This Small Minnesota Town Has a 90-year-old Lumberjack Festival and Relaxed River Vibes—and It's Just 30 Minutes From Minneapolis
Considered Minnesota's historic birthplace, Stillwater is a popular spring and summer getaway only 30 minutes from urban Minneapolis. The town, home to roughly 20,000 residents, sits near the Wisconsin border, where people can show up on their boats for waterfront dining and admire the work of the circa 1931 lift bridge, one of the few still in operation.
The easiest way to get to Stillwater is by flying into Minneapolis—Saint Paul International Airport and renting a car to make the 35-minute drive. If you have time, take the St. Croix Scenic Byway. Once there, you can leave the car behind as the town is nice and compact for exploring.
Don't miss Lumberjack Days, a 90-year tradition held every July featuring live music, BMX stunt performances, local food, and, of course, lumberjack shows with log rolling and speed sawing.
Minnesota summers are best spent outdoors. Stillwater sits at the bottom of several hills and one of the most popular activities is the daily climb up a steep set of historic stairs dating back to 1871. It's about three miles in length and has the best views in the area.
Stillwater River Boats offers seasonal tours of the St. Croix on an old-fashioned paddleboat, including sightseeing and jazz brunch cruises. But if you'd rather explore on your own, several local outfitters provide kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals.
Related: This Small Town in Minnesota Is Called the 'Halloween Capital of the World' — With Spooky Ghost Tours and Haunted Bars
Despite its relatively small size—only about eight square miles—Stillwater has an excellent restaurant scene, showcasing the bounty of Midwestern agriculture. Start your day at You & Me Cafe for its house-roasted and brewed coffee and muffins, scones, and pastries made daily.
Stillwater Proper is a restaurant, distillery, and cocktail bar with a menu of classics like smash burgers, tacos, and locally caught walleye, all made with ingredients sourced from nearby farms.
Located inside Hotel Crosby, Matchstick Restaurant is known for its spirits and wood-fired dishes. In fact, the bar claims hundreds of rare and unique bottles and the menu features locally sourced meat and fish in dishes like slow-roasted smoked brisket.
Stillwater also has a handful of breweries and cideries. Thor's Hard Cider uses apples from the on-site Aamodt's Apple Farm, where you can enjoy a cider tasting and even indulge in the sauna. River Siren Brewing Co.'s patio is the best spot in town to take in river views with a locally made New Zealand-style pilsner. The brewery also has food trucks, trivia, bingo, and live music.
Embrace your inner Paul Bunyan at The Lumberjack for a local brew and a round of ax-throwing. No Neck Tony's is another local favorite for its bloody marys and pull tabs, a lottery-type game popular in the Midwest.
Related: This Lesser-visited National Park Has 500 Islands and 30 Lakes — and It's One of the Best Places to See the Northern Lights in the U.S.
It's easy to spend your time in Stillwater wandering the shops on Main Street. Every town needs a bookstore and Valley Bookseller is an essential detour. Here, you'll find national titles and the work of regional authors plus gifts and frequent author events.
American Gothic Antiques is the best place to step back in time, with a labyrinth of connected rooms showcasing vintage glassware, books, toys, and artwork, and Minnesota Made sells clothing and gifts related to the state.
Stillwater has several places to stay, but your first choice should be Lora, a hotel located inside a former 1886 brewery. With its 40 rooms and in-house coffee shop, you're steps away from everything in town. It also has Feller, a restaurant that pays homage to the hunters and gatherers who settled the area.
Hotel Crosby has cozy lodge vibes with a roaring fire in the lobby stocked with games, a restaurant, a rooftop hot tub, and even boat rentals. It's more of a traditional experience at the 35-room Lowell Inn, which was built in 1923. If you're with a group, you'll find rentals around town with multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and parking on sites like VRBO.
