Category Archives: Uncategorized

Valentine’s Ideas in Stillwater

đź’•đź’• Bring that special person in your life to Stillwater for Valentine’s Day! đź’•đź’• Main Street shops, restaurants, and attractions welcome you to our romantic city to celebrate with your Valentine all week long. We hope you are able to celebrate the special connections in your life this Valentine’s Day. Here are some fun ideas […]


10 Reasons to Host Your Conference in Stillwater, Minnesota

Choosing the right location for your conference or corporate meeting is crucial to its success and the enjoyment of your team. Stillwater, Minnesota, with its charming and unique character, provides an excellent backdrop for your next event. Here are ten reasons why you should consider hosting your conference in Stillwater:


2023 Photo Contest Winners Announced

Nearly 400 photos were entered into the annual Discover Stillwater photo contest, the public voted, and now, it’s time to announce the 3 winners! All winners will all receive recognition on the DiscoverStillwater.com website and Discover Stillwater social media. The photo contest happens annually and both amateur and professionals are encouraged to enter.


Wintertime 2023-2024

Wintertime in Stillwater Discover the historic riverfront district glimmering with charm and full of festivities December through March. Plan now for a holiday or winter season getaway! Stillwater, Minnesota has always been a serene and romantic winter season destination and it is getting better every year! We are lighting up both sides of the Historic […]


10 Reasons to Visit Stillwater, MN in the Fall

Voted as one of America’s Best Towns for Fall Colors, Stillwater, MN should be at the top of your list for fun fall getaways! Here is a round up of 10 reasons to visit Stillwater this fall! Find your inspiration, and then plan your own visit! 


Dog Friendly Stillwater, MN

Traveling with Dogs We are all obsessed with our pets – they are just so darn cute! Did you know that 53% of Americans own a dog and 35% own cats? We won’t get into the great debate about what’s better, cats or dogs, but we would like to share with you all the pet-focused […]


6 FREE Ways to Discover Stillwater

It’s easier than you think to have a budget-friendly trip to Stillwater – there are plenty of fun low cost things to do in Stillwater! Whether you’re on a budget or just looking for additional activities to fill out your schedule, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite Stillwater activities that don’t cost a […]


Ways to Beat the Heat This Summer in Stillwater

Trying to find ways to stay cool on these hot summer days? Look no further than Stillwater, Minnesota! The historic town has all you could want and more. Take a break from the heat and enjoy any of these activities. Stillwater is sure to keep you chilled all summer long!


Public Art in the St. Croix Valley

Calling all art fanatics! Stillwater, Minnesota has an abundance of art sprinkled throughout the town. From sculpture to murals to beautiful utility boxes, we’ve got it all. Everything is free and available to the public! Keep reading to learn more about the artistic endeavors of Stillwater!


Celebrate the 4th of July in Stillwater, Minnesota

Fourth Of July Celebration Event Line Up  ❤️ 🤍💙 Celebrate independence day in an All-American historic river town!  CIVIL WAR CANNONSCivil War Cannons From Battery I, 1st US Artillery will have cannon firing demonstrations at 3PM, 4PM and 5PM on Mulberry Point in Lowell Park/Downtown.   FREE LIVE MUSIC SHOWSLowell Park Amphitheater Stage: Capital Sons – 5:30 PM, Bootleg […]


Recreation on the River

One of the best ways to enjoy the charming sights that Stillwater has to offer is from on the river. Bring your family out to enjoy the wonderful weather and water while exploring what the beautiful and historic town of Stillwater, Minnesota has to offer this Summer.


Summer 2023 Event Preview

We’ve rounded up some of the summer events and festivals in Stillwater you won’t want to miss in 2023! There is so much happening that you must stay for a few days! Our lodging options are plentiful and we would love to see you shopping, dining, dancing and enjoying our charming historic downtown and stunning views of the St. Croix river this summer!


Best Patios in Stillwater – 2023 Edition

Your summer isn’t complete without a trip to downtown Stillwater, Minnesota to take in the beautiful scenery, great shopping, and fun activities. And don’t leave without stopping for a meal at one of the amazing Stillwater outdoor dining patio locations! We don’t think there is a better way to experience this hip historic town and […]


When do Seasonal Attractions Open?

