This Is The Friendliest Small Town in Minnesota

Stillwater, hosting the first convention in 1848 to discuss the establishment of Minnesota as a state, has affectionately become known as “The Birthplace of Minnesota”. With more than 100 owner-operated restaurants and shops, nearby farming communities, and numerous breweries, distilleries, and wineries, the town has an indescribable laid-back feel about it. Additionally, located just a half-hour drive from Minneapolis near the Wisconsin border, it offers an easy weekend getaway for those looking to escape the city and enjoy some small-town hospitality. After just a weekend in Stillwater, visitors will already feel like they’ve become a part of the community!

Seasonal Farms

Stillwater's surrounding areas are home to a close-knit agricultural community. Visiting these nearby farms offers travelers more than just fresh-picked produce; it's a chance to experience the town's strong sense of community. Axdahl's Garden Farm and Greenhouse is a great farm to visit, home to a family-owned farm and greenhouse that produces seasonal vegetables as well as a seasonal U-pick pumpkin patch and Christmas tree farm. The Blueberry Fields of Stillwater is another friendly farm, open seasonally during the region’s blueberry harvest. During the harvest, they warmly welcome visitors to come by and pick their own berries. In the fall, Aamodt's Apple Orchard, a family-owned establishment, attracts both residents and visitors with several seasonal activities, including wagon rides and a goat farm.

Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries

Located in the St. Croix River Valley, Stillwater is located along the state’s oldest wine trail. It has also been rated as one of the best beer cities in the country, explaining perhaps why Stillwater residents are so laid-back. While in town, make sure to check out some of the three vineyards, two breweries, and two distilleries that are nearby. Lift Bridge Brewery is a popular gathering spot in town, including a wide selection of craft beers, including experimental and limited varieties. River Siren Brewing is a good alternative for those wanting to enjoy views of the river while sipping their draft.

Regarding vineyards, Saint Croix Vineyards is a must-visit as one of the largest wineries in the state. Here, visitors can taste one of its award-winning Minnesota wines, all while in a historic, renovated barn tasting room. For a house-made spirit, both of the town’s distilleries are on Main Street. 45th Parallel Distillery, a newer distillery in town, specializes in grain-to-glass whiskey and vodka, along with gin and cellos.

DIY Art Studios

Stillwater's thriving art community is so inspiring that even visitors may find themselves wishing they were artists by the time they leave. DIY Craft Studios are abundant, offering a variety of classes and spaces for nearly every type of art medium. AR Workshop is a great starting point, offering workshops in areas such as silversmithing, woodworking, knitting, and canvas painting, among many others. Kari's Create & Paint Studio is another option, specializing in pottery and painting classes. Ever wanted to learn how to pour your own candle? Sign up for a lesson with Carpe Noctem Candle Co., who will guide you through the entire process.

Dining Options

Stillwater’s local restaurants offer visitors the ability to connect with the community through historic buildings, locally sourced ingredients, and friendly outdoor seating spaces. For a meal with a view, reserve a spot at Brick & Bourbon, voted the best patio in Stillwater, where you can enjoy a sunny day on the spacious rooftop patio. With 8,000 square feet of outdoor seating, The Freight House offers another outdoor alternative. The building itself, built in 1883, is a historic experience as well, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For a memorable dish, Feller should be your go-to, where Chef Sam Collins creates meals with regionally sourced Midwest ingredients, including prairie harvest quail, homemade venison sausages, and grass-fed bison.

Locally-Owned Inns & Cottages

There is no better place to experience the Midwestern friendliness of Stillwater than at one of the town’s locally owned inns or cottages. The Ann Bean Mansion, a staple of the community since 1878, was originally built as a Victorian mansion and features cozy amenities like real fireplaces and whirlpool tubs for relaxing. The host will even bring you breakfast in bed! Rivertown Inn, a beloved accommodation dating back to 1882, is a renovated lumber baron mansion just three blocks from the historic district. For families, The Chilkoot Cottage is the perfect gathering spot, featuring a historic, restored home with an open floor plan, a large yard, and an outdoor fire pit.

Final Thoughts

While some may think that true midwestern kindness can only be found in remote areas, Stillwater proves otherwise. The welcoming members of the community, including its innkeepers, farmers, studio artists, and vineyard owners, all contribute to the warm and laid-back atmosphere that makes Stillwater such a refreshing refuge. Just be prepared, you might just find it difficult to say goodbye to the community once your vacation comes to an end.