If you haven’t been to the charming suburb of Stillwater, then you’ve been missing out on one of the best places to visit in Minnesota. Located just a 20-minute drive from Minneapolis and St. Paul, our beautiful small town on the St. Croix River is the ideal space to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Once you’ve spent a few hours here, you’ll quickly see why Stillwater is consistently recognized as one of the best small towns to visit in Minnesota. Thankfully, the Water Street Inn is a historic Victorian Hotel perfect as your lodging choice for your next trip.
Our beautiful 61-room boutique Stillwater Hotel is by far one of the best places to visit in Minnesota. We check off every box on the list: warm and welcoming hospitality, excellent and picturesque location, clean and comfortable lodging accommodations, and fantastic on-site dining choices. You’ll be nestled in the heart of the historic district of Stillwater, within walking distance from all of the best shops, restaurants, parks, and attractions. Our hotel is one of a kind! Come see for yourself and get your next getaway on the books today.
Places to Visit in Minnesota: Water Street Inn
Our historic hotel resides in the 1890 Lumber Exchange Building, which was one of the most modern structures of that time with heating, plumbing, and electricity. It even had one of the first elevators in Minnesota! The early occupants were famous and wealthy lumber merchants from the Stillwater area. The site features ten large walk-in vaults, which were used to house the wealth of affluent lumber families. The first floor contained storefronts, a post office, a barbershop, and an upscale saloon.
During your stay, you’ll learn much more about the history of this beautiful building! Of course, the structure has seen many restorations and technological upgrades, including an extensive renovation in 2019 with the addition of 21 rooms and our famous rooftop restaurant and bar. Our location in the historic waterfront district puts you within walking distance of many of the best things to do in Stillwater, including local breweries, restaurants, coffee shops, and plenty of outdoor recreation either on the river or in the nearby parks and walking trails. Be sure to check out the five sets of stairs built into our town’s hillsides with amazing views at the top.
Join us in one of the best places to visit in Minnesota and learn more about the best things to do in Stillwater here.
Dining Options at the Water Street Inn:
As a guest at our Stillwater Hotel, you’ll have access to some of the best dining options in town at our three on-site restaurants. All offer a diverse ambiance and menu choices, and our restaurants only add to Stillwater being one of the best places to visit in Minnesota.
Charlie’s Restaurant:
Charlie’s Restaurant is our unpretentious fine-dining establishment at the Water Street Inn. We serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with true American classics—as well as our weekly signature wine dinners and weekend Champagne brunch. This is also where our guests can enjoy our Thanksgiving Day buffet, and we love to host holiday parties!
Charlie’s Pub:
Charlie’s Irish Pub is the best spot in town for a more casual atmosphere and live music. You’ll take in beautiful views of the Lift Bridge and enjoy Victorian-era furnishings and decor.
Papa’s Rooftop (open seasonally):
You’ll find the best view in town from our rooftop bar and restaurant. We offer delicious wood-fired pizza, craft cocktails, and impeccable service.
Cozy Lodging at one of the Best Places to Visit in Minnesota
The King Rooms are the most spacious lodging options at our Stillwater Hotel. You’ll have a big, comfortable bed with crisp white linens for restful nights, stunning views of the lift bridge and the St. Croix River from a private balcony, and all the modern conveniences to relax and unwind. En-suite baths have high-end amenities, fluffy towels, and luxurious showers. Check out our add-on packages to up the romance or request breakfast in bed!
Head over to our availability calendar and start planning your getaway to one of the best places to visit in Minnesota!
