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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.

There are also plenty of great restaurants, shopping areas, and historical sites 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

Ridgedale Center Entrance and Logo
Tony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0

Address: 12401 W 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 kid-friendly stores as well 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

Big Old Tree in Purgatory Park, Minnetonka
Nick Cobb / Flickr, CC BY 2.0

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

Historic House Surrounded with Trees in Minnetonka
Ashwin Asokan / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

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 the way 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.

The Burwell House hosts events throughout the year, so check their website for more things to do.

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

Front of General Store of Minnetonka
General Store of Minnetonka / Facebook

Address: 14401 MN-7, Minnetonka 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. Honestly, it is just fun to walk around the store and look at all the different things for sale. I love visiting here on a rainy day or during the holiday season because it is so fun to see what new stuff they have to buy.

Some sections of the store 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

Minnehaha Creek view at Jidana Park
LeicaNokota / Flickr

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

Jidana Park is a beautiful Three Rivers Park District nature area. There are a lot of 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 in the nearby fields. 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

River in a Big Willow Park, Minnetonka and Skyline
Fritillaria1 / Flickr

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 space for outdoor games, and a fishing pier where kids can bait their hooks.

7. Minnehaha Creek Watershed District

New segment of trail along the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District
Brit McBride / Flickr

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 

Snuffy's Malt Shop, Minnetonka, Minnesota

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 whether you want to eat something or enjoy the vintage experience, swing by Snuffy’s.

See Related: Best Breweries in Duluth, Minnesota

9. Take a Class at the Minnetonka Community Center

Minnetonka Community Center in Minnetonka , Minnesota
Minnetonka Community Center / minnetonkamn.gov

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

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

It is also surrounded by the Civic Center Park that 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 also next to Minnetonka City Hall and the Minnetonka ice skating rinks.

10. The Marsh

Front of The Marsh building in Minnetonka
The Marsh / Facebook

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 which is 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 workout 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.

Unmapped Brewing Co.
Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers

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 that has been 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 both alcoholic and non-alcoholic Hidden Falls Hard Seltzers.

12. Big Thrill Factory

Kids playing at Big Thrill Factory
TwisterMc / Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0

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 a rainy day.

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

Kid Experiencing iFLY
iFly / GetYourGuide

Address: 12415 W Wayzata Blvd # 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. In fact, its 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

Shady Oak Beach in Hopkins
Shady Oak Beach / City of Hopkins

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, there are no gas-powered boats allowed.

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

15. Breakout Games – Minneapolis

The Escape Game Minneapolis

Address: 12369 W 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 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

Tennis Club
NDABCREATIVITY / Adobe Stock

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 have access to 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. And the club features well-appointed facilities, including a pro shop stocked with the latest tennis gear and a comfortable clubhouse where players can relax and unwind after a challenging match.

17. Sanctuary Float Spa

Man Doing Float Therapy

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 to do in Minnetonka.  You truly deserve it, especially if you’re in Minnetonka on holiday. The ideal 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

Yoga Pod in Minnetonka

Address: 12993 Ridgedale Dr # 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

Settlers of Catan
Alena Gerasimova / Adobe Stock

Address: 10982 Cedar Lake Rd, 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 some of 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

BLVD Kitchen & Bar interior
Gerard V / TripAdvisor

Address: 11544 W 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. Whether you’re looking for a casual happy hour with friends or a romantic dinner date, the BLVD Kitchen & Bar is a great choice.

This American restaurant is on the more expensive side, 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: Best Restaurants in Minneapolis

21. Gray’s Bay Marina

Gray’s Bay Marina in Minnetonka
Gray’s Bay Marina / minnetonkamn.gov

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

The Gray’s Bay Marina is a boat ramp and boat rental nearby 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 our for the day. 

22. Spasso

Spasso, Minnetonka, Minnesota
Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers

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.

Tiramasu on a Plate at Spasso
Tiramasu from Spasso

The best part? And you can bring your own 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 though) that is nice to sit at on a summer day. And their happy hour has excellent prices. So stop by and try some of their dishes!

23. Minnetonka Mills Park

Minnetonka Mills Park Covered in Snow
lovescolor / Flickr

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

Kids skating in Minnetonka Ice Arena
Minnetonka Ice Arena / minnetonkamn.gov

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

The Minnetonka Ice Arena is a public ice arena located in Minnetonka, Minnesota. It 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

Girl Playing Baseball

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. When athletes are playing the food stand is open that serves traditional baseball fare like hotdogs and chips.

Ad 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

Aerial View of Excelsior, Minnesota
Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers

Address: 239 Water St, Excelsior, MN 55331, United States

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, there is a movie theater that 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

Lake Minnetonka at Sunset
Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers

Address: Hennepin and Carver counties, Minnesota, United States

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, 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 too, like on Boy Scout Island.

There are so many things to do in Lake Minnetonka. You can boat, jetski, 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. In fact, the whole area is home to a number of top restaurants, making it the perfect spot for a day or night out.

Where to Stay in Minnetonka, Minnesota

If you’re visiting from out of town, here are the best places to stay during your adventures in Minnetonka.

Budget Hotels

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Minneapolis-Minnetonka, an IHG Hotel

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Minneapolis-Minnetonka Lobby
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Minneapolis-Minnetonka / Booking.com

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Minneapolis-Minnetonka is a great place to stay in the Minnetonka area. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, a complimentary breakfast, and more. There are also many things to do near the hotel, including golfing, shopping, and dining.

