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MinnetonkaWayzataExcelsiorLong LakeCottagewoodGreenwoodDeephavenTonka BayWoodlandOrono &Shorewood
LAKEMINNETONKA
guide
2012LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:05 Page
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LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:05 Page
Guide to LakeMinnetonka Area
The Lake Minnetonka areais known for its rich history,attracting hunters, fishermanand settlers to its shores in itsearly years. Later it became atourist destination for thewell-to-do. Today, life near thelake continues to be a majordraw for many different rea-sons.
Lake Minnetonka has more than 300 miles oflakeshore. It is home to thousands of people who enjoylife in communities that surround the lake, places likeWayzata, Excelsior, Tonka Bay, Deephaven, Greenwood,Cottagewood, Woodland, Minnetonka, Orono,Shorewood and Long Lake.
It is a well-established, bustling area that attractsbusiness, shoppers and industry.
Inside this guide to the Lake Minnetonka area youwill discover some aspects about the lakes area thatmake it so desirable. We offer information about award-winning schools, a variety of community parks andbeaches, churches, museums, community centers andcommunity festivals. We profile the police and firedepartments, highlight the libraries and much more.
We hope you find this guide to be a helpful tool inlearning more about the Lake Minnetonka area and allit has to offer. Explore your community. It’s a wonderfulplace with so much to offer.
10917 Valley View RoadEden Prairie, MN 55344
www.minnlocal.com
Editor ........................................................Chris DillmannWriter ............................Chris Dillmann, Jared HuizengaPhotography ..............................................Chris DillmannLayout & Design ..............Keith Anderson, Dan CallahanCover Design ....................................................Elli MartinSales ................................Robbie Shoemaker, Beau SiegelAdvertising Director..............................Jeremy BradfieldExecutive Editor ..........................................Peggy BakkenGeneral Manager..........................................Jeff Coolman
Special thanks to all of the cities that helped us provideinformation in this guide to the Lake Minnetonka area.Also, thanks to the many community organizations andlocal businesses that supported this publication.
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MinnetonkaWayzataExcelsiorLong LakeCottagewoodGreenwoodDeephavenTonka BayWoodlandOrono &Shorewood
LAKEMINNETONKA
guide
2012
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:05 Page 3
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The South Lake-Excelsior Chamber advocates for business prosperity and economic health in the South Lake Minnetonka area. Our 157+ members count on the Chamber to make our communities better, stronger and more attractive to visitors.
Every summer we invite more than 49,000 people here by hosting Art on the Lake , Lake Minnetonka 4th of July Celebration,
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LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:05 Page
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Welcome to the lakes areaLake Minnetonka and its surrounding communities
have no shortage of things to do, including shopping,fine dining, recreation, parks, trails and events youwon’t find anywhere else. A premiere lake inMinnesota, Lake Minnetonka draws people from allover the state and across the Midwest.
The lake has anything but a mundane history, whichgives the surrounding areas much of their traditionand culture still valued to this day. Many of the eventsin the communities pay homage to the area’s history.Land and infrastructure dating back more than 100years still exist around the lake today.
This is the third Lake Minnetonka guide, which willhighlight what the area has to offer. Community eventsrich in tradition, things to do, places to see, festivals,
food, shopping, recreation and history all make the areapopular. This guide will showcase what a special area itis, why those who call it home love it and what makespeople return time and time again.
Before the 20th Century began, Lake Minnetonka wasnot only attracting those from around the Twin Cities,but people from around the state who made LakeMinnetonka a weekend get-away destination. In SouthLake, a casino and amusement park were favoriteattractions in the 1900s. Hotels popped up around thelake where steamboats and streetcars were popularforms of transportation.
Currently, many people make Lake Minnetonkahome, while many more travel to it for all it has to offer.
