Often referred to as the “birthplace of Minnesota,” Stillwater began as a logging town in the St. Croix River Valley, and in 1848, the first territorial convention that would go on to establish Minnesota as a state took place on the humble corner of Myrtle and Main. Today, that same corner lies at the heart of Stillwater’s bustling downtown district, lined by historic storefronts steps away from the riverfront. The city is known for its tourism, but for many, it’s more than just a weekend destination. “We’re growing and redeveloping on the edge of the Twin Cities metropolitan area, but we’re a standalone city,” says Community Development Director John Hinzman. “We’re close to so many amenities, but we have our own, too, and our own sense of identity.”
The architecture is well preserved throughout Stillwater.
Many of the buildings in historic Stillwater date to the late 1800's.
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Historic homes and new construction Craftsmans
Housing in Stillwater is diverse and densely forested, having developed alongside the city over the past two centuries. Homes near downtown date back to the early 1900s and come in a colorful array of styles, from Queen Annes with vibrant accents to American Foursquares with large front porches. Newer constructions range from 1970s ranch-style and split-level homes to brand-new subdivisions full of Craftsman-inspired houses. While condos and two-bedroom homes start in the low $200,000s, a newly-built five-bedroom house can sell for north of $700,000. However, the median for the area is $385,000, enough for a charming, established three-bedroom home.
You'll find beautiful Victorian homes on the streets of Stillwater
You'll find a wide variety of homes on the tree-lined streets of Stillwater.
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An array of shops and restaurants await downtown
Brick storefronts with hanging signs and narrow awnings line Main Street in downtown Stillwater, which packs a big punch into a small area. All of the city’s best dining is within a few blocks, from creative cocktails and small plates at LoLo American Kitchen and Craft Bar to old-school burgers and shakes in Leo’s Grill and Malt Shop. Whether folks are looking to impress their date, kick back to live music or sip on a coffee while studying, it’s all in downtown Stillwater. In between the restaurants and bars are a variety of shops, from antique malls overflowing with curios to chic boutiques boasting the latest styles to art stores touting local artisans’ wares.
The Busted Nut Bar & Grill is a cherished local watering hole in Stillwater.
Summertime brings outdoor seating throughout Stillwater.
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Waterfront views and imaginative playgrounds
Residents can take in views of the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge from Lowell Park or hop on a bike and take the St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail across the water. The riverfront park is the community centerpiece, home to seasonal events and year-round waterfront relaxation. Families tend to prefer Teddy Bear Park, which is open from April to October and is popular with kids for its creatively themed playgrounds. Children can imagine themselves as conductors on the mini train set, pose with the giant teddy bear statues for a picture or cross a miniature version of the Stillwater Lift Bridge. There’s also plenty of recreation around for sports enthusiasts; the St. Croix River Valley Recreation Center has an ice-skating rink and field house, with open skate hours and lessons for aspiring NHL players. Golfers can get their fix at Oak Glen Golf Course and Event Center, which boasts an 18-hole championship and junior golf clinics for young players to hone their swing.
A special platform for viewing events on the Mississippi River in Stillwater.
Vermillion Falls Park in Stillwater has stunning views from the pedestrian bridge.
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Thousands gather for Stillwater’s famous festivals
During the chilliest days of winter in January, Lowell Park becomes the host to what is, without a doubt, Stillwater’s coolest event: the World Snow Sculpting Championship. Cheering on snow sculptors from across the globe, the whole town comes together to celebrate the glacial works of art with a weekend that’s jam-packed with activities. But even after the ice has thawed, residents don’t have to wait a whole year for more fun by the river. Lowell Park is also home to the Summer Tuesdays outdoor film series as well as the October Harvest Fest, where “pumpkin pilots” paddle down the St. Croix River in hollowed-out giant pumpkin boats.
Stillwater Schools are a draw for parents
Parents can send their kids to Stillwater Area Public Schools. Rutherford Elementary, Stonebridge Elementary and Lily Lake Elementary all serve young students from prekindergarten through the fifth grade, and all three schools score a B grade from Niche. Stillwater Middle and Stillwater Area High both receive an A-minus. The latter offers more than 100 electives across subjects like agriscience, art and engineering, with 24 being college-level courses that prepare students for postsecondary schooling.
Stillwater Area High School in Oak Park Heights is the primary high school for the istrict.
The student population of Stonebridge Elementary is 398 and the school serves K-5.
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Take Highway 36 into Minneapolis in 35 minutes
Highway 36 borders Stillwater to the south, giving residents a route into Minneapolis in roughly 35 minutes or 40 minutes to the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport. Most necessities can be found in town, from shops like Target and Walmart to emergency care at Lakeview Hospital.
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Video By
Shannon Hopkins
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