Stillwater honestly feels like a real-life snow globe making it the ultimate spot for a cozy winter getaway. It’s one of those rare places where you can balance “True North” adventures like wood-fired saunas and snowy vineyard treks with unique indoor escapes like aerial silks or custom candle making. This guide breaks down the best ways to lean into that magic, from staying in a boutique hotel built right into the limestone cliffs to finding the warmest, most unique dinner spots to hide away in while the snow falls on Main Street.
Where to Stay
Hotel Lora
If you’re looking for the perfect basecamp, Lora Hotel is a stunning boutique hotel built directly into the limestone cliffs of Stillwater’s historic brew house. Its location right on the south end of Main Street means you’re just steps away from all the unique activities and restaurants on this list. Staying here puts you right in the heart of the winter magic. Pro tip, get the s’more kit and enjoy a late night bite outside in the courtyard. The house made marshmallows were so good!
If the Lora is all booked, Discover Stillwater has a great list of all Stillwater hotels and accommodations, from B&Bs to chain hotels across different price ranges.
Restaurant Recommendations
The Stillwater food scene is unmatched. These places are great to check out at any time of the year but especially great for some good winter comfort food and cozy vibes.
Phil’s Tara Hideaway
Phil’s Tara Hideaway is historic landmark log cabin suspected for bootlegging and gangster activities of Capone and Dillinger. In 1997 Phil Barbatsis created a restaurant with traditions of the past while presenting guests with a contemporary and relaxing dining experience. The menu is Greek-Mediterranean inspired cuisine using only the highest quality local and seasonal ingredients.
Stillwater Proper
Stillwater Proper is a refined downtown destination that combines a modern distillery with an upscale dining experience, making it a sophisticated stop for your winter guide. The space feels both industrial and cozy, offering a warm refuge where visitors can watch the distillation process while enjoying a meal.
Mad Capper Saloon & Eatery
For forty years strong, this historic pub on Main Street has been serving the community of Stillwater and the surrounding St Croix Valley. Come in for the delicious sandwiches, fresh made pasta, and scratch made dinner options. Mad Capper is a must try!
Howard’s Bar
Howard’s Bar is a historic Stillwater Saloon, located right on Main Street, is a great place to stop for more than just beer and burgers! Pull tabs, unbeatable food and drink happy hour, weekend brunch and friendly local bar.
Keys Cafe & Bakery
Keys Café & Bakery has been recognized and awarded both locally and nationally for their fine food. The Keys Café philosophy is simple: “memorable service and absolutely the best food … breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and desserts created from scratch recipes “you grew up with”.
You & Me Cafe
You & Me Cafe offers elevated coffees, casual cooking and bakery. Relaxed place for eating and socializing. From counter service to charming bistro atmosphere, You & Me is the perfect place to add a little deliciousness to your every day.
Winter Activities
Stillwater really stands out because it has such a collection of amazing and unique activities. Whether you want to try something new like silks, sweat it out in a wood-fired sauna, or embrace the cold and snow, here are the coolest ways to experience the town this winter.
St. Croix Sauna
Located at Aamodt’s Apple Farm, St. Croix Sauna offers a traditional Nordic wellness experience with private 75-minute sessions in a wood-fired cedar sanctuary. It is the perfect winter retreat for small groups to warm up while enjoying expansive views of the snowy orchard landscape.
Carpe Noctem | Candle Making Class
Blend your own custom scents in a stylish, industrial-chic setting. These sessions offer a cozy way to spend an afternoon indoors, guided by experts who help you pour a premium soy candle to take home. It is a fantastic social activity for a girls trip or a creative date night. Carpe Noctem also offers ready to purchase candles that smell amazing!
Stillwater World Snow Celebration
As a premier winter event, the World Snow Sculpting Championship brings international teams to Lowell Park to transform massive blocks of snow into intricate masterpieces. Visitors can walk through the park to view the progress and enjoy a festive atmosphere complete with music and local vendors.
Winery Wonderland at 7 Vines Vineyard
Step into a magical winter evening at the Winery Wonderland at 7 Vines Vineyard, where you can explore the rolling hills of the vineyard on a snowshoe trail illuminated by glowing ice luminaries. After your trek, head into the cozy stateroom to warm up with a mug of mulled wine, live music, and a lively game of bingo for prizes. The experience is perfectly capped off with s’mores around a crackling outdoor bonfire, making it a must-do for anyone looking to embrace the “True North” winter spirit.
Try Silks at The Pole Barn Studio
Located in a historic building downtown, The Pole Barn Studio offers a unique way to stay active indoors with their “Intro to Silks” classes. It’s an empowering and artistic activity that allows you to learn aerial acrobatics while staying warm and cozy during the Minnesota winter.
Window Shop on Historic Main Street
Strolling along Historic Main Street in Stillwater offers a charming backdrop of Victorian architecture and festive window displays. This bustling corridor is the heart of the town’s “Christmas card” atmosphere, where local shopkeepers go all out with seasonal decor to welcome those braving the cold.
Stillwater has a way of making winter feel pretty magical. It’s the kind of place where you can create your own perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, all within a few historic blocks. For the most up to date event calendars and even more seasonal inspiration to help plan your trip, definitely check out the Discover Stillwater website. It is the best resource for making sure you don’t miss a thing while you’re in this amazing city!
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