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:05 Page 5
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MinnetonkaMusic in the park7-8:30 p.m., Tuesdays, June 5 to Aug. 7Minnetonka Civic Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd.Information: www.eminnetonka.com
Native Plant Market & Eco Fun Fest3-7 p.m. Thursday, June 7Minnetonka Civic Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd.Information: www.eminnetonka.com
Farmers’ Market3-7 p.m., Tuesdays, July 3 to Oct. 2Minnetonka Civic Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd.Information: www.eminnetonka.com
Tour de Tonka bike rides7:30 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 4Races and rides begin at Minnetonka High School18301 Highway 7, MinnetonkaInformation: www.tourdetonka.org
WayzataTrolley Kick-Off10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday May 21Downtown WayzataInformation: wayzatachamber.com
Summer Concert Series7-8:30 p.m., Wednesdays, July 5, 12, 19 and 26The Depot, 402 E. Lake St., WayzataInformation: 952-473-9595
4th of July Flying Pancake Breakfast8 a.m. - noon, Wednesday, July 4thHistoric Wayzata Depot, 402 East Lake Street.A celebration for patriots of all ages. Pancakes tossedfrom the grill.
Boo Blast Halloween celebrationSaturday, Oct. 29Downtown WayzataInformation: 952-473-9595
ExcelsiorApple Day8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 8Water Street, downtown ExcelsiorInformation: 952-474-5880
Excelsior Farmers’ Market2-6 p.m., Thursdays, May through OctoberMount Calvary Lutheran Church parking lotInformation: 952-474-6461, southlake-excelsiorchamber.com
Excelsior Girls Night Out5-9 p.m. Thursdays, June through OctoberDowntown Excelsior Information: www.excelsiorgirlsnightout.com
Art on the Lake10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 9 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Sunday, June 10The Commons of Excelsior, Lake StreetInformation: 952-474-6461, excelsiorartonthelake.com
Excelsior Summer Concerts7 p.m., Thursdays, June to AugustThe Commons band shell, Lake StreetInformation: www. ci.excelsior.mn.us
Lake Minnetonka Fourth of July CelebrationWednesday, July 4The Commons of ExcelsiorLake StreetInformation: 952-474-6461, southlake-excelsiorchamber.com
Plenty of events for everyone
5
Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:05 Page
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
MinnetonkaBurwell Ice Cream Social10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Saturday, June 23Charles H. Burwell House, 13209 E. McGinty Road,Minnetonka; Information: www.eminnetonka.com
This event along Minnehaha Creek usually drawsmore than 3,000 people who tour the historic house, eatice cream, browse the antique market and listen tomusic.
Minnetonka Summer Festival4-10 p.m., Saturday, June 23. Minnetonka Civic Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd.,Minnetonka; Information: www.eminnetonka.com
As a follow-up to the day’s activities at the BurwellHouse, music, food, games, fireworks and more roundout the day and evening during the popular MinnetonkaSummer Festival at the Minnetonka Civic Center.
WayzataWayzata Art ExperienceSaturday and Sunday, May 21-22Lake Street, downtown Wayzata
Celebrate spring as you shop along the shores ofLake Minnetonka at one of the first outdoor art showsof the season. Experience artist demonstrations andstrolling musicians. Taste delicious local cuisine. Shop
more than 100-juried artists, including the uniqueGarden Art Exhibit showcasing art and ideas for youroutdoor living.Information: wayzataartexperience.com
Chilly OpenSaturday, Feb. 9, 2013Wayzata, Lake Minnetonka
More than 1,000 participants enjoy winter golf on afrozen Lake Minnetonka. www.wayzatachillyopen.com
James J. Hill DaysSaturday and Sunday, Sept. 10-11Downtown WayzataInformation: www.wayzatachamber.com
For 35 years the James J. Hill Day festival has beenthe pride of Wayzata. Dachshund races, art, a cartderby, car show and parade always go well with the foodand entertainment served during this event that can’tbe missed.
ExcelsiorArt on the LakeSaturday, June 9, and Sunday, June 10Commons ParkSouthlake-excelsiorchamber.com
Festivals a source of local pride
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:05 Page 8
Southshore Community Center5735 Country Club Road, Shorewood
The SouthShore Community Center is now on itsthird year of being a community center — beyond asenior center. The city of Shorewood and surroundingSouth Lake cities are all part owners in the building.
A digital sign was installed in 2011 to showcaseupcoming events to the traffic on County Road 19.
In 2009, the city of Shorewood assumed operations ofthe center. The cities of Excelsior, Greenwood, TonkaBay and Deephaven are part owners of the center.
While the center has become a popular spot forevents such as weddings, reunions, community eventsand meetings, it still offers daily senior programs.
