For many Minnesotans, Stillwater is a quaint town you’ve passed through on the way to Wisconsin that made your pup say, “Wow, I’d love to sniff that out someday.” And for good reason: this little St. Croix River community will surprise you with its natural beauty, rich history, and bounty of places to explore, shop, sip, and snack. Bring your pup along, cause he’s gonna be pretty impressed by the number of dog-friendly options.
If you’re looking for things to do in Stillwater with your canine fren, our guide to dog-friendly Stillwater highlights the finest pup-approved hot spots. Leash up your bestie and frolic from place to place for the ultimutt weekday adventure or weekend afternoon!
Outdoor Things to Do in Stillwater
Stillwater Minnesota Farmers Market
If you’re visiting on a Saturday in mid-June through October, you’d be puggin’ crazy not to check out the epic local farmers market, located across from the Historic Courthouse. Pro tip: The Sunshine Barkery sells nutrish homemade dog treats your pooch can try before you buy.
St. Croix Boom Site
In case you haven’t heard, Stillwater has great chow, so step one: wear comfy pants. Step two: rev up your appetite with a hike at St. Croix Boom Site. About two miles north of downtown Stillwater, this 26-acre riverside park is actually a National Historic Landmark, and its above-ground cave is the perfect photo op (don’t forget to tag #SidewalkDog).
Dog-Friendly Shopping in Stillwater
Valley Bookseller and The Daily Grind
Head to the north end of downtown to check out this sweet two-fur-one. Valley Bookseller will remind you of a library from your puppy years–wooden shelves, colorful posters, and that oh-so-good old book smell. It’s also home to coffee shop The Daily Grind. Grab a NYT bestseller and one of the shop’s famous breakfast sammies (or an ice cream ‘n coffee “grinder” if you’re feelin’ frisky) and head out to the back pawtio for gorgeous river views.
Smith + Trade Mercantile
If Minnesota-made stuff makes you drool, be sure to peep Smith + Trade Mercantile. This cute, doggo-welcoming store sells goods made by local artisans, including dog treats, bandanas, and handmade leashes so purdy you’ll howl.
Dog-Friendly Stillwater Restaurants and Breweries
The Tilted Tiki
When bellies start to growl, it’s time to fuel up at one of the dog-friendly restaurants in Stillwater. Strut your stuff to The Tilted Tiki fur tropical cocktails, creative small plates, and live music almost every night of the week. Fur the puppers, they’ve got water bowls, umbrellas for shade—and the staff may even give your good boy or girl a lei!
Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop
Every pup deserves a treat now and then. Wolf down a classic malt or sundae at the legendary Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop while your floof licks up their free Leo’s Pup Cup.
River Siren Brewing
When it’s time to wet your whistle, River Siren Brewing’s taproom is just paw-steps away. Lap up one of their super unique rotating craft brews (or yummy maple root beer) made with local ingredients while your pup makes new frens on yet another riverfront patio with stunning views of the historic lift bridge. (You know how much she loves classic barkitecture).
Dog-Friendly Lodging in Stillwater
Lora
Heaven is a place on earf for dogs at Lora, a magazine-perfect, pet-friendly hotel, restaurant, bar, and coffee shop set on the banks of the St. Croix. After a day spent enjoying the finer things in life with your furry boo, a comfy bed and room service is the cherry on the dog-friendly cake.
The Outing Lodge at Pine Point
This adorable little lodge welcomes dogs and is surrounded by 300 acres of wooded park land. Scenic as heck, historic, and a true getaway for you and your pup!
Still waters run deep, and the “1848 Birthplace of Minnesota” sure is full of wonderful surprises. What’s your favorite dog-lovin’ spot in Stillwater? Bark at us in the comments, or drop your suggestion here.
Featured photo: @leo_the_lionpup
Sidewalk Dog’s mission is to help dog parents spend more time with their puppers by discovering and sharing activities they can do and places they can go—together! Sniff out our award-winning newsletter and Instagram, then join our Dog-Friendly Twin Cities Facebook Group.