Some attractions near Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Minneapolis-Minnetonka, an IHG Hotel, include the Lake Minnetonka, Mall of America, Minnesota Zoo, and Mystic Lake Casino.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Minneapolis-Minnetonka

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Minneapolis-Minnetonka room interior
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Minneapolis-Minnetonka / Booking.com

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Minnetonka, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Minneapolis-Minnetonka is a great place to start. The hotel is conveniently located near many of the area’s top attractions, including Lake Minnetonka,952 Brewing Company, and the Shops at West End.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Minneapolis-Minnetonka offers guests a comfortable place to stay while in the area. The hotel features an on-site business center, laundry facilities, and an indoor pool.

There is also a complimentary breakfast buffet that is served each morning. Guests can relax in their rooms equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers.

Mid-Range Hotel

Sheraton Minneapolis West Hotel

Sheraton Minnetonka room interior
Sheraton Minneapolis West Hotel / Booking.com

The Sheraton Minneapolis West hotel is located next to the Ridgedale Mall and the major highways connecting downtown Minneapolis to Minnetonka. This is a great option to stay in if you want to visit Minneapolis and Minnetonka.

Luxury Hotels

The Hotel Landing, Wayzata

Hotel Landing, Wayzata room interior
The Hotel Landing / Booking.com

The Hotel Landing is one of the most luxurious and popular hotels on Lake Minnetonka. It’s perfect for business trips, vacations, or a weekend getaway. The hotel overlooks Lake Minnetonka and it steps away from the historic sites of downtown Wayzata.

The hotel also has a great restaurant, 925, that has a crazy good happy hour! Make sure to put the Hotel Landing on your list of travel plans!

The Hotel Ivy, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Minneapolis

Front and entrance of Hotel Ivy
The Hotel Ivy / Booking.com

The Hotel Ivy, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Minneapolis is a stunning hotel. It is about a 20-minute drive from Minnetonka, but is easily accessible by car. It is a great option if you want to stay in the city but have easy access to the suburbs.

Some of the hotel’s standout features include its beautiful art collection, its wonderful restaurants, and its luxurious spa.

Rentals

Cedar House Retreat

Cedar House Retreat Rental in Minnetonka
Cedar House Retreat / Booking.com

The Cedar House Retreat is a luxury property located in Excelsior, MN right on Lake Minnewashta. The house have everything you need, including a patio that overlooks the lake.

Why not travel with all the comforts of home? This home has WIFI, parking, a balcony, bbq facilities, and air conditioning. And with four bedrooms everyone can stay with you!

Book your stay at the Cedar House Retreat here.

Excelsior Cottage

Cottage Rental Excelsior
Excelsior Cottage / Booking.com

If you want to stay next to Lake Minnetonka, this is the house for you. The Excelsior Cottage is located right in the mix of Excelsior making it easy to walk to the lake, beach, and nearby restaurants, breweries, and theaters.

The house has three bedrooms, wifi, free parking, a garden, and a balcony. And it has a gas fireplace for the cold winter nights!

Book the Excelsior Cottage here.

See Related: Where to Stay in Minneapolis

Camping & RVs 

Shady Oak Campground LLC Camping in Minnetonka

Aerial view of Shady Oak Campground
Shady Oak Campground / Shady Oak Campground

The Shady Oak Campground LLC, Camping in Minnetonka, offers lovely views of the Minneapolis skyline and ample space for pitching tents and grill pits. It is a fun way to enjoy the great outdoors while exploring various parts of Minnesota. 

If you want to learn more about camping and other outdoor activities, this is the perfect spot. It is a fun way to enjoy the great outdoors while exploring various parts of Minnesota if you want to learn more about camping and other outdoor activities.

Fort Snelling State Park

Minnesota River at Fort Snelling State Park
Tony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0

Fort Snelling State Park is a beautiful park with hiking trails and biking trails and nature sightings. There is also a playground and a picnic area, making it the perfect spot for a day out with the family.

The park has lovely views of the Minneapolis skyline, ample space for pitching tents, and grill pits. It was once an important military post and is now a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and biking.

Minneapolis Northwest KOA Kampground

Campervans in Minneapolis Northwest KOA Kampground
wenhull / TripAdvisor

Minneapolis Northwest KOA Kampground is a family campground located in the northwest suburbs of Minneapolis, Minnesota.  The campground offers cabin and camping rentals, a swimming pool, a playground, a store, and more. There are also several activities scheduled throughout the year, including pancake breakfasts, ice cream socials, and hayrides.

The Minneapolis Northwest KOA Kampground has lovely views of the Minneapolis skyline, ample space for pitching tents and grill pits, and rich history. It was once an important military post and is now a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and biking.

See related: Do you need a car in Minneapolis?

Getting 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.

FAQ

What is the best place to stay in Minnetonka?

If you’re looking for accommodation while enjoying the fun things to do in Minnetonka, the Sheraton Minneapolis West hotel is the best place to stay. It is located near Ridgedale and has easy access to the rest of the city. Otherwise, camping is a great option.

How close is Minnetonka to Twin Cities attractions?

Minnetonka is about a 20-minute drive from downtown Minneapolis and a 30-minute drive to St. Paul. You can take a bus or the light rail from Minnetonka to the Twin Cities which makes it easy to get to an event (like a Twins baseball game or the State Fair).

Are there any Family-friendly hotels in Minnetonka?

Yes, the Country Inn & Suites By Radisson, Minnetonka is a family-friendly hotel. It offers free breakfast and Wi-Fi, as well as an indoor pool and a playground. There are also several other family-friendly hotels in Minnetonka.

What is the price range for hotels in Minnetonka? 

Hotel prices typically range from $120 – $220/night, but it depends on the type of hotel, from luxury to mid-range and budget hotels in Minnetonka.

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