27 Fun & Best Things to Do in Minnetonka, Minnesota

Minnetonka, Minnesota, is home to the iconic Lake Minnetonka, Luce Line Trail, and a few craft breweries. There are so many fun things to do in Minnetonka that it can be hard to decide what to do.

I grew up in Minnetonka and lived there for 20 years. Known for bike trails and beautiful parks, Minnetonka has a lot of cheap things to do and beautiful places to explore.

Plenty of great restaurants, shopping areas, and historical sites exist to explore. So let’s dive into some of the best things to do in Minnetonka, according to a local!

Things to Do in Minnetonka, Minnesota

1. Shop at Ridgedale Center

Address: 12401 Wayzata Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55305, United States

Ridgedale Center is a shopping mall located in Minnetonka, Minnesota. The mall has over 100 stores, including Macy’s, Apple, and Nordstrom. This mall has high-end stores and popular brands, which makes it one of the best places to go in Minnetonka, especially on a rainy day.

Ridgedale Center has everything you need in one place. You can find all your favorite stores under one roof, plus a wealth of restaurants and activities. There is even an escape room that is the perfect rainy-day activity in Minnetonka.

Ridgedale Center is best for families. Kids can spend hours walking around Ridgedale. There are also kid-friendly stores, like game stores and kids’ clothing stores. During the holidays, you can visit Santa Claus in the atrium or the Easter Bunny.

See Related: Things to Do in Minneapolis

2. Explore Purgatory Park, Minnetonka Township

Address: 17315 Excelsior Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

Purgatory Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a bit of nature. The park is part of the Three Rivers Park District and features multiple walking and biking trails, a playground, and a pond.

The best things to do in Purgatory Park, Minnetonka, are:

• Go for a walk or bike ride on the paved loop trail.
• Play in the playgrounds.
• Have a picnic lunch in the park.
• Feed the ducks at the pond.
• Visit the animals at the petting zoo.
• Ride on the miniature train.
• Splash around in the water park.
• Take a break in the shade at one of the pavilions.

Purgatory Park is a popular destination for locals looking to spend quality time with family and friends. The hiking trails connect Minnetonka with other nearby cities like Eden Prairie.

The park features three ponds, an expansive boardwalk for strolling, fishing areas on the lakeside, and two enclosed shelters for watching ducks and geese in their natural habitat.

3. Learn History at Charles H. Burwell House

Address: 13209 E McGinty Rd E, Minnetonka, MN 55305, United States

Nestled alongside the Minnehaha Creek on Minnetonka Boulevard, you’ll find the Charles H. Burwell House, a hidden gem. This beautifully preserved Victorian-era house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it is a wonderful thing to do in Minnetonka to step back in time and learn more about the history of Minnetonka. 

The house was once the residence of Charles H. Burwell of the Minnetonka Mills Company, a company that grew a settlement that would later become Minnetonka. Each room offers a glimpse into the lives of the Burwell family, showcasing their tastes, interests, and how they lived during the late 19th century.

Sit in the elegant parlor with its antique furniture and ornate fireplace, or stop by the dining room set for a formal dinner to experience what a dinner party would be like.

The Burwell House is also one of the best things to do in Minnetonka in the summer because it is surrounded by hiking trails, gardens, and a lovely lawn where you can walk or enjoy a picnic while looking at the nearby gazebo.

See Related: Places to Stay in Minnetonka

4. Shop for Knick-Knacks at the General Store of Minnetonka

Address: 14401 MN-7, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

For those looking for a cozy shop with unique gifts, the General Store of Minnetonka. They have a wide selection of Minnesota-themed gifts, ranging from t-shirts and hats to magnets and authentic wild rice.

The General Store in Minnetonka is a great place to visit for a number of reasons. Walking around the store and looking at all the different things for sale is fun. I love visiting here on a rainy day or during the holiday season because seeing what new stuff they have to buy is so fun.

Some store sections are antique toys, Minnesota-themed clothes, cite household items, and vintage candies. They have extended hours during the holiday season.

There is also a small deli-style restaurant attached that has the best egg salad sandwich on freshly baked bread. Their cookies are also great!