Spring is here and summer is coming soon, so here’s a reminder of all the warm weather attractions now open (or soon to be) for the 2023 season in Stillwater, Minnesota! Tours Rivertown Tours: Guided historic walking tours company. Tours start at the end of April.  Stillwater Trolley: Book tours online or stop by in […]


Stillwater Named in Top 10 Best Small Town Food Scenes by USA Today

For the 4th year in a row, Stillwater made the list of Top 10 Best Small Town Food Scenes in the US! Stillwater, MN – Located just outside St. Paul on the Minnesota/Wisconsin border, Stillwater’s charming Main Street district offers a thriving foodie scene, trendy boutiques and many vintage shops, wineries, breweries, local artisans, river cruises, […]


Adventures “on the Hill”!

Have you ever wondered what there is to do in the Stillwater area that doesn’t include going downtown? Stillwater and Oak Park Heights have so much to offer, we decided to dedicate a blog to help our visitors plan things to do “up on the hill”. Adventures awaits off the main drag on your next visit!


What’s New in 2022

Here’s a list of the newest shops, experiences, restaurants, venues, places to stay and events you must see in 2022! From new lodging properties to new clothing stores, candle stores and bike rentals to new tattoo parlors and a soda shop … downtown Stillwater, Minnesota is coming out of this year with a robust line […]


Outdoor Patios in Stillwater – 2022 Edition

In collaboration with NellieBellie Kitchen Your summer isn’t complete without a trip to downtown Stillwater, Minnesota to take in the beautiful scenery, great shopping, and fun activities. And don’t leave without stopping for a meal at one of the amazing Stillwater outdoor dining patio locations (who all happen to be locally owned by the way). Even […]


Fireplaces & Cozy Suites of Stillwater, Minnesota

Browse these photographs or inspiration for your winter getaway. You can find links to all places to stay here. Book your stay soon to enjoy the true beauty of this winter snow covered historic rivertown with twinkling Main Street lined of warm shops, pubs, and restaurants. Find fun events, workshops, or live music to attend […]


Stillwater Name Bicycle Friendly Community

PRESS RELEASE – City of Stillwater, MN December 8, 2021 City of Stillwater, MN named a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists Today, the League of American Bicyclists honored the efforts of Stillwater, MN to build better places for people to bike with a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) award. Stillwater […]


Why November is Awesome

The cool air is rolling in, but saying good-bye to October and hello to November is great news for a few reasons: 1. As of November 1st, parking in lots downtown Stillwater are FREE! Enjoy this perk until May 1st. 2. Discover Stillwater deals have begun, so go ahead, get out of town and save […]


Halloween in Stillwater

Are the spirits of history lurking on among the cobblestone of Stillwater’s riverfront district? We can’t say for sure but there are certainly liquid spirits and emotionally uplifting spirits of joy awaiting visitors in this Minnesota destination. Looking to discover something new and fun this October? Here’s a list of Halloween inspired happenings in Stillwater, […]


Your Passport to 25+ Outdoor Dining ideas in Stillwater, MN.

In collaboration with NellieBellie Kitchen Your summer isn’t complete without a trip to downtown Stillwater, Minnesota to take in the beautiful scenery, great shopping, and fun activities. And don’t leave without stopping for a meal at one of the amazing Stillwater outdoor dining patio locations (who all happen to be locally owned by the way). […]


2021 Discover Stillwater Photo Contest

We absolutely love our annual photo contest and know that many of you look forward to it as well so it’s time to kick off the contest! So here’s the scoop… the Discover Stillwater 2021 Photo Contest is now open now through October 31st, 2021. We’ve extended the contest farther into autumn so we hope […]


What’s New in Stillwater?

