10 Thrilling Things to Do in Stillwater MN This Fall

You’d better believe that a place named “One of The Prettiest Towns in America” by Forbes magazine has plenty to offer visitors every autumn. Whether you’re off on a leaf-peeping excursion or taking a leisurely stroll along the riverfront in search of fine dining and shopping, we can help you find things to do in Stillwater MN this fall.

Here are our top ten favorite things to do in Stillwater MN:

1. There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the fall foliage, from river cruises to city rooftops to country roads. Take in the fall colors in MN from every possible angle.
2. Stillwater wears its history on its sleeves, and we love to show off the area’s rich lumber-driven history. Valley Tours offers narrated walking tours that touch on history and legends while viewing Victorian architecture and homes. If you prefer to see things at your own pace, use the Lensflare app to give yourself an informed self-guided tour.
3. If you’ve come to Stillwater on a romantic getaway, consider taking your special someone on a gondola ride on the St. Croix River. The bluffs ablaze in fall colors will make this excursion even more memorable.
4. One of the best things to do in Stillwater MN is to ride down the St. Croix on a paddle-wheel Stillwater River Boat. Book a two-hour public cruise with lunch or dinner included and be treated to a show of fall colors along the bluffs of the river.
5. Stillwater’s lively downtown features over 50 independently owned shops offering everything from art and gifts to home décor and clothing. It’s also considered one of the best towns in the country for antique shopping, drawing collectors and casual treasure hunters alike.
6. Stillwater is renowned as having one of America’s finest small-town food scenes, and there are plenty of delightful opportunities to dine al fresco well into October. Starting with Water Street Inn’s own panoramic-view dining experience at Papa’s Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, a multitude of Stillwater restaurants offer sidewalk, deck, patio, or alleyway dining opportunities.
7. Stillwater also has a well-regarded beer and wine scene. You can check out breweries, wineries, and tasting rooms on foot, take a leisurely trolley tour of downtown, or ride the famous BierCycle.
8. Nothing says fall like a trip to the apple orchard. One of our favorite fall things to do in Stillwater MN is take a trip to Aamodt’s Apple Farm Bakery & Store. This iconic family-owned destination offers u-pick apples, apple cider, apple butter, and tasty baked goods.
9. Take a hot-air balloon rides with stunning views of the St. Croix River Valley and surrounding bluffs ablaze in fall colors.
10. There’s no shortage of great biking and hiking opportunities around Stillwater. Don’t miss the St. Croix Crossing Trail Loop, a spectacular 5.4-mile walk that takes you across two bridges spanning the river between Minnesota and Wisconsin. This should be at the top of your list of things to do in Stillwater MN, this fall.