15+ Best Things To Do in Stillwater, Minnesota

Nestled along the picturesque banks of the St. Croix River, Stillwater, Minnesota, claims the proud title of the state’s birthplace, boasting a past steeped in rich history. This charming small town, often lauded as one of America’s prettiest by Forbes Magazine, lures vacationers with its well-preserved historic Main Street lined with architectural treasures and vibrant local enterprises. As you stroll through the heart of Stillwater, the welcoming facades of antique shops, bookstores, and cozy cafés reflect the town’s unique blend of history and modernity, inviting an exploratory adventure.

With a backdrop of soaring limestone bluffs and the gentle flow of the St. Croix, Stillwater encourages visitors to tap into the tranquility and beauty of the region. Whether opting for a leisurely riverboat cruise, indulging in the culinary delights of family-owned eateries, or embarking on a cultural tour, your experiences here connect you to the authentic pulse of a town that has long held its status as a captivating escape from the bustle of daily life.

Teddy Bear Park

Discovered in the heart of Stillwater, Teddy Bear Park is a haven for children, specially designed for those up to seven years of age. In the embrace of spring or the lingering warmth of summer, your little ones can climb and explore a variety of play equipment.

• Activities: Featuring teddy bear-themed structures, the park offers:
  • Climbing frames
  • Swings
  • Slides
• Accessibility: Parking is conveniently available across the street.
• Hours: Open to the public from 8 am to 8 pm, mid-April through mid-October.

Amidst the granite teddy bears and imaginative playsets, children are encouraged to engage in active play. While they revel in the park’s creative atmosphere, take a moment to appreciate the area’s free entry, which ensures that a visit here is both memorable and budget-friendly. After the fun at the park, Stillwater invites you to enjoy its quaint downtown, adding shopping, dining, and more to your list of things to do.

St. Croix Boom Site State Wayside

At the St. Croix Boom Site State Wayside, you’ll stand where the lumber industry once thrived. Located conveniently off Highway 95, this historically rich site operated from 1856 to 1914. It’s a place where the logs, cut from the vast forests upriver, were corralled in the St. Croix River.

• Accessibility: Ample parking is available
• Historical Significance: Learn about the river’s boom operations through well-placed markers

The area offers you a panoramic view of the St. Croix River, making it a perfect pit stop for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking to explore the picturesque surroundings or delve into Minnesota’s logging history, the site provides a compelling snapshot of the past shaped by river and lumber.

Lowell Park

Venture to Lowell Park, a verdant rendezvous with nature nestled along the tranquil St. Croix River in Stillwater, MN. Ideal for leisure or activities, you can bask in serene riverside panoramas, partake in boating, or paddle along in a kayak.

Amenities to Enjoy:

• Picnic Spot: Find your haven at one of the many picnic tables, perfect for a midday feast.
• Ampitheatre: Occasional live events add to the park’s charm.
• Open Space: Ample room for relaxation or engaging in leisurely strolls.

Whether you’re a maritime enthusiast eagerly watching the lift bridge for boating traffic or simply seeking a picturesque escape, Lowell Park offers the quintessence of outdoor enjoyment.

Remember to appreciate the artistry of nature and local culture; the ice sculptures in winter prove to be a highlight for many visitors. This central park, accessible and serene, stands as a testament to Stillwater’s dedication to outdoor spaces.

Stillwater Lift Bridge, Historic Site

The Stillwater Lift Bridge ensconces you in history as you traverse the St. Croix River between Minnesota and Wisconsin. Constructed in 1931, this vertical-lift bridge is a testament to engineering ingenuity with its Parker truss design and distinctive steel towers.

Key Facts:

• Type: Waddell & Harrington vertical-lift
• Opened: 1931
• Closed to traffic: 2017
• Lat/Long: 45.05673917, -92.80227132

In 2017, it pivoted from a bustling traffic thoroughfare to part of the St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail, enhancing its purpose as a pedestrian and bicycle route. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the bridge’s legacy is sealed in time, immortalizing its once critical role in transportation. If you’re eager to witness a slice of Minnesota’s architectural marvels, the Stillwater Lift Bridge is a picturesque landmark worth visiting.

