From the Twin Cities, you can start your journey to Osceola, from 35W and 94. But, I would say, for the last 12 miles use MN95 N from Marine on St. Croix.
You can pass Marine on St. Croix, in the blink of an eye but it’s worth at least an hour to meander. If your hungry try the Brookside Bar and Grill, they have an American fare menu and a casserole menu. Shepards Pie, Tater Tot Hot Dish, Pork with Mac & Cheese, you get the idea! Also the Historic Grocery Store, is worth a wander around.
Osceola, WI
Once you drive over the bridge on MN95, you will find yourself in the quaint Wisconsin town of Osceola. The town was settled in 1844, and the downtown area is made up of buildings dating from the 1880’s. A must see would be Cascade Falls. This waterfall is located right in the heart of Osceola at, Cascade Street, next to the statute of Chief Osceola. A set of stairs lead you down into the gorge. These falls are the reason the town exists. They once supported a mill and a brewery.
Osceola Train Ride Excursions
If you have kids this is a must do. If not it’s still a, “really should do because I will regret it if I don’t!”
The trains run from May to September, here is the website, https://transportationmuseum.org/train-rides/
They even host birthday parties on a train car, or you can take an hour and a half ride to Marine on St. Croix, or an hour long ride to Dresser WI. The price is in the $20 range. Well worth it.
Interstate Park WI Side
So Interstate Park, is so called because it spans two states with the St. Croix River in between. The Minnesota side is no less lovely but the Wisconsin side is dramatic with its walks along the cliffs overlooking the river. It’s Wisconsin’s oldest park, established in 1900. It has scenic views of the river and the gorge known as, The Dalles of the St. Croix. Camping is available, plenty of picnic spots and swimming in Lake O’ The Dalles. For me the highlight of this park are the trails and the views.
Just over the bridge on highway 8, you will find yourself in Taylors Falls. So, after this adventure you should be truly exhausted and ready to head home. https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/interstate
