Top 8 Things to Do in Chanhassen

Just over 20 miles southwest of Minneapolis, Chanhassen is a scenic city with a thriving arts and outdoor recreation scene. With a highly successful dinner theater, dozens of hiking trails, and great restaurants, Chanhassen has a wealth of opportunities for anyone looking to put down roots nearby. So, if you’re browsing for Chanhassen luxury homes, take a look at some of the best things to do in Chanhassen.

Located on Audubon Road, minutes from Chanhassen real estate, is Paisley Park, the studio and private residence of Prince. Visiting Paisley Park is one of the best things to do in Chanhassen, as it gives a glimpse into the life of one of the most successful musicians of the late 20th century. Paisley Park offers a few different ticket packages for visitors, including the Ultimate Experience, which includes access to each of the three on-site studios, private screenings of exclusive footage from Prince’s life, VIP tours, and beverages. The venue also hosts seasonal events, like Paisley Park After Dark, and exhibitions highlighting different aspects of Prince’s life and personality, including a look at his extensive shoe collection. A fun attraction unique to Chanhassen, Paisley Park isn’t one to miss.

 

One of Chanhassen’s most beloved venues is the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, known for its high-caliber productions of musicals, comedy shows, concert series, and cabaret performances. Founded in 1968, the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres was originally developed to bring Broadway to the Midwest. At the time, Chanhassen only had 500 residents. Now, the 90,000-square-foot theater is still an active part of the community, which is 26,000 members strong. Guests are invited to select tickets to performances ranging from Footloose to Johnny Cash tributes to disco shows, and then dine while they watch. Tickets include an entree, bread, and a choice of coffee, tea, or milk. Appetizers, drinks, and desserts are also available at an additional cost. The theater is truly a staple of art and culture within Chanhassen and regularly draws in talent from across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.

For a day out enjoying the summer sunshine, Lake Minnewashta Regional Park is hard to beat. Just a few minutes from Chanhassen real estate, the park features 340 acres of sprawling parkland right on the shores of the lake. It’s a great spot to bring your dog, as there’s an on-site dog run. You can also invite family and friends to join you for a picnic. Sports courts, a boat deck, and a playground are just some of the amenities you’ll find at Lake Minnewashta.

One of the top things to do in Chanhassen is to visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in the neighboring city, Chaska. Only a 10-minute drive from town, the arboretum is a 1,200-acre oasis that’s part of the University of Minnesota. Established in 1958, the gardens now take advanced reservations for residents interested in exploring the beautiful grounds. Each week during the summer, a new plant is featured to help locals learn more about native and non-native flora. The arboretum hosts an annual 13.3-kilometer “Bike the Arb” race for cyclists as well as performances, garden parties, and spring brunch events.

Anyone who loves a good laugh will want to spend an evening at Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret, one of the Twin Cities’ best clubs. Part of the Chanhassen community for more than three decades, Stevie Ray’s is in operation with the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres to put on weekly performances every Friday and Saturday night.

 

The Stevie Ray’s Comedy Troupe performs improvisational comedy by taking suggestions from the audience. Anyone looking for Chanhassen real estate will love getting the chance to toss out an idea and watch the performers roll with it. Interactive and hilarious, the Stevie Ray’s performers keep the atmosphere casual and relaxed while guests grab a bite and enjoy the show.

 

If you’re looking for things to do in Chanhassen that involve hitting the greens, you’ll want to take a trip to the Hazeltine National Golf Club. Hazeltine is currently the future site of the 2024 U.S. Amateur Championship as well as the 2029 Ryder Cup. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Hazeltine opened in 1962 and invites residents of Chaska and Chanhassen to get the most out of their membership. In addition to the incredible 18-hole course, Hazeltine’s beautiful 49,000-square-foot clubhouse has a rustic, lodge-like feel that overlooks the stunning greens.

 

For a night of fine dining in Chanhassen, there’s no finer spot than Axels. This upscale steakhouse is the restaurant of choice for anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion. Locals love Axels’ delicious horseradish hash browns and bone-in ribeye. With intimate lighting and traditional decor, the restaurant gives the feel of a classy, old-fashioned dinner club. Their grilled meats and perfectly paired sides alongside signature cocktails and tasty desserts keep Chanhassen residents coming back for more.

 

Aside from what you can do right in the heart of Chanhassen, there are a few key attractions that are a short drive away. Just 10 minutes from town, residents can visit the unique Minnesota Streetcar Museum, complete with historic cars and rides along the scenic countryside. Just over half an hour away in Minneapolis, Chanhassen residents can visit great venues like the Minnesota Zoo and the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The zoo has been in operation since the late 1970s and hosts over 2,300 animals, while the Institute of Art is a breathtaking example of neo-classical architecture and displays more than 90,000 works of art.

If you’re interested in Chanhassen real estate, reach out to the team at Helgeson Platzke Real Estate Group. As the top Coldwell Banker Realty Team in the state and with over $2 billion total in successful sales, the Helgeson Platzke Group is adept at connecting buyers with their dream properties. Ryan Platzke and Brace Helgeson are ready to help you start your next adventure!


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