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Rivertown Inn

Overview Rooms & Rates Reviews Location Amenities Meals
  • This lovingly restored lumber baron mansion is located in historic Stillwater, Minnesota. We are the largest bed and breakfast in Stillwater, offering five suites and four bedchambers, including our two grand suites located in our separate carriage house. Each room features a double whirlpool tub, gas fireplace, and sumptuous decor that pays homage to a famous romantic poet or literary figure of the 19th century.
    Lovely gardens, trickling fountains, winding paths, intimate benches and ornate wrought iron gates provide a warm welcome hinting at the beauty found within the Rivertown Inn.
    Agatha Christie Grand Suite. Step into the pages of the mystery writer's classic, Murder on the Orient Express, in a suite that conjures images of the magnificent train that was the ultimate mode of European travel between Paris and Constantinople in the 1800s. The opulent private suite features a painted black-lacquer and gold lettered entryway reminiscent of a European train station platform, a berth-style king size bed, elegant seating area with fireplace, Tiffany-style lamps, and a private outdoor garden terrace.
    The exotic décor in the Agatha Christie Grand Suite's spa will have guests feeling like they stepped into a lavish bath in Istanbul with special amenities including a tiled steam room with a rainfall shower. A separate whirlpool room features a deep oversized tub, hanging lanterns, ornately carved paneling, and a soft built-in lounging area.
    Oscar Wilde Grand Suite. Considered to be one of the greatest playwrights of the Victorian era, and legendary for his wit, flamboyance and flair for the dramatic, Oscar Wilde would feel right at home in this richly decorated salon. The handsome sleeping chamber features a pentagonal bed draped in posh fabrics, tufted leather furniture, stained glass windows, and an ornate Victorian fireplace.
    Antique French doors lead into an enormous bath in the Oscar Wilde Grand Suite where guests will luxuriate in an ultimate spa experience. Elegantly tiled in Italian Travertine marble, the bath features antique crystal chandeliers, a private water closet, a cushioned window seat, and a large walk in steam shower with an overhead Rainfall shower and built in benches large enough for lounging. Marble columns flank a deep, step-up Whirlpool tub where guests can sip champagne and choose between star gazing through a skylight and watching the flames dance in the spa's separate fireplace.
    From the moment you step inside this restored Victorian mansion, you will be surrounded by European-style elegance and outstanding levels of personal service. Our mission is to make your stay with us the ultimate experience in luxury, privacy and romance.
    Jane Austen Suite. Beloved for her elegant satirical fiction, Jane Austen's six novels have become the archetypal model for love stories since the 1800s. Escape in the romance of this enchanting, English cottage-style bedchamber featuring a built-in king size bed draped in sophisticated moss-green and blush fabrics, an exquisite antique crystal chandelier, cushioned window nook, and a cozy fireplace. An arched stained glass window adds to the delightful décor of the chamber's private bath which features a large whirlpool tub with underwater lights and waterfall faucet.
    An arched stained glass window adds to the delightful décor of the Jane Austen Suite's private bath which features a large whirlpool tub with underwater lights and waterfall faucet.
    Guests who wish to schedule a massage session with a professional massage therapist will luxuriate in the serenity of an extraordinary room featuring three arched stained glass windows..
    As Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom during much of Queen Victoria’s reign, the Alfred, Lord Tennyson Suite reflects the writer’s love for his children and the peace of nature. A grand 1870’s hand-carved walnut bed adorned with cherubs and fishing scenes is the centerpiece of this luxurious light-filled two-room suite. Pictures of Tennyson's beloved home and a rare old family portrait hang on the walls while an ebony screen adds a demure touch to the large double whirlpool tub across from a cozy seating area and fireplace.

Emily’s Room, a sunny adjoining sitting parlor named for Tennyson’s wife, is the ideal place to read a book or sip a glass of wine. This cozy room tucked under the eaves, features walls upholstered in raspberry Toile fabric, and a second fireplace surrounded by hand-painted floral tiles.
    Lewis Carroll Bedchamber. Best known for his books Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, and Through the Looking-Glass, Carroll would certainly be amused by this whimsical bedchamber tucked under the eaves on the third floor of the inn. This charming bedchamber provides an enchanting get-away with a king-sized bed, and a surprise in every nook and corner. An elegantly framed portrait of a mischievous Cheshire cat, a top hat fit for a Mad Hatter, dangling pocket watches, old box cameras, vintage Queen of Hearts playing cards, and a quirky wall mirror framed in a fantastical mosaic will delight overnight guests. A corner fireplace and a Whirlpool tub with underwater lights and waterfall faucet complete the magical setting.
    Christina Rossetti Bedchamber. A portrait of Christina Rossetti hangs in this fabric-draped bedchamber featuring gorgeous feminine tones of twilight blue silk, misty taupe and copper-brown in a stunning space that celebrates the author's Italian roots and her preoccupation with love and world beauty. Richly painted woodwork, a built in wall cupboard filled with antiquarian books and objet d'art, and a showpiece 1800s Renaissance Revival four post canopy bed heightens the suite's dreamy romance.
    Sip wine or tea in the screened gazebo and enjoy the sunshine.
    • Address 306 W Olive Street
      Stillwater, MN 55082
      USA
    • Phone+1-651-430-2955
    • Fax+1-651-430-2206
    • EmailContact Innkeeper
    Inn's website