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Travel + Leisure
3 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
J.Crew's Double Discount Sale Has Black Friday-level Deals Up to 85% Off—Shop the 35 Best Finds From $18
Over the years, has firmly positioned itself as a one-stop shop for effortless, refined wardrobe staples. So, when it comes time to refresh your closet ahead of a summer of travel, you know just where to turn. The retailer is taking things a step further this season, hosting a secret double discount sale on already marked down pieces, and we've even spotted price cuts up to 85 percent off with the code SHOPSALE at checkout. Since these deals are guaranteed to go fast, we browsed virtual racks to uncover the 35 best extra-discounted items that are well-made, perfect for travel, and endlessly stylish. From flowy maxi dresses to travel-ready bags, these are the best picks for upgrading your summer style, starting at just $18. preppy, timeless wardrobe essentials are the dreamiest additions to your summer packing list, and so many eye-catching styles are now majorly discounted thanks to the latest secret sale. Since the ever-rising temperatures can be tricky to dress for, take this as a sign to snag the breathable Off-the-shoulder Slip Dress while it's almost $150 off—it's the perfect piece to dress up or down throughout your trip, and it's even top-rated on the site. And if you've been on the lookout for a stylish and sensible purse for your adventures, you can't go wrong with the Cadiz Hand-knotted Rope Tote now that it's on sale for $57. Amelia Popover Shirtdress, $29 with code SHOPSALE (originally $148) (originally $148) New Gwyneth Skirt, $18 with code SHOPSALE (originally $118) (originally $118) Drapey Jacquard-print Shirt, $21 with code SHOPSALE (originally $118) (originally $118) Off-the-shoulder Slip Dress, $31 with code SHOPSALE (originally $178) (originally $178) Short-sleeve Corded Terry Camp-collar Shirt, $42 with code SHOPSALE (originally $110) (originally $110) Slim Long-sleeve Vintage-wash Cotton Pocket T-shirt, $21 with code SHOPSALE (originally $55) (originally $55) Tassel Mule Leather Loafers, $65 with code SHOPSALE (originally $198) (originally $198) Georgina Sandals in Canvas and Leather, $94 with code SHOPSALE (originally $148) (originally $148) Cadiz Hand-knotted Rope Tote, $57 with code SHOPSALE (originally $90) (originally $90) Berkeley Overnight Tote, $180 (originally $348) Breathable tops, effortless skirts, and elevated basics have all received major markdowns at for the summer, making it easier than ever to check off everything on your shopping list in one fell swoop. At just $18, the elegant New Gwyneth Skirt is undoubtedly the best deal we've spotted while it's 85 percent off with the code SHOPSALE at checkout. Pair it with the newly-$49 Ruffle-trim Camisole, and you're ready for a night out on the town. However, if you're preparing for an upcoming beach vacation, it's the flattering Gemma Ruched Bandeau Cutout One-piece you'll want to add to your cart—it's almost $80 off and can even be styled as a sleek top when worn beneath a pair of lightweight pants. Cabana Top in Striped Linen, $42 with code SHOPSALE (originally $118) (originally $118) Premium Rib Side-button Top in Stripe, $32 with code SHOPSALE (originally $70) (originally $70) Mariner Jersey Relaxed Boatneck T-shirt in Stripe, $28 with code SHOPSALE (originally $80) (originally $80) New Gwyneth Skirt, $18 with code SHOPSALE (originally $118) (originally $118) Gemma Ruched Bandeau Cutout One-piece, $50 with code SHOPSALE (originally $128) (originally $128) Drapey Jacquard-print Shirt, $21 with code SHOPSALE (originally $118) (originally $118) Wide-leg Pants in Stretch Ponte, $33 with code SHOPSALE (originally $90) (originally $90) Ciel Cotton Poplin Top, $21 with code SHOPSALE (originally $118) (originally $118) Crinkled Gathered-waist Skirt, $29 with code SHOPSALE (originally $138) (originally $138) Ruffle-trim Camisole, $49 with code SHOPSALE (originally $90) While has an impressive selection of vacation clothes at the ready, it's the dress section that really shines, with prices starting as low as $25 in the form of the stunning Bubble-hem Mixy Dress. For casual poolside wear, the Swingy Tie-back Beach Dress is a top-notch pick at $41, while the Gathered Popover Dress is another standout at $53. And if you need fresh picks for fancy dinners or sightseeing days, rest assured, the Gathered Waist Mixy Dress can do it all—and at $50, you may even be tempted to grab it in multiple colors. Bubble-hem Mixy Dress, $25 with code SHOPSALE (originally $118) (originally $118) Swingy Tie-back Beach Dress, $41 with code SHOPSALE (originally $128) (originally $128) Squareneck Midi Dress, $84 with code SHOPSALE (originally $148) (originally $148) Gathered Popover Dress, $53 with code SHOPSALE (originally $168) (originally $168) Airy Gauzy Babydoll Dress, $30 with code SHOPSALE (originally $98) (originally $98) Gathered Waist Mixy Dress, $50 with code SHOPSALE (originally $158) (originally $158) Off-the-shoulder Slip Dress, $31 with code SHOPSALE (originally $178) (originally $178) Amelia Popover Shirtdress, $29 with code SHOPSALE (originally $148) (originally $148) Soft Shine Slip Dress, $44 with code SHOPSALE (originally $98) (originally $98) Seamed Denim Mini Dress, $63 with code SHOPSALE (originally $168) Men's summer clothing is already going fast, but still has some unbeatable deals on packable, lightweight essentials left that you'll be happy to have in your closet. The Performance Polo Shirt with Coolmax Technology is a prime example of a stylish, heat-friendly shirt that's now double discounted to a mere $18, and the vibrant Short-sleeve Corded Terry Camp-collar Shirt is another top selection that's on sale for $68 off. Plus, if you need a new addition to your collection of basics, the Druthers Organix Cotton T-shirt is a top pick at $34 that comes in seven neutral colors—just don't wait too long to shop since it's selling out quickly. stylish summer sneakers, sandals, and slides are already running low on stock, but we managed to uncover several under-the-radar picks you'll be happy to get your hands on before they too sell out. Now available for $76 in a bold leopard print, the Rec Sneakers are the best option for sightseeing and long days on your feet, not to mention they're probably unlike anything else in your wardrobe at the moment. At $94, the Georgina Sandals in Canvas and Leather are also a great selection no matter what's on the agenda during your travels, and they've even earned an impressive 4.2-star average rating from happy shoppers. Among the droves of beautiful apparel and footwear deals on sale at right now, a secret selection of bags is also marked down and ready to be added to your packing list for the summer months. The double-discounted Cadiz Hand-knotted Rope Tote is a unique pick that will stand out during beach and city trips alike, and at $57, it's practically a steal. Plus, we even spotted the Berkeley Overnight Tote on sale for $180, and there's no denying this high-quality, spacious duffel is the ideal selection for a long weekend away. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
USA Today
17 hours ago
- USA Today
You don't need a passport at these 7 US destinations that feel international
You don't need a passport at these 7 US destinations that feel international Show Caption Hide Caption Travel tips: What to do if you lose phone, passports These four travel tips will help in case you find yourself without a phone, ID, passport or credit card while traveling. Problem Solved Traveling internationally as a family is a true privilege, but not everyone can swing a journey abroad. Flights alone can put you well over budget, especially if you need to purchase multiple seats. Yet for parents who want to take their kids to a new, unfamiliar place without breaking the bank, there's still hope. Dotted around the country are unique U.S. family vacations that feel just like a visit to another country. Satisfy your craving for foreign landscapes and cultures with one of these seven spots for unique family vacations in the continental United States. (Note that most of these destinations also offer the chance to learn about the area's Native American history, which shouldn't be missed.) Why you can trust us: At FamilyVacationist, our picks are always based on our own real-world experiences, local knowledge and interviews, and in-depth analysis of travel trends. Read more about our travel recommendation methodology here. GO ABROAD: 7 kid-friendly European river cruises to consider in 2025 1. Chimayo, New Mexico Feels like: Mexico's Countryside The Sangre de Cristo Mountains hold many secrets, and one of them is the village of Chimayo. Only a roughly 30-minute drive from Santa Fe, Chimayo looks like something out of a vintage postcard from rural Mexico. Its pueblo-style architecture, weaving shops, and slower way of life make a visit here one of the most unique U.S. family vacations. Chimayo's close proximity to Santa Fe means you can easily spend a few nights in town or visit as a day trip from the city. Families can relish a handful of educational experiences that showcase the local history and culture at the Chimayo Museum, El Santuario de Chimayo church, and Rancho de Chimayo. There are also outdoor activities like the Santa Cruz Lake and rafting in the nearby Rio Grande Gorge. Where to Stay: Find plenty of smaller, independently run inns and B&Bs in Chimayo, including Casa Escondida, which sits on