Best Things to do in Stillwater, Minnesota Stillwater, Minnesota is one of the most
underrated cities in America.
With a population of just over 17,000 people and more than 100 miles of biking trails,
this small town packs some big punch. Hi I'm James and in this ViaTravelers video,
I'm going to show you some of the best things that Stillwater, Minnesota has to offer.
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Whether you're visiting for the weekend or want to make it your new home, there are plenty of
things to do for anyone looking to experience quintessential Minnesotan life. Stillwater,
Minnesota is a small town that has a lot to offer. It is a year-round destination and its attractions
include trails, orchards, food tours, gondola rides, antiquing, boutiquing, and vineyards.
Downtown Stillwater is located only a 30-40 minute drive from the both of the Twin Cities,
MSP International Airport and the Mall of America. When in Stillwater, you can experience the
historic architecture, superb food, and the breathtaking St.Croix River.
It is possible to experience the best of Stillwater on foot or by bike.
Stillwater is also known as the birthplace of Minnesota. It is the site that led to the
statehood of Minnesota in 1858 and features the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge that connects both
the MN and WI sides of the St. Croix River. Historic Stillwater Lift Bridge
Walking on the city’s signature lift bridge is a must-do when you are visiting Stillwater.
This historic bridge, which was built in 1931, is an excellent example of a Waddell and Harrington
vertical lift bridge design. It is one of only 6 lift bridges built in MN and
WI before World War II and State Highway 36 between Houlton and Stillwater runs across it.
The Stillwater Cultural Landscape District, which includes this restored historic lift
bridge and concourse, is rich in history and wonderful early 20th Century architecture.
The six-span bridge is made up of three fixed approach spans,
one movable span, and three slab approach spans. It remains one of the top Stillwater
tourist attractions and is practically next to the heart of Stillwater's historic main street.
Warden's House Museum The Warden's House was
constructed in 1853 as the residence for the warden of Minnesota Territorial Prison, and is
about a five-minute walk north on Main Street. Over the years, a total of thirteen wardens
resided in the house until 1914, when the prison was shifted further from the center of town.
The house was sold in 1941 and it was converted into a museum that same year.
There are many rooms in the museum that have exhibits showing different parts of the County’s
history including the Civil War, Old Stillwater Prison, as well as the local lumber industry.
Other rooms reflect the decor and furnishings of those commonly seen in traditional middle-class
houses of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Historic Washington County Courthouse
The historic courthouse in Washington County, served as a judicial and administrative center
of the county for almost a century. Later, in 1971, the Courthouse was added to the National
Register of Historic Places as the oldest standing courthouse in Minnesota. It is an
architectural treasure that should certainly be included on your itinerary when in Stillwater.
There are free public guided tours available on Mondays through Saturdays,
which will take you around the courtroom, the old county jail, and the exhibit rooms.
During the tour, the guide will take you through historic events in Washington County’s history.
Apart from public tours, there are also private tours, and large group tours,
and community events. If you are traveling in a large group, you can book a tour in advance.
Beyond just the history and amazing architecture of the building, you'll also get amazing views
of the St. Croix River Valley and the rest of Stillwater’s delightful old main street.
Cruise the St. Croix River on a Historic Paddle Steamer or Small Boat
You can easily purchase a ticket on a premier charter yacht or rent your own boat to take
a cruise on the stunning St. Croix River. The guided tour vessels, such as the Lady
Chateau, can accommodate up to seventy passengers but a typical size for groups
is around twenty to thirty guests at a time. The main salon of the ship includes a bar area,
and a buffet while the top deck has comfortable seating. This three-hour cruise,
that will leave you with memories of a lifetime, is one of the romantic things to do in Stillwater.
If you feel ready to captain your own vessel, you can boat up and down the river on your own
by renting a smaller boat such as a kayak or luxury pontoon. In the autumn, this is a great
way to see some of the fantastic fall colors and the iconic river valley that makes the border of
Minnesota and Wisconsin truly special. Tour Downtown Stillwater's Main Street
The premier food and tourist destination of the city, downtown Stillwater’s old main
street offers some of the most exciting and memorable eateries in the state.
Stillwater was officially founded as a village in 1854. Later, it was chosen as the seat for
Washington County and developed into a prosperous lumbering town with a deep harbor on the mighty
St. Croix River. Many historic buildings from this era survive to this day along Main Street that now
includes several antique shops, art galleries, candy shops and a handful of microbreweries.
The quaint downtown area is clustered around a central intersection
which serves as the border between Stillwater's East Hillside and West Hillside neighborhoods.
Most of the old town's businesses are situated along Main Street that runs
from this intersection northwestward to its terminus at the lift bridge over the St. Croix,
where it connects with Minnesota State Highway 36 leading into downtown Hudson in Wisconsin.
You can visit the Historic Bridge Street District on the west side of Main Street, between North 8th
and North 9th Streets. You can reach this district by crossing over or walking along the river under
the Stillwater Lift Bridge on Main Street. The district is one of four historic
districts in Stillwater found listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Visit One of the Many Parks and Trail Systems Sunset Park offers an excellent view over the
St. Croix River Valley and is a great place for photographers, picnics, and lazy strolls.
Another great option is the Brown's Creek Trail. Hundreds of outdoor enthusiasts head to the trail
every year, making it one of the most popular points of Stillwater. This trail was once the rail
bed of Soo Line and it has now been paved making it a great route for relaxed walks or bike rides.
Brown's Creek Trail runs for eighteen miles starting from Stillwater's Pine Point Park,
leading to the state capital city of St. Paul. The St. Croix River Crossing Trail that connects
the Minnesota and Wisconsin side of the St. Croix River is another terrific route. The 4.7-mile loop
trail is a fantastic way to see old Stillwater and the city’s beautiful natural surroundings.
The St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail is open to pedestrians and bicycles
and crosses both the new St. Croix Crossing Bridge and the historic Lift Bridge.
Whether it’s hunting for great antiques, fishing or swimming in the St. Croix, or having a lively
night out at one of the city’s unique bars, there truly is something for everyone in Stillwater.
Regardless of age or preferences, it’s easy to be utterly taken by the
charm of this dinky little city and the picture-postcard-perfect surroundings.
Throughout the year, Stillwater offers a ton of different activities to enjoy,
which is why the town is known state-wide as a year-round getaway
and is popular among just about every kind of individual.
So if you’re a fan of the North Star State and want to know where the story began,
or you want a taste of small town America at its finest, look no further.
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