Maple Grove is the eighth-largest city in the Minneapolis / Saint Paul metropolitan area, only 20 minutes outside the loop. It is a beautiful place to live and raise a family, not just for the excellent school districts but also for the sheer amount of fun available within and near the city.
It was voted by “Parents” Magazine as one of the top 10 cities for families to live in. There are lots of great parks, recreation centers, and community events. It is also home to two nationally renowned shopping destinations.
In my opinion, the best thing about Maple Grove may be all the available fun. Here are the best things to do in Maple Grove, Minnesota, just waiting for you.
Things To Do in Maple Grove, Minnesota
1. Free Summer Concerts at the Maple Grove Community Center
Maple Grove is home to some of the best free concerts in the Twin Cities. Every Friday night from June through August, you can catch a great band performing for free.
Concessions are available, but no alcohol or smoking is allowed. If you’re in a band and looking to get booked, you can put in an application to perform at one of these concerts.
See Related: Best Indoor Activities in Minnesota
2. Go On A Spree at The Shoppes At Arbor Lakes
The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes hosts an annual block party on July 3rd, with live music and fireworks. This event has become one of Minnesota’s most popular events. So, don’t miss it if you plan on staying in Maple Grove. This shopping center is among the best in the Twin Cities metro area. There are over 250 stores, including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom Rack, and Pottery Barn Kids. You can support local independent stores here as well.
3. Explore Elm Creek Park Reserve
Are you ready to get plenty of exercise when you visit Maple Grove? At Elm Creek Park Reserve, you have almost 5,000 acres of land, including hiking and biking trails. There’s a pond to go swimming in as well.
Bring your camera to take snapshots of the abundance of wildlife, including swans, eagles, bluebirds, and more. Bring your family pet and let him roam around off-leash. There are even trails specifically for dogs. Come here to go skiing, camp with friends, horseback riding, and practice your archery skills in the Twin Cities.
4. Visit the Hindu Temple of Minnesota
On the outskirts of Maple Grove is the stunning Hindu Temple of Minnesota. This religious structure is a sight to see regardless of your religious affiliation. The Hindu Temple serves as a place of worship for the 40,000 Hindu people in the greater Minneapolis area.
You can drive by and bask in the beauty of the temple, or you can attend a service. Even though Hindu people predominantly use this temple, their services are open to all respectful individuals, and there are tours of the building available.
See Related: Best Winter Destinations in Minnesota
5. Go Ice Skating at Central Park Loop
In one of the largest and most popular parks in town sits an ice skating loop that locals and visitors love. The Central Park Ice Skating Loop is 20 feet wide and slightly over 800 feet long, giving you plenty of room for a leisurely skate.
You can rent ice skates on a first-come, first-served basis if you don’t have your own. The best part is that they have concession stands near the loop where you can grab a hot chocolate when you need a break from the ice.
6. Admire the Art at the Maple Grove Art Center
For a day filled with beautiful art, you need to check out the Maple Grove Art Center. The center offers gallery showings frequently where you can see the works of local and national artists.
You can find their gallery schedule on their website. Something unique about this art center is that they offer art classes. So, if you want to hone your art skills or learn something new while visiting Maple Grove, this is the place to do it. They have adult and youth classes available.
7. Try to Escape at Enigma Adventures
The perfect rainy day activity, or for whenever, is to try your hand at an escape room. Enigma Adventures is right in town and offers two different escape rooms. One has a storyline based on CIA agents and international spies—the other one concerns pirates, which is a unique option.
When you enter whichever escape room you’ve chosen, you’ll have 60 minutes to solve the puzzles and escape from the room. Each room has a different difficulty level so that you can challenge yourself and your friends to an exciting activity.
8. Paint Ceramics at Color Me Mine
What better way to take home a souvenir from your trip to Maple Grove than to create one yourself? Color Me Mine, you and your travel buddies can paint and take ceramics home. They have a variety of ceramics for you to choose from.
