Welcome to Excelsior, Minnesota, a charming town nestled along the shores of Lake Minnetonka. With a rich history dating back to the 1850s, Excelsior has evolved into a vibrant community that seamlessly blends small-town charm with modern amenities. As you explore this picturesque town, you'll discover a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be unveiled. From its scenic parks and trails to its thriving downtown area, Excelsior is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Minnesota's lakes country.
As you stroll through Excelsior's quaint streets, you'll notice the town's strong sense of community. Residents and visitors alike gather at local events, such as the annual Excelsior Art Fair, to celebrate the town's unique culture. The town's history is also preserved through its many historic buildings, including the Excelsior Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town's fascinating past.
Uncovering Excelsior's Natural Beauty
Excelsior is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, with Lake Minnetonka offering ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The town's scenic parks and trails provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. One of the most popular spots is the Excelsior Commons, a 14-acre park featuring walking trails, a playground, and a picturesque pond. Visitors can also explore the nearby Lake Minnetonka Regional Park, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
| Park Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Excelsior Commons | 14-acre park with walking trails, playground, and pond |
| Lake Minnetonka Regional Park | Offers stunning views of Lake Minnetonka and surrounding landscape |
Exploring Downtown Excelsior
Downtown Excelsior is a shopper's paradise, with a variety of unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can browse the shelves at BookHouse, a beloved independent bookstore, or explore the eclectic selection of gifts and souvenirs at The Excelsior Store. Foodies will delight in the town's diverse culinary scene, which features everything from casual eateries to upscale dining establishments.
Some popular spots in downtown Excelsior include:
- The Excelsior Café, serving up delicious breakfast and brunch options
- Nick's on Lake Minnetonka, offering upscale dining with stunning lake views
- The Wine Thief, a wine and cheese shop with a vast selection of fine wines
Key Points
- Excelsior, Minnesota, is a charming town with a rich history and natural beauty
- The town offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking
- Downtown Excelsior features unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants
- Visitors can explore the town's scenic parks and trails, including Excelsior Commons and Lake Minnetonka Regional Park
- Excelsior hosts various community events throughout the year, including the annual Excelsior Art Fair
Experience Excelsior's Rich History
Excelsior's history dates back to the 1850s, when it was a popular spot for logging and farming. The town's rich history is preserved through its many historic buildings, including the Excelsior Historical Society Museum. Visitors can explore the museum to learn more about the town's fascinating past and see exhibits showcasing its early days as a logging and farming community.
Things to Do in Excelsior
Whether you're interested in outdoor recreation, shopping, or learning about local history, Excelsior has something for everyone. Some popular activities include:
| Things to Do | |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the Excelsior Historical Society Museum to learn about the town's history |
| 2 | Explore the town's scenic parks and trails, including Excelsior Commons and Lake Minnetonka Regional Park |
| 3 | Take a stroll through downtown Excelsior and browse the unique boutiques and art galleries |
| 4 | Enjoy a meal at one of the town's many restaurants, including The Excelsior Café and Nick's on Lake Minnetonka |
| 5 | Attend a community event, such as the annual Excelsior Art Fair |
What are the best outdoor activities to do in Excelsior?
+Excelsior offers a range of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can explore the town's scenic parks and trails, including Excelsior Commons and Lake Minnetonka Regional Park.
What is there to do in downtown Excelsior?
+Downtown Excelsior features unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can browse the shelves at BookHouse, a beloved independent bookstore, or explore the eclectic selection of gifts and souvenirs at The Excelsior Store.
What events are held in Excelsior throughout the year?
+Excelsior hosts various community events throughout the year, including the annual Excelsior Art Fair. Visitors can check the town's event calendar to see what's happening during their visit.
In conclusion, Excelsior, Minnesota, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant downtown area, this charming town has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in outdoor recreation, shopping, or learning about local history, Excelsior is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Minnesota’s lakes country.