture Garden featuring the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry. The center offers a perfect cultural counterpoint to the natural beauty found in the St. Croix River Valley.
12. Mill City Museum
FLOUR MILLING HISTORY
Mill City Museum brings to life the story of Minneapolis' flour milling industry in a fascinating building constructed within the ruins of the Washburn A Mill. Visitors can learn how the power of the Mississippi River transformed the region's economy through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. The museum offers a compelling historical complement to the logging history found in Marine on St. Croix, showcasing another industry that shaped Minnesota.
13. Minnesota History Center
STATE'S STORY SHOWCASED
The Minnesota History Center presents engaging exhibits that bring the state's diverse history to life, located about 40 minutes from Marine on St. Croix. Visitors can explore interactive displays covering everything from Native American history to immigrant experiences and technological innovations. The center provides valuable context for understanding the historical significance of the St. Croix Valley region.
14. Crabtree's Garden Gate
LOCAL GARDEN CENTER
Crabtree's Garden Gate offers a delightful selection of plants, garden supplies, and outdoor decor in the heart of Marine on St. Croix. Visitors can browse through seasonal flowers, shrubs, and gardening accessories in this charming local business. The garden center provides inspiration for green thumbs and casual gardeners alike who appreciate the natural beauty of the St. Croix Valley.
15. St. Croix River
SCENIC WATERWAY RECREATION
The St. Croix River flows majestically past Marine on St. Croix, offering countless recreational opportunities in a protected natural setting. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, boating, fishing, and scenic river tours along this National Scenic Riverway. The river provides a peaceful backdrop to the historic town while serving as the natural feature that shaped the community's development and continues to draw visitors today.