5. See Cattails at Jidana Park

Address: 3408 Jidana Ln, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

Jidana Park is a beautiful Three Rivers Park District nature area. There are many things to do there, including playing on the playground, walking, and having a picnic.  The park is also a great bird-watching place; you may even see some deer grazing nearby. It is free to visit.

Jidana Park is a great place to visit because it offers beautiful scenery and a variety of activities for people of all ages. The park has a playground, walking trails, and a pond where you can go fishing. It’s also known for its marsh and cattails!

6. Big Willow Park, Minnetonka

Address: 11522 Minnetonka Blvd, Hopkins, MN 55305, United States

Big Willow Park is another beautiful area of Minnetonka, Minnesota. It has a playground, hiking trails, a fishing pier, and more. Big Willow Park is definitely a must-see and among the best free things to do in Minnetonka.

The park has a playground, walking paths, and a fishing pier. It’s also a great place to go bird-watching, as the park is home to various birds, including cardinals, bluejays, and woodpeckers.

Big Willow Park is an excellent place for families to go. Along with lots of green space and picnic tables, this park has paved trails accessible from almost any point in the sprawling grounds, sports fields that offer ample outdoor games, and a fishing pier where kids can bait their hooks.

7. Minnehaha Creek Watershed District

Address: 15320 Minnetonka Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District is a government organization that was established in 1957 to protect and improve the water quality of Minnehaha Creek and its tributaries. The district encompasses 101 square miles in Hennepin and Carver counties and includes the cities of Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Edina, Minnetonka, St. Louis Park, and Plymouth.

The attraction is responsible for managing stormwater, monitoring water quality, restoring wetlands, and working with local partners to promote watershed education.

Recent projects include the installation of rain gardens and green roofs, the restoration of native prairies and wetlands, and the development of a stormwater management plan for the entire district.

See Related: Best Hotels in Minneapolis, Minnesota

8. Snuffy’s Malt Shop 

Address: 17519 Minnetonka Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

Snuffy’s Malt Shop is a household name in Minnesota and a great place to go for a malt or shake, and one of my favorite spots in town. They have a lot of different flavors, and the shakes are made with real ice cream. Snuffy’s is also known for its burgers and fries. 

The causal atmosphere is family-friendly, and so is the classic 1950s style. They have an authentic soda fountain and jukebox. And the walls are painted with murals so you can entertain kids with lots of pictures!

While they specialize in classic foods like cheeseburgers and hamburgers, you can also get retro malts, floats, and phosphates. It is also affordable. You can easily take the whole family out for dinner here for under $100.

They also provide vegetarian burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches, so swing by Snuffy’s whether you want to eat something or enjoy the vintage experience.

See Related: Best Breweries in Duluth, Minnesota

9. Take a Class at the Minnetonka Community Center

Address: 14600 Minnetonka Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

The Minnetonka Community Center is one of the best places in Minnetonka. Growing up, it was one of my favorite places to try all the different classes offered there. For example, I learned calligraphy and how to paint with fish!

It is also surrounded by the Civic Center Park, which has a playground, basketball courts, a skate park, and more. There is also a pond where you can enjoy a peaceful walk. The Minnetonka Community Center is next to Minnetonka City Hall and the Minnetonka ice skating rinks.

10. The Marsh

Address: 15000 Minnetonka Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

The Marsh is a popular tourist destination in Minnetonka located just off of Minnetonka Boulevard. Now owned by the City of Minnetonka, the Marsh is a gym and spa with incredible views of Jidana Park. It features an indoor walking track perfect for getting your steps in on a cold winter day.

While visiting the Marsh, you can bird watch, swim, take a yoga class, or work out at your own pace. There is also a wonderful restaurant with fresh food and local dishes. The Marsh is one of the best things to do in Minnetonka because it offers locals and visitors a unique opportunity to experience nature while working out indoors. 

11. Unmapped Brewing Co.

Address: 14625 Excelsior Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

Minnesota has been brewing commercial beer since 1849, and one of the newest breweries on the scene is Unmapped Brewing Co., a dog-friendly and family-friendly brewery brewing and pouring award-winning ales and lagers since 2017.

The atmosphere is welcoming and friendly. We’ve even sat at the bar with our laptops to write a few articles for ViaTravelers here! You’ll want to visit on Mondays for trivia nights and Tuesdays for live music.

While they don’t serve food, they encourage you to grab a to-go order from nearby Gina Maria’s Pizza or Del Sur Empanadas to enjoy in the taproom with your beer. They also carry non-alcoholic beer from Athletic Brewing Co, Northern Soda Company sodas, Deane’s Kombucha, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic Hidden Falls Hard Seltzers.

12. Big Thrill Factory

Address: 17585 MN-7, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

The Big Thrill Factory is an amusement park that is located in Minnetonka, Minnesota. The park features a variety of thrill rides, as well as an arcade and mini-golf. The park is open year-round and is one of the best things to do in Minnetonka in winter and on rainy days.

The Big Thrill Factory has a go-kart track, laser tag arena, and bumper cars. There’s also a cafe on-site for a break from all the excitement.

See Related: Best Indoor Activities in Minnesota

13. iFly

Address: 12415 Wayzata Blvd Ste 15, Minnetonka, MN 55305, United States

One of the most unique things to do in Minnetonka is indoor skydiving at iFly. Finally, you get to fly somewhere other than your dreams! I was a little nervous the first time I tried it, but I had a great time.

iFly is a great place to go if you’re looking for something fun in Minnetonka and an excellent flight indoor skydiving experience. It’s becoming one of the top attractions in Minnetonka for families! It is located next to Ridgedale, so you can visit both spots in one day.

Prices range from $55 for two flights per person during non-peak times to $130 for five flights per person. You can get a special rate of $275 to share ten flights between 1-5 people. Book a visit here.

14. Shady Oak Beach

Address: 5200 Shady Oak Rd, Minnetonka, MN 55343, United States

If you are looking for a secluded beach that isn’t on Lake Minnetonka, then Shady Oak Beach in Hopkins is a great option. This beach is nestled on the shores of Shady Oak Lake, which has a dog park, a playground, and even a high dive!

This beach is popular because it has everything you need without all the chaos of the larger lakes. And you can rent canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards here. It is a great lake for water sports because, unlike Lake Minnetonka, no gas-powered boats are allowed.

A fee is required to access the beach. You can get season passes, the best option at only $13/pass. General admission starts at $6 per person.

15. Breakout Games – Minneapolis

Address: 12369 Wayzata Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55305, United States

If you’re looking for unique activities in Minnetonka, why not try an escape room? It’s a fun group activity; everyone will want to return to try more rooms.

This escape room game is perfect for groups of friends or family and is a great way to test your problem-solving skills. You’ll have 60 minutes to work together to find clues and solve puzzles that will help you break out of the room.

There are several rooms to choose from, each with a unique theme. Whether you are trying to escape a kidnapping or find your way out of a haunted house, you will have a blast at the Breakout Games – Minneapolis.

The per-person cost for a 60-minute session ranges from $21 per person for eight players to $36 per person for two players.

16. Minnetonka Tennis Club

Address: 3460 County Rd 101, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

The Minnetonka Tennis Club is a haven for tennis enthusiasts of all levels and a great thing to do in Minnetonka on a rainy day. The club boasts a range of exceptional amenities, including multiple outdoor and indoor courts, state-of-the-art facilities, and a welcoming community that embraces both competitive play and a love for the game.

The Minnetonka Tennis Club offers professional coaching programs, clinics, and private lessons, ensuring that players of all ages and abilities can access top-notch instruction. You can also reserve the courts for yourself. The friendly and knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist, fostering a supportive environment where players can thrive and reach their full potential.

Beyond the courts, the club has social events and tournaments to meet other members. The club features well-appointed facilities, including a pro shop with the latest tennis gear and a comfortable clubhouse where players can relax and unwind after a challenging match.

