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DURANT HOUSE-HISTORIC MANSION-DOWNTOWN WALKABLE-15 BEDS-15 SPACE PARKING LOT

Photo gallery for DURANT HOUSE-HISTORIC MANSION-DOWNTOWN WALKABLE-15 BEDS-15 SPACE PARKING LOT

A two-story house with a front porch and large windows.
A modern living room with a large flat-screen TV, comfortable seating, and a fireplace.
A modern living room with a staircase, a leather sofa, and a chair.
A rocking chair and a table with two cups, positioned in front of a window with a view of trees.
A dining room with a wooden table and chairs, a chandelier, and a view through open doors.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Family fun awaits
    Top-rated for families.
  • Arcade/game room
    A rare find - fun for all ages with on-site arcade/game room.
  • Overlooking the river
    Guests like the scenic riverfront location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Close to Saint Croix River
7 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 15

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Laundry
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View in a map
Stillwater, MN
  • Place, Lowell Park
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Ice Castle
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Saint Croix River
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Airport, Minneapolis, MN (MSP-Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl.)
    ‪37 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

7 bedrooms (sleeps 15)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5

2 Double Beds

Bedroom 6

2 Twin Beds

Bedroom 7

+3
1 Double Bed and 6 Twin Beds

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

MAIN FLOOR HALF BATH

Towels provided · Toilet

MAIN LEVEL THREE QUARTER BATH

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

SECOND FLOOR FULL BATH

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

SECOND FLOOR FULL MASTER BATH

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

SECOND FLOOR THREE QUARTER BATH

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

DURANT HOUSE-HISTORIC MANSION-DOWNTOWN WALKABLE-15 BEDS-15 SPACE PARKING LOT

Built in 1872, the historic Durant House is the idyllic Stillwater vacation rental. Perfectly poised on a gorgeous South Hill lot, this home is literally steps from downtown. The Durant House offers incredible indoor & outdoor spaces, with two porches that looks to the river & lift bridge, with an elegance & open flowing layout. The kitchen is fully equipped with dining seating for over 17. The 1870s mansion offers all the expected modern amenities. The main level has large spaces, including a kitchen, dining room, great room, one ensuite queen bedroom, centrally located half bath and large wrap around porch. The second level has three full baths. The master suite has a king bed, queen bed and adjoining bath. Two other rooms down the hall offer two full and one queen size beds. Sleeping porch with two twin beds. The third level is open concept, with a game room, media area with comfy couches, 6 twin and one full bed.
Host and staff live locally and are happy to assist with any questions during your stay.
The Durant House is only steps from downtown Stillwater, so no need to start your cars, as almost all attractions are a very short walk away. The off street parking lot accommodates 15 cars, as Stillwater does not allow vacation rentals to use street parking. The famous "Main Street Steps" will take you right into the heart of it all. Teddy Bear Park is one block away, perfect play area for younger children. One block from historic court house, perfect for wedding party members. We do not rent to bachelor parties, as house is located in quiet neighborhood. Families are welcome.

If you need more space, ask about adjacent vacation rentals, Grandview Cottage & Grandview Loft.

Guests will be texted directions and check in instructions the morning of the booking. Upon arrival the guest is required to sign a City required disclosure form that communicates ordinances and rules.

Short-Term Home Rental License: STR2022-05
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
We do not rent to bachelor parties, as house is located in quiet neighborhood, with local ordinance quite hours starting at 10 pm.
We provide 15 off-street parking spots, as the City of Stillwater does not allow vacation rental guests to park on streets during stay.
We reserve the right to add a $50/hr late fee for guests who have not made prior arrangements with us.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number STHR-2019-03
Property # 1488790
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the neighborhood

Stillwater

Located in Stillwater, this vacation home is in the city center and on a river. Maplewood Mall and Woodbury Lakes are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore St. Croix State Park and St. Croix Islands State Recreation Area. Traveling with kids? Consider Ice Castle and Knoke's Chocolates. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and skiing, and don't miss out on the ice skating.
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Map
Stillwater, MN

What's nearby

  • Lowell Park - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Ice Castle - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Saint Croix River - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Warden's House Museum - 14 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Stillwater Depot, Logging and Railroad Museum - 16 min walk - 1.4 km

Getting around

  • Saint Paul Union Depot - 26 min drive
  • St. Paul, MN (STP-St. Paul Downtown) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Keys Cafe & Bakery - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪The Freight House - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Charlie's Restaurant & Irish Pub - ‬8 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is DURANT HOUSE-HISTORIC MANSION-DOWNTOWN WALKABLE-15 BEDS-15 SPACE PARKING LOT pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at DURANT HOUSE-HISTORIC MANSION-DOWNTOWN WALKABLE-15 BEDS-15 SPACE PARKING LOT?