Dance, gardening, woodworking, art, aerobics andcooking classes are only some of the activities intendedto attract South Lake Minnetonka area visitors andbeyond. The center hosts many weekly events for youngand old, along with classes to cater to just about anyhobby.
Information: southshore-center.org or (952) 474-7635.
Minnetonka Community Center14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka
The city of Minnetonka operates the MinnetonkaCommunity Center, which offers programs and servicesfor senior citizens and is also available for use by thegeneral community.
The center features several meeting rooms, a confer-ence room, art room and a dining and communityroom. The Minnetonka City Council Chambers is locat-ed on the second floor.
The community room and dining room can be com-bined as a banquet room, accommodating up to 250 peo-
ple. A podium, dance floor, tables and chairs and a com-mercial kitchen are included in this room to host manygatherings, including large meetings, anniversary par-ties, family reunions, conferences and wedding recep-tions.
The dining room area is reserved for senior citizenprograms between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on weekdays.Otherwise, the rooms can be reserved during regularhours.
Information: eminnetonka.com or (952) 939-8390.
Minnetonka Center for the Arts2240 North Shore Drive, Wayzata
For years if somebody said they were taking a classat the Minnetonka Center for the Arts, it meant theywere actually traveling to the center in Wayzata.
The arts center in Wayzata offers year-round artclasses for adults and children. The classes offered fea-ture a variety of mediums and subjects. Around 4,000people enroll every year.
Children can take Minnetonka Center for the Arts’classes in Minnetonka - at Ridgedale Center.
The Minnetonka shopping center and the Wayzata-based arts center have teamed to open a satellite loca-tion, offering drop-in visual arts classes for children,art birthday parties and a retail space where artworkwill be sold to benefit the art center.
The classes cover a variety of projects and mediumsincluding drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture,bookmaking, fibers, cartoons and illustration.
Established in 1952, the arts center will host a cele-bration this year “60 Years of Serving the GreaterCommunity,” Saturday, June 30.Information: www.minnetonkaarts.org.
Community centers for all to enjoy
7
Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
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LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:05 Page 10
With a lake that offers 300 miles of shoreline, thereare sure to be plenty of beaches from which to choose.Here are some of the most popular for you and your fam-ily.
Deephaven
Deephaven Beach, 19405 Lake Ave.Linwood Beach, Linwood Road.Nocomo BeachRobinson’s Bay Beach, 3344 Robinson’s Bay RoadRocky Beach, 20020 Lakeview Ave.Sandy Beach, 20300 Lakeview Ave.Walden Beach, 19355 Walden Trail
For information on Deephaven beaches: 952-474-4755 orcityofdeephaven.org.
Excelsior
Excelsior Commons Beach, Commons Park952-474-5233
Minnetonka
Libbs Beach, 16515 Park Lane952-939-8200Shady Oak Beach, 5200 Shady Oak Road952-939-8200
Shorewood
Crescent Beach, 240 Birch Bluff Road952-474-7994
Tonka Bay
Wakota Beach, 300 W. Point Road952-474-7994
The beaches of Lake Minnetonka
9
Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:06 Page
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LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:06 Page
A booming national trend has come to Excelsior. Thecity is home to a microbrewery, Excelsior BrewingCompany. The 3,000 square-foot brewery is at 421 ThirdSt., in the East Parking lot, and will feature brewswhose names reflect the area.
Their flagship, or main beer, will be an AmericanAle, but the brewery will also play to the beer enthusi-asts with a pale ale named XCLR and a blonde ale, BigIsland Blonde. There will be other beers that emergeseasonally and as the brewery grows in brewing capaci-ty.
The owners envision a taproom and tasting area tosample the beers onsite. The beer will also be sold ingrowlers at the brewery.
The brewery hopes to turn out its first batch by July4, 2012. The goal of production for the brewery is 10,000barrels per year. The plan is that during the first year1,000 to 2,000 barrels per year will be going into kegs tobe distributed to retailers.
With Lake Minnetonka area the entire focus, thebrewery plans on being as sustainable as possible.Partnering with Building Efficiency Services, the build-ing will be equipped with integrated heating and cool-ing systems to help conserve energy. Since the brewing
process creates a lot of heat, the building will “save”that resource for use when the weather is colder. Theair conditioning system will be operated in conjunctionwith the cooled water that will be brought in for thebeer production process. The cold water will help coolthe building.
