Adventure Unlimited: Carver County

This post is sponsored by Xfinity

Adventure Unlimited: Carver County

🗺️ Overview of Your Day

Carver County is way more than scenic drives and charming downtowns. Tucked just southwest of the metro, towns like Chaska, Waconia, Victoria, and Cologne offer the perfect mix of small-town friendliness and family-ready fun that makes for an unforgettable day trip.

From lakeside picnics in Waconia to sweet treat stops in downtown Chaska, Carver County invites you to slow down and enjoy the ride. You can wander the trails at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Victoria, let the kids explore playgrounds and splash pads, or a quiet library. Every stop feels like its own little adventure. Whether you’re strolling by the water, browsing fun toy shops, or grabbing ice cream after a day of exploring, there’s a laid-back charm here that makes families feel welcome. With wide-open spaces, hidden gems, and a welcoming vibe around every corner.

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🚗 Getting There

Carver County is a scenic and easy drive from the Twin Cities, located just southwest of Minneapolis. Major routes like Highway 212 and Highway 5 provide convenient access to charming towns like Chaska, Carver, Waconia, and Victoria. While Highway 212 generally flows smoothly, traffic can back up during peak commuter hours, particularly near Chaska. If congestion hits, alternate roads like County Road 10 or Highway 5 through Victoria and Waconia offer a more relaxed route with beautiful countryside views. Free and city-managed parking is available throughout downtown areas, parks, and lakefronts—especially in walkable spots like Waconia’s city center, Chaska’s historic downtown, and Victoria’s park spaces—making it easy to explore family-friendly attractions, shops, and restaurants.

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🍩 Morning Kickoff: Breakfast or Coffee Spot

LOCATIONS

Mocha Monkey: 1600 Monroe Dr, Carver, MN 55315

Red Bench Bakery: 500 N Chestnut St, Chaska, MN 55318

Logan Pass Coffeehouse: 202 Paul Ave N, Cologne, MN 55322

Mocha Monkey is tucked away in the building of a bank, but looks can be deceiving. Whether or not you’re dropping in to make a deposit or just looking for a latte, Mocha Monkey can help with both! Big windows, a drive-thru, and outdoor seating make this coffee stop perfect for a leisurely coffee break or a quick grab and go.

Red Bench Bakery in Chaska is a cozy, family-friendly stop with fresh-baked pastries, breads, and sandwiches that both kids and adults will love. With plenty of seating indoors and out, it’s a great place to relax and recharge during a day out. The warm staff and ever-changing menu make each visit feel special.

Logan Pass Coffeehouse in Cologne, is a cozy, family-owned café with a welcoming vibe and kid-friendly options like grilled cheese and smoothies. Housed in a historic building, it’s a great stop for families to relax, grab a quality drink or lunch, and enjoy the small-town charm. Its also just a quick walk to the spash pad in town!

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🧗‍♂️ Morning Activity: Explore & Play

LOCATIONS

On the way out: Xfinity Store Eden Prairie: 8266 Commonwealth Dr, Eden Prairie, MN 55344

Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store: 20430 Johnson Memorial Dr, Jordan, MN 55352

Firemen’s Park: 3210 Chaska Blvd, Chaska, MN 55318

Chaska Curling Center: 3210 Chaska Blvd, Chaska, MN 55318

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum: 3675 Arboretum Dr, Chaska, MN 55318

Carlson’s Loveable Llamas: 8380 County Rd 10 E, Waconia, MN 55387

Lowry Nature Center: 7025 Nature Center Dr, Victoria, MN 55386

Get WiFi on the go!

While you’re out and about, Xfinity customers can look for mobile hot spots in the area to help save on data. With more than 23 million hot spots across the country, including throughout Carver County, Xfinity helps the whole family stay connected wherever you go.

Comcast recently expanded service to more than 795 homes and businesses in Cologne, with the network expansion officially completed in December 2024. Comcast is excited to be part of the Cologne community and is engaged in local events like Cologne Hollanders baseball games, Glad Days at the end of July, and the Carver County Fair from August 6–10.

Across Carver County, Comcast is also actively expanding to more than 15,000 additional homes and businesses in Chanhassen (new store coming soon!), Waconia, and Victoria, which will soon bring the entire suite of Xfinity and Comcast Business services to those communities as well. Visit here for the very latest details and updates.

Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store in Jordan is a bright yellow wonderland bursting with treats, puzzles, sodas, and quirky finds that’ll have kids wide-eyed and adults reminiscing. From there, head to Firemen’s Park in Chaska, a great spot to let the kids burn off some energy with a playground, splash pad, and plenty of space to run around. Don’t forget your fishing pole, the lake is bursting with sunfish. It also has a wonderful boardwalk style walking path over and around the lake to enjoy. Right next door is the Chaska Curling Center—whether you’re catching a match or just curious about the sport, it’s a unique and cozy stop (with a great restaurant overlooking the rink!).

Want a little more nature in the mix? The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chanhassen is beautiful any time of year and offers kid-friendly trails, hands-on exhibits, Japanese Garden with coi fish and the perfect storytime in their library. Just down the road, Lowry Nature Center in Victoria is another favorite—it’s peaceful and packed with wildlife viewing opportunities, interactive exhibits, and fun seasonal programs. And for something a bit unexpected (and adorable), visit Carlson’s Lovable Llamas in Waconia. The llamas are gentle and goofy, and your family can get up close for a memorable walk and some fun photos. All together, these stops make for a day—or even a weekend—of fresh air, fun activities, and a mix of sweet treats and sweet animals!

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🥪 Lunchtime Favorites

LOCATIONS

Luv’s Kitchen & Company: 1111 Village Pkwy, Cologne, MN 55322

Lola’s Lakehouse: 318 E Lake St, Waconia, MN 55387

Unhinged! Pizza: 801 Marketplace Dr, Waconia, MN 55387

Luv’s Kitchen in Cologne is a fun and easy spot for families to grab a bite. They’ve got all the favorites—burgers, breakfast burritos, smoked meats—and even better, it’s all made with local ingredients. Plus, being connected to MinneSodaLicious means there’s something sweet for everyone after the meal! It’s a great spot to grab and go for a picnic or playdate at a park.

Lola’s Lakehouse has unbelievable views of Lake Waconia, and overlooks the island- with a pretty great backstory (ask an employee to tell you all about it). If you are able to sit outside, you will find lots of shade and so much for the kids to look at you wont feel the need to hand over your phone. The food is fresh and delicious and the pizza oven inside provides delicious pizza and entertainment.

Unhinged! Pizza in Waconia is a fantastic family lunch spot thanks to its buffet during weekday lunch hours (Thursday & Friday, 11 am–2 pm) that offers not just a rotating variety of pizzas but also broasted chicken, salad bar favorites, sides, and self-serve soft‑serve ice cream for dessert. With an easy, relaxed atmosphere where kids can fill up on pizza and ice cream while parents enjoy salads and roasted chicken. 

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Before heading off on your Carver County adventure, swing by the Xfinity Store in Eden Prairie, located at 8266 Commonwealth Drive. It’s a quick and convenient stop that can make a big difference for families on the go. Explore mobile plans that include a free unlimited line of Xfinity Mobile for a year—perfect for staying connected while snapping photos at Waconia Beach or pulling up directions to your next sweet treat at The Social Ice Cream Parlor. Bonus: Xfinity’s built-in parental controls and flexible data options make managing screen time a breeze (and cut down on the meltdowns). The store itself is bright, modern, and efficient, so you can pop in, get what you need, and get right back to exploring.

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🌳 Afternoon Fun: Explore & Play

LOCATIONS

Lake Waconia Regional Park & Beach: 8170 Paradise Ln, Waconia, MN 55387

Victoria Library: 1670 Stieger Lake Ln, Victoria, MN 55386

City Square Park Splash Pad & Fritz Field: 305 Playhouse St W, Cologne, MN 55322

Benton Lake Park: Cologne, MN 55322

Lowry Nature Center: 7025 Nature Center Dr, Victoria, MN 55386

Lake Waconia Regional Park is a great spot to spend the day. The beach is perfect for swimming, and on weekends, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or pedal boats to explore the lake. Pack a picnic or just relax while the kids splash and play.

While you’re in the area, swing by the Victoria Library. This is a cozy place to cool off with some books or catch a kid-friendly event. This library has big windows that overlook a pond and lush trees. If your crew loves nature, the Lowry Nature Center in Victoria has awesome trails, hands-on exhibits, and lots of chances to spot wildlife.

Over in Cologne, Benton Lake Park is great for a peaceful walk, and the City Square Park splash pad is a total hit with younger kids. If you can find a time to visit and catch a baseball game at Fritz Field, it is a gorgeous place on a summer night.