six beautiful acres of mountain landscapes. Bonus points for the ultra-comfy beds and family-friendly rooms. SOUTH OF THE BORDER: The ultimate guide to family vacations in Mexico: Beaches, ruins, and unforgettable adventures 2. Solvang, California Feels like: Denmark Your kids will feel like they've stepped into a fairytale in this colorful European-style town tucked away in California's Central Coast. Since being founded by Danish immigrants in 1911, Solvang has preserved its authentic history, architecture and culture—all of which is palpable as families meander down its festive downtown. The Solvang Trolley is a great way to get the lay of the land upon arrival. Families also will love visiting the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, which offers scavenger hunts; as well as the Old Mission Santa Ines museum; Ostrich Land; Quicksilver Miniature Horse Ranch; and Nojoqui Falls Park. Don't forget to stop at the whimsical Solvang Trolley Ice Cream Parlor for a sweet treat. Where to Stay: Solvang has a real mix of accommodations, including the luxe dude ranch Alisal Ranch and downtown's hip and boutiquey The Winston. GO WEST: 7 affordable California vacation ideas for the whole family 3. Alys Beach, Florida Feels like: Santorini, Greece White stucco buildings overlooking shimmering waters conjure up scenes of Santorini, Greece – only at Alys Beach, the sand is powdery white. Nestled along Florida's pristine Panhandle, this family-friendly, planned community offers the aesthetic of Greece at a fraction of what you'd likely pay to haul the entire gang to the islands. Family amenities include a resort-style pool, private beach access, bike rentals with baby seat mounts available if needed, a nature preserve with a boardwalk and trails, an amphitheater that hosts occasional concerts and movie nights, splash pad-style fountains, and seasonal blueberry picking along Lake Marilyn. (Learn what makes the Panhandle one of the top unique Florida attractions for kids.) Where to Stay: There are no hotels in Alys Beach (for a traditional hotel stay, look to nearby Panama City Beach), but there are plenty of vacation rentals featuring great design and local vibes. ALL-IN-ONE VACATIONS: 7 best all-inclusive resorts in Florida for families 4. Holland, Michigan Feels like: The Netherlands Much like what you'd see in the Netherlands, fields across Holland, Michigan, dazzle with the colors of tulips in the spring. The annual Tulip Time Festival is one of the city's greatest attractions, but there are many more reasons why this little slice of Dutch paradise makes for one of the most unique U.S. family vacations. Nelis' Dutch Village offers a glimpse of what the Netherlands was like more than 100 years ago. Must-visit sites for families include the Windmill Island Gardens, Outdoor Discovery Center and the shallow-water Ottawa Beach, which has a playground, restrooms, and general store on site. Where to Stay: In addition to all the usual major hotel chains, you'll also find Teerman Lofts, a hotel that offers fully furnished luxury apartments instead of the usual hotel rooms. MIDWEST MAGIC: These 13 Midwest vacations are the perfect way to bring the whole family together 5. 1000 Islands, New York Feels like: Northwestern France (Cotes-d'Armor) The northwestern coast of France isn't on many families' radars. Its small archipelago of Ile-de-Brehat, however, is a hot spot for Europeans who are drawn to its dramatic landscape of tiny, lush islands surrounded by deep-blue water. The setting shares similarities with New York's 1000 Islands, particularly Alexandria Bay, whose Boldt Castle can make anyone feel like they've teleported to Europe. A quick, 30-minute drive from Alexandria Bay to the charming town of Cape Vincent will give you a closer look at the 1000 Islands' French history, which is celebrated every year at the French Festival. Other activities like hiking, go-kart rides, drive-in movie showings, boating, and water sports all cater to families with adventurous spirits. Where to Stay: Roadside motels, little inns, and family-run resorts rule when it comes to lodgings in Alexandria Bay. For castle views and a swimming pool, check out The Ledges Resort & Marina. BEYOND THE BIG APPLE: 13 best New York family vacations from the Adirondacks to the Erie Canal 6. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California Feels like: The English Countryside From 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' to the 'Harry Potter' series, family films have long fed the desire for many to visit England's countryside. For those not able or ready to fly across the pond, Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a lovely and unique U.S. family vacation. Quintessential English cottages, tucked-away courtyards, and cobblestone streets look as if they've been plucked from a town like Rye or Stratford-upon-Avon. Enjoy a more British experience with an afternoon cuppa at the local tea house and imported British treats at the candy store. And don't forget to make time to check out Carmel Beach; Point Lobos State Natural Reserve; the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum; the Forest Theater; and the nearby Monterey Bay Aquarium. Where to Stay: Family-friendly lodging options in Carmel (which includes Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Valley and Carmel Highlands) include Quail Lodge Golf & Club, which has big rooms and suites plus a year-round heated outdoor pool. PACK YOUR FLIP-FLOPS: 8 best hotels on the beach in California 7. Helen, Georgia Feels like: Bavaria, Germany German traditions like Oktoberfest and the Christmas markets have become pretty ubiquitous, but few places close to home can transport you to Deutschland like Helen, Georgia. What makes this one of the top underrated U.S. cities for a pseudo-international getaway is not only its Bavarian look and feel, but also its sheer variety of activities that both parents and kids will love. A candy factory, a handmade wooden toy store, a recreational center with Alpine-style miniature golf, and the award-winning Cabbage Patch Kids toy store will make little ones' dreams come true. Throw in authentic restaurants serving up everything from schnitzel to spaetzle, an Alpine mountain coaster and scenic nature hikes, and everyone will be a happy camper. (See why Helen is also one of the best skip-gen destinations that guarantee fun for both grandparents and grandkids.) Where to Stay: When it comes to places to stay in Helen, you can choose from its blend of chain hotels and independent motels and inns. For everything you need with kids, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Helen is a good bet. You don't need a passport at these 7 US destinations that feel just like an international vacation originally appeared on More from FamilyVacationist: The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. and are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology, we review and select family vacation ideas, family vacation spots, all-inclusive family resorts, and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators, tour operator reviews, tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations. If you buy an item through a link in our content, we may earn a commission.
Yahoo
19 hours ago
- Yahoo
International players tee off in crazy golf trophy
An estimated 250 players will compete in the individual World Crazy Golf Championships on Saturday and Sunday. The annual tournament, held at Hastings Adventure Golf in East Sussex, will see entrants from at least seven countries, including the USA and New Zealand, compete. Advertisement The winner receives £1,250 in prize money and a further £2,500 is distributed between players placed second to eighth. Simon Tompkins, director of Hastings Adventure Golf, said it was "a great source of local pride to host the championships". The individual event has additional junior and novice categories. The team competition took place on Friday. Competitors play six qualifying rounds - three on Saturday and three on Sunday - before the best-scoring 18 players compete in the final. Seven different players have won the trophy in the event's 22-year history, according to organisers. Four-time winner Marc Chapman is back to defend his 2024 title [BBC] Canterbury fencing instructor Marc Chapman is attempting to defend his crown after winning his fourth title in 2024. Advertisement The reigning champion said he was "hooked" after he entered the event for the first time, and returns every year. Chapman told the BBC he won his first title at his 10th attempt and "the rest, as they say, is history." Tom Loftus from Minnesota, USA, flew in to compete in the Hastings tournament [ROBIN GREY/BBC] US competitor Tom Loftus said he was "absolutely thrilled" to take on the "classic" fifth hole, which requires players to avoid a windmill's spinning blades to make their putt. He added: "It was so exciting to have that moment. I just love windmills." Rainey Statum, who travelled to the tournament from Texas, USA, told the BBC he faced a long journey to make it to the tournament, flying to London via Chicago. Advertisement He said: "Because I don't do trains down in Texas I kinda got lost and it took five hours for me to get here to Hastings through the train and subway system. "They misplaced my luggage too, so I was here a day and a half without my luggage." Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@ or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250. More on this story Related internet links
