When the warm breezes start the flow through Minnesota and the blue waters of the lakes begin to thaw, everyone knows that summer is finally on the horizon. This short but sweet season is when Lake Minnetonka comes to life, and droves of people head to the lake as well as the surrounding region to soak up the sunshine.
There’s no shortage of things to do in and around Lake Minnetonka this summer. Here’s a few ideas to consider for your next visit:
Spend a Day with the Family on Wayzata Beach
Wayzata Beach is a great place to make memories with your family on the shores of Lake Minnetonka. It is a public beach that has parking nearby, and also is accessible through the marina. Parents appreciate the fact that their children can swim safely in the refreshing waters, as there are life guards on duty. In addition, there are public restrooms that also include an outdoor shower. Whether you simply want to enjoy a beachfront picnic or you want to spend your day splashing in the water, Wayzata Beach is a great place to go.
Browse through the Books at the Wayzata Library
There’s no better way to waste away an afternoon than browsing through books at the local library. Seek out your favorite mystery thriller, or discover a romance to indulge in. There’s always activities going on at the library as well. Adults can find a book club to participate in, while children will enjoy story time with the librarians. While you are at the Wayzata Library, you also can appreciate the terrific views of Lake Minnetonka.
Enjoy a Private Charter Cruise on Lake Minnetonka
Relaxing on the waters of Lake Minnetonka has never been easier. Paradise Charter Cruises offers private cruising experiences for any occasion — whether you have a day off and just want to make the most of it, or you want to celebrate a milestone moment in your life. Our cruise guides make sure that your experience is peaceful and enjoyable, offering amenities such as cocktails, appetizers and more.
Stroll Through the Various Gardens in the Area
Wayzata is known for its appreciation of natural beauty, which is why there are so many public gardens available for residents and visitors to enjoy. The Noerenberg Gardens are formal gardens located on the Noerenberg estate. Visitors can visit at any point during the summer and appreciate the fresh blooms, which vary from month to month. Other gardens to consider include the Wayzata Depot Gardens and the Wayzata Garden Railroad.
Take a Breathtaking Bike Ride on a Local Trail
Wayzata has taken advantage of the rails-to-trails movement that has swept across the United States, and converted the former Luce Line into the Luce Line State Trail. Now, there’s a 63-mile recreational trail that runs through the heart of Wayzata, offering those who want to appreciate nature’s beauty the chance to enjoy their favorite activity while soaking up unparalleled views. This trail was developed not only for bikers, hikers and skaters, but also for horseback riders.
Explore the Three Rivers Regional Parks
To fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Lake Minnetonka region, a visit to the Three Rivers Regional Parks is a must-do. The development consists of more than 27,000 acres of parks and recreational trails. Popular things to do at the parks include fishing on the rivers and streams, walking your dog on the dedicated dog trails, letting your children burn energy on the playgrounds, camping or participating in an educational farming experience. This is a space where residents and visitors alike go to escape the hustle and bustle of their daily lives and appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors.
Pick a Water Sport and Experience Thrills on the Lake
Lake Minnetonka is an all-sporting lake, allowing water-loving people to enjoy their favorite activities. You can spend the afternoon lazily fishing off the side of your boat, or hook up the tube and experience the rush of adrenaline as you sail over the wake! Water skiing, paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming are just a few of the water activities that have become favorite pastimes of the visitors of Lake Minnetonka.
Savor a Meal at a Dockside Dining Location
While you can enjoy a picnic lunch on the sandy beach, there’s also other options for those who want to have a meal by the water. There are several dockside dining restaurants and beachfront grills on Lake Minnetonka, giving visitors a chance to grab an energizing lunch or delicious dinner while appreciating the cool breeze and the cerulean waters. From fine dining experiences along the dock to a quick pizza before you head out on the boat for the evening, there’s a dining option for everyone who loves to combine their passion for the lake with their appreciation for delectable delights.
Step into History at Trapper’s Cabin
Wayzata is not only a community with modern amenities and a promising future, but it also boasts a rich history. Nestled in the heart of Shaver Park is the Trapper’s Cabin. This cabin likely dates back to the 1800s — though some believe it could have been built in the 1750s — and was originally located on the scenic Bushaway Road. It was recently relocated to the park, where preservation efforts have been underway. Those who want to get a sense of what the wilderness of Minnesota was like hundreds of years ago can take the trail that is lined with sugar maple trees within the park. There they will discover this historic cabin and see firsthand what life must have been like for the pioneers who settled the land of Minnesota.
Experience One of Many Community Events
Throughout the summer, Lake Minnetonka and the surrounding region is host to a variety of exciting and inviting community events. Music aficionados will love the summer concert series, which brings a wide variety of musical artists to the area for lively concerts. The Wayzata Art Experience is a great festival for those who appreciate the arts and want to take a special souvenir home from their time at Lake Minnetonka. During the summer months, there’s always an exciting event or lively activity going on in and around Lake Minnetonka.
There’s nothing quite like the serene beauty of Lake Minnetonka, but the best way to truly experience the majesty of these waters is aboard a private charter cruise. Let us be your guide and give you an up-close glimpse of Lake Minnetonka. Call Paradise Charter Cruises today to book your cruise.