This St. Croix River road trip makes for a great Midwest Day trip through some amazing small towns offering a plethora of opportunities and experiences. We recommend doing this trip in the Winter as many of the offerings are indoors, however, any other season would be wonderful as well.
Additionally, this trip makes for an excellent day trip for those visiting the Twin Cities or those living in Eastern Minnesota or Northern Wisconsin. The drive time for this trip is 1.5 hours but we recommend doing this St. Croix River road trip in 5-8 hours, depending on how many stops you want to make.
Minnesota side of the St. Croix River Road Trip
Stillwater
Start your St. Croix River road trip in Bayport MN, located only a half hour from the Minneapolis airport. Head North on MN-95 to Stillwater. First, take in the scenic overlook of the St. Croix Crossing Bridge and even walk across it if you’re ready to stretch your legs. If you’re here in the heart of winter, don’t miss the Ice Castles that are created on the shores of the St. Croix, right next to downtown Stillwater. You could also visit the interesting Teddy Bear park or try your hand at finding Fairy Falls. Once you’ve worked up a thirst, visit one of the many Breweries, Wineries or Cideries in Stillwater. Our favorite is St. Croix Vineyards, which also is home to an apple orchard and Thor’s Cidery. However, remember to drink responsibly and designate a driver for the rest of your trip. If you’re ready to eat, Stillwater has some of the best eateries on this trip. Our two favorites are Lolo’s and Leo’s in downtown Stillwater.
Taylor Falls
Continue on your St. Croix River road trip by heading north on MN 95 stopping at any scenic vistas along the way. There are plenty of parks located on your drive that are great for stopping and stretching your legs. As you head into Taylor Falls, you’ll pass Franconia Bluffs and Franconia Sculpture Park. Both are worth a stop and a few photos. In Taylor Falls, you’ll find two wineries and a historic house you can choose to visit. However, the real gem is Interstate State Park. This park has portions on both the Minnesota and Wisconsin side but the Minnesota side is our favorite as the views are great and you can see glacial potholes. Remember to pay any required fees when visiting the parks as this helps keep them beautiful.
Wisconsin side of the St. Croix River Road Trip
St. Croix Falls
Next, head across the river to visit St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin. Cruise through the downtown and take in the views, the chocolate shop and then head north on WI 87 and visit the Chateau St. Croix Winery. Once you’ve soaked up St. Croix Falls, head south on WI 35. You’ll pass the Wisconsin side of Interstate State Park on your way out of town if you would like to explore that area as well.
Osceola
Continue heading south until you reach Osceola. Then, park downtown and explore. Our favorite place on this roadtrip is Wilke Glen and Cascade Falls. There is a wonderful trail right off of downtown Osceola for these sights. This trail requires using a LOT of stairs, and when visiting in the winter the stairs do get very icy so exercise caution when using the stairs. If you make it to the bottom of the stairs, Cascade Falls is right there for you to enjoy. If you continue on the path you’ll arrive at the St. Croix river. Once done exploring, head back up the stairs and continue on your journey.
Somerset
Head south of WI 35 until you get to Somerset. Oliphant Brewing is just off of 35 if you are interested in trying this local brew.
Hudson
Continue south on WI 35 until you reach county road V. Take a short detour to Willow River State park. Then, hike down to the waterfall following the path with a steep decline. If you’re here in the winter, make sure to be careful of the ice on the trail or use those crampons your brought. Take in the scenic waterfall and then hike your way back up the hill. Continue to drive south on WI 35 until you reach Hudson. Make sure to detour your drive to see the Octagon House and take a tour if you wish. If you’ve worked up an appetite for dinner, Smiling Moose or Agave Kitchen are excellent choices. After exploring Hudson head home and travel safe.
What to adjust the Itinerary?
Depending on where you’re coming from and how long you have, you may want to adjust your itinerary or do the road trip in reverse. We’ve done it in both directions and tend to decide which direction to drive based on where we want to have lunch and dinner. Also, you could continue north and extend this road trip further up the St. Croix River. We’ve completed this trip as well and find the drive beautiful. However, the amount of spots to stop do decrease the farther north you go.
We hope this drive has given you inspiration for a day trip or for an add on to your Minnesota or Wisconsin vacation. If you have any questions or suggestions, please leave them in the comments section below.
