White Bear Lake
For an all-day escape, head 20 minutes out of the Cities to one of the biggest lakes aroaund. Boats and beach await, and so does a remarkably walkable city with a charming downtown.
» FOOD
ON THE LAKE
Acqua Restaurant and Bar
• In addition to the rustic Italian menu, there’s a daily three-course tasting menu at this upscale lakeside place.
4453 Lake Ave. S., 651-407-7317
Admiral D's
• White Bear’s waterside dock party. The patio is jammed with burgers, bands, and beers on weekends.
4424 Lake Ave., 651-330-3101
CG Hooks Eatery
• Grab some Memphis-style BBQ for the boat or snag some ice cream before heading home.
4441 Lake Ave. S., 651-493-6763
DOWNTOWN
Cup and Cone
• The nucleus of shopping in downtown White Bear Lake for nearly 40 years brims with gifts, stationery, jewelry, women’s apparel, and Minnesota-themed items.
2184 4th St., 651-426-8006
Washington Square Bar & Grill
• There’s scratch cooking going on in this modern restaurant and bar that serves breakfast options such as skillets and burritos past midnight on weekends.
4736 Washington Sq., 651-407-7162
Ursula’s Wine Bar & Cafe
• Using local sources, Ursula’s cooks modern, seasonal food that pairs well with the great wine list. It also offers wine classes and wine dinners.
2125 4th St., 651-429-9600
Chez Arnaud
• In this little Parisian patisserie you’ll find brioche, croissants, macaroons, even quiche and salade Nicoise.
4735 Hwy. 61, 651-653-5658
» FUN
Rent a Boat
• At Tally’s Dockside on White Bear Lake, rent a pontoon, fishing boat, kayak, or canoe. Load up on snacks, beverages, and bait at the marina store and head out for some of the best fishing in the metro.
4441 Lake Ave. S., 651-429-2633, talleysdockside.com
Manitou Days
• (June 14–July 4) This community celebrates summer with Manitou Days, a three-week festival that ends on July 4 with fireworks and a dance party on the beach. In the meantime, build sandcastles, compete in the fishing tournament, catch the lighted-boat parade, and, yes, search for a medallion.
Imagine Art Kids Summer Camp
• Every week of the summer, White Bear Center for the Arts’ summer camp offers art classes for kids of all ages. Classes in everything from cartooning and splatter art to printmaking and Chinese brush painting will bring out your child’s inner Picasso.
2228 4th St., White Bear Lake, 651-407-0597
» SHOPS
ON THE LAKE
Sail La Vie
• This company recycles sails, turning them into everything from boat totes to patio umbrellas. Stop in at the store at company headquarters on the lakeshore.
4495 Lake Ave. S., 651-251-5494
DOWNTOWN
Goodthings
• The nucleus of shopping in downtown White Bear Lake for nearly 40 years brims with gifts, stationery, jewelry, women’s apparel, and Minnesota-themed items.
2184 4th St., 651-426-8006
Tri Fitness
• Run! Bike! Swim! White Bear Lake has everything triathletes need, including this shop. It sells all the gear and offers support to triathletes at all levels.
2193 4th St., 651-426-1919
The Nest
• Show your love for the lake by going green. The Nest is a local gift store specializing in organic, fair trade, and environmentally friendly goods—from candles to cleaning products and clothes.
4742 Washington Sq., 651-653-7630
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