Meeting Scenes

See what nearby venues on the scenic St. Croix River have to offer your next meeting or event.

August 2006 | by Sara Gilbert

The Grand Duchess of the Afton Hudson Cruise Lines is one option for meeting on the St. Croix.

Capacity: 100–350
Open year round
Best for employee meetings, receptions, golf events
651-436-5245

Though perhaps best known for skiing, Afton Alps makes the most of its surroundings no matter what the season. The winter’s snow-covered hills turn green in the summer and make way for a lush green golf course. Wild turkeys have been known to wander through the grounds, and deer can often be seen peeking through the trees at all the activity.

Corporate groups can rent the Highland Chalet, which comfortably seats 250 people. The rental fee is waived if you are hosting a golf tournament. Or you can schedule a breakfast, lunch, or dinner meeting in one of the other reception rooms at no charge when paired with a skiing, tubing, or snowboarding outing (lift tickets and equipment rental are available at discounted rates). The expansive St. Croix Room, which holds up to 350 people, is most appropriate for larger banquets and receptions. Afton Alps provides a list of caterers for clients to choose from; businesses may also bring in their own decorations and entertainment for events.

Brine's Bar & Restaurant, Stillwater

Capacity: 25–90
Open year round
Best for small meetings, employee dinners, company parties
651-439-7556

From the third floor of Brine’s Bar & Restaurant, situated in the heart of downtown Stillwater, you can see boats sail back and forth along the St. Croix River. That’s one advantage to meeting in the banquet room of Brine’s building, which has been part of the Stillwater cityscape for more than 130 years. The private space, the perfect size for a luncheon meeting with employees or clients, or for a dinner reception or company party, is equipped with a DVD/VHS projector and screen; other audio-visual equipment can be brought in as necessary.

But no need to bring food: Brine’s will serve anything you choose off their menu. Go simple with box lunches or a cold meat and cheese platter, or Brine’s can set up a sandwich buffet and salad bar with soup or prepare fresh bratwurst. For dinner, Brine’s staff can hand carve a top round of beef or serve any of the other beef, chicken, and pasta entrées on the menu. Because the banquet room is also a popular place for groom’s dinners, anniversary parties, and birthday gatherings, management recommends booking a space at least 30 days in advance, particularly for weekends.