Aurora Staples Inn

Menu
Menu

CALL US AT 651-351-1187 or 800-580-3092

Menu
Menu

FAQs About Our Area

Area Guide and FAQ for Stillwater MN

Welcome to Stillwater, MN. Nestled on the west bank of the scenic St. Croix River; Stillwater is Minnesota’s most beloved small-town destinations – with over 100 independent shops and restaurants, historic Victorian architecture, award winning wineries, river cruises, bike trails, scenic views, and year-round events. Aurora Staples Inn sits just two blocks from downtown Stillwater, making it the perfect base for exploring everything this charming river town has to offer. 

https://www.stillwatermn.gov

Getting to Stillwater

Stillwater is approximately 27-34 miles from MSP Airport, and the drive typically takes 35-45 minutes depending on traffic. It’s an easy, scenic trip heading northeast from the metro.  Note: MSP is served by all major airlines including Delta, United, American, Southwest, and Sun Country. It is one of the Midwest’s best-connected airports. 

https://www.mspairport.com

The most direct route is: Take I-494 East to MN-36 East into downtown Stillwater. You can also take MN-36 East the entire way from the St. Paul area. We recommend using Google Maps to account for real-time traffic, especially during rush hours (7-9 am and 4-6 pm weekdays). https://maps.app.goo.gl/KWT1N7JKn7qao4xE8

Downtown Stillwater to Minneapolis is about 26-27 miles, a drive of roughly 32-40 minutes via MN-36 East (The fastest route). From the heart of Minneapolis, head east on I-94, to 35-E North, to MN-36 East, and follow it straight into Stillwater.

St. Paul to Stillwater is just 20-22 miles – roughly a 25-30 minute drive. Take I-94 E to 35 E North to MN-36 East to Stillwater or Take MN-36 East directly from St. Paul into Stillwater. Its one of the most straightforward drives in the metro. Stillwater makes an ideal half-day or full-day trip from the Twin Cities (Referring to both Minneapolis and St. Paul areas).

Yes, but is limited.  Metro Transit Route 294 connects the St. Paul Transit Center to Stillwater, but service is infrequent and involves bus transfers. The trip takes approximately 2 hours by bus. https://www.metrotransit.org/schedules-maps For most visitors, driving or rideshare (Uber/Lyft are available throughout the metro) is the most practical option but often times they will pick you up from the twin cities but will not pick you up from Stillwater and drive to the Twin Cities. So we recommend either having a car or calling Kristina, with Yarp Rides, 612-987-6768 (a local private transport and shuttle service based out of the Stillwater, MN area.) to fully explore the area, including wineries and state parks outside of downtown. You can also rent a car at Enterprise Rental Car in Stillwater, MN https://www.enterprise.com/en/car-rental-locations/us/mn/stillwater-1918.html?mcid=yext:245709

651-351-0000

Yes, there is both street parking and municipal lots. The large Riverview Municipal Parking lot off Main Street is the most convenient hub. Parking is generally free in some areas, metered or has pay-stations. Aurora Staples Inn has its own private parking lot on the north side of the property, so guests can leave their car at the Inn and walk two – three blocks downtown – no parking stress needed! Click here for additional parking info https://www.stillwatermn.gov/community/amenities/parking-information

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Stillwater has a classic Midwest four-season climate with warm, sunny summers and cold or mild and snowy winters. Temperatures range from the single digits degree F in January to the low 80s F in July. https://weather.com/weather/tenday/l/Stillwater+Minnesota+55082?canonicalCityId=838d53d449db05f481c66a5ef6abfe2d

 See Below:

  • Summer (June-August) is peak season-outdoor dining, river cruises, Lumberjack Days Festival, and long sunny days. Book early, as accommodations fill quickly on weekends.
  • Fall (September-October) although short, is arguably the most beautiful time, with brilliant foliage along the St. Croix River Valley. Voted one of the Best American towns for Fall Colors by multiple publications.
  • Winter (November-March) is wonderfully cozy-perfect for romantic getaways by snuggling up to a gas-fireplace, enjoying holiday light strolls, Winterfest and fewer crowds.
  • Spring (April-May) Offers mild weather, blooming gardens and a quieter, more relaxed pace.

 

Note: Our High Season or Busy Season is from May 15th to October 15th.  Weekends fill fast – we recommend booking your stay at Aurora Staples Inn at least 2-4 weeks in advance during this period. https://resnexus.com/resnexus/reservations/book/2EA81C05-7815-4908-8097-14B767740C02

Summer- Light Clothing, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a light layer for winter evening river breezes and don’t forget your camera/or phone charger!

