Water Street Inn is one of the best-known places to stay in Stillwater, a historic property with timeless Victorian architecture right on the St. Croix River. It has 61 rooms, including intimate king suites, double queen rooms and pet-friendly rooms, and guests can watch boats from their rooms or from the rooftop deck. The inn offers three dining options, including Charlie’s Restaurant and Irish Pub and a rooftop bar called Papa’s Rooftop, which makes it easy to eat and drink without leaving the building. It is a short walk, about five minutes, from the boarding area for the Stillwater River Boats paddlewheel cruises, and it has written extensively about the trolley tours, cruises and seasonal events that surround it, so staff are well informed about the area.
Location and getting around
The inn sits on the riverside edge of downtown, so the lift bridge, Lowell Park and Main Street are all nearby. The paddlewheel cruises are about a five-minute walk away, and the haunted trolley tour in October boards close to the inn’s own pub. Guest parking is ample, which is a real advantage on busy weekends when downtown spaces fill and the boat company’s own lot is limited. Ask about parking arrangements when you book.
Rooms
Choose from king suites and double queen rooms, and look for a river-facing room if you want the view of boats and the water. Pet-friendly rooms are available, though you should check fees and limits with the inn before you travel. Rooms vary in size and layout because of the historic building. The rooftop deck and bar are the social heart of the inn in warm weather and offer sunset views, so ask whether any events are planned on your dates.
Who it suits
Couples, families and groups who want a classic Stillwater stay by the water, with dining on site and easy access to the cruises and trolley. Dog owners will appreciate the pet-friendly rooms. Good to know: October is the busiest month because of the autumn colours and haunted tours, so book early. Weekends can be lively around the pub and rooftop, so light sleepers should request a quieter room away from the bar.
Why stay here
- ✓61 rooms and suites
- ✓Rooftop deck
- ✓Rooftop bar
- ✓Charlie’s Restaurant and Irish Pub
- ✓Three dining options
- ✓Pet-friendly rooms
- ✓Ample guest parking
- ✓Walk to the riverboat boarding area
Good questions
How many rooms does Water Street Inn have?+
The inn has 61 rooms, including king suites, double queens and pet-friendly rooms.
Is Water Street Inn close to the river cruises?+
Yes. The boarding area for the Stillwater River Boats cruises is about a five-minute walk away.
Does the inn have a rooftop?+
Yes. It has a rooftop deck and a rooftop bar.