The owners say they also plan to use proceeds fromsales to donate to worthy causes, with the idea being tomake the lake area a better place to live and visit.
The microbrewery industry has been growing inleaps and bounds within the last several years, andMinnesota laws are being changed to accommodate thegrowing demand. The Minnesota state legislatureapproved what is known as the “Surly Bill” in 2011,which permits issuance of licenses to permit brewers offewer than 250,000 gallons of malt liquor per year toserve the product it brews “on sale” in its brewing facil-ity or in an adjacent facility subject to the same restric-tions as are imposed on other on-sale licensed establish-ments. This allows for people to taste at the brewery, apopular activity for brewery tours.
For more information on the brewery, visit excelsior-brew.com.
Excelsior, home to new brewery
11
Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:06 Page 13
Meaning “Big Waters” the 4,528-acre LakeMinnetonka was formed around 11,000 years ago as theresult of melting glaciers. It continues to be a growingdestination and home to many.
The lake has an irregular shape consisting of numer-ous bays, boasting approximately 125 miles of shore-line. Several Native American tribes such as DakotaSioux, Cheyenne, Iowa and Ojibwa occupied the lakeuntil 1862. The grounds around the lake were used forburials and highly valued as an important spiritualplace.
The Minnehaha Creek at the northeast end of thelake where the former Minnetonka Mills were locatedprovided an easy crossing for the Dakota and theChippewa, thought to be traveling to present-dayShakopee and Lake Mille Lacs.
It wasn’t until 1822 when the first white settlers, twoteenaged boys named Joe Brown and Will Snelling, dis-covered Lake Minnetonka traveling by canoe up theMinnehaha Creek.
The lake didn’t see many visitors in the next 30 years,but that all changed in 1851, when 2 million acres ofland was transferred from the Native Americans to the
U.S. Government in the Treaties of Traverse des Siouxand Mendota. This allowed for territories to be traded,and though many chiefs refused to sign the treaty dueto a denial of requests for keeping the area around LakeMinnetonka Indian land, the treaty was enacted any-way.
It was in the 1850s when settlers returned to the set-tlements of St. Anthony and Minneapolis from an expe-dition, telling of its abundant resources. This led to thegrowth of settlements, and in 1852 Gov. AlexanderRamsey gave the lake its name “Minnetonka,” translat-ed from the Sioux word “Big Water.” The area contin-ued to stay vibrant and grow with more people settling,adding to the economy. Excelsior was founded in 1853,with other cities following. It was also in 1853 when thefirst hotel was built, starting the huge boom in tourismaround the area.
On the northeast section, or upper lake, Wayzata wasfounded in 1854. The name derives from the Dakota lan-guage, meaning “North Shore.” It was Oscar Garrisonwho surveyed and claimed much of what is now
History of the lake runs deep
12
Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
HISTORY: NEXT PAGE
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:06 Page
Wayzata after building a cabin there two years prior. “The City of St. Louis” was built in Wayzata in 1881. Itwas the first inland steamship to have electric lights.The largest ship to ever sail the lake was launched thevery next year - the Belle of Minnetonka. It was 300-feetlong, and could carry 2,500 passengers.
It was in 1855 when the first steamboat, “GovernorRamsey,” graced the waters of Lake Minnetonka. TheCity of St. Louis, built in Wayzata in 1881, was the firstinland steamship to have electric lights. The railroadwas completed to Wayzata, and in 1905 streetcars beganrolling into Excelsior. Transit had arrived at LakeMinnetonka, and interest in the area was beginning togrow.
The area offered hotels, amusement parks, commerceand events and was known as a hot spot for a good time.The good times didn’t last forever, and by one account,more than 60 hotels and boarding houses opened andclosed around Lake Minnetonka between 1853 and 1964.
An area that has seen a lot of change, LakeMinnetonka will always remain an active part of theregion, and it still draws thousands of visitors eachyear. Historical preservation has been a big part of thelake area, and many of its attractions showcase the richhistory.
More than 150 years old, the Excelsior Commons wasplatted as public ground after the area was first settledand remains a popular public place today. The Old LogTheater in Greenwood is one of the oldest running the-aters in the country.