You can paint mugs, plates, home decor, and more. The staff is friendly and there to assist you in whatever way you need during your time. You’ll want to make a reservation online before going, but they almost always have room unless there’s a private party going on.
9. Treat Yourself at The Woodhouse Day Spa
When you are in the Maple Grove area, don’t forget to take some time to pamper yourself. Come to the Woodhouse Day Spa for a relaxing massage.
If you have not tried one of the hottest spa trends known as “hydrafacial,” now is the time to do so while you are here. This peaceful facility also provides manicures, pedicures, and foot wraps.
The spa is conveniently located at the Shoppes at Arbor Lakes. So come here to relax and get pampered in the middle of a long shopping spree.
10. Show Off Your Swing at Rush Creek Golf Club
Minnesota has some beautifully designed golf courses. If you want to spend your morning or evening on the green, Rush Creek Golf Club is the best golf course in Maple Grove. This championship golf course was founded and opened in 1996 and featured 18 holes for people of all skill levels to enjoy.
You can take lessons or hit the driving range to practice your game. In addition, they have a great restaurant for you to enjoy a meal after your game. The restaurant has all your favorite classic American dishes and plenty of delicious local beers to kick back and relax with.
11. Visit the Pierre Bottineau House
Near the chalet in Elm Creek Park Reserve is the Pierre Bottineau House. This tin home is a restored 1854 home. You’ll feel like you’ve teleported back in time as you visit. Once you walk in, you’ll be surrounded by exhibits depicting Bottineau’s legendary life.
Bottineau was a hunter and early settler of Maple Grove. You’ll learn how he used his skills and dedication helps him mold the early cities of Minnesota. Since the beginning, the house has been moved around several times, and has resided in Maple Grove since 2009.
12. Tackle an American Ninja Warrior Course at Ninjas United
Have you ever seen American Ninja Warrior and thought about how fun it would be to be one of the athletes on the course? Now you can show off your skills at Ninjas United in Maple Grove. This authentic American Ninja Warrior course is large and features obstacles for people of all ages and skill levels.
Kids and adults can participate, and it’s an enjoyable experience. You’ll need to purchase a class to enter the gym and try out the obstacles. The staff is friendly and excited to be there and help you throughout the course.
13. Sip Craft Beer at OMNI Brewing Co.
After taking in a baseball game or a long day of shopping at the massive malls in the area, it may be time for an ice-cold beer. There are lots of brews on tap and seasonal selections for you to try. The place is dog friendly, so bring your pup in during the happy hour.
If visiting the tap room for a range of beers is not enough to draw you in, you might be enticed to come here for the many events. Every Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., bring friends or family for Tacos and Tunes.
Be on the lookout for scheduled food trucks, or check out the calendar to see which ones will be there. Unlike most places, you can bring food outside to The Tap Room. Consider using their mobile Taproom service if you need beer for your next event.
14. Get Fresh Produce at the Maple Grove Farmers Market
One of the most relaxed yet fun experiences you can have in town is to check out their Farmers Market. The market has been a staple within the community since 2004, where farmers and other vendors can gather and share their creations with locals and visitors.
As you browse the booths, you’ll find plenty of fresh produce, flowers, and other unique creations from vendors. Some people sell jewelry, antiques, clothing, and more. You can find the market inside the Maple Grove Community Center during the winter and spring.
15. Spend Time at Town Green Park
All the parks in Maple Grove are lovely, but Town Green Park is known for sharing a love for the performing arts. There’s a stage with seating around it. There are constant performers and shows happening for the community. If you’re not in the park when a performance occurs, there’s still plenty to do.
The park has all the facilities you need in a park. You can walk, have a picnic, ride your bike, or post up with an excellent book and enjoy the fresh air.
16. Go Boating on Eagle Lake
There’s no better way to beat the Minnesota heat in the summer than boating. Locals and people from the greater Minneapolis area love taking a boat out onto the lakes, and the best one in Maple Grove is Eagle Lake.