    Built in 1882 at the height of Minnesota’s logging boom, Rivertown Inn is a magnificently restored lumber baron mansion turned boutique-style inn offering sumptuous suites, impeccable service and extraordinary luxury. The inn offers seven individual suites and two bedchambers, each with a unique literary-inspired décor featuring elegant furnishings, rare antiques, live-flame gas fireplaces and private spa-quality baths. Indulge in a lavish gourmet breakfast prepared by Chef Ray Remler and in the evening, gather for light hors d’oeuvres and fine wines at the nightly social hour. Relax, rejuvenate and reconnect in the height of Victorian splendor.

    Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 48 Reviews

    Write A Review
    4.7 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  5
    • Services  5
    • Value  4
    • Cleanliness  5
    • Dining  5

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    4.8 out of 5
     

    A Gem Discovered

    May 06, 2013

    My significant other and I have stayed at several Bed and Breakfasts in the midwest. You always start the weekend with a bit of trepidation since Bed and Breakfasts vary so in terms of comfort and enjoyment factor of the premises. By far, Rivertown Inn exceeded our expectations. The house and yard are gorgeous. The rooms use period furniture but with modern amenities such as whirlpool tubs, gas ignited fireplace, wonderful bed mattress and linens. Cleanliness was "above the "you could eat off of the floor" mark. Wonderful weekend. Every desire is met with morning coffee outside of your room, a three course breakfast with an explanation from the chef, access to wine, cookies, and appetizers during a Happy Hour. The actual house was so beautiful and wonderfully maintained.

    5 out of 5
     

    Feel at Home B&B

    February 26, 2013

    Just walking in the front door was so wonderful, the young lady that let us in was so warm and caring. She showed us all around and told us things about the house. then, we went up to the room which again she explained everything, then left us alone. My husband has a hard time with stairs but we made it and enjoyed every minute. The 3 course breakfast in the morning was wonderful and the nice feature was the chef explaining how the food was made. We sat with another couple that we really enjoyed. This was a Christmas gift to us from one of our daughters and husband. We would highly recommend this Inn to anyone that enjoys B&B's. Thanks for the wonderful evening.

    4.0 out of 5
     

    Gorgeous B&B....great staff

    February 11, 2013

    We had a wonderful, relaxing weekend..........a romantic mini get-away

    4.8 out of 5
     

    Wonderfully relaxing!

    February 09, 2013

    My husband and recently stayed at the Rivertown Inn and were blown away by the service and food! Starting with the wine and cheese hour and ending with the 3 course gourmet breakfast! (and coffee outside my bedroom at 7:30 am was an added treat!). We will definitely be back.

    Location

    Innkeeper Information

    Innkeeper(s)

    Elise Gardner

    The innkeepers speak:

    • English

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  • Rooms & Rates

    • Nightly Rate $195 - $395

    Oscar Wilde Grand Suite

    This handsome sleeping chamber features a pentagonal bed draped in posh fabrics, tufted leather furniture, stained glass windows, and an ornate Victorian fireplace.Antique French doors lead into an enormous bath where guests will luxuriate in an ultimate spa experience. Elegantly tiled in Italian Travertine marble, the bath features antique crystal chandeliers, a private water closet, a deep, step-up Whirlpool tub, and a large walk in steam shower with an overhead Rainfall shower.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 King
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Agatha Chrisite Suite

    Step into the pages of the mystery writer's classic, Murder on the Orient Express, in a suite that conjures images of the magnificent train that was the ultimate mode of European travel between Paris and Constantinople in the 1800s. The opulent private suite features a berth-style king size bed, elegant seating area with fireplace, Tiffany-style lamps, and a private outdoor garden terrace. Guests will feeling like they stepped into a lavish bath in Istanbul with special amenities including a tiled steam room with a rainfall shower. A separate whirlpool room features a deep, over sized tub.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 King
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Browning Suite

