Published by info on July 30, 2025
We’re shining a light on the accessible side of Stillwater, Minnesota – from paved trails to cozy patios and ADA-friendly lodging. Our goal is to make every traveler’s time in town feel as smooth and welcoming as possible!
Read more: Accessible Travel in Stillwater, Minnesota!When you’re planning a trip, the last thing you want to worry about is whether the town you’re visiting is accessible. Whether you’re using a wheelchair, a mobility assistance device, or pushing a stroller, accessibility matters!
Stillwater, Minnesota has long been known for its small-town charm, scenic riverfront, and historic downtown. Did you know it is also working to grow more inclusive? The city is actively working to make Stillwater as accessible as possible for everyone. This guide is a work in progress, if you have any thoughts or suggestions, please let us know.
Stillwater is known for its natural beauty! Whether you’re looking for a scenic overlook, a stroll by the water, or a place to get some energy out, there are plenty of outdoor spots to enjoy that you can explore with ease.
Just outside of downtown, the Stillwater Overlook Plaza provides a stunning view of the river valley. The parking lot is close to the viewing area. While the terrain may vary slightly, it’s relatively level and manageable!
Check out the riverfront path along Lowell Park. It is wide, paved, and minimally hilly. Perfect for cruising with a view! There are also grassy areas for relaxing, shaded benches, and accessible public bathrooms nearby in the pedestrian plaza.
You can’t go to Stillwater without seeing the Lift Bridge! This iconic landmark is not only a beautiful photo spot, but also wheelchair friendly. A wide, paved walkway lets you cross over to Wisconsin smoothly.
There are several paved trails nearby, perfect for mobility device users or anyone who prefers a smooth ride. Here are our accessible favorites in Stillwater.
Brown’s Creek State Trail is a 6.3 mile paved trail that runs along a trout stream, paved and smooth. Brown’s Creek is mainly flat, aside from a steep section uphill when traveling northbound. There are benches and picnic tables along the route for resting, as well as accessible bathrooms at the southeast end of the trail.
St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail is a 5 mile loop that features two bridges crossing the St. Croix River! The trail surface is smooth pavement with edge barriers on the bridges. The loop is mostly flat, apart from an uphill stretch near the lift bridge on the Wisconsin side. There are rest spaces and benches in the overlook areas throughout the trail for resting.
📸 Loop Map and Rest Area by St. Croix County Wisconsin
If you are visiting a nearby state park, the Minnesota DNR offers free all-terrain track chair rentals. These are off-road wheelchairs with tank-like treads. Perfect if you are planning a visit to William O’Brien State Park, just a short drive from Stillwater!
The North Hill Accessible Playground was designed with everyone in mind. It features ramped equipment, accessible swings, and a poured rubber surface that makes moving around easy for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers. It is a fantastic spot if you are traveling with kiddos!
One of Stillwater’s most beloved spots for families, Teddy Bear Park is full of unique play structures. The park features wide pathways and a ramp that leads to its spacious, single-person indoor restrooms, making bathroom access easy for those with mobility needs.
Several parks in Stillwater and Oak Park Heights offer picnic tables with paved access and accessible parking. Explore the outdoors with more parks in Oak Park Heights and parks in Stillwater!
Around town, there are many one-of-a-kind gift shops, galleries, and experiences. Many storefronts are located on Main Street, where sidewalks are mostly flat and wide, making it easier to navigate for wheelchairs and strollers. We gathered some of the best accessible Stillwater shops and attractions below!
Visitors should be aware that some historic buildings may not be fully accessible due to their age and architectural character. We recommend contacting businesses directly with any specific questions about accessibility features and accommodations.
Whether you’re looking to grab lunch with friends, sip cocktails on a patio, or indulge on a sweet treat on a summer night, Stillwater has plenty of spots that offer unique flavor and are accessible to everyone. Here’s a list of restaurants and cafés that are mobility device friendly!
Tip: Many downtown restaurants also offer seasonal patio seating, which can be easier to navigate than indoor spaces during busy hours. Don’t hesitate to call ahead to ask about step-free access or table clearance.
This is not an exhaustive list, but it’s a great place to start. This section will be updated as we hear from visitors and locals. Stay tuned and let us know if we missed one of your go-to spots.
Looking for a place to rest after a day of exploring? Stillwater offers a variety of accessible lodging options, from boutique hotels to familiar brands. Whether you’re booking a romantic riverside getaway or a family trip, these stays are worth checking out. Here are a few of our favorite options that are for all types of travelers!
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the hotels directly for more information.
If you’re looking for a more home-like experience, VRBOs or Airbnbs in Stillwater may offer step-free access, wide doorways, or walk-in showers. Just be sure to always message the host to confirm accessibility details before booking!
Stillwater is more than a scenic river town – it’s a place that knows how to have fun all year-round! Here are some accessible events and experiences that every guest can enjoy!
No matter the season, there’s always something happening in Stillwater! Just remember for larger events, it never hurts to call ahead and ask about accessibility details like ramps, parking, or restrooms.
If you’re unsure about a business or trail’s accessibility, don’t hesitate to call! Most local staff are happy to share what to expect and how they can accommodate your visit.
One of Stillwater’s best features is its walkability, and many of the town’s most popular areas are also wheelchair and scooter friendly!
Sidewalks on Main Street are generally smooth, with gradual slips and curb cuts. Many intersections include ramps and crosswalk audio announcement to let you know it is safe to cross.
Need help getting around town or coming in from nearby cities? Here are a few resources to check out:
ADA parking spaces are available in downtown public lots and near key attractions like the Lift Bridge and Lowell Park. Visitors who have a handicap placard or disabled plates can park for free up to 4 hours in any stall marked for disability parking.
Look for clearly marked signs and spots near ramps or crosswalks!
Check out these handy apps that could make your visit smoother!
We’ve rounded up Stillwater’s most accessible spots to help you plan your visit, however, this guide is just a starting point. Know a business, trail, or event we should include? We’d love to hear from you! Your suggestions will help make this guide even better.
Please note that accessibility features may change over time, and Discover Stillwater is not responsible for updates or changes made by individual businesses. It’s always best to contact them directly for the most current information.
Let’s see your adventures! Share your experiences by tagging @DiscoverStillwater and using #DiscoverStillwater on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok.