Fall-Layered clothing- mornings can be crisp 40s while afternoons may be warm 60s. A jacket and comfortable shoes for the bluffs/hills and trails.

Winter– Heavy Coat, gloves/mittens, hat and waterproof boots.  Downtown is walkable even in snow but there may be some sidewalks not shoveled or with ice underneath so be careful. The historic streets in the winter are charming!

Spring- Rain jacket, layers, waterproof footwear for wet or muddy trails and an umbrella.  

Things to Do in Stillwater

Stillwater offers something for every type of traveler. Here are the top experiences…

  1. Stroll Historic Main Street: – over 50 Independent boutiques, galleries, candy shops, and cafes line the riverfront. No chain stores – all locally owned and operated.
  2. St. Croix River Cruise– Board an authentic paddlewheel boat with Stillwater River Boats (525 Main Street, 651-430-1234). Enjoy Lunch, Dinner, Fall Foilage, and Beer tasting cruises that are available May- October. https://stcroixrivercruises.com (651) 436-8883
  3. Gondola Romantica: A Venetian Gondola Ride on the St. Croix River – one of the most romantic experiences in Minnesota. Gondolaromantica.com 651-439-1783.
  4. Stillwater Trolley Tour: A narrated 45-minute, historic tour of Stillwater’s Victorian mansions and downtown. Stillwatertrolley.com 651-430-0352
  5. Antique Shopping: Rated one of the Top 10 Best Antiquing towns in the U.S. by Fodor’s Travel. Midtown Antiques is the largest antique mall in the upper Midwest; it has 3 floors and 80 dealers. Midtownantiques.com 651-430-0808
  6. Warden’s House Museum & Washington County Historical Society: The beautifully preserved home of the old Stillwater State Prison Warden is now a museum of the 19th century life. Learn more about Stillwater history from the Washington county Historical Society: wchsmn.org 651-439-2298
  7. Washington County Historic Courthouse: Built in 1870, this landmark is on the National Register of Historic Places and offers a window into Minnesota’s earliest history. Washingtoncountymn.gov 651-275-7075
  8. Stillwater Lift Bridge: The iconic 1930s lift bridge over the St, Croix River -a photographer’s dream as a symbol of the city.
  9. Stillwater Art Guild Gallery: Showcasing exceptional regional art in the heart of downtown. It is free to visit. Artguildgallery.com 651-342-2227
  10. Stillwater Escape Co. The original escape room in downtown Stillwater, a located in the historic Connolly Shoe Factory building at 123 2ndd St N. stillwaterescape.com 651-300-7976
  11. Ax Throwng: Be a lumberjack and take a try at ax throwing at The Lumberjack Sports Bar. Thelumberjacksportsbar.com 651-705-6005
  12. St. Croix Vineyards: located at Aamodt’s apple orchard where they grow their own grapes.  A loval Vineyard that has award winning wines. 6428 Manning Avenue North in the Red Barn. Scvwines.com 651-430-3310
  13. DIY arts and Crafts workshops at AR Workshop: https://www.arworkshop.com/stillwatermn/?utm_source=eulerity&utm_medium=ads&utm_content=20985055819_161467849894_4567607976001536&gad_source=1 651-321-1029
  14. Kari’s Create & Paint Studio: https://kcapstudio.com 651-500-6588
  15. Knitting: Darn Knit (Anyway): Go on a knitting cruise or take classes on how to knit sweater, etc: https://www.darnknitanyway.com/?y_source=1_NjYwNzUzMDMtNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D 651-342-1386
  1. Apple River Tubing & Camping: Tubing down the apple river is a great group activity for a hot summer day to stay cool. It is located across the bridge in Wisconsin. 715-247-3600 appleriverfamilycampground.com
  2. Brown’s Creek Trail: A paved 5.6 mile trail from downtown Stillwater to Duluth junction, ideal for biking and walking. It connects to the Gateway trail for extended rides.
  3. Golfing: Oak Glen Golf Course: 1599 McKusick Rd N
    Stillwater, MN 55082 651-439-6981 oakglengolf.com
  4. Kayaking and Paddle-boarding– St. Croix Stand Up Paddleboard Co. offers rentals and lessons on the river  651-323-1480
  5. Fishing: The St. Croix River has a National Scenic Riverway teeming with walleye, bass, and northern pike. Shore fishing is welcome at thee Lowell Park and the Boom Site.
  6. Interstate State Park (Taylor’s Falls): about 35 miles North, this stunning park features dramatic glacial potholes, cliffs, and river kayaking. It is one of Minnesota’s most popular state parks. Dnr.state.mn.us 651-539-4500
  7. Afton State Park: 10 miles south of Stillwater, offering 20+ miles of trails with bluff-top views of the St. Croix River Valley. Dnr.state.mn.us 651-201-6780
  8. Afton Alps: a large Ski & Snowboard Resort in Afton MN. 300 skiable acres with terrain for all levels from beginner to expert plus terrain parks and snow tubing, aftonapls.com 651-436-5245
  9. Aamodt’s Apple Orchard: A beloved seasonal destination for apple picking, cider donuts, and hayrides just minutes from Stillwaer. Aamodtsapples.com 651-439-3127, 6428 Manning Ave North, Stillwater, MN.
  10. Willow River State Park: Hike to the Water Falls; swim or camp there as well. Located across the bridge in Wisconsin. Great for a half day trip also; work up an appetite and return to Stillwater restaurants. Dnr.wisconsin.gov 715-386-5931
  11. Stillwater Balloons: Hot air balloon rides: 135 St. Croix Trail N, Lakeland Shores MN 55043. Stillwaterballoons.com Phone: 651-439-1800