The Wayzata Depot stands today. It was built in 1906as part of James J. Hill’s Great Northern Railroad.
A historic walking tour of Minnetonka Mills can stillbe taken. The Burwell House, former home ofMinnetonka Mills Company manager Charles H.Burwell, is still a meeting point for city events, just likeother historical treasures around East LakeMinnetonka.
Historical Societies
Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society305 Water St., ExcelsiorInformation: (952) 473-3631
ArchivesOld Excelsior Public School Building261 School Ave., Suite 102, ExcelsiorInformation: www.elmhs.org
The museum serves Deephaven, Excelsior,Greenwood, Shorewood, and Tonka Bay.
Minnetonka Historical SocietyCity of Minnetonka offices14600 Minnetonka Blvd., MinnetonkaInformation: (952) 930-3962
Wayzata Historical Society402 E. Lake St., WayzataInformation: (952) 473-3631
Archives620 Rice St., WayzataInformation: (952) 473-3631
13
Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Historic boats part of lake lore
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:06 Page 15
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At Ridgeview Clinics, patients receive expert, personalized care with the convenience of same-day appointments, and on-site laboratory services and X-ray at all primary care locations.
For more information and locations, visit www.ridgeviewclinics.org or call (952) 442-8083.
Beth Kennedy, DORidgeview Excelsior Clinic
© 2012 & Co., Ltd Benjamin Moore and the triangle M symbol are registered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co., Ltd.
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LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:06 Page 16
Hennepin County libraries in Excelsior, Long Lake,Minnetonka, and Wayzata are part of the HennepinCounty Library system. Hennepin County Library,which consists of 41 libraries located in Minneapolisand suburban Hennepin County, is recognized as one ofthe top library systems in the United States.
People of all ages value the resources, services, andprograms of the libraries. Each offers collections ofbooks, CDs, DVDs and magazines as well as computersthat offer access to the entire Hennepin County Librarycollection and the Internet.
Free programs for children, teens, and adults are pre-sented year-round. Storytimes for young children arefun and introduce and reinforce early literacy skills.Creative summer programs for children and teens keepyoung people engaged in books and reading during thesummer break from school. Adults enjoy talks by localauthors and other programs.
Each library has an active Friends of the Librarygroup that raises funds at sales of books withdrawnfrom the library to support library programs and otherneeds. New members are always welcomed.
Hennepin County Library offers approximately 5 mil-lion books, CDs, DVDs, downloadables, and otherresources in more than a dozen world languages, plusaccess to 1,800 computers. Library cards are free.
Hennepin County Library’s award-winning, websitehclib.org, offers 24/7 access to the library catalog,online databases, audio and video downloads, eBooks,job and small business resources, web pages for chil-dren, teens, and new immigrants, and much more.
Outreach Services provides library service for peoplewho are unable to go to a library due to disability,mobility issues, or confinement in county correctionalfacilities.
Libraries filled with resources
15
Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:06 Page
Serving the communities of Excelsior, Minnetonka,Shorewood, Tonka Bay, Greenwood, Deephaven, EdenPrairie, Chanhassen, Woodland and Victoria,Minnetonka School District is one of the largest in thestate.
It continues to grow as open enrollment draws stu-dents from around the region. The district is able tobring in $11 million annually to support all students.The district also remains top in the state for test scores,and the high school boasts a 99 percent graduation rate.The average ACT score rose in 2011 to 25.7.
Minnetonka Schools also had a School Board electionin 2011 where voters brought on two new faces and kepttwo incumbents.
The district enrolls approximately 8,600 students insix elementary schools, two middle schools and onehigh school. Both middle schools were awarded a$100,000 grant through Hennepin County to add and
refurbish the tennis courts. The money was part of pro-ceeds generated by the Target Field sales tax.
The schools integrate the latest technology for learn-ing, and also have expanding Chinese and Spanishimmersion programs. The immersion program willexpand to middle school students in 2012. It currentlyserves grades K-5.
The Minnetonka School District has purchased apiece of land from Hennepin County to address safetyconcerns at Excelsior Elementary by adding an addi-tional road. This road will help relieve bus and parenttraffic during drop off and pick up. The road leadsbehind the elementary school and allows for an addi-tional exit.
