How Much Do You Know About The Lake Minnetonka Area?

Lake Minnetonka is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Lake Minnetonka has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

• There are several public beaches on Lake Minnetonka, including Excelsior Beach, Wayzata Beach and Big Island Beach. Visitors can swim, sunbathe and enjoy the lake's crystal-clear waters.
• The Lake Minnetonka Regional Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking and cross-country skiing. The park also has a beach, a fishing pier and a boat launch.
• The Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail is a 15-mile paved trail that winds around the lake and through several neighboring towns. The trail is popular among walkers, runners and cyclists and offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding area.
• The historic Steamboat Minnehaha offers cruises around Lake Minnetonka during the summer months. The steamboat is a replica of the original Minnehaha, which operated on the lake from 1906 to 1926. During the cruise, passengers can learn about the lake's history and enjoy stunning views of the shoreline.
• The Lord Fletcher's Old Lake Lodge is a popular restaurant and bar located on the shores of Lake Minnetonka. The restaurant has been a favorite among locals and visitors since it opened in 1968 and is known for its casual atmosphere, live music and delicious food.
• The historic Excelsior Amusement Park operated on the shores of Lake Minnetonka from 1925 to 1973. The park was known for its wooden roller coaster, the Cyclone and its dance pavilion, which hosted big-band concerts and dance parties.
• The historic Minnetonka Drive-In Theater opened in 1950 and is still in operation today. The theater offers a nostalgic movie-going experience, complete with car-side service and classic concessions.
• The Westonka Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the history of the Lake Minnetonka area. The society operates the Westonka History Museum, which showcases artifacts, photographs and documents related to the area's history.
• The Wayzata Art Experience is an annual art festival held in downtown Wayzata. The festival features works by local and national artists, as well as live music, food vendors and family-friendly activities.
• The Gale Woods Farm is a working farm located on the shores of Lake Minnetonka. The farm offers educational programs and workshops for children and adults, as well as a community-supported agriculture program that provides fresh produce to local residents.
• The Excelsior Art on the Lake is a juried art show held in downtown Excelsior. The event features works by local and regional artists, as well as live music and food vendors.
• The Noerenberg Gardens is a public park located on the shores of Lake Minnetonka. The park features beautiful gardens, walking paths and a historic boathouse.

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