Lake Minnetonka
Sure, you could spend hours on I-94, bumper to bumper between boats, trucks, and minivans, but it's so much easier to head out to Lake Minnetonka. There you'll find all the pleasures of Up North plus a see-and-be-seen social scene.
» FOOD
NORTH LAKE
Minnetonka Drive-In
• Now that the Dakota Trail is so popular, this burger and fried chicken shack that makes its own root beer is also known as the Minnetonka Bike-In. Especially on Thursdays when classic cars own the parking lot.
4658 Shoreline Dr., Spring Park, 952-471-9383
The Narrows
• It may be the only biker bar near the lake, so park your hog and stop in for some dirty pork stew or a Bucksnort burger dripping with secret sauce while you listen to Lamont Cranston tear up the stage.
3380 Shoreline Dr., Navarre, 952-471-3352
SOUTH LAKE
Jake O'Connor's Public House
• Sometimes it's nice NOT to be on the water with all the boat traffic and tanorexics. Sometimes what you need on a summer night is a street side table at the respectable local pub where a glass of Guinness or whiskey completes the day.
200 Water St., Excelsior, 952-908-9650
Licks Unlimited
• The only right thing to do after a movie (with real butter popcorn) is get in line at nearby Licks. Seven years bad luck if you walk by without a cone of one of the 30 ice cream flavors.
31 Water St., Excelsior, 952-474-4791
Patisserie Margo
• As you stroll the shops of Water Street, it's wise to plot your ending at Margo, where you can plop down with your bags, refresh with a strong cup of coffee, and snack on fine European pastries and baked goods.
284 Water St., Excelsior, 952-746-2232
Maynard's
• You're not going for fine dining, you're going for the most rocking patio-bar scene on the south shore. Vikings, local celebs, the well-heeled, and the tipsy mingle to make it all fun.
685 Excelsior Blvd., Excelsior, 952-470-1800
EAST LAKE
McCormick's
• The new pub in town is small but invitingly Irish. Take in a Guinness with a burger or some oysters.
331 Broadway Ave. S., Wayzata, 952-767-2417
Gianni's
• This local steak house has created the hottest patio on Lake Street by rerouting the sidewalk. Happy hours here are lively; dinner is quieter.
635 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 952-404-1100
» FUN
Girls Night Out
• Lace up your espadrilles and join the fabulous women (and stylish men) who flock to Water Street every Thursday night for shopping, dining, and other festivities.
Excelsior
Excel Boat Club
• For the ultimate in relaxation, rent a pontoon and allow one of the club’s well-mannered captains to squire you and your entourage around the lake in deluxe Minnetonka style.
141 Minnetonka Blvd., Excelsior, 952-401-3880
Tommy’s Tonka Trolley
• Though this trolley is not meant for passengers, owner Tom Drummond offers fun for your Sunday morning. Rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard, and reward your efforts with a scoop of Sebastian Joe’s.
379 Lake St., Excelsior, 952-220-0101
Lord Fletcher’s
• King of the Lake since 1968. On Monday evenings, head to the Lord Fletcher’s patio for Malibu-worthy beach volleyball, live music, and $4 hamburgers.
3746 Sunset Dr., Spring Park, 952-471-8513
» SHOPS
EXCELSIOR
Bungalow Beachwear
• Find the latest swimsuits, cover-ups, flip-flops, and accessories for the whole family.
229 Water St., 952-474-4537
Brightwater Clothing & Gear
• The place to go for active lifestyle apparel that’s as stylish as it is functional.
256 Water St., 952-474-0256
Que Sera
• Get interior inspiration. Its new location at the lake has a more rustic/contemporary look.
244 Water St., 952-924-6390
WAYZATA
Maha! Inspired Activewear
• This shop specializes in “studio to street” fashion for active living.
631 E. Lake St., 952-873-7001
Frost & Budd
• Beyond the blooms and benches out front, this cozy spot offers gifts and décor for home and garden.
339 Barry Ave. S., 952-473-1442
Sun & Ski Clothing Outfitters
• Get dressed for the boat or beach. You’ll find a deep selection of performance and fashion swimwear and accessories for the whole family.
701 E. Lake St., 952-873-7282
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