Twin Cities Family

Lakes for Days: Lake Minnetonka & More

I don’t even know where to start in talking about all the fun you can have in and around Lake Minnetonka. It’s huge – about 125 miles worth of shoreline – and borders ​approximately 14 communities in the western part of the Twin Cities.
Lakes for Days: Lake Minnetonka | Twin Cities Familys Blog

So, without rambling on about how super this area is – here are a few of my favorite things to do and places to visit in the Lake Minnetonka neighborhood:

6Smith – You may have been to NorthCoast at one point in time in Wayzata. RIGHT on the water. It’s now 6Smith and if you’re looking for a very enjoyable (somewhat pricier) meal – definitely add this to your list. It also has a really decent kid’s menu and killer lobster guacamole.

Al & Alma’s Chartered Cruises – This is a unique way to spend an afternoon with your family. The chartered cruises are SO. FUN. and you get a wonderful tour of the lake. Al & Alma’s is also a classic supper club so you could really make a day of it here!

COV – Another new-ish place in Wayzata. It’s got a clean, bright, nautical feel and is a perfect addition to the city. The remodel of the former Sunsets is remarkable, and the food is top-notch, too! (Recommended: date night/girl’s night out)

Excelsior – the entire lakeside community. If you love cute boutiques, delicious food, and the feel of a small cozy community within a short distance of the metro, this should be your stop. A few places I’d recommend here are: Maynard’s, Coalition, Lagos Tacos, Yumi’s SushiAdele’s CustardLicks UnlimitedTommy’s Tonka Trolley, Ooh La LaThe Sitting Room, and 318 Cafe.

Lakes for Days: Lake Minnetonka | Twin Cities Familys Blog

Lake Minnetonka Swimming Pond – The “pond” is a chlorinated swimming pond completely surrounded by sand in Minnetrista. There’s also a concession stand and beach umbrellas.

Lord Fletcher’s – This great place is located in Spring Park. They have a marvelous brunch, wonderful views, a HUGE outdoor patio, multiple areas to sit, and broomball and volleyball leagues.

The Minnetonka Drive-In – Oh HELLO. This place is the ultimate vintage summer spot to take the fam. They have amazing root beer floats, greasy burgers, Sloppy Joe’s, incredible chicken (seriously – how do they do it?), and of course – malts & shakes. They also have a ton of options for the kiddos – chicken tenders, corn dogs, grilled cheese, and so much more.

The Narrows Saloon – This place isn’t lakeside – but it’s located just off the lake in a fun little lakeside community called Navarre. It’s a super fun place with great live music, craft beers, and a homey-welcome feel.

Surfside Beach – Located in Mound, this is a quaint little park on the lake. It’s got a cute name, a great play area, sandy beach, and boat launch. If you feel like picnicking, it also has a pavilion and some picnic areas.

Lakes for Days: Lake Minnetonka | Twin Cities Familys Blog

Have you spent time in this area? What’s your favorite place or thing to do?


This post is part of our Lakes for Days Series. Read more posts from this series HERE.

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