    Draped French doors open into this magnificent suite with its spectacular Rococo Revival half-tester walnut bed, down-filled couch, wallpaper featuring richly-colored birds and urns on a chocolate brown background, and built-in bookcases flanking the fireplace. Large windows give guests tranquil garden views below, and a beautiful stained glass window adds to the serenity of the bath.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Lord Byron Suite

    This second floor suite features the inn's only private entrance off a small balcony, a regal four-poster Bristol Colonial canopy bed draped in splendid fabrics, and handsome high-backed chairs upholstered in animal hides. A step up into the bath reveals a striking stained glass window and enticing double whirlpool tub with underwater lights and cascading waterfall faucet.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Lord Tennyson Suite

    A grand 1870's hand-carved walnut bed adorned with cherubs and fishing scenes is the centerpiece of this luxurious light-filled two-room suite. Pictures of Tennyson's beloved home hang on the walls while an ebony screen adds a demure touch to the large double whirlpool tub across from a cozy seating area and fireplace. Emily's Room, a sunny adjoining sitting parlor named for Tennyson's wife, is the ideal place to read a book or sip a glass of wine. This cozy room tucked under the eaves, features walls upholstered in raspberry Toile fabric, and a second fireplace.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Rossetti Bedchamber

    This fabric-draped bedchamber features gorgeous feminine tones of twilight blue silk, misty taupe and copper-brown in a stunning space that celebrates the author’s Italian roots and her preoccupation with love and world beauty. Richly painted woodwork, a built in wall cupboard filled with antiquarian books and objet d’art, and a showpiece 1800s Renaissance Revival four post canopy bed heightens the suite's dreamy romance. Please note: The period bed in Rossetti Bedchamber is fairly short, and therefore unsuitable for guests taller than about 5'10(178cm).

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Double
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Longfellow Suite

    As the most popular American poet of his day, Longfellow was revered for his lyrical poems that celebrated mythology and legend. This warm and secluded-feeling suite of natural elegance and harmony features soft teal green walls and welcoming fabrics in hues of spicy plum. A partial canopy over the bed, bullion-trimmed draperies, a restored antique Chippendale writing desk, and a fireplace with a grand Victorian-era mantel set the mood for romance. A hidden bath features luxurious marble tile work and a complementing paneled tub surround.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 King
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Jane Austen Suite

    Escape in the romance of this enchanting, English cottage-style bedchamber featuring a built-in king size bed draped in sophisticated moss-green and blush fabrics, delicate crystal chandelier, cushioned window nook, and cozy fireplace. An arched stained glass window adds to the delightful decor of the chamber's private bath which features a large Jacuzzi whirlpool tub, underwater light and waterfall faucet.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 King
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Lewis Carroll Bedchamber

    This charming bedchamber provides an enchanting get-away with a king-sized bed, and a surprise in every nook and corner. An elegantly framed portrait of a mischievous Cheshire cat, a top hat fit for a Mad Hatter, dangling pocket watches, old box cameras, vintage Queen of Hearts playing cards, and a quirky wall mirror framed in a fantastical mosaic will delight overnight guests. A corner fireplace and a Whirlpool tub with underwater lights and waterfall faucet complete the magical setting.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 King
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Policy

    Reservation Policy

    • Check In: 4:00 - 6:00 pm    Check Out: 12:00 pm

    • Deposit Amount Required: We do not required a deposit, only a credit card number to hold the room.

    • Cancellations: If cancellation is seven days or more before reservation, a full refund. If cancellation is within seven days of the reservation, guests are responsible for the full amount, unless we can re-book the room.

    • Open All Year Round: Yes

    General Policies

    • Smoking Allowed: No

    • Guest Pets Allowed: No

    • Drinking Allowed: Yes

    • Drinks Available: Yes

    • Children Allowed: We welcome guests 12 years of age and older

    • Suitable For Children: Limited

    • Childcare Provided: No

    Discount Type

    • Military Rate (active-duty)
      Percent Off: 10% Days Required: 1

    • Multi-Night Stay Discount (2)
      Percent Off: 20% Days Required: 2

    • Multi-Night Stay Discount (3)
      Percent Off: 30% Days Required: 3

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  • Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 48 Reviews

    Write A Review
    4.7 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  5
    • Services  5
    • Value  5
    • Cleanliness  5
    • Dining  5

