LAKE MINNETONKA
LAKE MINNETONKA
COMMUNITY GUIDE 2023
Excelsior : A lakeside oasis
Excelsior is a lively town for both residents and outsiders to enjoy in a variety of ways . The 1-square-mile city boasts scenic views of Gideon ’ s Bay and Excelsior Bay on Lake Minnetonka , all situated in a town that houses more than 2,300 people . Alongside its strong residential support , the city also brings in curious visitors . When visiting Lake Minnetonka , residents and visitors alike can participate in year-round community staple events , walk through a variety of local parks for a brush with nature as well as peruse a downtown filled with boutique shops and tasty eateries .
Water Street serves as the center of it all with a downtown featuring retail shops and local businesses . Restaurants offer all types of cuisine and beverages , from Mexican street tacos to Japanese cuisine to bakery goods aplenty . Visitors can opt for a drink at one of several places , including out on the spacious patios of Excelsior Brewing Company ’ s , Haskell ’ s and Maynard ’ s ,
Excelsior is also known for its hospitality showcased at its events . The city continues to encourage community involvement with several annual events , starting with the Bridgewater Bank Luck O ’ The Lake and the Our Savior Lutheran Church Community Easter Egg Hunt , continuing on into the season of better weather for the Concerts in the Commons series , Apple Days and Art on the Lake .
When the weather gets cold , Excelsior becomes a winter escape for its residents . Residents look forward to a “ Christmas in Excelsior ” with the Christkindlmarkt Thanksgiving
Day weekend and sleigh rides . Sports fans eagerly attend the North American Pond Hockey Championship on Excelsior Bay . Additional winter activities include Arctic Fever across South Lake Minnetonka , ALARC Ice Dive , Big Island and Back 10K . Check websites for event updates .
Excelsior Commons is a popular place for many city events as well as for recreational activity across its 13 acres . The park is nestled alongside the expanse of Lake Minnetonka and has been an integral part of the city since 1853 . For the past couple of years , the Commons has been experiencing new renovations , including a concessions building and plaza project focused on refurbishing and redesigning the concession building , surrounding area , utilities , furnishings and stormwater infrastructure . Its current amenities include recreation areas , a bandshell , playgrounds , a baseball field and public access to the lake .
The Port of Excelsior next door houses several public docks for easy lake access . Not far away is another popular spot , the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail , a must-have for bicyclists with its 14-mile trail extending from Hopkins to Carver Park Reserve and running through Excelsior . The Excelsior City Council meets in-person and is currently changing their City Hall and meeting locations following the redevelopment approval of 339 Third Street . Meetings are 6:30 p . m . the first and third Mondays of each month . Links and updated information about meetings are available on the city ’ s website : ci . excelsior . mn . us .
Community Guide 2023 | LAKE MINNETONKA | 9