It’s possible that rural Minnesota is not the first place that comes to mind when people think of vacation destinations in the United States, but for those who find themselves in the Minnetonka area, the fact that there is actually quite a lot to see in this part of the state might come as a pleasant surprise.
If you are going to be in the Twin Cities or Minnetonka MN area in the near future, you should think about visiting some of the wonderful attractions that are located in the region. Read on to learn more about exciting things to do in Minnetonka.
A tour we think you'll love
Discover The Area Around Minnetonka
1) Spend Some Time Ice Skating At The Minnetonka Ice Arena
Ice skating is one of the many winter sports that can be enjoyed in Minnesota, and it is among the most popular of these activities. Ice skating, skating lessons, and adult hockey games are all available throughout the year at this facility.
Lessons in hockey are provided for both boys and girls, and there are a number of skating and hockey clubs available as well. Day visitors can also purchase passes valid for that day to enter the facility.
2) Take Advantage Of The Many Activities Available Outside
When it comes to amusements and activities that take place outside, visitors to Minnetonka Minnesota have a wide variety of choices available to them when looking for things to do in Minnetonka.
The region is home to zoos, amusement parks, and farmer’s markets, any one of which the traveler is sure to find at least a few things that pique their interest. The following are examples of some of these outdoor attractions:
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The Minnesota Zoo, in nearby Minneapolis, offers education and wildlife for enjoyment, including tropical rainforest, aviary, marine center, and tundra area
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Valleyfair Amusement Park in nearby Shakopee is a fantastic theme park destination for a day trip with your family as it features rides, shows, and a waterpark. The amusement park also features live music and live entertainment, as well as a variety of unique events
3) Escape The Rain At An Indoor Play Area
The city of Minnetonka MN is home to a number of indoor amusement parks, which are ideal for those who are looking for a family-friendly space that is protected from the elements and would like to participate in a fun group activity with their friends or relax in a family-friendly area.
If you’re looking for some ways to pass the time indoors while staying dry, especially on a wet day, consider some of the following possibilities:
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InnerActive Indoor Playground is an indoor amusement park featuring slides, indoor inflatables, giant foam building sets, and much more!
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iFly indoor skydiving, where aspiring daredevils can find themselves suspended in a wind tunnel that simulates the fall to earth from high altitude
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Breakout Games Escape Room Adventures, where visitors will have one hour to escape from any number of themed puzzle rooms
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Minnetonka Tennis Club is the perfect place to play tennis, meet new people, and have a great time. The club has a wide variety of programs and events for all ages and skill levels
4) Take In The Area’s History
This region of Minnesota is rich in history, including that of early explorers, historical architecture, and the building practices of Native Americans.
The Charles H. Burwell House, which is located in Minnetonka and is listed on the city’s register of historic places, was once the residence of the city manager of the first mill located on Minnetonka Creek. Visitors to Minnetonka won’t want to miss the opportunity to see this historic home. Today, it operates as a museum as well as a restaurant that caters.
Indian Mounds on Lake Minnetonka, which are located on a bluff overlooking Halstead’s Bay, are another attraction that guests may choose to see. Unfortunately, farming has resulted in the destruction of many of them, but there are still some that are left.
5) Check Out The City’s Shopping Locations
If you plan to do any shopping during your time in Minnetonka, the best place to begin your expedition will be at the Ridgedale Center. This regional shopping center is home to a diverse selection of well-known retailers and restaurants, such as The Cheesecake Factory and American Eagle Outfitters.
Not only is the General Store of Minnetonka an excellent location for shopping, but it also features a delightful food court, which makes it an excellent location in which to while away the afternoon. The visitors who come here will be able to find a wide variety of one-of-a-kind items that cannot be found anywhere else, such as the works of local artists, jewelry, and clothing made by Native Americans.
In addition, the Minnetonka Farmers Market provides a wide selection of goods for the discerning consumer, such as baked goods, handcrafted goods, home-cooked meals, and seasonings, as well as pottery.
6) Experience The Local Food
As was just stated, the General Store is an excellent location to grab a speedy lunch of regional specialties, such as salads, sandwiches, and soups.
In addition, the city is home to a diverse selection of cafes, restaurants, and bistros. Some top-notch restaurants in Minnetonka Minnesota include the following:
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BLVD Kitchen & Bar, an upscale bistro
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Bacio, a family-owned trendy Italian eatery
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CoV Wayzata, a family-owned bar and pub
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Benedict’s modern diner fare
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Josefina, which offers handmade pizzas and pastas
7) Recreational Opportunities Around Minnetonka
This region of Minnesota is well-known for the stunning natural scenery that it contains. Visitors will find a number of parks and hiking trails in the region surrounding Minnetonka to explore and enjoy during their time there.
Whether you like to go bird watching, search for rare plants and animals, or get some exercise on scenic trails, those who appreciate nature are certain to take pleasure in at least some of the following activities and locations:
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Minnehaha Creek Urban Watershed Park features a number of walking trails and is also an excellent location for canoeing and kayaking.
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Lake Minnetonka features a hiking and picnic area that is also an excellent location for boating and geocaching.
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Baseball field and recreation area at the Bennett Family Park
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Purgatory Community Reserve includes both walking and biking trails, in addition to picnic tables.
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Recreational opportunities can be found at Shady Oak Beach, including sand volleyball, kayak rentals, and water inflatables.
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The Lone Lake Community Park and Preserve is a natural area that hosts a number of educational programs and walking tours centered on local flora and fauna.
Experience Lake Minnetonka
If you are planning a day trip and find yourself in the vicinity of the Twin Cities, the city of Minnetonka offers a variety of wonderful places to visit along the way. There is something for everyone to do in Minnetonka, Minnesota.
For those who want a truly unique outdoor experience, book a day out on the area’s only human-powered paddleboat pub! We are a local boat tour company offering four different party boats for a variety of group sizes out on Lake Minnetonka.
Visitors can hop on any of the peddle stations as often or as little as they like, while also enjoying a variety of drinks from the onboard tiki bar. Visit our website or call today to book your group’s private paddle pub tour!