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LOCATIONS

Bongard’s Creameries: 13200 County Rd 51, Norwood Young America, MN 55368

The Social Ice Cream Parlor: 1700 Stieger Lake Ln, Victoria, MN 55386

If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, head over to Bongards Creameries right outside of Cologne. It’s a classic roadside stop with old-school charm and scooped ice cream that hits the spot every time. Kids will love checking out the slushie machine inside, and you can’t miss the giant cow out front; it’s perfect for a quick photo op. Whether you’re stopping by after the lake or just passing through, it’s a fun and tasty place to take a break. If you need a quick snack for the ride home, grab some fresh cheese and crackers; way better than your average gas station stop.

Just a few minutes down the road in Victoria, The Social Ice Cream Parlor offers a fresh take on the classic ice cream shop. With creative flavors, locally sourced ingredients, and a cheerful, modern vibe, it’s the kind of spot where you’ll want to sample something new every visit. They’ve even got a cozy kids’ play corner and plenty of seating, making it an easy favorite for families looking to cool off and indulge, or try their outdoor seating, which overlooks a gorgeous lake.

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🛍️ Quick Shopping Stops

LOCATIONS

Little Roos : 122 Pioneer Trail, Chaska, MN 55318

501 & Company: 501 N Chestnut St, Chaska, MN 55318

Carver Junk Company: 206 N Chestnut St, Chaska, MN 55318

The Forge Game Store: 230 Pioneer Trail, Chaska, MN 55318

Kiddywampus: 860 W 78th St, Chanhassen, MN 55317

Little Roos on Pioneer Trail is a charming boutique for babies and young kids, stocked with cozy clothing, thoughtful gifts, and adorable accessories that are perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or just because. Just up the road, 501 & Company offers a playful and stylish collection of clothing and goods for girls, with trendy outfits and fun accessories that help tweens and teens show off their personal flair.

A short stroll away, Carver Junk Company is a treasure trove for creative families. With its rotating selection of vintage finds, handmade home décor, and quirky seasonal pieces, it’s the kind of place where every visit brings a new surprise. Just around the corner, The Forge Game Store is a haven for board game lovers of all ages. With shelves full of strategic games, fantasy favorites, and family-friendly options, it’s the perfect stop for a rainy-day activity or a new family game night staple.

And don’t miss Kiddywampus in nearby Chanhassen—this vibrant toy store is full of imagination-sparking gifts, sensory toys, crafts, and books that inspire learning through play. With a curated selection and a warm, welcoming vibe, Kiddywampus makes it easy to find something special for every child on your list.

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LOCATIONS

Garage Bar and Bowl: 16 W 1st St, Waconia, MN 55387

The Burrow: 7999 Victoria Dr, Victoria, MN 55386

If you’re up for a fun twist on family time, swing over to The Garage Bar & Bowl in Waconia—just a short drive away—for laid‑back pizza, local beers, bowling lanes, and classic arcade games that make it a great spot for all ages to unwind. Or head to The Burrow in Victoria, a cozy café and community hub with a relaxed atmosphere, wonderful coffee, pastries, and often local artist pop‑ups or small workshops—ideal for a comfort break between shopping and play.

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🧳 What to Pack & Plan Ahead

A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to making the most of a family day trip. From snacks to sunscreen, being ready for anything helps you stay in the moment—and turn your outing into an unforgettable adventure. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

— Sunscreen (and chapstick with SPF!)

— Bug spray

— Swimwear/swim shoes and a change of clothes

— Wet bags for swimwear

— Towels for drying off and for sitting on in the car

— External phone charger

— Sunglasses for the whole family

— SNACKS + water bottles

— Baby powder to help get sand off of little feet (trust us!)

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📸 Photo‑Worthy Spots in Carver County

LOCATIONS

Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store: 20430 Johnson Memorial Dr, Jordan, MN 55352

City Square Park, Cologne: John Ave N, Cologne, MN 55322

Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store in Jordan is a photographer’s dream stop. Its iconic yellow barn and mile-long picket fence offer bold, vibrant shots right off Highway 169. Inside, the whimsical interior is a feast for the eyes too: ceiling murals, soda-wall displays, a rotating galaxy dome, an animatronic band, and colorful candy walls all make for playful, eye-catching photos that beg to be shared.

In nearby Cologne, a newly unveiled mural in City Square Park adds a splash of color and creativity to the town center. Painted on the west wall of the historic fire barn near the splash pad, the mural showcases scenes from the town’s early days and celebrates local heritage with vivid detail. It’s a beautiful backdrop for a quick photo or a leisurely walk through this charming community space.

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