Pioneer Park

If you’re in Stillwater, MN, a visit to Pioneer Park offers a rewarding experience. As an elevated spot, it affords panoramic views, making it the perfect vantage point to overlook the historic downtown. Take a moment to appreciate the vistas that include glimpses of the St. Croix River; these views were voted the best in 2016. The park features a playground and picnic tables that invite you to enjoy a leisurely meal outdoors.

For an enhanced experience, consider taking the trolley tour, which typically stops at this local gem, allowing you to delve into the park’s history and significance. Pioneer Park’s balanced combination of stunning views, recreational facilities, and accessibility makes it a must-visit destination within Stillwater’s charming landscape.

Saint Croix Vineyards

Saint Croix Vineyards offers a charming escape into the world of wine for any visitor to Stillwater, Minnesota. You have the opportunity to savor their wines through tastings and tour picturesque vineyards, typically bustling with activity during the summer and autumn months.

Location: 6428 Manning Avenue, Stillwater, MN

Contact: 651-430-3310

Hours:

• June-December: Daily 10am-6pm
• January-February: Saturdays only
• Note: Some holiday closures apply.

As you partake in wine tasting, be mindful that outside food and beverages are prohibited. Still, there’s an option to purchase a picnic/snack box curated to complement the vineyard’s selection.

Events: Look out for live music and wine-making tours to add to the allure of your visit. Their rustic tasting room, housed in a century-old barn, envelops you in the history and tradition of Minnesota wine-making.

Accessibility: Due to the nature of the premises, check in advance for any specific accessibility needs.

Remember, the backdrop of the Saint Croix Vineyards coupled with a glass of local wine offers a serene retreat from the daily grind.

Pine Point Regional Park

Nestled in Stillwater, Pine Point Regional Park offers you a serene escape with its lush pine forests and tranquil lakes. Here, you can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities set against the scenic backdrop of Minnesota’s landscape.

• Hiking and Biking: Traverse five miles of multiuse trails suitable for both hiking and biking enthusiasts.
• Bird Watching: Bring your binoculars for a chance to observe the local avian wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Horseback Riding and Cross-country Skiing: Depending on the season, hit the trails on horseback or glide through on skis on some of the area’s finest trails.

Before visiting, check the park’s operating hours, as they typically run from 6 AM to 10 PM. Admission is free, but if you plan to stay a while, consider the vehicle permit options for daily or annual access..CONNECT WITH NATURE: Your adventure in the outdoors awaits at Pine Point Regional Park, your peaceful retreat into nature’s embrace.

Stillwater Light Up

During the chilly winter months, Stillwater, Minnesota, becomes an enchanting destination with its annual “Wintertime in Stillwater” lights event. As snow blankets the city, streets come alive with vibrant light displays syncing to music each night (5-10 PM). This magical spectacle spans from the historic lift bridge to Main Street, ensuring your walk through downtown is nothing short of mesmerizing.

Festive Events:

• Twinkle Party: The season commences with the official tree lighting and fireworks.
• Carolers: Encounter Victorian carolers enhancing the yuletide ambiance on select dates.

Pro Tip: Book a cozy hotel downtown to effortlessly wander to the various shops and restaurants, allowing you to immerse yourself in the town’s seasonal charm.

Warden’s House Museum

Situated in the heart of Stillwater, Minnesota, Warden’s House Museum offers a unique peek into the past. This historic site served as the residence of the Minnesota Territorial Prison’s warden and has since been preserved by the Washington County Historical Society.

Hours of Operation:

• May-October: Thursday-Sunday
• Tours: 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm

Features to Explore:

• Exhibits: Discover exhibits detailing the compelling history of the area, including the prison’s past.
• Architecture: Admire the 1853 Greek Revival architecture, which is a testament to historical preservation efforts.

As you walk through the rooms where wardens and their families lived, you will encounter stories that capture the essence of 19th-century life in the region. The museum not only shares insights into the penal history but also portrays the broader Washington County heritage, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in the tapestry of local history.

