Minnetonka

Minnetonka

 

 

At just a nine-mile distance from the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington Metro Area, Minnetonka is home to about 50,000 people who enjoy a high standard of living. Minnetonka’s name derives from a Dakota word meaning “big water.” Indeed, the suburb borders the eastern part of the expansive Lower Lake Minnetonka (and features many lakeshore homes overlooking the waters). The lake and its beautiful surroundings inspired the Minnetonka Moccasins brand.

 

Minnetonka’s history involves the Native American Mounds Tribes’ settlements; the area was the site of one of the earliest mills west of the Mississippi River. In general, the town saw a boom in tourism after the Civil War, and Minnetonka would see even more growth at the turn of the century when city dwellers flocked to the lake and occupied some of the most magnificent hotels in the world. Although the historic hotels no longer stand, Minnetonka has Victorian-style, shingle, and modern rustic architecture and is home to the headquarters of some major American private companies. In short, there is ample opportunity for a recreational lifestyle and room to enjoy success.

 

 

• Enjoy Lake Minnetonka with its 30 bays and plenty of places to access the water
• Tour the shores and see the Minnehaha, a refurbished steamboat that once sunk there
• Visit the Minnetonka Yacht Club and join one of the oldest clubs in the country
• A location near the Twin Cities, yet home to various parks and lees for fishing
• Spend time on a boat cruise or charter for sightseeing and entertainment
  
  

 

At the start of the 20th century, Minnetonka was the site of over 70 hotels, and crowds would descend on the city from double-decker trolleys from Minneapolis. The shores of Lake Minnetonka have a long history; the region hosts amusement parks and fantastic hotels. This historic grandeur isn’t lost in contemporary times — the area’s residents remain dedicated to the pursuit of pleasure in gorgeous surroundings. 

 

Locals recommend the BLVD Kitchen & Bar on Wayzata Drive for a high-dining experience in a niche restaurant with an exposed brick façade and wood interior. Bacio has fantastic Italian, Mediterranean, and Asian fare. Lastly, Kona Grill has the hottest new American dishes, sushi, and an ample selection of cocktails. 

 

The retail highlight of Minnetonka is the General Store of Minnetonka. The building, which occupies some 15,000 square feet, looks and feels old-fashioned. Its offerings are decidedly Minnesotan: there are commercial antiques, toys and games for children, and a wealth of handmade items spanning jewelry, clothing, and Christmas gifts. The store is family-run, and its cafe sells excellent baked goods.

 

 

Lake Minnetonka provides residents with over 125 miles of shoreline. The Minnetonka Mills Park features the Charles H. Burwell historic site and offers tours to the public as well as access to Botanical Gardens and a lovely boardwalk. Purgatory Community Preserve is another green place worth visiting. 

 

There are also quite a few indoor sights to relish. The Ridgedale Center is an upscale, modern shopping center and a great place to spend an afternoon. There are also plenty of shops like The General Store of Minnetonka, which sells home goods designed in authentic Minnesotan styles. Whether inside or outside, Lake Minnetonka has plenty of places for winding down and feeling comfortable. 

 

 

Minnetonka is part of Minnetonka School District 276 and comprises nine other suburban communities in the area.