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    4.8 out of 5
     

    A Gem Discovered

    May 06, 2013

    My significant other and I have stayed at several Bed and Breakfasts in the midwest. You always start the weekend with a bit of trepidation since Bed and Breakfasts vary so in terms of comfort and enjoyment factor of the premises. By far, Rivertown Inn exceeded our expectations. The house and yard are gorgeous. The rooms use period furniture but with modern amenities such as whirlpool tubs, gas ignited fireplace, wonderful bed mattress and linens. Cleanliness was "above the "you could eat off of the floor" mark. Wonderful weekend. Every desire is met with morning coffee outside of your room, a three course breakfast with an explanation from the chef, access to wine, cookies, and appetizers during a Happy Hour. The actual house was so beautiful and wonderfully maintained.

    5 out of 5
     

    Feel at Home B&B

    February 26, 2013

    Just walking in the front door was so wonderful, the young lady that let us in was so warm and caring. She showed us all around and told us things about the house. then, we went up to the room which again she explained everything, then left us alone. My husband has a hard time with stairs but we made it and enjoyed every minute. The 3 course breakfast in the morning was wonderful and the nice feature was the chef explaining how the food was made. We sat with another couple that we really enjoyed. This was a Christmas gift to us from one of our daughters and husband. We would highly recommend this Inn to anyone that enjoys B&B's. Thanks for the wonderful evening.

    4.0 out of 5
     

    Gorgeous B&B....great staff

    February 11, 2013

    We had a wonderful, relaxing weekend..........a romantic mini get-away

    4.8 out of 5
     

    Wonderfully relaxing!

    February 09, 2013

    My husband and recently stayed at the Rivertown Inn and were blown away by the service and food! Starting with the wine and cheese hour and ending with the 3 course gourmet breakfast! (and coffee outside my bedroom at 7:30 am was an added treat!). We will definitely be back.

    5 out of 5
     

    Soothing Getaway

    August 21, 2012

    My husband and I were looking for someplace close to home to celebrate our first year wedding anniversary. We knew we wanted to stay at a Bed and Breakfast and I stumbled upon the website for Rivertown Inn while looking online. It was incredible. The rooms were well designed and whimsical. We were excited to get to our room each night!! The food was outstanding, we couldn't believe we were served such a gourmet breakfast each morning. It was a very lovely surprise and more than we expected. The staff was attentive while conscientious about giving us our privacy. I would highly recommend this Inn to anyone looking for a bed and breakfast experience and have already gushed about it to friends and family.

    4.0 out of 5
     

    Jane Austen room

    August 19, 2012

    My husband and I stayed in the Jane Austen Suite. It was very comfortable and cozy. The bed was so big and inviting. The whirlpool bath was fun, but there were so many controls for all the things, which were not intuitive. At least we were given instructions when we were first shown our room. My husband's complaint was the toilet. It was so low to the ground he had trouble aiming for it. Also, it didn't flush securely, and once didn't stop running. The chandelier was less than 6 feet from the floor, and in the middle of the room, so he had to step around it all the time. It would be better if it had been above the bed or some other place where no one would be standing up. The Bose radio provided soft background music. One light bulb was out in the chandelier. The breakfast was so fancy, with four courses, each explained by the chef as if he was on Top Chef and we were the judges. Unique food, all delicious. It was perfect out, so we were seated on the veranda. We were the last couple down, so we didn't have a choice of tables to sit at, and the one setting left had the sun in my eyes. The server closed the drapes, but better would have been to have set the table for us on one of the tables out of the sun. The staff were very welcoming. I liked the way the staff were on the lookout for us and met us at the front door. It turns out that was because they keep the front door locked all the time. We could pick out a bottle of wine on our own and charge it to the room, and they kept coffee, water and soft drinks available for free all the time. We wouldn't have spent so much on a single night except we were celebrating our 25th anniversary. I doubt we'd do it again in that room. It was too hard for my husband to fit in. We chose it because it was the only available room without a footboard on the bed--my husband's too tall to fit a bed with a footboard.

    4.4 out of 5
     

    Staff, Food, and Grounds are Excellent, but Rooms Need Some Tweeks

    July 25, 2012

    We visited Stillwater years ago, and after seeing the grounds at Rivertown Inn, we knew we wanted to return to this B&B. It met or surpassed our expectations in regard to the staff, food, and the beautiful grounds, but there were some very practical things missing in the rooms. We stayed in the Longfellow Suite and loved the decor... beautiful antique bed and fireplace! The things that would have made our stay perfect for the price would be some of the practical elements. There was no place to put our luggage. The curtained entrance to the bathroom was ascetically pleasing , but for privacy sake a pocket door would have made more sense. It was very difficult to see to apply makeup in the bathroom due to the lighting. Fairly easy fixes, but would make a world of difference for the price paid for the room.

