Stillwater MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Stillwater, Minnesota.
1. Stillwater Lift Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The Stillwater Lift Bridge is an iconic structure spanning the St. Croix River, linking Stillwater, Minnesota with Wisconsin. Built in 1931, this vertical-lift bridge is one of only a few of its kind remaining in the country and features beautiful views of the river and city skyline. Visitors can stroll the pedestrian path and appreciate the bridge's engineering as well as its scenic surroundings.
2. Teddy Bear Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY PLAYGROUND
Teddy Bear Park is a whimsical city park designed especially for children, featuring giant teddy bear sculptures and a variety of creative play structures. Located in downtown Stillwater, the park offers a safe, fenced environment with plenty of climbing, sliding, and imaginative play opportunities. It is open seasonally and is a favorite stop for families exploring the city.
3. Brown's Creek Trail
SCENIC BIKING PATH
Brown's Creek Trail is a popular multi-use path that winds through woodland and along the namesake creek, eventually connecting to the Gateway State Trail. Cyclists, walkers, and joggers enjoy the well-maintained surface and gentle grades, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. The trail offers beautiful natural scenery and is especially popular during the fall colors season.
4. Saint Croix Vineyards
AWARD-WINNING WINERY
Saint Croix Vineyards is a celebrated winery located just outside downtown Stillwater, known for its welcoming tasting room and expansive countryside views. Visitors can sample a selection of Minnesota-grown wines while learning about local grape varieties. The winery also features a rustic barn and frequently hosts seasonal events, making it a draw for wine enthusiasts.
5. Historic Main Street
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING & DINING
Historic Main Street in Stillwater is lined with charming shops, trendy restaurants, and boutiques housed in beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings. Visitors can browse for antiques, local art, and specialty foods while enjoying the festive, walkable atmosphere. The Main Street area is the heart of the city and hosts seasonal events and farmers markets year-round.
6. Stillwater Trolley Tour
NARRATED CITY TOUR
The Stillwater Trolley Tour offers a comfortable, 45-minute narrated ride through the city's historic districts. Passengers learn about Stillwater's fascinating lumber town history, see grand old mansions, and hear colorful local folklore. This guided experience is a fun way to get acquainted with the sights and stories of the area.
7. Isaac Staples' Sawmill
HISTORIC SAWMILL & ANTIQUES
Isaac Staples' Sawmill is a preserved 19th-century lumber mill that now houses an antique shop, offering visitors a glimpse into Stillwater's pivotal role in Minnesota's logging industry. The building's historic character is evident in its exposed beams and weathered wood, creating a unique shopping atmosphere. History buffs enjoy learning about the sawmill's significance while browsing rare antiques.
8. Pioneer Park
SCENIC RIVER VIEWS
Perched on a bluff above downtown, Pioneer Park offers panoramic views of the St. Croix River and Stillwater's historic skyline. The park is a tranquil spot for picnics, casual strolls, and photography, with plenty of benches and open green space. Many visitors choose this peaceful park for its unbeatable vistas, especially during sunset.
9. Stillwater Public Library
ARCHITECTURAL GEM & EVENTS
The Historic Stillwater Public Library is an architectural marvel featuring stone facades, elegant reading rooms, and sweeping views of the city. Opened in 1902, the library hosts literary events, local history exhibits, and community gatherings. Its serene terrace is a favorite spot for quiet reading or enjoying the surrounding gardens.
10. Gondola Romantica
ROMANTIC RIVER CRUISES
Gondola Romantica offers authentic Venetian gondola rides along the St. Croix River, providing a romantic and serene way to experience Stillwater's natural beauty. Couples and groups alike enjoy private excursions with a singing gondolier, who enhances the journey with songs and stories. This unique attraction adds a touch of Europe to the Minnesota riverside.
11. St. Croix River Boat Tours
HISTORIC SCENIC CRUISES
St. Croix River Boat Tours depart from Stillwater and offer sightseeing excursions along the picturesque National Scenic Riverway. Guests can choose from lunch, dinner, or themed cruises, each showcasing wildlife, river bluffs, and the historic waterfront. The narrated journeys provide fascinating insights into the area's natural and cultural history.
12. Art Reach St. Croix
COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER
Art Reach St. Croix is an arts nonprofit housed in Stillwater, dedicated to showcasing regional artists and connecting the community through cultural programs. The center hosts rotating art exhibitions, workshops, and literary events throughout the year. Visitors can browse original artwork or participate in hands-on creative activities.
13. Lake Elmo Park Reserve
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Lake Elmo Park Reserve, just west of Stillwater, is a 2,165-acre county park known for its rolling prairies, hardwood forests, and recreational amenities. The reserve features swimming ponds, hiking and ski trails, horseback riding, and a large campground. Its diverse landscape makes it a favorite destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers year-round.
14. Afton State Park
PICTURESQUE HIKING & VIEWS
Afton State Park, located southeast of Stillwater in the St. Croix River Valley, is famous for its rugged hiking trails and dramatic river overlooks. The park encompasses wooded ravines, rolling prairies, and sandy river beaches, offering an escape into unspoiled nature. Popular activities include hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and winter cross-country skiing.
15. Stillwater Art Guild Gallery
LOCAL ARTISTS' EXHIBITS
Stillwater Art Guild Gallery features a diverse collection of works by artists from the St. Croix Valley and greater Minnesota region. The gallery regularly rotates exhibitions in various media, including paintings, jewelry, glass, and photography. Art lovers can meet the artists at special events and take home a truly local piece of creative expression.
16. Lift Bridge Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Lift Bridge Brewing Company is a leading Minnesota craft brewery, welcoming visitors to its lively taproom and production facility. Guests can sample a rotating selection of beers, enjoy brewery tours, and attend lively events such as trivia nights and food truck gatherings. The brewery's creative offerings and community atmosphere make it a staple of Stillwater's social scene.