The Water Street Inn, a cherished landmark nestled along the scenic St. Croix River in historic downtown Stillwater, proudly celebrates its 30th Anniversary this November.
What began as a visionary effort to restore one of Stillwater’s most storied buildings has evolved into a beloved destination for weddings, fine dining, and unforgettable riverfront getaways.
A Legacy of Riverfront Hospitality
For three decades, the Water Street Inn has stood as a symbol of Stillwater’s enduring charm—honoring its past while embracing the joy of gathering, dining, and making new memories along the river.
TIMELINE OF THE WATER STREET INN
The Lumber Exchange Building
- Built: circa 1890 by the Union Depot & Transfer Company on Stillwater’s first “modern business block.”
- Why it mattered: Among the first buildings in the state with electricity, modern heating/plumbing, and an elevator. Purpose-built for Stillwater’s lumber trade.
- Early occupants: Wealthy lumber merchants; the first floor historically included storefronts, a U.S. Post
Office, a barbershop, and an upscale saloon. Many original walk-in vaults remain (some now adapted inside guest rooms).
- Hotel era: Converted and opened to guests in 1995; renamed Water Street Inn in 2003 under owners Chuck & Judy Dougherty. The 2019–2020 expansion increased rooms and introduced Papa’s Rooftop, with a tower element that nods to the former Union Depot.
Photo highlights — Lumber Exchange
Historic Water Street block with depot tower at right (early 1900s). Credit: Water Street Inn archives.
The Water Street Inn today on the St. Croix riverfront; north addition references the old depot tower (2019–2020). Credit: Water Street Inn.
The Union Depot (Former Neighbor to the Inn)
- Built: 1887 by the Union Depot Street Railway & Transfer Co., once touted as Minnesota’s finest depot.
- Architecture & amenities: Red sandstone base, slate roof, and a 75 ft clock tower; interior boasted stained glass, wood paneling, terra-cotta fireplaces, two restaurants, telegraph office, cigar stand, a ladies’ room, and even a dance hall.
- Service: Handled three rail lines with frequent departures; sold bundled “lumberjack tickets” to send crews north to the pineries.
- Fate: Passenger service declined by the 1920s; closed in 1954 and razed in 1960. The Inn’s north addition stands on the depot footprint today, echoing the tower.
Union Depot, Stillwater, Minn. Credit: Stillwater Public Library — John Runk Photograph Collection.
Owners & Operators (Hotel Era)
- 1995–2003: Opened as The Lumber Baron’s Hotel, Restaurant & Conference Center by a group of local innkeepers.
- Since 2003: Owned by Chuck & Judy Dougherty (Water Street Inn).
Quick Timeline
- 1887 — Union Depot constructed on S. Water St.
- c. 1890 — Lumber Exchange Building completed for lumber commerce.
- 1954 / 1960 — Depot closed / razed.
- 1995 — Hotel opens in the historic block.
- 2003 — Doughertys consolidate ownership; Water Street Inn name adopted.
- 2019–2020 — Expansion adds rooms, Papa’s Rooftop, and a tower referencing the depot.
Photo Credits & Sources: Stillwater Public Library — St. Croix Collection (John Runk Photograph Collection); Water Street Inn. Explore more Water Street Inn Historical Photos
30th Anniversary Celebration – November 2025
To mark 30 years of timeless memories, the Water Street Inn invites guests to join a month-long celebration filled with nostalgia, flavor, and special offers:
- 30% Off All Rooms throughout November – book using code 30TH
- Classic Menu Revival: Enjoy guest favorites from the Inn’s early days, plus specialty desserts and handcrafted drink features
- Wednesday Night Wine Dinners return for November at the original price of $34.95, continuing through the winter season
- Photo Contest: Share your favorite memories! Submit photos from the first 15 years of the Water Street Inn:
Prizes include:- Oldest Photo Winner: Two-night stay, dinner and breakfast for two, plus $100 in Stillwater Chamber Bucks
- First Place: Two-night stay with dinner and breakfast for two
- Second Place: One-night stay with dinner and breakfast for two
- Third Place: One-night stay
To enter, share your photo on Instagram or Facebook, tag @waterstreetinn, and use the hashtag #WaterStreetInn30Years. Winners will be notified in December!
Join us and experience the best of historic hospitality, modern comfort, and community spirit. Whether you’re reminiscing on past visits or discovering the Inn for the first time, there’s no better time to stay, dine, and celebrate along the St. Croix.
