The year is 2008. On a daily basis in the city, we deal with traffic that seems to never end, crime, pollution, big-box stores, and fast-food restaurants. Get yourself over to Stillwater, Minnesota, to escape it all.
Stillwater is a fantastic getaway. I am proud to say that Stillwater is part of my state, because it is so unique. Travel to Stillwater’s downtown area right on the waterfront of the St. Croix river, and you will escape to a time that resembles the 1950’s. In a time of dying downtown areas, Stillwater is exactly the opposite. Downtown Stillwater is thriving with numerous shops, restaurants, vineyards, a cave tour, and a lively waterfront for boaters and riverboat cruises. Most buildings are historic, and this adds to the charm. Come along with me as I describe some of the highlights!
Shops
Downtown Stillwater isn’t comprised of chain stores such as Target and Petco. Instead, you will find unique stores abound. It’s a dream come true to the shopper. Stores range from gift stores to old fashioned drug stores to spice shops. Perhaps you would like a hat? There’s a hat shop. Some beads to go with your hat? The most amazing bead store, with hundreds of beads and stones, is right on the corner. You have had enough shopping (this would take some time, as there are so many shops to hit) and would like to hit the river for a kayak trip, but you need a sweatshirt or some shorts to wear. Check out the unique independent sporting goods stores, steps away from the river. Main St. is chock full with fantastic little shops everywhere you look.
Stillwater is also famous for it’s many antique stores. At some of the shops, you can find a map of the over 15 antique stores that are smattered up and down Main St. and the surrounding side streets. It’s an antiquer’s dream! As a properties designer for Twin Cities theaters, Stillwater is a one-stop antiquing location for me. I can stroll the stores one at a time, and find nearly all my needs for period shows. The antique store staff members are so helpful and will always lend a hand in helping find items I am looking for. If I were to go shopping in the Twin Cities for antiques, I’d have to drive around everywhere. It’s so nice to have so many shops all in one area. Some of the stores are huge antique malls, so there are many dealers all in one shop.
Restaurants
In between shops, downtown Stillwater boasts numerous fine restaurants for every appetite. Whether you just want a quick lunch between hitting stores, or whether you want to come down for a nice dinner/evening out, you will find a great place. Restaurant types range from malt shops, coffee shops, wine bars/eateries, gourmet restaurants, and standard American fare. Stillwater also has a couple American style fare restaurants that are situated right on the River. In the summer, you can not beat having a drink or two and a meal while staring at the river and watching the boats go by! Another fun feature is when the lift bridge on the river rises for boats to pass through. Stillwater also features riverboat cruises; some are for dinner. If you prefer to be on the river for dinner instead of just watching it, this might be a fun thing for you to do!
Vineyards
Minnesota makes wine! What better thing to do than to stop and have a sample or two of Minnesota grown wine. It’s the perfect break in between shops. Check out the Northern Vineyards Winery or the Saint Croix Vineyards. You can call ahead for tastings, but when I stopped into the Northern Vineyards Winery, they offered me tastings on the spot.
Cave Tour
Joseph Wolf Brewery Cave Tours are located right on Main St in Stillwater. My husband and I ventured on this tour one day when we were in Stillwater. It was so hot outside that day that we thought we might be able to escape the heat by entering a cave. We were right! The limestone cave in Stillwater was used as a brewery in the late 1800’s. This was a very interesting and informative tour. The cave was pretty big and fun to explore. It is worth checking out.
Waterfront
The St. Croix River is your view in Downtown Stillwater. It is beautiful, and in the summers, it’s filled with boats of many shapes and sizes. There are a few public boating docks on the river.
Downtown Stillwater is a must-see for anyone traveling to Minnesota or anyone that lives here! It truly is like a breath of fresh air.