Lumberjack Days: Stillwater’s signature summer festival, held every July (91st annual in 2025, dates: July 17-20). Free to attend. Features lumberjack competitions, live music, a parade on Main Street, Food Trucks, a downhill derby, medallion hunt, and Paul Bunyan appearances. Lumberjackdays.com 

Stillwater Half Marathon: A scenic race through downtown and the river valley, held each spring. Runstillwater.com

Rivertown Art Festival: October. Held in Lowell Park along the St. Croix River, this major fall event features over 150 fine artists and craftsmen, live music, and food vendors. Discoverstillwater.com

Washington County Fair: Late July to early August. A traditional county fair held at the Washington County Fairgrounds with carnival games, rides, livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, and fair food.

Washingtoncountyfair.com 651-770-0246

Winterfest: Late January to early February featuring giant snow sculptures, a pond hockey tournament, the World Snow Sculpting Championship, live ice carving, and fireworks. Discoverstillwater.com 

Restaurants and Dining: Stillwater has a thriving food scene- over 100 dining establishments, many with riverfront patios and rooftop views. Here are the top picks by category:

The Lowell Inn: Historic and fine dinging; Our breakfast voucher partner Wednesday-Sunday. Lowellinn.com 651-439-1100.

Feller: Upscale American, seasonal menu. fellerresttaurant.com 651-571-3500.

Domacin Wine Bar: Wine bar, small plates, 25 page wine list (try their Rioja, an amazing red-wine). domacinwinebar.com 651-439-1352

Phil’s Tara Hideway: A Greek-Mediterranean steakhouse in Stillwater/Oak Park Heights area. They are known for creative cuisine and fresh ingredients. Call to make a reservation 651-439-9850

Oasis Café: American breakfast, lunch and dinner (One of our gift-card partners). Oasiscafemn.com 651-439-0928.

Mon Petit Cheri: French inspired breakfast and brunch. (One of our gift-card partners). They have wonderful food and pastries! Mpcstillwater.com 651-342-2461

Lolo American Kitchen: Craft burgers, local drafts and they have a lovely patio. Loloamericankitchen.com 651-342-2461

Matchstick: A farm-to-table American Restaurant on Main Street in Stillwater. Known for small shareable small plates, craft burgers, and craft beer.  Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Marchstickgrill.com 651-571-0111

Brick & Bourbon: Whiskey bar, upscale pub fare, and serves brunch also. Patio and river-views available. Their duck wantons are delicious! Brickandbourbon.com 651-342-0777.

Lolito Cantina: Mexican / Latin American. Their fried chicken tacos are tasty! Lolitostillwater.com 651-342-0972.

Ziggy’s on Main: Live music + Food, chicken & burgers. Sing Karaoke on Tuesday nights. Ziggysonmain.com 651-342-0011.

Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter: Authentic German food, hearty classics gasthausbavarianhunter.com 651-439-7128

Tilted Tiki: Tiki bar, live music (indoor and outdoor stages), great food and tropical cocktails. Try their amazing coconut shrimp. Thetilteddtiki.com 651-247-1815.