Here’s a list of the newest shops, experiences, restaurants, venues, places to stay and events you must see in 2021. We didn’t publish this blog for 2020 so businesses that opened during the pandemic are also included. From distilleries to rock star karaoke rooms, flower shops to barber shops, sustainable living goods to men’s fashion […]


Earth Day in Stillwater

With life’s recent pause, we hope you are able to be reminded of the value of nature. Immerse yourself in it! Feel its importance, it’s simplicity and its power to heal. Fun Fact: Earth Day Started Near Stillwater Gaylord Nelson, who was the founder of Earth Day , grew up in Clear Lake, Wisconsin, which […]


Special spots to see wildlife near Stillwater

Contributed by Greg Seitz of St. Croix 360 The St. Croix Valley is home to many fascinating plants and animals, and great parks and preserves where you can see them. Make Stillwater your base camp for nature exploration. The only species that might love the St. Croix Valley more than humans are birds. The area […]


Twin Cities Ice Sculpture Exploration Event Includes Stillwater

ICE SCULPTURE EXPLORATION: FEB. 19-28 A great winter adventures awaits! GetKnit Events and Minnesota Ice Sculptures have partnered together and are hiding 25+ ice sculptures throughout the greater Twin Cities at various local businesses, beautiful parks, and in iconic neighborhoods! Gather up your fellow scouts and set out on a great expedition to locate these […]


America’s Coolest Towns: Stillwater, MN

Have you heard? Stillwater made the list of The 25 Coolest Towns in America to Visit in 2021! We were chosen by the editorial team at Matador Network, the world’s largest independent travel media website.  Note: towns are listed in No particular order.


Map of Antique Shops: Time to Treasure Hunt

Get a peek inside our vintage shops and services like photo restoration! Stillwater has always been a top place in the country for Antiques, but now there is another hot trend tying onto that heritage – vintage home decor. Reclaiming old furniture items and transforming them with fresh new paint or fabric for a repurposed […]


The Gift of Experience

Perhaps you are struggling to find a gift, so let us recommend you redirect your efforts to an experience instead. We are all cooped up and wanting to get out into the world to live big again, so consider picking up gift cards for a nice dinner out, a spa service, a wine tasting, a […]


Wintertime in Stillwater: Lights & New Events!

Winter welcomes you to Stillwater’s warm historic district glimmering with ambiance and seasonal charm. In a year when we all need a little cheer, the community has come together to add lots of twinkle to downtown Stillwater as well as winter events! The entire mile of Main Street’s shopping and dining district is lined with […]


Holiday Gift Guide

Downtown Stillwater is full of holiday nostalgia and joy during November & December! And, did you know that downtown Stillwater, Minnesota has 50 independently owned boutiques, shops and art galleries making it the ultimate Shop Small, Shop Local destination for all your holiday gift giving needs (and your personal wish list)! The tourism bureau wants […]


Black Friday & Shop Small Business Saturday

Stillwater is the Ultimate Shop Small Destination in Minnesota and one of America’s Most Picturesque Towns. Choose a charming scene with no big crowds and plenty of fresh air for shopping! RETAIL IS OPEN!! We have 40+ shops that are ALL locally owned. Our celebration of the season has begun with more twinkle than ever on Main Street. Mask up […]


Educational Day Trip Ideas for Kids in Stillwater, MN

For those seeking distance learning field trip opportunities for your family during this home school, hybrid, online education season we are here to offer a few ideas, many of which are free. You can certainly turn a visit to Stillwater into an educational one! Minnesota’s health officials are still in a “Stay Safe” recommendation during […]


360 Tours of Stillwater Venues

CELEBRATIONS will always be important. AND You can never replace the power of IN-PERSON MEETINGS. When you are ready to plan, gather & safely meet in person again, consider Stillwater’s 20+ unique venues. Need a place to host a meeting or party in Stillwater? You can tour venues right from your desk! Originally launched in […]


Fall Shopping Finds Downtown Stillwater MN

Retail therapy is here. Get out of the house, pack your mask, and feel proud you are supporting all locally owned businesses! We decided to shop for you, so here’s a few peeks all the variety of wonderful quality merchandise all for sale RIGHT NOW downtown Stillwater, MN. Find all 40+ shops listed at DiscoverStillwater.com/Shopping. […]


