Best Restaurants, Shops, and Activities for New Homeowners
New home in Stillwater? High five! This town isn’t just about stunning sunsets and river views (though those are pretty amazing). It’s a quirky, vibrant town full of shops, eats, and adventures waiting to be unraveled. So, ditch the moving boxes and grab your curiosity – let’s explore Stillwater!
Fueling Up:
- Breakfast Buzz: Dive into cinnamon roll heaven at the Stillwater Café & Bakery. Latte in hand, watch the town wake up on the sun-drenched patio. Feeling savory? The Dockside Grill’s omelets are legendary, with river views that steal the show.
- Lunchtime Legends: Picnic bliss awaits at The Olive Branch Marketplace. Picture artisan cheeses, cured meats, and dips worthy of royalty – riverside feasting, sorted. Or, grab a juicy burger and craft beer at the Brick and Mortar Tavern. Their friendly banter will have you feeling like a local in minutes.
- Dinner Dreams: When the stars shimmer on the St. Croix, treat yourself to The Water Street Inn. Fancy-pants seasonal menus with local goodness? Check. Elegant setting for that special occasion? Double check. For a more casual vibe, cozy up at The Salty Steer. Wood-fired pizzas and live music nights – need I say more?
- Sweet Endings: No meal is complete without dessert, and Stillwater delivers! Ben & Jerry’s beckons with creamy scoops, while The Lovable Crumble’s cakes are pure decadence. Don’t forget a box of local chocolates from Olive You Fine Chocolates – future you will thank you.
Shopping Spree:
- Main Street Magic: This ain’t your average strip mall. Main Street is a treasure trove of independent shops. Find unique home décor at Juniper & Scout, score the perfect outfit at The Dusty Attic, or snag a souvenir at The Stillwater St. Croix River Company. They’ve got something for everyone.
- Hidden Gems: Veering off Main Street leads to gems like The Uptowne Flea Market, where vintage finds and handcrafted treasures whisper sweet nothings to your wallet. Or, get lost in the bookish haven of The Book Shelf – bibliophiles rejoice!
- Farmers’ Market Bounty: Warm mornings call for the Stillwater Farmers’ Market. Think fresh, local produce, artisanal breads, and handcrafted goodies that make you want to throw a picnic party every weekend. Plus, it’s the perfect place to meet your neighbors and stock up on seasonal goodness.
Adventures for the Soul:
- River Ramblings: Kayak or paddleboard down the St. Croix, exploring hidden coves and majestic bluffs. Feeling adventurous? Hike or bike the scenic trails hugging the waterfront – the views are mind-blowing.
- Rich History: Dive into the vibrant arts scene at The Stillwater Art Center, or catch a live show at the intimate Theater Latte Da. History buffs, the Washington County Historical Society Museum is your jam.
- Family Fun: Get your crew giggling at the Stillwater Fun Center – arcade games, mini golf, laser tag, let the chaos commence! Take a scenic train ride on the St. Croix Scenic Railroad, or spend a day at the waterpark soaking up the summer sun.
- Peace & Quiet: Sometimes, you just need to breathe. Find your zen at Dalles Park, where walking paths wind through serene woodlands. Or, grab a blanket and curl up under a willow tree along the riverbank – the gentle sounds of nature will melt your worries away.
Stillwater’s Embrace:
Stillwater isn’t just a place to live – it’s a community that welcomes you with open arms. By exploring its quirky shops, savoring its culinary delights, and embracing its outdoor adventures, you’ll discover what makes this town so special. So, unpack your bags, grab your walking shoes, and get ready to experience the magic of living the Stillwater life.
Ready to make your Stillwater dream a reality? Remember the importance of a real estate agent. Contact Wendy Gimpel – she’ll help you find the perfect home to start your next chapter in this uplifting community.

