Stillwater Minnesota: Events and Group Hotels on the St. Croix

Stillwater is a postcard-perfect river town 30 minutes east of Saint Paul on the St. Croix River. With historic buildings, independent shops, excellent restaurants, and a walkable downtown, it has become one of Minnesota's most popular destinations for wedding weekends, bachelorette parties, and group getaways. Here is what to know about events and group lodging.

Major Stillwater Events

Lumberjack Days (July)

Stillwater's signature festival celebrates the city's logging heritage with lumberjack competitions, live music, a parade, and fireworks over the river. The festival draws thousands over a long weekend. Hotels fill up 4 to 6 weeks ahead.

Harvest Fest and Car Show (September)

A fall celebration with classic cars, craft vendors, and harvest-themed activities downtown. Pairs well with fall colors along the St. Croix River Valley.

Rivertown Art Festival (May)

A juried art fair in downtown Stillwater featuring 100+ artists. A good excuse for a spring group trip before summer crowds arrive.

Wedding Season (June - October)

Stillwater is one of the top wedding destinations in Minnesota. The combination of river views, historic venues, and walkable downtown makes it ideal for wedding weekends. Group hotel demand peaks on Saturday nights from June through October.

Group Hotels in Stillwater

Lowell Inn

A historic 23-room inn in the heart of downtown. Group rates from $149 per night. The inn has a fine dining restaurant and old-world charm. Best for intimate wedding groups and special occasion weekends.

Water Street Inn

Right on the St. Croix River with 61 rooms. Group rates from $159 per night. Rooftop deck with river views. The largest hotel in Stillwater proper, making it the best option for groups needing 10+ rooms.

Hotel Crosby

A boutique hotel in a renovated 1880s building. 55 rooms with modern design. Group rates from $169 per night. Rooftop bar and restaurant. The trendy pick for bachelorette parties and milestone celebrations.

AmericInn by Wyndham Stillwater

The budget option on the edge of town. Group rates from $109 per night with pool and hot tub. 5-minute drive to downtown. Best for groups watching their budget.

Nearby Hotel Overflow

Stillwater has limited hotel inventory (under 200 rooms total in town). For larger groups or sold-out weekends, Oakdale and Woodbury are 15 minutes away with chain hotels from $99 to $129 per night for groups.

Group Activities in Stillwater

Gondola rides on the St. Croix ($25-$35 per person). Wine tasting at Saint Croix Vineyards. Kayaking and paddleboarding rentals ($20-$40 per hour). Shopping along Main Street. Hiking at Brown's Creek State Trail.

Booking Tips

Stillwater hotels are small. For groups of 10+ rooms, book 2 to 3 months ahead for summer and fall dates. For wedding weekends, 6 to 9 months is recommended.

Planning a group trip to Stillwater? Submit your request on BidMyRoom and let area hotels compete for your booking. Free for organizers.