Stillwater is a historic town on the St. Croix River, around thirty miles east of downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, and it is the most popular day trip from the Twin Cities. Local tourism material calls it the birthplace of Minnesota, and its fetchingly old-fashioned downtown, laid out along the riverbank below the bluffs, is the reason to go: independent shops, two bookstores, antique stores, an old-fashioned soda shop and a cluster of restaurants, with the Lora and Crosby hotels and the Velveteen speakeasy for visitors who want to stay or linger into the evening. There is no admission to the town itself, so this is a free day apart from what you buy, and it suits couples, friends, families and anyone who wants a slower pace than the city. A car is the simplest way to get there, and the drive takes roughly forty minutes outside rush hour. The town is lively in summer and autumn, when the riverfront and the foliage are at their best, and quieter and cosier in winter.
Planning
The town is east of St. Paul, and driving is by far the easiest way to reach it, with public car parks in the downtown streets that can fill on summer weekends and during autumn colours. Allow half a day at a minimum and a full day if you want to eat, browse and walk.
The regional tourism site lists restaurants, shops and lodgings, and local seasonal events change from year to year, so check it before you set out. Because the town is small, it is also an easy add-on to a drive to the St. Croix valley or the state park country further north.
What to do
Walk Main Street and the side streets, browsing the bookstores and antique shops, then take a slow walk along the riverfront to look at the water and the bluffs. A café or soda shop stop is part of the classic visit, and a lunch at one of the riverside restaurants makes a good midpoint.
In the evening, the town’s speakeasy bar and restaurants give the day a natural finish, though you will need a designated driver or an overnight stay. Stillwater is also a good place for photographs, with its brick buildings, church spires and the river as a backdrop.
Making the most of it
Choose a weekday if you dislike crowds, since weekends in the summer and the autumn colour season bring heavy visitor numbers. Dress for the weather, and check the forecast if you plan to walk the riverside. The trip pairs well with a morning in the city, for example the Landscape Arboretum or the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, and a Stillwater evening afterwards.
If you prefer not to drive, ask your hotel about the local shuttle or rideshare options, and remember that the return trip in winter weather may take longer than the outward drive.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided day in a historic river town, with shops, bookstores, restaurants and riverfront walks.
Best time
Weekdays in summer and autumn, or a quiet winter day for a cosy visit.
How long
Half a day to a full day.
Tips
Drive on a weekday to avoid crowds and arrange a designated driver if you plan evening drinks.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples, friends and slow-travel fans.
- Families
- Fine for a relaxed day, though the appeal is shops and strolling.
- Couples
- A classic romantic day trip with dinner by the river.
- Pair with
- A morning at the Landscape Arboretum or the Chain of Lakes.
- Time needed
- Half a day to a full day.
Good questions
How far is Stillwater from Minneapolis?+
Roughly thirty miles east, and the drive takes about forty minutes outside rush hour.
Is there an admission charge?+
No. Stillwater is a town to wander, so costs are what you spend on meals, shopping and parking.
What is there to do?+
Browse the independent shops, bookstores and antique stores, walk the riverfront and eat at the downtown restaurants.
Can I get there without a car?+
A car or rideshare is the simplest option. Check with your hotel for current shuttle choices.
When is the best time to visit?+
Summer and autumn are busiest and prettiest, while winter is quieter. Weekdays avoid the heaviest crowds.