    5 out of 5
     

    A night to remember

    July 23, 2012

    My boyfriend surprised me with a night at this Inn. We got there right before social hour and enjoyed some delicious complimentary wine. The grounds were beautiful, with many places to sit and enjoy the company of just whom you're with or of other guests. They have a lovely fountain and a gazebo so the bugs can't get you. The place would have been amazing just for this, but they went above and beyond to help my boyfriend decorate the gazebo with rose pedals, candles and champagne. He proposed at this Inn and it was the most amazing weekend of my life. The trip ended with the best breakfast I have ever had from the chef at the Inn. It was a 6 course breakfast - he even changed one item for me because of an allergy. The Inn is clean, beautiful and has something new to look at with every turn. It would be impossible to regret your choice to book at the Rivertown Inn!

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  • Location

    Overview Points of Interest Restaurants

    Location Type

    • Small town

    City - Minneapolis/St Paul

    • Distance to city: 35 miles

    • Directions to property:
      From Minneapolis/St Paul on Hwy 36: turn left on Greeley St, 1 mile, turn right on Olive , down the hill, 7 blocks on the left-hand side. Located on the corner of Olive St. and 5th St.Parking is available in the parking lot located behind the Inn.

    Airport

    • Minneapolis, MN (MSP-Minneapolis-St. Paul Intl.) 30 miles

    Area Attractions

    • Antique Shopping

    • Art Galleries

    • Beach

    • Gourmet/Fine Dining

    • Historical interests

    • Lake

    • Live Music

    • Movie Theater

    • Museum

    • National/State parks

    • Nature area

    • Outlet Stores

    • Performing Theater

    • Picnic area

    • Religious Services

    • River

    • Ski area

    • Vineyard

    • Winery

    • Bicycle rental

    • Bicycle riding trails

    • Bird watching

    • Boating

    • Canoeing

    • Cross-country ski trails

    • Fishing

    • Golfing

    • Hiking trails

    • Horseback riding

    • Horseshoes

    • Kayaking

    • Mountain Bike trails

    • Spas & Salons

    • Trolley Rides

    • Restaurants

    • Wine Tastings

    • Hot Air Ballooning

    • Gondola Rides

    • Shopping

    • Sight-seeing

    • Snow shoe rental

    • Snow shoe trails

    • Swimming

    • Swimming pool

    • Tennis courts

     Nearby Cities

     Nearby States

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  • Amenities

    Type:

    • [Resource Id: Other, Set: lookupdata]

    • Bed and Breakfast

    • Historic Inn

    Property highlights

    • "Best Antiques 2011" LanierBB.com

    • "Top Ten Romantic Inns" 2007 iLoveInns.com

    • Group maximum - 18 people

    • Intimate Elopements

    • Top 10 B&B Bathrooms 2012" - BedandBreakfast.com

    • Wedding Proposals

    • Antiques/decor

    • Business travel

    • Gay / Lesbian Travel

    • Gourmet food

    • Group events

    • Honeymoons

    • Luxury

    • Peaceful getaway

    • Romantic escape

    • Weddings

    On-site

    • Board games

    • Conference Rooms

    • Copier

    • Fax Machine

    • Piano

    • Private entrance

    • Telephone

    • Washer/dryer

    • Wedding Facilities

    • Wet bar

    Guest room(s)

    • Air conditioning

    • Alarm clock

    • Bath robes

    • CD player

    • Desk

    • Fireplace

    • Hairdryer

    • Hot tub/whirlpool tub

    • Internet Service

    • Ironing Board

    • Radio

    • Wi-Fi

    Other

    • Bose Stereo Systems

    • Molton Brown Spa-Quality Bath Products

    • Massage Services

    • iPads Available in Grand Suites

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  • Breakfast

    • Type: Continental/Full

    • Time Served: 9am M-F, 9:00 & 10:30 weekends

    • Serving Location: Front Porch - Weather Permitting,Breakfast/dining area,Guest room

    Complimentary Perks

    • Non-alcoholic Beverages

    • Wine/Cheese Plate

    Special meal options

    • Restrictive

    • Vegetarian

    Recipes

    Appetizer-Snack

    Arancini
    Serves: 6
    Prep time: 30 minutes

    Heart-healthy

    Healthy and Wholesome Flaxseed Muffins
    Serves: 0
    Prep time: 30 minutes

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