Stillwater, Minnesota, an easy escape from Minneapolis, offers a laid-back pace.
If you have time, take the St. Croix Scenic Byway.
Once there, you might leave the car behind as the town is nice and compact for exploring.
Hot air balloons over Stillwater, Minnesota.Credit:Greg Schultz/Discover Stillwater
What to Do
Thomas Wieland/Explore Minnesota
Minnesota summers are best spent outdoors.
Its about three miles in length and has the best views in the area.
But if youd rather explore on your own, several local outfitters provide kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals.
Two river boats in Stillwater, Minnesota.Thomas Wieland/Explore Minnesota
Located inside Hotel Crosby,Matchstick Restaurantis known for its spirits and wood-fired dishes.
The brewery also has food trucks, trivia, bingo, and live music.
Where to Shop
Its easy to spend your time in Stillwater wandering the shops on Main Street.
Pouring a beer at a brewery.Courtesy of Explore Minnesota
Every town needs a bookstore andValley Bookselleris an essential detour.
Here, youll find national titles and the work of regional authors plus gifts and frequent author events.
With its 40 rooms and in-house coffee shop, youre steps away from everything in town.
Aerial view of a neighborhood in Stillwater.Greg Schultz/Discover Stillwater
It also hasFeller, a restaurant that pays homage to the hunters and gatherers who settled the area.
Its more of a traditional experience at the 35-roomLowell Inn, which was built in 1923.
Guest room in Lora Hotel.Courtesy of Lora Hotel