Lake Elmo Inn: Fine dining in Lake Elmo (10-5 min drive). Award winning brunch. Call to make a reservation 651-777-8495 lakeelmoinn.com

Portside: Casual American with Rooftop, river views. Portsidestillwatermn.com 651-342-1502

Gios Stillwater: Authentic Italian Restaurant; stone fire pizzas, pasta, private events: Try their fried Ravioli with alfredo and marinara sauce…yummy! 651-342-1535 giosstillwater.com

Mad Capper:  “Better Bar Food” scratch-made pasta, sandwiches and burgers. Try their walleye cakes with dill sauce; You won’t be disappointed! 651-430-3710 madcappermn.com

Wild Hare: organic scratch-made American comfort food with Moroccan and Mediterranean flavors. Rachelle loves their Korean Street Noodle bowl with chicken and their Caulafel Bites. Call 651-342-0109 wildharebar.com

E’s Gourmet Sandwiches: New fast casual sandwich shop in Stillwater. The Turkey Avocado sandwich is a “must try!”651-571-3576 esgourmetsandwiches.com 

QuickFire Pizza: wood fired pies with a range of creative toppings. The Spicy Margherita is delightful for the tastebuds! 651-439-7009  Quicckfirepizzamn.com 

Grand Pizza: My husband (Eddie’s favorite is the BBQ Chicken pizza) and brother’s favorite pizza spot. B’s favorite Pizza is the Veggie: Check out their weekly specials too.   651-351-1262 thegrandpizza.com

Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop: A Classic American diner feel with great breakfasts and old-fashioned malts. The Tuna Melt and chocolate Malt Shake are memorable! 131 S Main St, leosgrill.com

In 1848, the first territorial convention that began the formal process of establishing Minnesota as a state was held at the corner of Myrtle and Main Street in downtown Stillwater. This historic meeting set Minnesota on the path to statehood, which was achieved in 1858 – Making Stillwater one of the most historically significant small towns in the entire Midwest. The city’s Victorian architecture, historic courthouses, and carefully preserved Main Street all reflect this rich heritage. An interesting fact about Stillwater that most people don’t know is that Stillwater almost became the State capitol of Minnesota. https://www.wchsmn.org/wardens-house-museum/

Aurora Staples Inn is a magnificent authentically restored Victorian Mansion dating to the late 1800s, built during the height of Stillwater’s lumber boom era.  The home belonged to the Staples Family – prominent figures in Stillwater’s history-and some original family furniture from Aurora Staples’ parents (A wedding gift) remains in the St. Croix Suite and Gallery Room to this day. The Inn has been lovingly restored to preserve its period character while offering 21st-century comforts. Read the full history here> https://aurorastaplesinn.com/history/

Stillwater has earned some remarkable recognition from national travel publications:

USA Today Travel – One of America’s Most Picturesque Towns

USA Today: Runner-Up: 2026 Best small town in the Midwest: https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/stillwater-minnesota/

Fordor’s Travel– Top 10 Best Antiquing Towns in the U.S.

Multiple Publications– Best American Towns for Fall Colors

Minneapolis/St. Paul Magazine – Best Shopping Neighborhoods

Various Travel Outlets: Best Twin Cities Day Trip, Best Minnesota Weekend Getaway, Most Romantic City, Best Small Town Food Scene.

Midwest Association of Independent Inns: Best Small towns in Minnesota; https://mwinns.com/blog/best-small-towns-in-minnesota/

The St. Croix River forms the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin and is one of the most beautiful and least developed rivers in the upper Midwest. It is designated as a National Scenic Riverway by the National Park Service, meaning its banks are protected from commercial development. The river is home to abundant wildlife, clear waters, ad dramatic bluffs-making it a paradise for boating, fishing, kayaking, and sightseeing. The historic Stillwater Lift Bridge, built in 1931, is one of the most photographed structures in Minnesota. The St. Croix River gets its name from the French phrase “Sainte-Croix,” meaning “Holy Cross.” French cartographer Jean-Baptiste-Louis Franquelin officially gave this name to the river on the New France map in 1688. Early explorers claimed the name came from a cross planted by a French voyager over a grave. Another theory is the name came from the French Trader named, “Sainte-Croix,” who was shipwrecked at the river’s mouth near Prescott, Wisconsin.

