Top 3 Things to Do in Minnetonka

Minnetonka serves as a hub of outdoor recreation for those who live near the Twin Cities, and if you love the great outdoors, you’ll love everything offered here. There are nearly 50 parks, numerous biking and hiking trails, and over 1,000 acres of open spaces. If you’re looking for a place to escape the concrete jungle and explore nature at its finest, Minnetonka is an excellent choice. You’ll also find various restaurants, local boutiques, high-end shops, and more. Minnetonka is a wonderful place to work, live, and play, with many unique and fun activities. Continue reading to learn more about the top things to do in Minnetonka.

Minnetonka has many parks and outdoor spaces that you can explore. Whether you’re looking to visit a local park or want to bike the trails, you’re guaranteed to find something to do. No trip to Minnetonka is complete without utilizing the city’s extensive hiking and trail network. The city has nearly 90 miles of trails to accommodate hikers of all levels.

5624 Shady Oak Rd, Minnetonka, MN

This gorgeous community park features over 146 acres of shoreline and two miles of trails. Visitors of the park can access picnic areas, grills, a playground, shelters, and tennis courts. There are open fields for football and soccer, a basketball court, and areas reserved for fishing. Long Lake Community Park and Preserve is a great spot to enjoy a warm afternoon with family and friends.

16714 Seymour Dr. Minnetonka, MN

Spring Hill Park is one of the most frequently used and popular parks in Minnetonka. It boasts designated spots for skating and roller hockey, tennis courts, horseshoe courts, and a playground for the kids. You’ll find many hiking and biking trails throughout the park, perfect for nature-watching.

11522 Minnetonka Blvd, Hopkins, MN

This beautiful park in Minnetonka is the perfect spot for a day out with the family. Big Willow Park has a playground, walking trail, fishing pier, and more. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy a sunny day of bird-watching. You might spot the park's signature birds, blue jays, cardinals, or woodpeckers. In addition to the abundance of green fields and play areas, the park also features a flying carousel.

13209 McGinty Rd E, Minnetonka, MN

Another of the city’s impressive parks is Minnetonka Mills. This park spans 11 acres along the Mississippi River in historic downtown Minnetonka. You’ll find various biking trails, a playground, picnic areas, and a fishing pond. There is also a nature center on-site offering educational programs throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date spot or a place to take the kids for the day, Minnetonka Mills Park is an excellent choice.

5200 Shady Oak Rd, Minnetonka, MN

It’s not the great outdoors if there isn’t a beach involved. Shady Oak Beach offers over 70 feet of gorgeous sandy shoreline and spring-fed clear water. Let the kids spend the day splashing around and rest easy knowing lifeguards are always on duty.

Minnetonka Mills sits on the site of Minnetonka’s first settlement, between Hopkins Crossroad and I-494. There’s a stunning tree-lined trail along a creek where you can walk and enjoy an afternoon in the park. Visitors can explore the boardwalks and botanical gardens, enjoy shopping at the locale’s small shopping district, and visit a community favorite — the Burwell House.

13209 E McGinty Rd E, Minnetonka, MN

Close to Minnehaha Creek is a gorgeous Victorian home with beautiful, intricate Italianate architecture. The house, built in 1883 by Charles H. Burwell, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building sits on a five-acre lot and features the original family’s furnishings. You can also visit the millworker’s cottage, the mill office, an old ice house, and a woodshed. The house is open for tours between June and September. The Minnetonka Historical Society also holds a free holiday open house and a Halloween-themed children’s party.

3401 Williston Rd, Minnetonka, MN

Minnetonka Ice Arena is a popular community spot for families and residents young at heart. Those who love ice skating and hockey or have always wanted to learn to skate will enjoy this beloved space. The arena boasts several skating programs, including a figure skating club, multiple hockey associations, and a public arena.

11522 Minnetonka Blvd., Hopkins, MN

The Big Willow Community Preserve and Athletic Complex is a highly popular space near Minnetonka’s large suburbs where children can participate in various sports and activities. The athletic complex houses various sports teams and the park offers ample biking and walking trails. Be sure to keep an eye out for the preserve's stunning willow trees located on the grounds.

14525 MN-7 #180, Minnetonka, MN

The Sanctuary Float Spa is the perfect spot for a memorable relaxation experience. If you’re looking for a way to treat yourself in Minnetonka, this spa is the first place that should come to mind. The spa offers floatation therapy, a technique designed to relax the mind and body and reduce stress. Begin with a signature massage before heading to the zero-gravity float spa, where you’ll float in a saltwater solution meant to de-stress and rejuvenate your body.

12401 Wayzata Blvd, Minnetonka, MN

Ridgedale Center is a premier shopping mall in Minnetonka and is known as the first indoor shopping mall in the country. Over 100 stores call this massive complex their home, including big-name retailers like Macy’s and Nordstrom. An eclectic mix of high-end, upscale shops, restaurants, entertainment hotspots, and even a movie theater round out this exciting retail destination. Guests will be pleased to know there are several kid-friendly areas located throughout the complex, giving parents a chance to unwind and children the opportunity to let loose.

Minnetonka is an excellent place to explore, whether enjoying an unforgettable spa experience, immersing yourself in local history, or surrounding yourself with lush, picturesque nature in a nearby park. If you’re interested in purchasing Minnetonka real estate and want to discuss the next steps, contact industry professional Ryan Platzke today.