Shopping in Stillwater Minnesota

Stillwater Lift Bridge

Stillwater is about a 30 minute drive East of Minneapolis on the Minnesota side of the St. Croix River.  Shoppers are attracted to the many shops and cafes that line the picturesque main street of Stillwater.  Beyond the downtown area, there are several vineyards and apple orchards that are also popular destinations.  Tourists can also enjoy the St. Croix river by renting a boat or taking a river cruise.   

What to Expect
The shops of downtown Stillwater do not appeal to a younger male crowd (including myself).  My mother-in-law, on the other hand,  loves the antiques, crafts, and eateries of the area.  I am told it is a great place to spend an afternoon "with the girls."  This post is dedicated to "the girls" or those trying to score big points with their mother-in-laws.  

Wine makes any shipping trip better.  Northern Vineyards winery has a shop downtown where you can taste and purchase wine.  Wine-tastings are free if you purchase a bottle or $5 if you just want to sample their wine.  Next store is the River Market Community Co-op, an excellent place to purchase organic and gluten-free foods.

Downtown Stillwater, Minnesota

Antique and book collectors will also love to shop downtown Stillwater.  I won't claim to be an expert on which shop is the best.  However, an excellent website for more information on the shops of Stillwater is http://www.stillwatertraveler.com/town/shopping/. 

Beyond the shopping, you can cruise the river, take a hot-air balloon ride, or simply grab a seat at one of the cafe's while enjoying your favorite cold beverage.  There is an excellent fireworks show, with music, on the 4th of July.  If you visit in the Fall, make sure you go one of the area apple orchards.

Just the Basics

• How to get there:   From I-694 take MN-5 East (exit #55)
• When to go: Summer and Fall are the best time to visit for access to the St. Croix River, local vineyards, and apple orchards.      
• Cost: Free to walk along the river!  Most of the cafes are in the $10-$20 for an entree.  
•  Website including Stillwater Stores:    http://www.ilovestillwater.com/