Adventure brief
Totally Criminal Cocktail Hour
Dive into mystery and craft cocktails with Valley Bookseller's Totally Criminal Cocktail Hour in Stillwater, MN—a lively event for fans of suspense and local authors. Join the conversation and add literary intrigue to your visit.
Stillwater, Minnesota, perched on the banks of the St. Croix River, is best known for its riverfront trails, historic downtown streets, and deep-rooted outdoor culture. Amidst this active small town is Valley Bookseller, a unique hub for literary lovers craving indulgence beyond outdoor pursuits.
Among their distinctive offerings, the Totally Criminal Cocktail Hour stands out as an inviting blend of mystery storytelling, local culture, and social gathering that feels like an adventure of a different kind. Held monthly at the Lowell Inn (102 2nd St N), the event transforms an ordinary evening into an interactive experience for those intrigued by the pulse of crime fiction. For $10, adults get an hour to mingle with local mystery authors, dive into lively discussions about whodunits and plot twists, and enjoy a cash bar featuring craft cocktails that spark conversation.
Alongside this, attendees receive a $5 shopping coupon for Valley Bookseller, weaving the evening’s intrigue back into the world of books with easy access to fresh mystery titles. Though not a traditional outdoor adventure, this event connects visitors and locals in a way that enriches Stillwater’s vibrant cultural fabric—offering mental escapism and a social thrill. Valley Bookseller leverages Stillwater’s history as a lumber and trade town, hinting at decades of stories filled with suspense, making the setting a perfect backdrop for mystery fans.
Participants often find this blend of literary engagement and local flavor a fresh complement to the area’s natural scenery, like the nearby Riverwalk and St. Croix bluff trails. Whether you’re warming up after a day outdoors or looking for an alternative evening activity, the Totally Criminal Cocktail Hour is a standout option that expands Stillwater’s adventurous spirit beyond the trails and into the pages of gripping narratives.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Must be 21+essential
This event includes alcohol consumption and is strictly for guests 21 years or older.
- 02Arrive Earlyinfo
Seats can fill quickly, so arriving 10–15 minutes ahead ensures a good spot for the discussion.
- 03Cash Bar Availableinfo
While the event includes a $5 coupon, additional drinks require cash or card at the bar inside Lowell Inn.
- 04Coupon Useinfo
Don’t forget to use your $5 coupon during the event for discounts at Valley Bookseller’s shop that same night.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable shoes
Stillwater’s charming streets invite casual walking before or after the event.
EssentialLight jacket or sweater
Evenings can get crisp, especially in autumn, making a layer handy.
fallEssentialNotebook and pen
For jotting down author insights or favorite book titles to follow up on.
Cash or card
To purchase drinks at the cash bar or additional books with your event coupon.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Pride of the St. Croix Riverwalk, Warden’s Cave archaeological site
Local fauna
Eastern gray squirrel, River otters in the St. Croix River
Historic heritage
Stillwater’s roots as a 19th-century lumber milling center influenced its architecture and community spirit, visible throughout downtown.
Mindful exploration
Local businesses like Valley Bookseller support sustainable community engagement by fostering events that encourage small business shopping and cultural connections.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- St. Croix Riverfront Park, Main Street historic district, Lowell Inn exterior facade
- Subjects
- Historic architecture, River scenes, Event candid shots
- Best times
- Golden hour, Blue hour, Late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Purchasing tickets ahead is recommended as the event can sell out, though some availability may exist at the door.
Is the event suitable for children or teens?
No, the event is strictly 21+ due to the presence of alcohol.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Outside food or drinks are not permitted; a cash bar is available on site.
What does my ticket include?
Your ticket covers admission to the event, access to meet local mystery authors, and a $5 shopping coupon to use the same night.
Where exactly is the event located?
The Totally Criminal Cocktail Hour takes place at the Lowell Inn, 102 2nd St N, Stillwater, MN.
Is there parking nearby?
There are public parking options in downtown Stillwater within walking distance of the Lowell Inn.