Hi friends—Mia Erickson here with ideas for ways to get outside, explore, and enjoy Stillwater. Whether you’re looking for peaceful nature, family fun, or some local culture, there’s plenty to do.
Parks & Play Spaces
Teddy Bear Park – This playful, award-winning park in downtown Stillwater is built for families. With giant teddy bears to climb on, a whimsical train, a funky tree house, and slides, it delights young kids (and nostalgic grown-ups too). It’s free and open mid-April through mid-October.
Lily Lake Park – If you’re in the mood for more classic outdoor recreation, Lily Lake offers fields, courts, a fishing pier, boat dock, indoor skating, playgrounds, restrooms, and picnic shelters. It’s about getting active or relaxing by the water.
Pioneer Park & Lowell Park – Great spots if you love river views and peaceful walks. Pioneer has open space, shelter, playgrounds, and walks; Lowell sits right on the riverfront, perfect for a picnic overlooking the water.
Trails & Scenic Walks
Brown’s Creek State Trail – Spanning about 5.9 paved miles, this trail follows a former railroad grade and connects into other trail systems. It’s great for biking, walking, rollerblading, or a relaxed ride with nature.
Gateway State Trail – Stretching roughly 18 miles, this mostly paved trail runs from Saint Paul through suburban landscapes, wetland edges, past farms, and ends near Stillwater. East of I-694, natural surface trails offer horseback riding and carriage driving.
St. Croix Crossing & River Loop Trail – A newer loop taking in both sides of the St. Croix River. Combine views of the historic lift bridge and the newer St. Croix Crossing span. Excellent for photo-worthy evenings and peaceful mornings.
Hidden Gems & Local Flavor
Union Art Alley – One-of-a-kind murals fill this alley just off Main Street. It’s a rotating canvas of street art, and strolling through feels like discovering a local open-air gallery.
Historic Stillwater Library & Stairs – For a bit of culture and a touch of history, visit the 1901 Carnegie library. Pair it with walking the city’s series of historic stairs—built as early as 1871—for views and exercise downtown.
Lake Elmo Park Reserve – Just outside Stillwater, this reserve has everything: walking and biking trails, beaches, playgrounds and cabins. Ideal if you want to escape into more open natural spaces.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
- Check trail conditions: some natural surface paths can get muddy after rain.
- Summer evenings are beautiful by the riverfront—parking fills up fast near Lowell or Pioneer Parks.
- If visiting with younger children, Teddy Bear Park is lively but limited in open shade—bring hats and water.
- Many trails and parks offer free or low-cost access—great if you want to explore without spending much.
Whatever you choose, walking through Stillwater feels like moving through a story—riverfront charm, wooded trails, town murals, and peaceful corners all around. Let me know if you want ideas focused on food + drink stops, kid-friendly stuff, or budget outings next time!