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Stillwater

Stillwater, Minnesota, United States

Stillwater, Minnesota is a charming and historic town nestled along the scenic St. Croix River in the United States. Known for its picturesque beauty and rich heritage, Stillwater is the perfect destination for travelers…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Stillwater.

Top Hotels in Stillwater

Top Flights to Stillwater

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Stillwater.

Tours

Explore Historic Downtown Stillwater

Visit the charming streets of downtown Stillwater, filled with historic buildings, boutiques, and scenic views of the St. Croix River.

Shopping

Shopping on Main Street

Experience the unique shops and boutiques along Main Street, offering a variety of goods from antiques to modern clothing.

Outdoor

Stillwater River Walk

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the St. Croix River with picturesque views, parks, and benches to relax.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Stillwater.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Stillwater

Jan

7°-3°

Feb

10°-1°

Mar

16°3°

Apr

22°9°

May

26°14°

Jun

31°19°

Jul

34°21°

Aug

34°20°

Sep

29°16°

Oct

22°10°

Nov

15°4°

Dec

9°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Stillwater.

What people love

Stillwater, located in Minnesota, United States, offers a charming and picturesque destination for travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Stillwater:

Scenic Beauty: Stillwater is situated along the St. Croix River, providing stunning views and ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and sightseeing. The historic downtown area is known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, making it a delightful place to explore on foot.
Historic Charm: Stillwater is one of the oldest towns in Minnesota, boasting a rich history that is evident in its well-preserved buildings and museums. Visitors can learn about the town's past through guided tours, historic sites, and museums that offer insight into its heritage.
Shopping and Dining: Stillwater offers a variety of boutique shops, art galleries, and antique stores for visitors to explore. The town is also known for its diverse culinary scene, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and breweries offering a range of dining options to suit every taste.
Outdoor Activities: With its proximity to the St. Croix River and surrounding natural areas, Stillwater is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and biking along scenic trails.
Festivals and Events: Stillwater hosts a range of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and art to food and wine. These events offer visitors a chance to experience the local culture and community spirit.

Overall, traveling to Stillwater offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and cultural attractions that make it a memorable destination for visitors of all ages.

What to know

Stillwater, Minnesota is a beautiful and historic town located on the St. Croix River, known for its charming downtown area and scenic river views. However, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Stillwater:

Limited public transportation: Stillwater is not well-served by public transportation, so having a car is often necessary to get around the area and explore nearby attractions.
Seasonal tourism: Stillwater is a popular destination for tourists, especially during the summer and fall months. This can lead to crowded streets, restaurants, and attractions, making it less enjoyable for those seeking a quieter getaway.
Weather extremes: Minnesota experiences cold winters and hot, humid summers. Traveling to Stillwater during extreme weather conditions can impact outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities.
Potential for traffic congestion: During peak tourist seasons or special events, traffic congestion can be an issue in downtown Stillwater, especially on weekends.
Limited nightlife: Stillwater is more known for its quaint atmosphere and historic charm rather than a bustling nightlife scene. If you are looking for a lively party or club scene, you may find the options limited in Stillwater.

Overall, while Stillwater offers a lot of charm and natural beauty, it's important to consider these potential cons when planning your visit.

Stillwater, Minnesota, is a city with a rich history dating back to its founding in the mid-19th century. It is located in Washington County and is considered one of the oldest towns in Minnesota. Here is a detailed history of Stillwater, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History and Founding

Founding (1843): Stillwater was officially settled in 1843 and played a pivotal role in the formation of Minnesota as a state. The town was named after Stillwater, Maine, reflecting the origins of some of its early settlers.
Lumber Industry: The city's location on the St. Croix River made it a prime spot for the lumber industry, which became the backbone of its economy. The river facilitated the transport of logs and lumber, contributing to Stillwater's growth.

Significant Events

Territorial Convention (1848): Stillwater is famously known for hosting the Stillwater Convention in 1848. This meeting led to the establishment of Minnesota Territory, making Stillwater known as the "Birthplace of Minnesota."
Statehood (1858): Minnesota became the 32nd state of the United States in 1858, with Stillwater playing a crucial role in its development.

Historical Figures

Lumber Barons: The lumber industry attracted many entrepreneurs, known as "lumber barons," who contributed significantly to the city's economy and development. Notable figures include Isaac Staples, who was influential in the lumber trade.
Frank W. Murphy: As a prominent historical figure, Murphy was instrumental in the economic development of Stillwater, founding the Stillwater Manufacturing Company.

Important Landmarks

Stillwater Lift Bridge: Constructed in 1931, this historic lift bridge spans the St. Croix River, connecting Minnesota and Wisconsin. It is considered an engineering marvel and a symbol of the city.
Washington County Courthouse: Built in 1870, this courthouse is one of the oldest in Minnesota and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It showcases Italianate architectural style and has been preserved as a museum.
Warden's House Museum: Originally the residence of the prison warden, this historic house built in 1853 now serves as a museum offering insights into the area's penal history and the daily life of its early residents.
Lumberjack Days: This annual summer festival celebrates Stillwater's lumbering history and features parades, live music, and other community events.

Modern Developments

Tourism: Today, Stillwater is a popular tourist destination known for its charming historic downtown, antique shops, restaurants, and scenic views of the St. Croix River.
Historic Preservation: Many of Stillwater's historic buildings have been preserved, reflecting the city's commitment to maintaining its historical character.

Stillwater's blend of rich history, scenic beauty, and cultural significance makes it an integral part of Minnesota's heritage.