Stillwater is rated among Minnesota’s most romantic destinations-and for a good reason. The combination of Victorian architecture candlelit restaurant, scenic river cruises, gondola rides, award winning wineries, and charming boutique inns makes it an ideal setting for anniversaries, honeymoons, Valentine’s day, and spontaneous romantic escapes. Aurora Staples Inn-with its gas fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and soft Comphy sheets in every room – is the perfect romantic home base. Check availability: https://resnexus.com/resnexus/reservations/book/2EA81C05-7815-4908-8097-14B767740C02

Downtown Stillwater is very walkable. Aurora Staples Inn is just two blocks away from downtown, meaning guests can leave their car and explore on foot. Keep in mind that the walk is down hills on the way to downtown so wear comfortable shoes and be careful in the winter. The main retail, dining, and waterfront areas are concentrated within a pleasant 10-15 minute walk. For attractions further out (wineries, state parks, apple orchards), a car is recommended.

Stillwater has frequent visitors daily for day trips from the Twin Cities, but Stillwater truly shines overnight or considered a great weekend destination. An overnight visit gives you time for a relaxed dinner, morning breakfast and a few hours of exploration. A full weekend allows you to enjoy more such as a river cruise, a winery visit, thorough antique shopping and multiple restaurants without rushing home. Many guests at Aurora Staples Inn return annually, often calling it their favorite tradition.

  • Gigantic Ice Cream Cones at Nelson’s (A hidden gem) https://www.nelsonsicecream.biz 651-342-8895
  • Candyland and Tremblay’s sweet shop: Candyland: https://candylandstore.com 651-430-8004 Tremblay’s Sweet Shop 651-430-0087
  • Valley Book Seller often has events for kids https://valleybookseller.com 651-430-3385
  • The local library often has activities for children: Stillwater Library https://library.stillwatermn.gov 651-275-4338
  • Teddy Bear Park https://secure.rec1.com/MN/stillwater-mn/catalog/index?filter=bG9jYXRpb24lNUIzMzEwMSU1RD0xJnNlYXJjaD0mcmVudGFsJTVCZnJvbSU1RD0mcmVudGFsJTVCdG8lNUQ9
  • Pioneer Park (A park for kids with great views of the river) https://secure.rec1.com/MN/stillwater-mn/catalog/index?filter=bG9jYXRpb24lNUIzMjYwOSU1RD0xJnNlYXJjaD0mcmVudGFsJTVCZnJvbSU1RD0mcmVudGFsJTVCdG8lNUQ9
  • Aamodt’s Apple Orchard-apple picking in the Fall, hot cider, hayrides and pumpkins 
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides at Stillwater Balloons or at Aamodt’s apple orchard. https://www.aamodtsapplefarm.com 651-439-3127
  • Blueberry Fields of Stillwater – pick your own blueberry farm beloved by families.  https://www.blueberryfieldsofstillwater.com 651-351-0492
  • Stillwater Trolley-kids love the historic narrated trolley tour that goes past the Aurora Staples Inn. https://stillwatertrolley.com 651-430-0352
  • Lumberjack Days (Find a medallion, and plenty of fun events for kids. https://lumberjackdays.com
  • Swimming & Boating on the St. Croix River or at Square Lake nearby https://www.washingtoncountymn.gov/facilities/facility/details/Square-Lake-Park-18
  • Skiing, snowboarding Afton Alps: aftonalps.com 651-436-5245
  • Fishing on the St. Croix River or nearby lakes
  • Biking on paved trails downtown Stillwater https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/minnesota/st-croix-crossing-trail
  1. Gondola Romantica– gondola rides https://www.gondolaromantica.com 651-439-1783
  2. Paddlewheel River Cruise: https://stillwaterriverboats.com 651-430-1234
  3. Bike Rentals: Herman Electric Bikes 651-551-3154 https://www.coffeebeansandbikes.com
  4. Stay at a Historic B&B – Aurora Staples Inn https://aurorastaplesinn.com 651-351-1187
  5. The Zephyr Theatre– a professional performing arts organization of theater, music, dance and arts. https://www.stillwaterzephyrtheatre.org 651-300-4942
  6. Stairs discovery: Climb the famous stairs downtown to see amazing river views at the top! Located south on Main Street by the Lora Hotel.
  7. New & Old Bridge: Experience walking on the old and new bridge. https://www.dot.state.mn.us/historicbridges/4654.html
  8. Food Tours –Awaken your taste buds! Attention Foodies-Try this delicious food tour with Jenna and Kristi https://www.stillwaterfoodtour.com 651-323-1620
  9. Speakeasy- Visit the Velveteen Speakeasy (Finding it is half the fun!) https://thevelveteenspeakeasy.com 651-300-4942