Hotels in Stillwater

Stillwater: Where Nature Whispers and Rivers Dance

Nestled along the picturesque St. Croix River, Stillwater, Minnesota, invites travelers to explore its rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Known as the birthplace of Minnesota, this charming town boasts historic architecture, vibrant boutiques, and delightful waterfront parks. Visitors can savor panoramic rooftop views while enjoying a meal at cozy restaurants, or embark on scenic boat rides along the river. With its blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Stillwater offers a romantic escape and a taste of small-town charm, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and history buffs alike. For the best hotel rates in Stillwater, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Stillwater

Some of the best places to stay in Stillwater are Dinkytown, Northeast Minneapolis and Prospect Park. Dinkytown, Northeast Minneapolis, and Prospect Park offer unique experiences for travelers. Dinkytown is vibrant with local shops and eateries, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Northeast Minneapolis boasts an artsy vibe and breweries, while Prospect Park features scenic parks and a quieter atmosphere. Hotel accommodations in these areas vary from cozy inns to modern suites, providing options for different budgets. Room rates can range widely, ensuring something for everyone whether you seek luxury or a budget-friendly stay. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Stillwater:

1. DinkytownOpens in a new window: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Dinkytown offers a mix of city life with a youthful vibe, making it a great spot for travelers seeking both excitement and convenience. This area boasts attractions like U.S. Bank Stadium and the Mall of America, perfect for sports and shopping enthusiasts. For your stay, consider Graduate by Hilton MinneapolisOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star lodging ideal for business and pet-friendly vacations, featuring conference spaces and pet amenities. Another option is Days Hotel by Wyndham University Ave SEOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that also caters to business travelers with a 24-hour business center and similar pet-friendly policies.
2. Northeast MinneapolisOpens in a new window: This family-friendly area is characterized by its artistic vibe and proximity to major attractions like U.S. Bank Stadium and Target Field. DoubleTree by Hilton Roseville MinneapolisOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that caters to families and couples, offering amenities such as a children's pool and spa services. Similarly, Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis NorthOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, is suitable for business travelers and pets, featuring a comprehensive business center and pet policies.
3. Prospect ParkOpens in a new window: A picturesque neighborhood with a blend of urban charm, Prospect Park is close to key sights like the Mall of America and Minneapolis Convention Center. For a taste of luxury, JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of AmericaOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star hotel that provides exceptional business amenities. If you're looking for a more upscale experience, New Victorian Mansion Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star bed and breakfast perfect for those who appreciate luxury accommodations. InterContinental Minneapolis - St. Paul Airport, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, another 5.0-star option, combines luxury with pet-friendly amenities, ideal for travelers who don't want to leave their furry friends behind.

Things to do in Stillwater for first time

Three days in Stillwater offers a perfect blend of scenic river views, lush forests, and serene parks. Enjoy outdoor activities like boating and biking, watch breathtaking sunrises, and immerse yourself in local shopping. This charming destination promises a memorable escape into nature and adventure. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Stillwater:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Stillwater at Willow River State Park, where you can enjoy scenic hiking trails and stunning waterfalls. After soaking in nature, head to the Phipps Center for the Arts, a vibrant hub for local art and performances. Here, you can explore galleries showcasing regional artists or catch a live show. As the sun begins to set, unwind at Brown's Beach on the St. Croix River, perfect for a relaxing evening by the water with beautiful views.
• Day 2: Begin your morning at Pine Tree Apple Orchard, where you can pick fresh apples or sample delicious baked goods. Following this, visit the Lakeshore Players Theatre to check out their schedule—catching a local production is a great way to experience the community's artistic flavor. Conclude your day at Tamarack Nature Center, where you can engage with nature through trails and interactive exhibits, making it a fun outing for all ages.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Float Rite Park, a fantastic spot for families with its playground and picnic areas. Next, make your way to Seasons on St. Croix Gallery, where you can appreciate stunning artworks created by local artists. Finally, let your furry friends enjoy some playtime at Elmo's Pup Park, a dog park that offers a fun and safe environment for pets to socialize and romp around while you relax and enjoy the day.

5 tips to find a great Stillwater hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Stillwater is during January, November, and December when hotel prices drop significantly. For international travelers aiming to save on flights, it's best to book at least four months in advance to secure the best deals. To fully enjoy the main attractions, such as the beautiful river and scenic nature spots, a budget-friendly stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. This way, you can make the most of your visit while keeping costs low.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute hotel deals in Stillwater, you're in luck! By visiting the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, you could find great rates on accommodations just before your travel date. To maximize your chances of snagging a fantastic deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions. This way, you're more likely to uncover some excellent options for your stay in Stillwater.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may differ depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you might find opportunities to save on hotel expenses in Stillwater.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Stillwater usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving, biking, or walking to explore the area and likely save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Stillwater and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Stillwater

Here are a few top restaurants to try in Stillwater, Minnesota, United States of America:

• Culver's: A beloved fast-casual chain famous for its ButterBurgers and fresh frozen custard. Culver's emphasizes quality ingredients and classic American flavors, making it a go-to for locals and visitors alike seeking a hearty meal that celebrates Midwestern comfort food.
• Carbone's Pizzeria: Known for its delicious, handcrafted pizzas, Carbone's Pizzeria offers a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. The menu features a range of flavorful toppings and traditional recipes, reflecting the area's rich Italian heritage while providing a cozy spot for families and friends to enjoy together.
• Thai Basil: This vibrant eatery showcases the bold and aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine, with dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Thai Basil's innovative approach to traditional recipes offers diners an exciting journey through Thailand's culinary landscape, highlighting the fusion of local and authentic flavors.

Best time to go to Stillwater

Stillwater experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 14.4°F (-9.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.0°F (22.2°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Stillwater are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, February, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.