America’s Best Towns for Fall Colors: Stillwater

Travel & Leisure Magazine’s “AMERICA’S BEST TOWNS FOR FALL COLORS” awarded third place to Stillwater, MN as one of the top American towns named a few years ago.  Located on the colorful banks and bluffs of the St. Croix River, Stillwater was selected with other top-scoring towns that represent the full color spectrum, from the […]


Loop Trail & Lift Bridge Open June 1st

Renovated Historic Stillwater Lift Bridge: Photo by Denny Prothero Opening Dates Announced As of June 1st at 8am, the entire St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail is officially complete. The final span of this 4.7 mile loop trail in downtown Stillwater, Minnesota opens Monday welcoming people and bikes to a renovated historic lift bridge. The […]


12 “Stay Safe” Activities in Stillwater, MN

Minnesota’s health officials are still in a “Stay Safe” recommendation during the COVID-19 pandemic. There are many ways you CAN enjoy Stillwater, Minnesota while following the guidelines and enjoying the great outdoors. Note, that as of Saturday, July 25th masks are required when indoors in Minnesota. Read up… St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail – Have […]


Countdown to Connection: May Giveaways

Soon, it’s really going to happen – the final section of the St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail including the historic lift bridge is set to open by the end of May 2020. We waited sixty years for the St. Croix Crossing Bridge to be built and two years for the historic lift bridge to […]


13 Things to Do in Stillwater, MN during the Pandemic

Minnesota’s health officials may have just announced a “Stay at Home” order essentially temporarily closing most everything but hotels in our tourist destination, but don’t fret because there are still many ways you CAN enjoy Stillwater, Minnesota during the pandemic while following the guidelines. Read up… St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail – Have you driven, […]


COVID-19 MN Updates

ALERT: Business hours and operations may be slightly different due to the impacts of COVID, so please check directly with your hotel, restaurant, bar, shop, event, or attraction before traveling. Restaurants, Retail Shops, Salons, & Hotels ARE OPEN in Minnesota! Masks are recommended for those who are not fully vaccinated or businesses who choose to […]


Find Winter Wellness in Stillwater

In Collaboration with Liz Westerhaus of ThisMinnesotaLife I recently heard someone say “Winter is where wellness is made.”  I’d never thought of it that way. Like many, I’ve habitually used the long trudge of winter in the Midwest as an excuse to hide behind closed doors in hibernation mode until the first signs of Spring.  […]


Four Culinary Stops to Make You Crave Stillwater

Photography by The Culinary Portfolio(best viewed on mobile) Let this carousel of culinary photos ignite your taste buds. Here are four downtown Stillwater, Minnesota restaurants with completely different vibes and a variety of menu items and drinks for you to scroll. With over 30 restaurants downtown, you are destined to crave Stillwater and discover a […]


Warm Up in the Coffee Shops of Stillwater

In collaboration with Nellie Bellie Stillwater, MN contains a great selection of unique restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, so it’s easy to get tired out from all the fun. Thankfully, there are plenty of delicious coffee shops in Stillwater to fuel back up with a great cup of coffee or tea! Stillwater offers all sorts […]


Winter Thrills in Stillwater

In collaboration with Liz Westerhaus of This Minnesota Life Winter in Minnesota spans about HALF of our year (a truth we still have a hard time accepting). But that doesn’t mean we have to retreat to our homes until it’s gone.  Winter in the valley is a GREAT time to explore the outdoors and uncover […]


Winter Trails to Enjoy in the St. Croix Valley

In Collaboration with Liz Westerhause of This Minnesota Life Cleaning up after the chaos of Christmas is a welcome reprieve, greeting the New Year with a fresh start and pine-needle free floors. But the packing up of ornaments and the laborious drag of the tree to the curb seems to take with it all the […]


New Electric Bike Rental

Warm sunny days are still here so it’s time to get outside and explore the trails in Stillwater. With three connecting trails – St. Croix Loop Trail that goes over the new bridge to Wisconsin, the Brown’s Creek Trail along the old rail line north of downtown Stillwater and the Gateway State Bike Trail that […]


What’s New

Here’s a quick line up of the newest shops, experiences, restaurants, venues, places to stay and events you must see this year. Thank you to the Pioneer Press newspaper for this wonderful article: “With the Lift Bridge Closed, Stillwater’s Main Street is Booming!” and KSTP for this TV spot: “Developers Drop $30 Million on Downtown […]


What’s Your Stillwater Stay Style?

