Stillwater Lift Bridge
Walk between Minnesota and Wisconsin on the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge, now a pedestrian and bike path with stunning river views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warm breezes & river views
Stillwater Lift Bridge
Best Time
Warm breezes & river views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk between Minnesota and Wisconsin on the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge, now a pedestrian and bike path with stunning river views.
"It was really nice to walk across this historic National Register of Historic Places bridge on a warm breezy summer evening!"
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Bridge
Enjoy the pedestrian and bike-only lanes for a safe and scenic stroll across the St. Croix River. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
The bridge offers great photo ops, but avoid night shots directly from the bridge due to light pollution. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Lift Bridge Walk
Stillwater Lift Bridge
Stroll or bike across this iconic, historic bridge connecting Minnesota and Wisconsin. Enjoy river views and a unique state-crossing experience.
Stillwater Riverfront Views
Stillwater Riverfront
Experience the charm of this historic river town with stunning views of the St. Croix River and colorful autumn foliage.
Wisconsin State Line Crossing
Stillwater Lift Bridge
Walk across the bridge and officially step into Wisconsin for a fun, unique experience. Perfect for a memorable photo op!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Bridge Access and Schedule
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
The new Stillwater bridge is impressive.
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Bridge
Enjoy the pedestrian and bike-only lanes for a safe and scenic stroll across the St. Croix River. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
The bridge offers great photo ops, but avoid night shots directly from the bridge due to light pollution. :camerawithflash:
Well, how about that. Stillwater, population 19,240, managed to close an entire business district block from cars with retractable *real* bollards. How is it that a city of 425k can't even manage that?
Hastings vs Stillwater for a date?
🗓️ Check Bridge Lift Times
The bridge lifts for boats! It's a short disruption and fun to watch. Check the schedule online. :ticket:
🛍️ Explore Stillwater Town
Beyond the bridge, discover charming shops, eateries, and trails in this historic river town. :world_map:
What are your favorite historic tours, day trips, or other fun ideas for my MIL and me?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Bridge
Enjoy the pedestrian and bike-only lanes for a safe and scenic stroll across the St. Croix River. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
The bridge offers great photo ops, but avoid night shots directly from the bridge due to light pollution. :camerawithflash:
🗓️ Check Bridge Lift Times
The bridge lifts for boats! It's a short disruption and fun to watch. Check the schedule online. :ticket:
🛍️ Explore Stillwater Town
Beyond the bridge, discover charming shops, eateries, and trails in this historic river town. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Stillwater Lift Bridge's transformation into a pedestrian-friendly pathway, offering beautiful river views and a unique state-crossing experience. The charming town of Stillwater complements the bridge with its historic atmosphere, shops, and restaurants. While the bridge itself is free and accessible, some find parking challenging during peak times.
"Stillwater is one place you should not miss if you are in the area. It’s just about an hour from Minneapolis are. Beautiful old city with amazing views. Lots of fine restaurants. Good street to stroll around if you go in the summer season. We didn’t go on the bridge as it was very windy and cold. The sight of colorful trees by the river is simply amazing. Across the river is the state of Wisconsin. Will go back again in summer."
Jewel Jose
"We just took our first walk across the bridge. It was really nice to walk across this historic National Register of Historic Places bridge on a warm breezy summer evening! The cars and traffic jams at the bridge are now distant memories."
John Walker
"What a lovely town with many trails, eateries, & shops. The historic lift bridge is for pedestrians & bikes only; lanes are marked as such. During the peak touristy months the bridge raises every 30 minutes to allow boaters to pass beneath. It’s only a short disruption of time & fun to watch. A great way to watch how the bridge operates up close."
Susan Simonson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Stillwater Lift Bridge is about an hour's drive from Minneapolis. You can take I-94 E towards Wisconsin and follow signs for Stillwater. Parking is available in Stillwater, and then it's a short walk to the bridge.
Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking options in downtown Stillwater. Be aware that parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season.
Public transportation options directly to the Stillwater Lift Bridge are limited. Driving is the most common way to access the area.
The bridge is generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, offering a smooth surface for easy navigation.
From Minneapolis, the most direct route is typically I-94 E to MN-95 N. Always check traffic conditions before you leave.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking or biking across the Stillwater Lift Bridge is free and does not require a ticket.
The bridge is open for pedestrians and cyclists 24/7. However, it does lift periodically for river traffic.
The Stillwater Lift Bridge schedule for lifting varies depending on river traffic. It typically lifts every 30 minutes during peak boating season. It's best to check the official schedule online for precise times.
There is no entrance fee to access or use the Stillwater Lift Bridge for walking or cycling.
The historic Stillwater Lift Bridge is now exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists. Vehicle traffic uses the new bridge nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
You can get great shots from the riverbanks on either side of the bridge, or from the bridge itself looking out at the river and town.
While the bridge lights can be a factor, it's still possible to capture faint Northern Lights. However, for clearer shots, consider locations away from direct light sources.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the bridge and surrounding scenery. For night shots, a tripod is essential.
Yes, watching and photographing the bridge lift for boats can be a unique and exciting experience.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Evenings can be lovely with town lights reflecting on the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Stillwater boasts many fine restaurants. You'll find a variety of cuisines, from casual to upscale, perfect for a post-bridge stroll meal.
Yes, Stillwater has excellent restaurants open year-round, offering cozy dining experiences during the winter months.
Absolutely! Stillwater has numerous cafes and eateries offering quick bites, ideal for a casual snack or lunch.
You'll find a mix of American cuisine, gastropubs, and charming cafes. Many places offer scenic river views.
Yes, Stillwater has many family-friendly restaurants with diverse menus that cater to all ages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the bridge, Stillwater itself is a charming town with plenty to offer families, including various eateries and shops. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities directly on the bridge are limited. The gentle incline of the bridge makes it manageable for strollers and young walkers.
❤️ Couples & Date Ideas
After your bridge stroll, explore the charming downtown area with its numerous fine restaurants and shops. Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a more upscale dining experience, Stillwater offers plenty of options to cap off a perfect date.
🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Cyclists
Combine your bridge experience with exploring the numerous trails in the Stillwater area. The bridge itself is part of a larger network, making it an excellent starting or ending point for longer bike rides or walks. Remember to check the bridge's lift schedule if you plan to cycle across during peak boating hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Stillwater Lift Bridge: A Pedestrian Paradise
This historic National Register of Historic Places bridge provides a safe and scenic route for walkers, runners, and cyclists. The lanes are clearly marked, ensuring a pleasant journey for everyone. While cars no longer cross, the bridge still lifts periodically to allow riverboats to pass beneath. This operation is a brief but fascinating spectacle, adding another layer of interest to a visit.
Visiting the bridge is a highlight for many, offering a chance to enjoy a warm, breezy evening stroll or a crisp autumn walk. The surrounding Stillwater riverfront is equally charming, with colorful trees and a beautiful cityscape. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely day trip or a romantic date, as suggested by locals.
Photography Tips for the Stillwater Area
For stunning landscape shots, focus on the St. Croix River and the picturesque Stillwater riverfront. The changing seasons offer unique photographic opportunities, with vibrant autumn foliage being a particular draw. Consider visiting during the golden hours – sunrise and sunset – for the most dramatic and flattering light.
When photographing the bridge, explore different vantage points. Shots from the riverbanks on either side can offer a broader perspective. If you're lucky enough to be there when the bridge lifts, that's a prime moment for dynamic photography. Remember to bring a tripod for low-light conditions and a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit