Sipping Through the St. Croix River Valley: The Best Breweries & Distilleries in Hudson, Stillwater, and Beyond
The St. Croix River Valley, straddling the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin, is a haven for craft beverage enthusiasts. This picturesque region boasts a rich array of breweries and distilleries, each offering unique flavors and experiences. Here’s a curated list of some standout establishments you shouldn’t miss:
Hudson, Wisconsin
🔹 Pitchfork Brewing Company
📍 Hudson, WI
Pitchfork Brewing Company is a small-batch, pre-prohibition-style brewery that uses locally sourced ingredients and whole-cone hops. Their taproom serves craft pizzas, sandwiches, and smoked meats for a full culinary experience.
🔹 Hop & Barrel Brewing Company
📍 Hudson, WI
Located just two blocks from the St. Croix River, Hop & Barrel Brewing Company offers a rotating selection of 16 drafts, including stouts, IPAs, lagers, and sours. The brewery is a community hub featuring games like foosball and Skee-Ball.
🔹 Lucky Guys Distillery
📍 Hudson, WI
Overlooking the St. Croix River, Lucky Guys is a craft micro-distillery offering small-batch spirits and specialty cocktails. Their pet-friendly patio makes it a welcoming stop for all visitors.
🔹 Tattersall Distilling
📍 River Falls, WI (10 min from Hudson)
Tattersall Distilling features a world-class cocktail bar and event space, along with award-winning spirits. Visitors can enjoy tours, cocktail classes, and live music.
Stillwater, Minnesota
🔹 Maple Island Brewing
📍 Stillwater, MN
Located in downtown Stillwater, Maple Island Brewing is known for innovative brews incorporating unique ingredients like ice cream and cereals. A must-try is their ‘I Scream’ beer, crafted with local Nelson’s Ice Cream.
🔹 St. Croix Brewing
📍 Stillwater, MN
Set to open in 2025, this boutique brewery aims to revive traditional beer styles in Stillwater’s historic downtown. Their flagship offerings will include the award-winning St. Croix Cream Ale, Creamy Brown, and Cream Stout.
Somerset, Wisconsin
🔹 Oliphant Brewing
📍 Somerset, WI
Embrace the quirky and eclectic atmosphere at Oliphant Brewing. With retro décor and creative outdoor murals, they offer a range of inventive beers that reflect their offbeat personality.
St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin
🔹 Trap Rock Brewing Company
📍 St. Croix Falls, WI
A local favorite, Trap Rock Brewing offers a cozy atmosphere with a variety of craft beers that cater to diverse palates. It’s a perfect spot to relax after exploring the valley.
Explore the Best of the St. Croix River Valley
Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a casual sipper, the St. Croix River Valley’s breweries and distilleries offer a delightful journey through the region’s craft beverage scene. Each visit promises not only exceptional drinks but also a taste of the local culture and community spirit. Cheers! 🍻🥃
