Stillwater, MN
Of all the river towns Stillwater is my favorite.  

Along the wild and scenic St. Croix River, less than an hour from home is Stillwater. While I have launched, stopped at, or passed through this charming river town in my kayak more than any other, it is also my favorite to visit for a day of fun or evening entertainment.

When paddling through during the morning or midday, I often stop at the River Market Community Co-op for a fresh sandwich and healthy snack. In the evening my favorite restaurant is LoLo where I order their fish tacos, the LoLo burger, or my recent discovery, their bacon wrapped hot dog. I cannot leave Stillwater without a stop at Candyland to purchase a pound of Chicago Mix popcorn and half a pound of Wallaby gourmet black and red licorice. During the summer I find it hard to pass by Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop without sampling their ice cream

On the river, there is much to take in and enjoy. 

The St. Croix River is busy with traffic. Authentic paddlewheel riverboats, old-style gondolas, boats of all sizes, and jet skiers all fighting for space and attention. The tall steeples from the hillside churches, original buildings from the lumber days, the Lowell Park gazebo, and the old Stillwater Vertical Lift Bridge are all iconic landmarks contributing to Stillwater’s historic charm.

A short distance up the river, at the edge of town, is a rookery. The nesting ground is a place for Great Blue Herons, Cormorants, and Snowy Egrets. 

​Framing the north end of my favorite river stretch is the Soo Line High and Wisconsin Central Railroad Bridges. On the south end, is the recently erected and stunning St. Croix Crossing.

Regardless of how you’re traveling, Stillwater is worthy of your time and visit.