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Stillwater

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About Stillwater

Reputedly one of the most picturesque towns in the region, Stillwater prides itself on being the 1848 ‘Birthplace of Minnesota’: where the process to establish the state began. Set on the banks of the St Croix River, this idyllic heritage destination is deservedly popular with couples, friends and families eager to delve into the area’s history and to enjoy the great outdoors. Accommodation options range from cosy B&Bs to swish city hotels, fit for a whole array of tastes and budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Stillwater includes hip riverside spots, as well as a beautiful manor house tucked amidst sprawling woodland — ideal for adventurers.

Begin your explorations with a guided walking tour or a fun trolley tour of the town centre. Stillwater boomed as a 19th-century logging town, expanding with the advent of railroads and steamships. The Commercial Historic District, centred on Main Street, and the town’s many grand residences, reflect its wealthy past. Main Street brims with independent shops, galleries, cafés and eateries specialising in excellent farm-to-table fare. Stillwater’s architectural highlights include the Italianate Courthouse, the houses lining Pine Street and Chestnut Street, and the Arcola Mills Historic Site. The St Croix River Valley is also known for its top-notch breweries and wineries, so you can expect excellent tours and tastings.

If you like walking, the town’s five sets of historic stairs are a great place to begin, before taking the kids to Lowell Park or Pioneer Park. The St Croix River Crossing Loop Trail zips over to Wisconsin and back, with a ride across the famed lift bridge, and is a favourite with cyclists of all ages. You’ll also find a plethora of hiking, cycling and horse riding trails in the surrounding countryside, as well as opportunities to go kayaking, sailing, boating and fishing. Come in the winter months for skiing and snowshoeing — the best places to stay in Stillwater are especially inviting when it’s snowing outside!

The Best Places to Stay in Stillwater

For a Cosy B&B

  • James Mulvey Inn is a quaint B&B with just three characterful suites in a restored carriage house. The property prides itself on feeling like an English country cottage, with lots of exposed beams, quilted throws and a flower-filled garden. A cosy retreat for couples.
  • Rivertown Inn dates back to 1884, and features ten elegant, opulent guestrooms. Set in downtown Stillwater, this is a wonderful place for those eager to kickstart days of exploring with big gourmet breakfasts. Return in the evening for wine & hors d'oeuvres before you venture out for dinner. A romantic, central B&B choice.

For Contemporary Cool

  • Lora is a cool, contemporary hotel built on the banks of the St Croix River, in central Stillwater. Pick this place for its 40 sleek rooms and suites, cracking craft cocktails and delectable dishes. A trendy riverside base for couples or groups of friends, built on the site of a historic brewery. Very atmospheric & good value.
  • Hotel Crosby is a luxurious 55-room modern property with swish interiors, farm-to-table dining, a fun rooftop pool and a soothing spa. An indulgent choice for couples, families or groups of friends looking to stay in the heart of Stillwater.

For a Rural Escape

  • The Outing Lodge is a superb 200-year-old manor house tucked within 300 acres of parkland. Book a spacious, traditionally-appointed room and curl up by the fire after days spent cycling, hiking, horse riding, skiing or showshoeing on the extensive network of surrounding trails. A beautiful venue for large weddings and celebrations, this property is wonderful for families and also dog-friendly.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR holiday rental

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, 30 minutes by taxi or 1.5 hours by train from Stillwater.
  • Minnesota is a wonderful state for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel between June and September for temperatures averaging between 28°C and 34°C, or come in the spring or autumn for cooler weather. Winters are cold and snowy.

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Monthly Weather in Stillwater

Best Hotels in Stillwater

  • Lora Stillwater 40 rooms from £91

    Local exploring  -  Explore Stillwater easily from this hotel, with many of the city's main attractions within walking distance
    City Style  -  With well-appointed rooms on a heritage site in a great location, this hotel has lots of Minnesota style
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the town's historic courthouse - the oldest in Minnesota - housed in an 1867 Italianate style building
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    This boutique hideaway is set on the banks of the St Croix in Minnesota. Built on the site of a historic brewery, beautiful architectural details thread throughout the property, with part-exposed stone contrasted against pastel walls and contemporary art. A uniquely stylish base for local exploring. See More

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  • The Outing Lodge Stillwater 7 rooms from £138

    Country Escape  -  The place to do very little and enjoy your natural surroundings. Go for country walks and spend afternoons by the roaring fire
    Active Holiday  -  Trails for hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, horseback riding and rollerblading surround the property
    Weddings  -  The perfect setting for a romantic wedding. Garden offers limitless guests and in winter say vows in front of the fire
    Whirlpool Bathtub  -  In addition to fireplaces, Amelia Earhardt and Eva Peron rooms come with indulgent two-person jetted tubs
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    200-year old Georgian-style rural manor house surrounded by 300 acres of wooded parkland. Vast indoor spaces boast rustic antique furnishings and candelabras. For a special stay choose a room with a fireplace, jetted tub and four-poster bed. Quiet country B&B ideal for weekends away or weddings. See More

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  • James Mulvey Inn Stillwater 3 rooms from £148

    Local exploring  -  Quaint base from which to explore the charms of small-town Stillwater. Search for antiques and visit historic sites
    Romantic Break  -  Snuggle down for a cosy weekend with two-person tubs, crackling fires and movies in bed
    Local markets  -  Head to Aamodt's Apple Orchard for apple-picking, sweet treats, on-site winery and wine shop
    Swimming Pool  -  Small outdoor swimming pool is situated amongst leafy garden grounds
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    Idyllic Carriage House built in the style of an English country cottage on the grounds of a larger mansion. Individually decorated themed suites come with fireplaces and jetted tubs. Walk to the breakfast cafe & local sites or sunbathe by the shaded outdoor pool. Secluded couple-friendly hideaway. See More

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  • Rivertown Inn Stillwater 10 rooms from £176

    Romantic Break  -  Pick one of the suites with double jetted bathtubs and fireplaces for the perfect setting for a romantic break
    Groups  -  The property makes for a unique choice to rent out in its entirety for a special event
    Whirlpool Bathtub  -  The Agatha Christie and Oscar Wilde suites have double jetted bathtubs
    Cooking classes  -  Book a stay during one of the monthly culinary classes
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    A characterful B&B, dating back to 1884, set in historic downtown Stillwater. Individually styled rooms and suites have bags of charm. Think, rich fabrics, heavy antiques, oriental rugs, and original fireplaces. Breakfasts are gourmet & evenings start with wine and hors d'oeuvres. Ideal for couples. See More

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  • Hotel Crosby Stillwater 55 rooms from £257

    Suites  -  Five different kind of suite offer indulgent options for weekends away; they offer privacy to families and are super comfortable
    Local exploring  -  Walk to most of this revived rivertown's attractions before returning for relaxing afternoons at the pool and spa
    Roof terrace  -  Enjoy the view year-round from the cool contemporary rooftop deck with hot tub and lounge areas
    Restaurant  -  Rustic atmospheric dining room offers some of the town's best farm-to-table dining; tuck into shareable small plates
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Located in the heart of town, this new-build property has lots going for it. Contemporary rooms and suites with a cosy barn feel feature exposed brick and wooden beams. On-trend restaurant and bar, happening rooftop deck with hot tub and an on-site spa offer lots to do. Of-the-moment stylish base. See More

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