Stillwater’s Teddy Bear Park (and More)

TEDDY BEAR PARK

STILLWATER, MN
VISIT WEBSITE

A day trip to Teddy Bear Park in Stillwater is sure to be a hit for your kiddos. This small-but-fantastic park is located just a block away from Stillwater’s Main Street. It’s tucked above the busy road yet is walking distance to the restaurants and shops (or ice cream!) that Stillwater is known for. It’s safe for babies and fun for adults, with a climbing tree structure, picnic benches, train slides, a rock cliff and a sand pit (not to mention teddy bears – lots and lots of teddy bears), this park (and the city that accommodates it) is an adventure well worth the drive!

What is it?

Upon walking in, you are greeted by a 10-foot tall granite Teddy Bear. With rubber footing and a fully-fenced in play area, this park puts safety first and definitely gets an A+ for entertainment variety. Slides range in size for varying ages and everything is climbable (whether that was its intent or not). It’s not a huge park, but they fit a lot into a little and your young ones should stay entertained for a longer amount of time than at your average neighborhood park.

Fit for what ages?

The park is great for children ages 7 and under and there are several different areas of play equipment including an area perfect for the teeniest of tiny. Most of the park has a very soft surface that even has a recycled rubber “river” that runs through it, which is great for toddlers (or clumsy adults like myself). Cliff climbing should definitely be reserved for older kids and their parents, however.

How much are we talkin?

Unless you have to pay to park in one of the nearby lots, this adventure is totally free. Of course, you might need to spend a few bucks at Candyland or Leo’s Malt Shop down the road.

Want some tips?

It gets hot and it gets busy! Go early to avoid crowds and sunburn and, if possible, aim for a weekday. There is a shaded pavilion area to keep you semi-cool, but there are no refreshments available for purchase so be sure to pack a drink to stay hydrated on really warm days. Wear tennis shoes for better climbing or mastering the spider-net and bring buckets and other toys for the sand pit (only if your kids are cool with sharing, because they will most likely get swiped and passed around until someone throws a tantrum).

The large tree play structure is unlike any other I’ve seen and the bridge resembles that of the nearby Stillwater Bridge. Adults can easily play on this structure. Really the entire park is adult-friendly.

The rock cliffs attract all ages (ahem, big kids like myself) and, while it is nail-bitingly nerve-wracking to watch some of those loose cannon kiddos hoist themselves onto these hard rock platforms, they have a blast climbing up and down.

With plenty of seating (or pack a blanket), Teddy Bear Park is ideal for enjoying a family picnic lunch. The bathrooms are clean and indoors and have changing tables in them. There are a few picnic tables tucked in the corner that provide shade at various times throughout the day as well as a covered gazebo with benches if you opt not to run around with your kids.

The true highlights are the large granite teddy bears that sit throughout the park. They make for great photo opps – a nice memory of your day here.

The city of Stillwater is phenomenal. Quaint, quiet, well-kept, and oh-so-unique. While you’re here for the park, take some time to shop, eat, and play downtown. I dare you to find a chain store or restaurant in the entire community! A couple of my favorite dining and snack options include Tremblay’s Sweet Shop, Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop, Dock Cafe, Freight House (sit on the patio), Nacho Mama’s (must.get.margarita), and Barbara Ann’s Fudge Shop. If you’re more into shopping, check out 45 Degrees (for the outdoorsman), Gammy & Gumpy’s Toy Store, and Mama’s Happy (home decor). It’s city blocks of store-touching-store entertainment and fun! Oh, and there’s a winery and cheese shop. I’m just sayin’.

Stillwater also offers amazing events all year long, so check out their website if you’re interested in coming to town for a festival or something.

Hours and Location

207 Nelson St E | Stillwater, MN 55082
Open seasonally (usually April – October) 7 days a week from 8:00am – 8:00pm

Free street parking is available. There are also a free parking lot across the street and pay lots and ramps available within a one block radius of the park.

Angela is a mom of two (19 month old little man and a 5 year old daughter) who works for an investment company in addition to being a mom. She and her family live in Rice Lake, Wisconsin and when she is not taking photos of her kids or running after them, she enjoys running for leisure and is currently training for a marathon. She also likes exploring new places, repurposing, traveling, and reading.