Stillwater Cave

Exploring the Stillwater Cave along the St. Croix River provides a unique attraction, combining geology with historical intrigue. Peppered with sandstone cliffs, the area is a stark reminder of the region’s geological past. These subterranean chambers are part of Stillwater’s history, once linked to Joseph Wolf Brewery operations.

• Attraction: Stillwater Cave
• Significance: Historical site with geological interest

As you navigate this underground space, the temperature drops, and the natural acoustics of the cave amplify even the faintest sounds. Although no longer used for beer storage, the caves still stand as historical monuments to the city’s entrepreneurial spirit during the late 1800s.

Note: Access to the caves can vary, so checking with local tour providers for up-to-date information before planning your visit is essential.

Wintertime in Stillwater Lights

As you wander through downtown Stillwater during the wintertime, marvel at the elegance of holiday lights embellishing the city’s streets. Experience a serene stroll along the Riverwalk where classical lampposts are adorned to guide your path. The historic Lift Bridge, a prominent feature in Stillwater, gets a seasonal makeover with an outline of brilliant Hollywood lights.

Downtown Stillwater turns into a festive tableau with each shop and eatery contributing to a warm, radiant ambiance. The winter lights are not just about aesthetics but are part of a series of events that infuse the cold months with cheer. Take part in the festive spirit as the community of Stillwater lights up, offering you a holiday experience steeped in tradition and local charm.

Embrace the season’s festivities as Stillwater brilliantly showcases its wintertime glow.

Brown’s Creek Park

When you visit Stillwater, Minnesota, a stop at Brown’s Creek Park is a must for any cycling or hiking enthusiast. This park is home to the picturesque Brown’s Creek State Trail, a 5.9-mile-long expanse connecting the Gateway State Trail to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.

• Biking & Hiking: The trail is ideal for biking and promises an enjoyable ride amidst nature. If you prefer hiking, the path offers a scenic trek with diverse views — from lush woods to glimpses of the local river.
• Nature Spotting: Alongside your journey, watch for the abundant wildlife and wildflowers. The park’s environment, with its forest, river, and floral diversity, provides a tranquil backdrop perfect for bird watching or a leisurely walk.
• Amenities: The trail is well-paved and offers wheelchair and stroller access ensuring it is inclusive for all nature lovers.

Prepare to bask in the serenity of Stillwater’s natural beau as Brown’s Creek Park treats you to a slice of Minnesota’s finest outdoor experiences.

Lily Lake Park

Nestled in the city of Stillwater, Lily Lake Park offers a tranquil escape where you can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities. The park becomes a hub for fishing enthusiasts in the spring and summer. Cast your line to catch species like walleye, an anglers’ delight known for its fight and flavor, and other fish that populate the 41-acre lake.

Amenities at Lily Lake Park:

• Fishing pier
• Wheelchair-accessible areas
• Playgrounds for children
• Open spaces perfect for picnics

For a serene day outdoors, stroll around the picturesque walking paths, enjoy the playground with your family, or relax by the water’s edge. Remember, the park is popular, so consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowds. Whether you’re there for the fish or the fresh air, Lily Lake Park is the epitome of Stillwater’s charm.

Historic Courthouse

In Stillwater, MN, you’ll find the Washington County Historic Courthouse, an emblem of the area’s rich heritage. Erected in 1870, it acted as Washington County’s governmental hub for over a hundred years. These historic sites, not just government buildings, weave the fabric of Minnesota’s past, offering you a glimpse into the Civil War era and other historical milestones.

• Address: 101 Pine Street W, Stillwater, MN 55082
• Currently: Undergoing restoration; closed until January 2024

When operations resume, indulge in guided or self-guided tours to saturate yourself in local lore. Rich in historical significance, this courthouse marks Stillwater as the birthplace of Minnesota because it was the host of the first territorial convention in 1848—a pivotal step in proclaiming statehood.

The courthouse, now a celebrated landmark, hosts family-friendly activities, educational programs, and public events, cementing its role as a living testament to civic and architectural history. Check the courthouse calendar for special events like the annual Holiday Bazaar.