Afton, MN

Afton is a small city in Washington County, Minnesota, tucked into the bluffs along the St. Croix River, which forms the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin. With a population of approximately 2,900 residents, it has a quiet, semi-rural character that feels worlds away from the bustle of the Twin Cities, even though it sits within easy commuting distance of the metro. The city is best known for its scenic river valley setting, and it serves as a gateway to the broader St. Croix Valley recreation area. Downtown St. Paul lies about 20 to 25 miles to the west, while Minneapolis is roughly 30 to 35 miles to the west and southwest.

A short drive from most points in Afton, Afton State Park is the area's marquee outdoor attraction. The park stretches along the St. Croix River and is known for its steep limestone bluffs, mixed hardwood forests, and miles of hiking trails. Visitors come for hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and access to the river, and the park's bluff-top overlooks offer some of the most dramatic views in the metro area. A drive to the park's main entrance typically takes only about 10 minutes from the center of Afton.

The river that gives the area its appeal is itself a major draw, protected as the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, one of the original rivers designated under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Paddlers, anglers, and boaters launch from points along the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides to explore calm stretches of the waterway, and the river bluffs provide a scenic backdrop throughout. Several public access points are within a 15-minute drive of Afton, making it easy for visitors to spend a day on the water.

Just up the river to the north, the city of Stillwater offers a contrasting experience, with a walkable historic downtown, a restored lift bridge, riverboat cruises, and a lively dining and shopping scene. Often called the birthplace of Minnesota, Stillwater sits about 15 minutes north of Afton and draws visitors year-round for its small-town charm and river views. The proximity gives Afton-based travelers the option to pair a quiet, nature-focused stay with a day trip into a more bustling tourist town.

Together, these features make Afton an appealing base for short-term rentals. It offers a peaceful, scenic setting with direct access to a major state park, a nationally protected river, and a charming nearby historic town, all within roughly half an hour of the Twin Cities. For travelers seeking a blend of outdoor recreation and small-town atmosphere, Afton provides a compelling alternative to staying in the metro itself.