Read about the variety of beautiful places to stay year-round in the historic rivertown of Stillwater, Minnesota. From new boutique hotels, to main street lofts to historic hotels, to family hotels with a pool to vacation home rentals – you have so many choices – what’s your favorite? Pick your Stillwater Style>>


Live Music

Nightlife in downtown Stillwater, Minnesota never sleeps. Year-round the 30 restaurants and pubs burst with culinary greatness and many also have live entertainment. Downtown is home to 13 live music venues including restaurant lounges, a new live performance theater, a brewery and a speakeasy. River towns like to rock even when the river is closed during […]


Order a 2019 Official Stillwater Visitor Guide & Map

January 29th is National Plan a Vacation Day, so be sure to order your complimentary copy of the 2019 Official Stillwater, Minnesota Visitor Guide with Downtown Map and New Bike Trails Map. The new bike trails map features all three trails accessible from downtown Stillwater (New St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail, Brown’s Creek State Bike […]


Best Towns for Holiday Shopping & Celebrations: Stillwater, MN

Located along the scenic St. Croix River, and just outside of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Stillwater, Minnesota is considered the state’s historic birthplace. It’s been described as one of the Best Places to Take Out of Town Guests and named one of America’s Most Picturesque Towns, where paddle wheel river boats and gondolas still travel near a […]


Fashion Forward 4th of July

As you get ready to celebrate our country’s freedom next week for the 4th of July, take time to celebrate the fireworks inside all the fabulous entrepreneurs running fashion-forward boutiques on Main Street. They take the time to research, follow trends, and travel to buyers shows to find you all the lastest styles from jeans […]


Golf in Stillwater

All golf courses are open for the season in Stillwater! Time to use up those vacation days for relaxing sights like this on the greens. Book a tee time soon at Loggers Trail Golf Course, Stillwater Oaks Golf Course, StoneRidge Golf Club Applewood Hills Public Golf Course Oak Glen Golf Course, Indian Hills Golf Club, Stillwater Country Club or the new Royal Golf Club nearby! […]


New History Walking Tour App Knows Your Location

Experience A Time Tunnel Through Stillwater Minnesota’s History: Lens Flare Stillwater Launches Additional New Free APP With New Locations Press Release by Robert Molenda, LensFlare Stillwater founder Lens Flare Stillwater, a not for profit project funded by The Stillwater Area Foundation announces its newest FREE APP and Web Site to visitors, tourists and residents. This […]


Stillwater Bridge Named Best View 2018

City Pages names the St. Croix Crossing Bridge Best View for 2018 From City Pages: St. Croix Crossing begins on Highway 36 as you head east, leaving Oak Park Heights and soaring toward St. Joseph, Wisconsin. But unlike the imposing freeway bridges of yesteryear, the Minnesota Department of Transportation decided this one would be pedestrian- […]


Teddy Bear Park Open for the Season

Teddy Bear Park in downtown Stillwater is NOW OPEN for the season. 👏👏 Open daily 8am-8pm. Free fun for the kids! Parents, babysitters and grandparents – Here’s 10 more ideas for fun with the kids while in town! 1. A sweet treat: Candyland, Stillwater Tremblay’s Sweet Shop Barbara Ann’s Fudge Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop CherryBerry-Stillwater, MN Mai Little Cakes 2. A Stillwater Trolley […]


What’s New in 2018

Here’s a quick line up of the newest shops, experiences, restaurants, venues, places to stay and events you must see this year. We’ll continue to update so check back for more as summer nears. Thank you to the Pioneer Press newspaper for this wonderful recent article: “With the Lift Bridge Closed, Stillwater’s Main Street is Booming!” […]


