Stillwater, MN, does a spectacular job of blending old-world charm, river views, and cozy historic character. Downtown feels like a storybook setting- brick buildings, boutique shops, scenic overlooks, and tons of great local spots to grab a bite or enjoy a beverage. 

This Lowell Inn review covers what it’s like to stay at one of the most historic hotels in downtown Stillwater, Minnesota. Read about our experience, what to know before booking, and whether the Lowell Inn belongs on your Minnesota itinerary. Trust us when we say it does!

Discover Stillwater hosted our stay at The Lowell Inn. All opinions are our own. 

A Cozy Historic Stay at the Lowell Inn in Stillwater, MN

Save this for planning your weekend getaway in the birthplace of Minnesota and one of America’s most picturesque small towns.

Why Stay at the Lowell Inn in Stillwater, MN

We often crave the charm of visiting a river town, and while Stillwater is the perfect day trip in Minnesota, elevate your Stillwater experience with an overnight stay to really slow down and take everything in.

If you love:

✔ Unique and historic lodging

✔ Walkability

✔ Cozy rooms with character

✔ Being immersed in the place you’re staying

⭐…then you’ll want to put Lowell Inn on your Midwest hotels bucket list. 

The Lowell Inn isn’t just a place to sleep- it’s a piece of Stillwater’s history. Built nearly a century ago, it has hosted dignitaries, travelers, authors, and generations of couples celebrating anniversaries and getaways, and now, Dining Duster.  

The Lowell Inn is known for its historic architecture, elegant dining rooms, and an atmosphere that balances classic with cozy, comfy touches.

Who Will Love This Historic Inn

• Couples looking for a romantic, historic hotel
• Girlfriends getaway 
• Travelers looking for a Minnesota river town getaway
• Food and architecture lovers
• Guests who want to stay just steps from Stillwater’s best attractions

History of the Lowell Inn- a Timless Icon of Stillwater, MN

No stay at the Lowell Inn is complete without appreciating its rich history. 

Often referred to as the “Mt Vernon of the North”, the inn was built in 1927 during a period when Stillwater reinvented itself from a booming lumber town into a destination known for leisure, arts, and scenic travel.

Located near the St. Croix River- one of the original rivers designated Wild & Scenic in 1968- which helped Stillwater as a destination for travelers seeking beauty, relaxation, and a sense of heritage. The Lowell Inn quickly became a showpiece of that evolution.

Inside the 21-room inn, you’ll find:

• Original preserved architecture details 
• Antique furnishings and classic design elements
• Historic dining rooms where generations of celebrations have taken place
• A cozy, welcoming atmosphere with an almost 100-year legacy

Read this blog post for all the best things to do in Stillwater. 

Things to do Near the Lowell Inn

The Lowell Inn is one block away from the historic downtown and close to spots like Mon Petite Cheri, MN Nice Crean, The Wild Hare, and so much more.

A bonus for staying at The Lowell Inn is the connected parking ramp.  You can park for your stay and walk to historic downtown, and if you prefer to drive, you’ll have a parking spot when you return to Lowell Inn. 

If you’ve ever visited Stillwater, you know parking is tight- so staying right downtown is a major win.

Foodies will love all the local Stillwater restaurants that are walkable from The Lowell Inn, and you won’t believe all the vegan options!

Check-In & First Impressions

Walking past the stately lions on the patio and through the entryway feels like stepping inside a vintage storybook. Rich woodwork, oil paintings, antique furniture, and knick-knacks set the tone without feeling stuffy. The lobby immediately feels warm, intimate, and special. The comfy couches feel like you’re in a living room. 

Dining at the Lowell Inn

The Lowell Inn’s dining rooms are a destination of their own. Known for their vintage elegance, they feel like a step back in time- in the best way.

Guests love the inn for:

• Sit-down breakfast before exploring (no vegan options)
• The Lowell Inn’s famous afternoon tea (vegan options upon request- call ahead!)
• Special occasion dinners
• Celebratory meals with ambiance.
• Old World dining rooms
• Classic hospitality

Our Room Stay Experience

We stayed in one of the historic rooms, which featured classic carved furniture, patterned wallpaper, and a cozy feeling.  It definitely felt like a step back in time- yet the essentials were updated- reliable wi-fi, a comfortable (albeit small) bed, great lighting, and a modern bathroom. It was all perfect for our stay, where we planned to be mostly out exploring Stillwater. 

Tips For Your Stay at the Lowell Inn

• Book early if you’re visiting during summer or fall- Stillwaters’ peak seasons.
• Request a room style that matches your preference- historic charm or modern comfort.
• If you want to dine onsite, make reservations for the historic dining room.
• Bring comfy shoes- if you plan to walk downtown Stillwater, you’ll want to do so in comfort. Stillwater is also famous for its stairways to scenic views. 

Parking Bonus

One thing to know about historic downtown Stillwater is that parking can be tight. We mentioned above that they have on-site parking. The Lowell Inn has a 3-level parking ramp, making it a perfect home base for your stay in Stillwater! Given its proximity to the walkable downtown, you can park and walk if you’d like!

Our room was located on the second floor of the inn with easy access to our floor from the second-floor parking ramp. 

The Verdict- Why You Should Stay at the Lowell Inn in Stillwater, MN

If you’re planning a Stillwater getaway and want lodging that’s historic, walkable, charming, and full of personality, The Lowell Inn is an ideal choice. It blends Stillwater’s past with modern comforts, making it the perfect home base for exploring one of Minnesota’s beloved small towns. 

Plan your Stillwater Weekend Getaway