17. Sanctuary Float Spa

Address: 14525 MN-7 #180, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

After exploring the hiking trails in Minnetonka, you will probably be looking for a place to relax. Look no further than the Sanctuary Float Spa, a top Minnetonka activity not to miss. This spa offers floatation therapy, a unique way to relax and de-stress.

Treating yourself to relaxation at a float spa is one of the best things in Minnetonka.  You truly deserve it, especially if you’re in Minnetonka on holiday. The idea is to begin with a massage and then go for the zero-gravity float spa.

During this therapy, you’ll float in a saltwater solution meant to help you relax and de-stress. If you’re aching for a way to relax and unwind, be sure to check out Sanctuary Float Spa!

See Related: Best Honeymoon Destinations in Minnesota

18. Yoga Pod

Address: 12993 Ridgedale Dr. Ste 103. Minnetonka, MN 55305

If you’re looking for a great indoor activity in Minnetonka, visiting the Yoga Pod is definitely a great idea.  With thousands of square feet filled with yoga apparel and accessories, as well as lounge areas and private rooms for instruction and healing work – there’s never been a better time to invest in your health!

It offers yoga classes for all levels of students. The studio also provides massage therapy, acupuncture, and other wellness services. 

19. Lodestone Coffee and Games

Address: 10982 Cedar Lk Rd S, Minnetonka, MN 55305, United States

If you’re looking for a place to spend a cozy, quiet afternoon, the Lodestone Coffee and Games is the perfect spot. A true hidden gem of Minnetonka, this is the perfect spot for coffee and board games.

This coffee shop offers more than just coffee; it has an extensive library of board games you can play. This free game collection includes my favorites, like Celestia, Evolution Climate, Oceanos, Sagrada, Splendor, Tokaido, and Ticket to Ride!

You can also roll up a character and join a D&D quest. Check out their calendar to see what’s happening. Lodestone is also a great place in town to drink coffee. They have delicious locally roasted coffee, tea, smoothies, and baked goods from Breadsmith.

See Related: Best Travel Board Games: Travel-Sized Options

20. BLVD Kitchen & Bar

Address: 11544 Wayzata Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55305, United States

The BLVD Kitchen & Bar is a popular spot in Minnetonka for drinks and dining. The bar offers a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, as well as a menu of American cuisine favorites.

This American restaurant is more expensive, but their food is worth the price. You’ll be glad you treated yourself after you try their menu. And even if you go during a packed happy hour, you won’t have to wait too long for a seat.

Their truffle fries are addictive; you’ll love the crisp crust on their flatbreads. One of their specialties is jambalaya, so try it if you’re in the mood for Cajun food.

See Related: Top Restaurants in Minneapolis

21. Gray’s Bay Marina

Address: 17213 Grays Bay Blvd, Wayzata, MN 55391, United States

The Gray’s Bay Marina is a boat ramp and rental near Wayzata, Minnesota, on Lake Minnetonka. It is a popular destination for fishing and boating. The marina has a fishing pier, a boat dock, and a playground.

Visiting Gray’s Bay Marina is one of the best things to do if visiting Lake Minnetonka is on your agenda because you can rent a pontoon or fishing boat to take out for the day. 

22. Spasso

Address: 17523 Minnetonka Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

Spasso in Minnetonka is a wonderful restaurant to spend an evening with friends. The restaurant offers a superb variety of delicious Italian cuisine, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. Our favorite dish is the polenta fries!

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they make sure that your dining experience is excellent. Even when it is very busy, you will be taken care of.

The best part? And you can bring your wine from the wine store that is attached to the restaurant. If you don’t want a whole bottle, many of the wines are available in the restaurant by the glass.

Spasso also has an outdoor patio (no dogs allowed) that is nice to sit at on a summer day. And their happy hour has excellent prices. So please stop by and try some of their dishes!

23. Minnetonka Mills Park

Address: 13209 McGinty Rd E, Minnetonka, MN 55305, United States

Minnetonka Mills Park by lovescolor

Address: 13209 McGinty Rd E, Hopkins, MN 55305, United States

Minnetonka Mills Park is a great free place to enjoy the outdoors.  Minnetonka Mills Park spans 11 acres alongside the Mississippi River in historic downtown Minnetonka (right next to the Burwell House) and is a great location for day trips away from home for families with kids. 