Last school year 243 Minnetonka students earned thetitle of AP Scholar, including a school record of 28
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Minnetonka: schools of excellence
TONKA SCHOOLS: NEXT PAGE
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:06 Page 18
National AP Scholars . Minnetonka is one of only three districts in the state
and 70 nationwide to earn a bond rating of Aaa byMoody Investment Services. The bond rating putsMinnetonka in a category that is more favorable than 38states, including Minnesota.
Athletics are also a strong point in the district.During the 2010-2011 school year in the Classic LakeConference, five Minnetonka High School varsity teamstook state in three sports – girls hockey, girls alpine ski-ing and boys swim and dive. The girls basketball had arecord season with a 21-7 record. Fourteen athletesearned All-State Honors and 43 senior athletes earnedAll-Conference Honors.
Information: minnetonka.k12.mn.us.
Minnetonka Aquatics Center17000 Lake St. Extension, Minnetonka
952-401-5000
Arts Center on 7 18285 Highway 7, Minnetonka952-401-5748
Minnetonka High School18301 Highway 7, Minnetonka952-401-5700
Minnetonka Public Schools AdministrationDistrict Service Center5621 County Road 101, Minnetonka952-401-5000
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Minnetonka: schools of excellence
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Excellence at Wayzata schoolsFrom a one-room log school built in the 1850s,
Wayzata Public Schools has grown to become a nationalleader in education quality. Today, more than 10,000 stu-dents attend its seven elementary schools, three middleschools and its high school.
Wayzata High School, opened in 1997, is the largest inMinnesota, enrolling more than 3,500 students. Studentsat all grade levels consistently score near the top instate assessment tests. High school students routinelyscore as much as three points higher than the nationalaverage on ACT tests.
The district’s boundaries cut a huge swath throughthe West Metro, including all or part of Corcoran,Maple Grove, Medicine Lake, Medina, Minnetonka,Orono, Plymouth and Wayzata. The district encompass-es 38 square miles. In addition to being an educationalpowerhouse, the district also is a significant employerin the area with about 1,300 workers, more than half ofthem teachers.
Throughout its history, the district has enjoyed strongcommunity support. Voters have approved several keylevies, including an operating levy in 2005 that allowedthe district to add more than 55 new teaching positionsand lower class sizes. A technology levy boosted thenumber of computers and their use throughout the dis-trict.
The tradition of taxpayer support harks back to 1870when voters approved spending $900 to build a newschool on Bald Hill, the site of the current Wayzata CityHall. In 1880 it was replaced with a red brick buildingthat featured folding doors between two rooms – theforerunner of the open school concept.
The district’s schools have spawned talented politi-cians, athletes and actors. Minnesota Sen. AmyKlobuchar is a 1978 graduate of Wayzata High School.James Laurinaitis, stand-out linebacker for The OhioState Buckeyes who was drafted by the St. Louis Rams
WAYZATA SCHOOLS: NEXT PAGE
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Excellence at Wayzata schoolsof the NFL, is a 2005 graduate. Benjamin Salisbury, whoplayed Brighton Sheffield on the hit series “TheNanny,” is also an alumnus.
Information:wayzata.k12.mn.us
Wayzata Public Schools210 County Road 101 N., Wayzata(763) 745-5000
Wayzata High School4955 Peony Lane N., Plymouth(763) 745-6655
Central Middle School305 Vicksburg Lane, Plymouth(763) 745-6000
East Middle School12000 Ridgemount Ave., Plymouth(763) 745-6200
West Middle School149 Barry Ave. N., Wayzata(763) 745-6400
Birchview Elementary425 Ranchview Lane, Plymouth(763) 745-5300
Gleason Lake Elementary310 County Road 101 N., Plymouth(763) 745-5000
Greenwood Elementary18005 Medina Road, Plymouth(763) 745-5500
Kimberly Lane Elementary17405 Old Rockford Road, Plymouth(763) 745-5600
Oakwood Elementary17340 County Road 6, Plymouth(763) 745-5700
Plymouth Creek Elementary16005 41st Ave. N., Plymouth(763) 745-5800
Sunset Hill Elementary13005 Sunset Trail, Plymouth(763) 745-5900
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:06 Page 23
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It’s been a project that, even without significantprogress in recent years, has already changed the face ofdowntown Wayzata forever.
