St. Croix Chocolate Co., Marine on St. Croix

Less than an hour from the Twin Cities, Marine is a bit of a secret that some folks would be just as happy to keep to themselves. But we think the village, with its Greek Revival buildings and scenic setting, is just too charming to overlook.

Like Stillwater, its bigger brother a bit farther down the St. Croix River, Marine traces its roots to the lumber boom of the 19th century.

Step out of your car or off your bike and you can feel the history under your feet.

Stroll the wooden floorboards of the Marine General Store while you shop for great deli food, local sweet corn or fresh herbs. Enjoy a wood-fired pizza in a building that once was the lumber mill office. Walk past the 1880s town hall on your way to the original mill site. Feel the moss underfoot as you scout the Mill Stream for trout, just before it runs under the Brookside Bar and Grill.

And don’t forget to scan the soaring pines overhead for the rumored eagle’s nest!