There’s a boat ramp near Eagle Point off 63rd Avenue North. If you or your friends have a boat, this day is even more effortless. If you don’t, there are several boat rental companies nearby where you can snag a pontoon boat for the day.
See Related: Things to Do in Cottage Grove
17. Cool Off At Venetian Indoor Waterpark
Did you know there was such an indoor water park themed as Venice, Italy… in Maple Grove? Yeah, it exists. This water park is only open on the weekends but has extended hours during holidays and school breaks.
This source of family fun is part of the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites at Arbor Lakes. Unfortunately, the water park is only available to hotel guests. Hotel guests get free admission for up to 5 guests.
See Related: Things to Do in Prior Lake
18. Get Some Fresh Air at Maple Grove Arboretum
Maple Grove Arboretum is a picturesque 15-acre park situated along Elm Creek. It boasts over 100 local, hardy trees for exhibit and study, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and tree enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park as they admire the diversity of the tree species.
The Arboretum features hiking trails connecting to Rice Lake and the Medicine Lake Regional Trail, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the surrounding area. The scenic trails are perfect for a relaxing walk or an invigorating jog, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
One of the highlights of the Maple Grove Arboretum is the Angel of Hope statue. This captivating memorial occupies a special place in the community’s hearts, representing hope and solace for those who have experienced loss. Many visitors pause to reflect and pay their respects at the statue during their visit to the Arboretum.
In addition to its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, the park has a picnic pavilion and grilling areas. Visitors can take a break from their outdoor activities, enjoy a meal with friends or family, and relish the park’s beauty. With its natural attractions, well-maintained facilities, and inviting ambiance, Maple Grove Arboretum is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the charm of Maple Grove, Minnesota.
19. Browse Jewelry at Lottie’s Trinkets
One of the best things about visiting new places is shopping at local boutiques and stores. Lottie’s Trinkets is a local jewelry store in Maple Grove and a great place to get souvenirs for friends back home or for yourself. Lottie’s Trinkets offers necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and even sets, so you can have matching options.
20. Put the Pedal to the Metal at ProKart Indoor Racing
ProKart Indoor Racing in Maple Grove offers an exhilarating experience for go-kart enthusiasts and first-time racers. Open all year long, this indoor/outdoor facility is so much fun if you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping action and is one of the most fun things to do in Maple Grove. ProKart Indoor Racing appeals to a wide range of audiences, from novice drivers and experienced racing fans to families looking for a unique and thrilling day out.
The facility provides everything needed for a fantastic go-karting experience. With high-performance race karts capable of reaching 40 mph, drivers can navigate hairpin turns and long straights on one of two unique tracks in the Twin Cities area. During the warmer months, visitors can also enjoy the Maple Grove location’s outdoor track section.
ProKart Indoor Racing offers more than just arrive-and-drive racing. They also host leagues, private parties, and corporate events in a family-friendly environment. The structured events ensure maximum participation, enjoyment, and safety for all participants, making it an excellent choice for a private party, group outing, or team-building event.
ProKart Indoor Racing in Maple Grove is an outstanding destination to experience fast-paced go-kart racing. With options for all skill levels, year-round availability, and a variety of event options, it is an excellent addition to any visit to Maple Grove.
FAQs
What is Maple Grove famous for?
Maple Grove is recognized for its retail and medical sectors. Known as one of the Twin Cities premier shopping destinations, it boasts one of the largest shopping centers in the region, The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes. It is also home to many medical facilities, contributing significantly to the Twin Cities economy.
Why is it called Maple Grove?
The name “Maple Grove” represents the city’s natural heritage. Originally covered by a thick forest with many maple trees, early settlers were inspired to name the area Maple Grove. Despite growing into a bustling city, Maple Grove retains its connection to nature with numerous parks and open spaces.
Is Maple Grove a good place to live?
Yes, Maple Grove is widely regarded as a great place to live. Its high standard of living, quality education system and lower crime rates compared to national averages make it an appealing choice for families. Its retail and medical industries also provide ample employment opportunities, enhancing liveability.
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