There are hiking and biking trails, as well as a play area, picnic areas, and a fishing pond. The park also has a nature center, which offers educational programs throughout the year.

There is a wide range of activities to take part in within Minnetonka Mills Park, from taking a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River to going fly-fishing. Grab your pole and fishing license (if you need one) and head down to Minnetonka Mills Park’s pier, where you can cast out your line to catch bass, trout, bluegill, or catfish. 

For $12 per day for adults 13 years or older who do not live in Minneapolis or $25 for adults and kids (ages 13-50), you can try your luck in the Minnetonka Mills Park fishing derby. With a refreshing perspective and various recreational opportunities, it’s impossible not to make time for this spot.

24. Minnetonka Ice Arena

Address: 3401 Williston Rd, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

The Minnetonka Ice Arena is a public ice arena and is the home of the Minnetonka Skating Club. The arena has two NHL-sized ice sheets and is open year-round.

This arena is home to a variety of recreational activities, including ice skating, hockey, and figure skating. There’s a pro shop, a rink-side cafe, and more at the Minnetonka Ice Arena. The open skate time is only $5 per visit.

25. Bennett Family Park

Address: 3717 County Rd 101, Minnetonka, MN 55345, United States

Another great thing to do in Minnetonka is to go to Bennet Family Park. This park is known for hosting little league games, softball, and baseball.

You can also rent the field. The food stand is open when athletes play and serves traditional baseball fare like hotdogs and chips. The real locals know that if you head into the woods and follow the trail, you can find an abandoned park! It is a bit creepy but still fun to explore.

26. Excelsior

Address: Excelsior, Minnesota 55331, USA

Excelsior is a short drive from Minnetonka and a great place to spend a Saturday afternoon. When I grew up in Minnetonka, I would take the biking trails from Minnetonka Middle School East to downtown Exelcior, which takes about 30 minutes.

Excelsior has a lot of attractions. From restaurants to the beach and play area to shopping, it is hard to be bored here! Stop by Haskells for a dive bar experience that has surprisingly great wine. Or head to Excelsior Brewing Company for live music and fresh beer. Or, my personal favorite, hunt for treasures at Leipold’s Antiques!

If you have kids, head to Adeles for ice cream, then off to the beach on Lake Minnetonka to play on the playground and tennis courts. Or ride the old streetcar to the streetcar museum! If it’s raining, a movie theater always plays kid’s movies.

Excelsior also hosts live music at their bandshell for free. And there is a farmer’s market. On the Fourth of July, check out the Excelsior amusement park. Honestly, Excelsior has everything!

27. Lake Minnetonka

Last but not least, the infamous Lake Minnetonka is arguably the most famous landmark in Minnetonka. It’s also world famous thanks to Minneapolis native Prince! Lake Minnetonka is a large lake located between Hennepin and Carver Counties.

The lake connects several cities worth visiting, like Wayzata, Excelsior, Navarre, and Mound. If you don’t have a boat, you can rent one at one of the marinas like Howard’s Point.

There are also nature parks, and the most popular is Big Island. You can tie up your boat here, but be ready for a party (especially on the Fourth of July).

If you want a quieter experience, check out the other parks and biking trails located around the lake. There are campsites on the lake, like on Boy Scout Island.

There are so many things to do in Lake Minnetonka. You can boat, jet ski, swim, fish, and dine on the lake. There are a number of lakeside restaurants like Maynards and Flechers, as well as breweries like Back Channel. The whole area is home to a number of top restaurants, making it the perfect spot for a day or night out.

How to Get around Minnetonka, Minnesota

The easiest way to get around is by car. There are public transportation options, but it is slow and infrequent. There are several express buses from Minnetonka to Minneapolis, but getting around the suburb of Minnetonka requires a car. Rent a car here.

Biking is also an option. The biking trails in Minnetonka are practically endless, and the trail network is incredible. You can access nearly every attraction on this list by a bike trail.

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