The Wayzata Muni moved from its long-time home inthe Bay Center to a new facility across the street.Popular businesses such as The Original Pancake House,The Foursome, Bob’s Shoe Repair and Kraemer’s TrueValue Hardware have moved to new locations – either inWayzata or in surrounding communities.
And the roads surrounding the now-empty shoppingcenter – namely Superior Boulevard – have been redoneto accommodate the upcoming destruction and recon-struction.
But now it’s the current Wayzata Bay Center’s – andfuture Promenade of Wayzata’s – turn to take centerstage in the reshaping of Wayzata’s downtown.
Demolition on the site began in mid-April. Excavationon the site was to get under way in early May.
The first block of the Promenade of Wayzata – alongSuperior Boulevard – is expected to be completed by fall2013. Upon completion, the 32,000 square foot complexwill include a mix of retail, dining, office, green space,residential and senior living apartments. The center isowned by Presbyterian Homes.
Wayzata historyBefore the French claimed the land in 1803 – and later
sold it to the U.S. in the Louisiana Purchase – theMdewakanton Dakotah fished and hunted the areaaround the lake, while protecting the land and its
resources from rival tribes.In 1852, after land west of the Mississippi River was
opened for land claims, Oscar Garrison built a cabin atwhat is now Lake Street and Broadway Avenue. Twoyears later he drew a survey and filed a claim for most ofwhat would become Wayzata.
Shortly thereafter, a slew of settlers arrived in thearea, building a sawmill, a hotel and a blacksmith shop.
In the late 1860s, steamboat traffic on the lakeincreased and the area became a vacation destination forsoutherners following the Civil War.
In 1867, the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad extended itstracks to Wayzata, making it the largest transportationhub in the area.
As trains became more prevalent in the area, hotelsbegan opening around the lake – at the peak, upwards of20,000 vacationers visited the area.
In 1881, Wayzata split from Minnetonka Township andbanned saloons and started a fight with railroad power-house James J. Hill. By 1905, the now-wiser town councilreconciled with Hill, who returned the favor by buildinghis biggest station in Wayzata.
Each summer, Wayzata celebrates its up and downhistory with Hill during an annual celebration heldunder his name – James J. Hill Days.
Today’s Wayzata is still home to successful commer-cial businesses, healthy retail businesses, multipleupscale restaurants, a host of outdoor activities and – ofcourse – Lake Minnetonka.Information courtesy of the Wayzata Historical Society.
Wayzata a progressive city
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
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GreenwoodGreenwood is a small residential South Lake commu-
nity surrounded by St. Albans and Excelsior bays onLake Minnetonka. Known as “The City on the Lake,”Greenwood was founded in 1956, and now is home toapproximately 800 residents.
The city is also home to the Old Log Theater, whichhappens to be the oldest theater in Minnesota. The the-ater is owned by Don Stolz, who joined the theater in1941, a year after it opened. Plans for the day when thetheatre ceases to operate were unveiled this year. Stolzno longer owns the Old Log, and it could be the home ofnew lakeside cottages. The plan was developed in con-junction with the Stolz family to make sure the histori-cal integrity is maintained. The theater could remainfunctioning once the development is completed.
Greenwood contracts many city services, includingits public works operations with Deephaven.
In summer Greenwood is most enjoyed, though win-ter also offers plenty for those who enjoy the outdoors.The Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail runs throughGreenwood, popular for runners, bikers, cross-countryskiers, or those just out for a walk.
Information: www.greenwoodmn.com or (952) 474-6633.
DeephavenDeephaven is located west of the city of Minnetonka.
The city has a population of less than 4,000 residentsand offers seven parks and six beaches. The regionaltrail runs through Deephaven along Lake Minnetonka,which is why it is known as “Two Miles of Tranquility.”
The 2.6 square-mile city is home to beaches, parks,trails and two lake access points.
Notably Deephaven’s most famous attraction is theGeneral Store, opened in 1895. Visitors can not only gettreats, including ice cream, sandwiches and other good-ies, but the store also offers a history lesson — how itstarted and information about the surrounding area.The Cottagewood community owns the store. Therewere 135 residents who pitched in to buy it and main-tain the community treasure after it was put up for salein 1995. The building is currently being refurbished atan estimated cost of $13,000, half of original estimates.