New Vacation Home & Loft Rentals in Stillwater

As a popular Midwest travel destination just outside the Twin Cities Minneapolis/St. Paul, Stillwater, Minnesota is a beautiful getaway year-round with dining, shopping, festivals and outdoor recreation on the river and bike trails. The demand for lodging has increased over the years especially because it’s a popular place for weddings with multiple ceremony and reception […]


20 Fun Ideas for the Adults Visiting Ice Castles MN Downtown Stillwater

1) Castle-side outdoor bar at Water Street Inn on the weekends with live music inside at Charlie’s Irish Pub. Balcony rooms overlooking the Ice Castles, too! 2) Skee-ball and $5 martinis at No Neck Tony’s. 3) Cheese & Charcuterie flight with wine pairing at The Wedge & Wheel. 4) Sports bar with large tap beer selection also known as the […]


10 Fun Stops with the Kids Before or After Ice Castles MN:

1) Gammy& Gumpy’s Toy Store and Kids Oasis adjoining indoor creative play space. 2) Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop – 1950s americana and cozy booths 3) Kari’s Create & Paint Studio – walk-ins welcome to paint your own pottery or canvas 4) Learn about history. Take a self-guided tour at Minnesota’s oldest Washington County Historic Courthouse or hold your smart phone in front of one […]


New Bridge. Happy Historic Downtown!

A new bridge 50+ years in the making will finally be complete and open on August 3rd. The rare extradosed design and size is one of only two in the country and has taken many environmentally conscious steps including slim lines due to its location on a Nationally protected scenic St. Croix River. The Historic […]


What’s New in 2017

Summer is almost here! The Historic District’s fun Stillwater vibe is underway. Here’s a quick line up of the newest shops, experiences, restaurants, venues, places to stay and events you must see this year. Stillwater welcomes the following NEW businesses: NEW ATTRACTIONS, SHOPS & RESTAURANTS Himalayan Salt Cave Sanctuary at Just for Me Spa Lip, Lash, […]


Maps & Resources

Are you looking for printable maps and other resources to help plan your visit to Stillwater? We’ve gathered many of the most popular in one place. These resources vary from video walking tours to parking maps, all with the intention of helping you have as much information as possible to make your trip to Stillwater […]


What’s New in 2016

Summer is almost here! The Historic District’s fun Stillwater vibe is underway. Here’s a quick line up of the newest shops, experiences, restaurants, venues, and places to stay you must see this year. Stillwater welcomes the following NEW businesses: Alesci on St. Croix – VRBO studio apartment downtown above Wedge & Wheel on Chestnut St. Artful […]


FREE Boat Tie-Up Slips Downtown Stillwater

The City of Stillwater is offering 14 FREE boat tie-up slips downtown for the summer 2015 boating season – yeah! Boaters grab your rig – big or small -and head to downtown Stillwater for boat-loads of dining fun, events, shopping, tours and more! Stillwater Public Boat Slips 651.430.1234 1st come 1st serve. 4 slips for overnight […]


What’s New in 2015

Summer is here! Historic Stillwater Minnesota’s fun vibe is underway. Here’s a quick line up of the newest shops, attractions, and restaurants you must see this year. Stillwater welcomes the following New Businesses: Gammy & Gumpy’s – children’s toy shop Reclaiming Beautiful – refurbished, painted furniture and home accessories Lions Main – restaurant and lounge Lumberjack Cafe & Coffee […]


New Brown’s Creek Bike Trail

This season cyclists can enjoy a new multi-use paved trail connecting downtown historic Stillwater to St. Paul. Completed just before snow fall, the new Brown’s Creek Trail (6 miles long) starts on the north end of Main Street Stillwater by the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. This new trail, now connects to the existing Gateway […]


What’s New for Summer 2014 in Stillwater

Historic Stillwater Minnesota’s fun vibe is underway for summer 2014. Here’s a quick line up of the newest shops, attractions, and restaurants you must see this year!  Stillwater welcomes the following new businesses:  Designs of Sweden – Modern Swedish Gifts & Home Decor Wedge and Wheel – Artisian farmstead cheese shop Kari’s Create & Paint […]


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