Stillwater has a modest but charming drinks scene that suits a self-guided tasting day. Saint Croix Vineyards shares the property of Aamodt’s Apple Farm, Lift Bridge Brewery is a local craft brewery named for the town’s signature bridge, and downtown has cocktail bars including a speakeasy. Local inns such as the Rivertown Inn advertise wine tastings at local wineries as part of the guest experience, which shows how central wine is to a weekend here. Together these make an easy and enjoyable half-day for adults, with food from the town’s restaurants to match. There is no single ticket, so this entry is a plan rather than a product, and each venue sets its own hours, tasting formats and prices.
Planning
Contact each venue about opening days and tasting options, because vineyards and breweries often keep limited hours outside summer and autumn. Arrange a designated driver, a taxi or a rideshare, since the venues are not all within walking distance. Book a table for dinner, especially at weekends, and check age restrictions if you travel with children, as some tasting rooms are adults only.
What to do
Start with a visit to the orchard and vineyard on a fall afternoon, add a pint at the brewery, and finish with cocktails or a meal in downtown. Many hotels recommend itineraries, and some inns host evening wine and hors d’oeuvres. Ask staff for local favourites and for non-alcoholic options if some of your party do not drink. Taste in small amounts, drink water between stops and eat as you go.
Making the most of it
A tasting day pairs with the river cruise, the balloon flights and the trolley tour, as well as a stroll through downtown. Couples and friends will enjoy it most, while families can focus on the orchard and cider. Spring and autumn offer the best weather, while winter tastings are cosy and quiet. Because this is an independent plan rather than a bookable product, keep a flexible schedule and be ready to follow recommendations from the people you meet.
Start with the one stop that matters most to your group, whether that is the vineyard or the brewery, and let the afternoon unfold from there. Ask your hotel for current tasting-room hours, since small producers often change them with the season, and keep a note of anything you enjoy so you can buy a bottle or a six-pack to take home.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided half-day of tastings at a vineyard, a brewery and downtown bars.
Best time
Spring and autumn afternoons.
How long
Half a day.
Tips
Arrange a designated driver and confirm each venue’s hours.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and friends.
- Families
- Focus on the orchard and cider instead.
- Couples
- A relaxed afternoon followed by dinner.
- Pair with
- The orchard and a downtown dinner.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Is there a single tasting ticket?+
No. It is a self-guided plan across several venues, each with its own hours and prices.
Where is the vineyard?+
Saint Croix Vineyards shares the Aamodt’s Apple Farm property near Stillwater.
Is there a local brewery?+
Lift Bridge Brewery is a Stillwater craft brewery.
Do I need to drive?+
Arrange a designated driver or rideshare for venues beyond walking distance.
When is the best time?+
Spring and autumn, with winter tastings being quiet and cosy.