As of Aug 14, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at DURANT HOUSE-HISTORIC MANSION-DOWNTOWN WALKABLE-15 BEDS-15 SPACE PARKING LOT on Nov 1, 2026 start from $1,576, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at DURANT HOUSE-HISTORIC MANSION-DOWNTOWN WALKABLE-15 BEDS-15 SPACE PARKING LOT?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at DURANT HOUSE-HISTORIC MANSION-DOWNTOWN WALKABLE-15 BEDS-15 SPACE PARKING LOT?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is DURANT HOUSE-HISTORIC MANSION-DOWNTOWN WALKABLE-15 BEDS-15 SPACE PARKING LOT located?

This family-friendly Stillwater vacation home is located on a river, within a 10-minute walk of Lowell Park, Ice Castle, and Saint Croix River. Warden's House Museum and Stillwater Depot, Logging and Railroad Museum are also within 1 mi (2 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 34 out of 41 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 41 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 41 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

kristi g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We greatly enjoyed our stay for 11 women celebrating book club anniversary. There are so many bed options, enough bathrooms, and well supplied kitchen with enough glasses, plates etc. Most of us walked the nearby 100 stairs to the downtown, but a few couldn't navigate that so had to drive. Overall we loved the house!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Heidi M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful view / spacious home for group

Loved our time here for a family event.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 14, 2025
Thanks for the review.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

David S.

Beautiful property
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 2, 2025
Thank you David
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bob G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect weekend

This home was perfect for our family.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 13, 2024
Thanks Bob, come back any time.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Katie W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wedding weekend

Stayed here for a long weekend celebrating a family wedding. Great location and an awesome view of the river. Lots of bedrooms and bathrooms was appreciated for the large group. Great outdoor patio and huge backyard! Ping pong table upstairs was an added bonus.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 14, 2025
Thanks for review.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kristie K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Review

The house was beautiful.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 14, 2025
Thank you.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Samantha S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely home and amazing view

My group of friends had a wonderful time in this gorgeous, spacious home! We enjoyed being so close to downtown while also having the quiet neighborhood and beautiful river views. More than enough room for everyone to spread out and sleep comfortably!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 14, 2025
Thank you.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Cort B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing House!!

What a beautiful experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 6, 2023
Thanks Cort!!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Claire G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a beautiful old property in a very special lot conveniently situated above the main street of Stillwater and with a lovely view of the river. There are plenty of bedrooms and baths although a bit quirky for a group of adults. The third floor was magical for children. We loved being there. Would ask for another full length mirror or two for hosting wedding parties etc.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amber H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

The house was spectacular. We had everything we needed for our group and more. Everything was clean and up to date. Would recommend to anyone. Right in the heart of Stillwater where it’s a short walk to downtown.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 8, 2024
Thanks Amber
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kari J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely Perfect!!

We just had a family gathering at this home and had an amazing time! Brian was very prompt and helpful. The house is better than advertised as Brian has added 21/2 baths and extra sleep space on the 3rd floor. The yard was fantastic with firepit and wonderful covered porch. The location couldn’t be better!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kerry A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect wedding guest venue

Absolutely beautiful home and the perfect place to host my son's wedding-party guests. I would have given 5 stars for the accuracy of the online listing if I had known about the in-progress updating of the third-level loft and the difficulty of navigating the outside stone steps from the back porch to the driveway for my elderly parents. I whole-heartedly recommend this place for anyone who does does have walking impairments.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 12, 2024
Thanks Kerry!!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Heidi G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family wedding guests

