Exploring the Enchanting River Towns of the St. Croix Valley

Laurie Dick breaks down our top 5 St. Croix Communities that truly come alive in the summer months.

Welcome to the scenic St. Croix Valley, where the charm of small river towns meets the majestic beauty of the St. Croix River. Nestled along its shores are several delightful communities, each with its own unique appeal and a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. In the above video we feature five local communities to day trip to, but let's dive deeper in even more enchanting river towns in the St. Croix Valley and share the top five things to do in each community.

Stillwater, Minnesota:
Known as the "Birthplace of Minnesota," Stillwater exudes historic charm and offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and cultural attractions. Here are the top five things to do in Stillwater:
a) Explore Main Street: Stroll along Main Street, lined with boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries.
b) Take a Riverboat Cruise: Hop aboard a historic paddleboat for a leisurely cruise on the St. Croix River.
c) Visit the Lift Bridge: Marvel at the iconic Stillwater Lift Bridge, a testament to the town's rich history.
d) Discover Local Brews: Indulge in craft beer at one of the town's breweries, known for their unique flavors and relaxed atmosphere.
e) Enjoy Outdoor Recreation: Take advantage of the nearby state parks for hiking, biking, and picnicking.

Hudson, Wisconsin:
Crossing over to the Wisconsin side of the St. Croix River, we find the charming town of Hudson. Known for its picturesque waterfront, Hudson offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Here are the top five things to do in Hudson:
a) Explore Historic Downtown: Wander through the quaint streets of Hudson's historic downtown, featuring specialty shops, art studios, and delicious eateries.
b) Stroll along Lakefront Park: Enjoy scenic views of the river while strolling through Lakefront Park, complete with picnic areas and a beach.
c) Visit the Octagon House: Step back in time at the Octagon House, a unique eight-sided Victorian mansion that offers intriguing historical tours.
d) Try Water Sports: Embrace the river's allure by renting a kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski for an adventurous day on the water.
e) Attend a Festival: Check out Hudson's vibrant festival scene, including the renowned Hot Air Affair, where colorful hot air balloons fill the sky.

Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota:
For a tranquil escape surrounded by nature, visit the charming village of Marine on St. Croix. This hidden gem offers a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities. Here are the top five things to do in Marine on St. Croix:
a) Explore William O'Brien State Park: Discover scenic hiking trails, enjoy a picnic by the river, or go fishing in the park's peaceful lakes.
b) Visit the Marine Mill: Learn about the area's milling history at the beautifully restored Marine Mill, now a historic site.
c) Wander through the Village: Take a leisurely stroll through the village, with its picturesque buildings and art galleries showcasing local talent.
d) Go Canoeing on the River: Rent a canoe and paddle along the tranquil St. Croix River, surrounded by serene natural beauty.
e) Indulge in Farm-to-Table Delights: Sample fresh, locally sourced cuisine at one of Marine on St. Croix's farm-to-table restaurants, offering a true taste of the region.

Osceola, Wisconsin:
With its scenic riverfront location and charming downtown, Osceola is a delightful destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Here are the top five things to do in Osceola:
a) Visit Cascade Falls: Marvel at the stunning Cascade Falls, a picturesque waterfall nestled within the town's beautiful park.
b) Explore River Road: Drive or bike along River Road, a scenic route offering breathtaking views of the St. Croix River.
c) Discover the Historic Downtown: Wander through Osceola's downtown area, featuring unique shops, antique stores, and cozy cafes.
d) Take a Historical Walking Tour: Immerse yourself in Osceola's history by embarking on a guided walking tour of its notable landmarks and historic sites.
e) Go Fishing: Cast a line and enjoy a day of fishing on the St. Croix River, known for its abundance of fish species.

Taylors Falls, Minnesota:
Nestled amidst dramatic cliffs and the scenic St. Croix River, Taylors Falls offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Here are the top five things to do in Taylors Falls:
a) Explore Interstate State Park: Hike along rugged trails, marvel at glacial potholes, and enjoy breathtaking views of the river in this stunning state park.
b) Take a Scenic Boat Tour: Hop on a scenic boat tour to experience the breathtaking beauty of the St. Croix River's rugged limestone bluffs and wildlife.
c) Enjoy Rock Climbing: Challenge yourself with rock climbing and bouldering on the cliffs of Interstate State Park, a popular destination for climbers.
d) Discover Folsom House: Step back in time at the Folsom House, a preserved Victorian-era home showcasing period furnishings and intriguing history.
e) Cruise on the Wild Mountain Scenic Chairlift: Enjoy panoramic views of the St. Croix Valley as you glide on a scenic chairlift at Wild Mountain.

Prescott, Wisconsin:
Situated at the confluence of the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers, Prescott is a charming river town known for its scenic beauty and riverfront activities. Here are the top five things to do in Prescott:
a) Visit Point Douglas Park: Explore this picturesque park offering river views, picnic spots, and a historic marker highlighting its role in the region's history.
b) Go Boating or Fishing: Take to the waters for boating, fishing, or leisurely cruises to soak in the serene beauty of the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers.
c) Enjoy Riverfront Dining: Indulge in delicious meals at the riverside restaurants offering picturesque views and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
d) Attend the Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center: Learn about the local environment, history, and culture through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
e) Take a Riverwalk: Wander along the scenic Riverwalk, enjoying the views, benches, and public art installations that enhance the town's riverside charm.

Afton, Minnesota:
Tucked away on the banks of the St. Croix River, Afton beckons with its small-town charm, historic buildings, and stunning natural landscapes. Here are the top five things to do in Afton:
a) Explore Afton State Park: Hike through wooded trails, bike along scenic paths, and enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting in this serene state park.
b) Stop back int the winter and discover the Afton Alps: Experience outdoor recreation at its best with skiing, snowboarding, and tubing during winter, and scenic chairlift rides during the summer.
c) Visit Afton's Historic Village: Step back in time in the town's historic village, featuring well-preserved buildings, unique shops, and cozy cafes.
d) Enjoy Wine Tasting: Sample locally produced wines at Afton's wineries, indulging in the flavors while enjoying picturesque vineyard views.
e) Attend Afton's Fourth of July Parade: Join the community in celebrating Independence Day with a vibrant parade featuring floats, music, and joyful festivities.

The St. Croix Valley's river towns offer an enchanting blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. From the historic streets of Stillwater to the picturesque riverfronts of Hudson, these communities beckon visitors with their unique attractions and warm hospitality. Embark on a journey through these river towns, immersing yourself in their rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and a myriad of activities that promise an unforgettable experience in the heart of the St. Croix Valley.

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