Whether you’re joining us from near or far, we’re so excited to welcome you! Here are some of our favorite things to do in the area—from great food to outdoor adventures.

🌿 Nature & Outdoor Adventures

🌅 Lake Minnetonka

This iconic Minnesota lake offers everything from scenic boardwalk strolls to boat rentals. Take a peaceful morning walk along Wayzata Beach, enjoy a sunset cocktail cruise, or rent a paddleboard for some fun on the water. The lakeside towns of Wayzata and Excelsior also offer great dining, shopping, and people-watching.

🌲 Baker Park Reserve (Maple Plain)

Just a short drive away, this 2,700-acre park offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, a beach, and peaceful views of Lake Independence. It's perfect for a morning jog or a laid-back afternoon surrounded by nature.

🌸 Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (Chaska)

A hidden gem for plant lovers and peace-seekers alike. Wander through themed gardens, wooded trails, and rolling prairies. There’s a seasonal café and beautiful photo ops everywhere you turn.

🚴‍♀️ Luce Line State Trail

This long, scenic trail winds through prairies, forests, and farmland. Ideal for walking, biking, or even just grabbing a bench and watching the world go by. You can access it from several points in the western suburbs.

🌳 Bryant Lake Regional Park (Eden Prairie)

Perfect for families and outdoor lovers! There’s a sandy beach, paddleboard and kayak rentals, wooded hiking trails, and even a disc golf course.

🦋 Noerenberg Memorial Gardens (Orono)

A lakeside garden known for its serene beauty and well-manicured blooms. It’s a peaceful, photo-worthy spot ideal for an afternoon stroll.

🌅 Bde Maka Ska (Minneapolis, near the western suburbs)

A beautiful urban lake with a 3-mile walking and biking trail, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and a lively beach scene. It's a great spot for a morning jog, sunset walk, or relaxing on the shore. The lake's name, Bde Maka Ska, means “White Earth Lake” in Dakota—honoring the area's Native heritage. Don’t miss the public art installation near the southeast shore that commemorates Dakota history.

🏙️ Things to Do in Minneapolis

🎨 Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia)

World-class art museum with everything from ancient sculptures to modern masterpieces. Free admission and beautiful galleries to explore.

🎭 Guthrie Theater

Even if you don’t catch a show, stop by for the incredible architecture and the Endless Bridge overlooking the Mississippi River.

🚶‍♀️ Stone Arch Bridge & St. Anthony Falls

Walk or bike across this historic bridge for some of the best views of downtown Minneapolis and the falls. Perfect for photos or a scenic stroll.

🎶 First Avenue

Legendary music venue made famous by Prince and still hosting top-tier live shows. A fun outing for music lovers.

🍽️ North Loop Neighborhood

Trendy downtown district packed with hip restaurants, local boutiques, cocktail bars, and bakeries. Try Spoon and Stable, Bar La Grassa, or The Freehouse.

🛍️ Midtown Global Market

Indoor market with international food vendors, handmade goods, and a great sense of community. A good option for a casual lunch or snack adventure.

☕ Coffee & Cozy Corners

☕ Smith Coffee & Café – Eden Prairie

Housed in a charming old train depot, this café has great coffee, light breakfast fare, and a scenic patio.

🍳 Bellecour Bakery at Cooks – Wayzata

A French-style bakery and café with croissants, quiche, and cappuccinos—perfect for a slow, luxurious morning.

☕ The Café Meow – New Hope

For something quirky and fun, sip a latte while hanging out with adoptable cats in this cozy cat café.

🛍️ Shop & Stroll

🛍️ Downtown Excelsior

A quaint, walkable lakeside town with boutiques, wine bars, local art, and great people-watching. Don’t miss Licks Unlimited for ice cream or a cocktail at 318 Café.

🛍️ 50th & France – Edina

An upscale shopping district with designer boutiques, bookstores, and beauty salons. Also home to a variety of cafés, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.