Afton House Inn and Catfish Café

Pining for a lazy river day? Since 1867, people who want to spend time with the languid St. Croix have headed to the Afton House Inn. The casual Catfish Saloon and Café serves hearty burgers and pizzas to fuel an impromptu stroll along the river. Also on the premises is the Wheel Room, a white-tablecloth affair whose servers make a show of tableside preparation, bringing out expertly done standards like Caesar salad, Steak Diane, and flaming Bananas Foster. The wine dinners often sell out, but it’s worth asking; items like roasted chayote and green apple soup, or grilled shrimp with tamarind couscous, paired with the right grapes and vintages, make this an inspired destination. 3291 S. St. Croix Trail, Afton; 651-436-8883; www.aftonhouseinn.com