I booked this house for the groom’s family to all stay together- there were 12 of them. I toured the house before their arrival. I wish I could have stayed there myself! They raved about the house and how perfect everything was. It was a beautiful weekend in Stillwater and this mansion on the hill is so conveniently located with excellent views . Very happy with the rental
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Brenda P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wedding weekend in Stillwater

The Durant House was the perfect spot for home base for our daughter’s wedding! Brian was easy to communicate with and understood we were busy with wedding festivities so was patient when things came up, like cars parked on the wrong side of the street. :) The house has plenty of bedrooms and bathrooms so we never felt crowded. Would highly recommend! It’s a beautiful historic home and the location is perfect to enjoy the fun in Stillwater.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Wendy H.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy
Understandably a historical property will have quirks, however this place needs a ton of renovations. Prior to arrival bathroom flooded and kitchen ceiling was damaged leaving house smelling. Added to this fireplace really smelled and combined with moldy smell was not pleasant. For the price you would expect updated furniture, fresh paint and overall attention to decor and cleanliness. Exterior of house is in very bad shape and nothing like the listing picture with peeling paint and missing steps, etc. Grounds were not maintained. Weeds everywhere. No landscaping at property other than lawn and weeds. But if traveling with children it was a great place for them to do what kids do. Would also work for bachelor party. Property manager was quick to respond, which was nice but unfortunately property really needs a total overhaul.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 14, 2025
We debated if we should even respond to this review, but think it necessary. First, we received two separate texts from other guests staying with her at the house, communicating a positive review, as they knew this guest was being overly critical, one asked that we include in this response. There is no mold in house. We let this guest know that a couple days before their arrival, person let water run on bath floor above kitchen, so kitchen ceiling ended up with some minimal water stains, but it was completely dried before this guest arrival. This was repaired the following week. We offered to her to cancel the reservation and find other options due to the issue, but guest chose to stay, so surprised by her comment. She also stated via text that walls were dirty, we stopped by to check, as interior walls had been recently painted, there were no issues, and others in the house did not understand the comment. The fireplace had minimal ash in bottom, but an inversion in area did cause down draft in fireplace, we placed candles in fireplace to mitigate, once again other guests stated that it did seem to be a major issue. The guest suggested house needed complete renovation, this is an 1872 house with many original features, so this will not happen, the house has historical charm that we value. With that stated, we have recently updated 4 baths in the house, with new vintage looking fixtures, flooring and showers. Bottom line is that this guest complained this minute she arrived, this was just not a good fit for her, as she was expecting modern Ritz Carlton type surroundings at a vacation rental price. I would recommend that other hosts avoid hosting this guest.
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Janice S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Large Home Near Downtown Stillwater

In a convenient location to downtown Stillwater, this property has enough rooms to accommodate large groups (we were a party of 16), and many amenities for entertaining (fully equipped kitchen, dining space and large living room). Some of the aesthetics of the house need addressing. For example, the 3rd floor bedroom/den had an entirely exposed wall where a bathroom was being installed, and the locks to at least two of the doors leading to the outside were broken (one in the living room, and one on the breezeway into the kitchen). Most concerning, however, were the stone steps leading from the driveway up to the house, which were broken and crumbling. Our group included one woman in her 70s and another who was very pregnant, and these stairs were a huge hazard, especially in the evening when it was dark. For a business that is trying to make a good first impression with its property, this was a disappointment.The house has great potential, and I’m sure once these issues are addressed it will be a 5 star property. We wish we had been alerted to them prior to check-in.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 20, 2024
We strive to create a positive stay for all guests. This is our first negative review, which we take very seriously. All I can say to other guests is that we have 26 five star reviews and three 4 star reviews since we started offering the property. We do have one old stone step, one of many, that is chipping away, which will be replaced this season. But, definitely not the entire stone step area. This is a beautiful historic Stillwater lumber Barron home that was built is 1872, so does have typical older features. We do guarantee that all doors lock. The back steps are challenging for elderly, but the front door is very accessible to the elderly, 3 steps, we have had repeat guests that use wheel chairs stay at the Mansion, by using the front entrance. We do apologize if we did not communicate this clearly, we will do our best to communicate this to future guests that need easier access. As usual, we do appreciate any and all feedback. Thank you.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nancy K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular in Stillwater

Ten of us gathered for a girlfriend reunion (class of 1978 friends). The house was in a word, spectacular! This well-appointed home was perfect for our stay. From the tremendous sleeping options (beds for all) and the numerous bathrooms, to the provided amenities, lovely and plentiful linens, well-stocked kitchen, lovely gathering spaces, comfortable living room, beautiful dining room (seats 10), and perfect coffee bar...this property was everything we hoped it would be and more. The location is simply spectacular too...just a block to the South HIll staircase and downtown Stillwater. The grounds were fabulous too with beautiful outdoor seating spaces (front and side porch areas) and a perfect fire-pit for a campfire. The view of the river from the many windows and backyard area made it an especially lovely location. The parking was the icing on the cake...plenty of room for our many cars. The communication with the host was easy and prompt. I/we highly recommend this property for your upcoming visit to the Stillwater area (would be perfect for a family reunion, gathering for a special occasion (wedding/other), or vacation in the beautiful St. Croix River Valley. We lucked out and found ourselves in the area during the Harvest Festival and were fortunate to have beautiful fall weather to enjoy the outdoor spaces. The only thing that was missing was a ladle for our soup...other than that, our stay was terrific!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 11, 2022
Great group of women! :)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jake B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was great, excellent communication from the owners before, during and after the stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

E G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was very clean and the hosts were wonderful!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dawn T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Christmas in Minnesota

For Christmas, my mom asked for the whole family to be together. With us scattered around the country, this big house was a perfect spot for us to converge. Plenty of space for the grandkids to enjoy their new games and play on their phones, us adult "kids" (in our 50s) to work on a puzzle and watch movies & football on TV, and all 11 of us to eat together at the dining room table. The house was festively decorated, and had enough beds and bedrooms for us all to sleep comfortably. We had a wonderful stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

8/10 Good

Renee D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Historic charm

Spacious, charming and convenient to our family’s wedding venue. Would rent again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Karin H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Historic home in Stillwater

The Durant Home was perfect for our weekend in Stillwater. From the start, booking was easy and the host communication was excellent. I had many questions and requests before our arrival, and all were answered promptly and complete. The home is located on top of a hill and the views were gorgeous. It is conveniently located close to historic downtown Stillwater. The home itself was one of the most beautiful VRBO homes we have ever visited. It was spotless and ready for our arrival. Kitchens and baths were fully stocked. The beds were comfortable and easily slept our party of 12. The newly renovated 3rd floor loft area was incredible and will be an amazing once it is completely finished. All of the outdoor porches around the house were so quaint and an added bonus. Thanks so much for our wonderful weekend and we will definitely be coming back to your gorgeous home!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Heidi W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay!

Beautiful historic home. Amenities superb. Comfy beds, has everything you will need. Still some work being done- minor things, didn’t affect us at all
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kay M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family vacation

It was a great location with plenty of room and things to do for all ages. We enjoyed it. The Fourth of July fireworks were awesome.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Heather L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

THE PERFECT FAMILY WEDDING RETREAT

Amazing mansion with all of the amenities of home and then some! Very accommodating host and caretaker that went out of our way to make sure we had everything we needed. Our family hosted our adult children and grandparents for our sons wedding weekend in Stillwater. Close to downtown and all of the great restaurants and shops. Beautiful views of the river. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

About the host

Hosted by Brian

Host profile image
I am a long-time resident of Stillwater and have a passion for the history and architecture of this beautiful little city. I love to show it off to visitors.

Why they chose this property

The Durant House is perfect for wedding groups in town for a wedding event and bridal celebrations!

The location is ideal for Historic Court House weddings, only one block away, and the downtown area is full of music and good food for those bachelorettes.

Family gatherings will enjoy all the space the huge house and beautiful yard provides.

What makes this property unique

The Durant House is perched on the bluff overlooking the downtown area of Stillwater, with amazing views of the river valley. The house is one block from the Historic Court House (weddings), one block from Teddy Bear Park, 2 blocks to Main Street Stairs (steps to downtown).
with all the shops and restaurants.

The house can accommodate large number of guests, along with 15 beds and 15 off street parking spots, which is convenient, as the City of Stillwater requires that guests park on-site, not on street.

Languages:

English

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