The Minnetonka Yacht Club also calls Deephavenhome and is located on an island off Carson’s Bay andthe main lower portion of Lake Minnetonka.
Information: www.cityofdeephaven.org or (952) 474-4755.
The gems of Greenwood, Deephaven
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
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Excelsior might only be one square-mile, but it isviewed as “South Lake’s downtown,” with retail, diningand plenty of activity year-round.
Nestled on the shores of Excelsior and Gideon’s bayson shores of Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior has intimatelake-town charm, although it is less than 15 miles fromdowntown Minneapolis.
The city was settled in 1850 and has been incorporat-ed since 1877. Since its founding, it has been a destina-tion and home to many. Excelsior, though once mostpopular in the summer months, now stays busy year-round.
Excelsior continues to grow, with a brewery, grocerystore, new retail development and an overhaul of thecity’s parks on the agenda. The Farmers Market willremain in the new location created last year, MountCalvary Lutheran Church parking lot.
A new park, Excelsior-Studer Park, located on CountyRoad 19, is the latest addition to the city’s parks, and itis also the future location of the city’s community gar-den plots.
Excelsior’s Mainstreet, Water Street, boasts an arrayof independently-owned businesses, making for a shop-ping experience unlike any mall. Dining in Excelsioroffers an array of food options. There are also antiquestores, clothing stores and many retailers that offeritems not found elsewhere.
The Fourth of July celebration, Art on the Lake,Apple Day and regular events such as Girls Night Out
during the summer attract visitors from around themetro. Christkindlmarkt, held Thanksgiving Day week-end along Water Street, is a unique shopping experiencethat kicks off the holiday season.
In winter, Arctic Fever offers many activities, such ashuman bowling, an ice bike race, skijoring and cross-country skiing, to name a few. This multi-day eventtakes place in January with coordinated events inTonka Bay, Shorewood and Excelsior. The Pond HockeyNorth America Championship on Excelsior Bay is alsoheld here.
Lyman Lumber parking lot, which once was the siteof many events in Excelsior, is slated to become thehome of the Hennepin County Library branch.
The most talked about feature of Excelsior, TheCommons Park, provides an open grass space, a play-ground, tennis courts and a beach. It is also home toArt on the Lake, the 4th of July celebration and manyother events throughout the year. The adjacent Port ofExcelsior has municipal and commercial docking.
Tommy’s Trolly is an old streetcar that provides “theTwin Cities best ice-cream,” Sebastian Joes, water sportrentals and other snacks and beverages. A fifth dockwas added to the Commons in 2011, providing more lakeaccess to residents. The area was once home to theExcelsior Amusement Park, which operated 1925 to1973. The Lake Minnetonka Casino was replaced by theLake View Pavilion in the 1920s.
Information: www.ci.excelsior.mn.us.
Excelsior’s historic charm, appeal
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:07 Page
Minnetonka is home to numerous businesses andnearly 50,000 employees and will welcome many moreworkers when the expansion to UnitedHealth Group’scampus is completed later this year. The healthcare com-pany began work on a new 11-story, 342,000 square-footoffice building in early 2011 at its campus in the OpusBusiness Park at Bren Road and Highway 169.UnitedHealth Group will begin occupancy of its secondheadquarters building in August 2012.
This new building is one of many improvements andexpansions going on in that section of the city.Construction work on a new interchange at Bren Roadand Highway 169 began in April 2011 and was completedin November of the same year. This spring, the finishingtouches are being made on the project with landscapingand road striping.
In addition to its commercial properties, Minnetonkais home to 50,000 residents and 1,700 acres of parks,recreation areas and preserves. Its natural sceneryincludes 49 community parks, mature trees, wetlandsand prairies.
Ojibwe and Dakota Native Americans were the first tosettle in the region. Native American tribes signed anagreement allowing settlement of lands west of FortSnelling, which paved the way for Minnetonka’s first set-tlement. Established in 1852, Minnetonka is located
about eight miles west of Minneapolis.The city is home to two public high schools – Hopkins
High School and Minnetonka High School. HopkinsHigh houses the Lindbergh Center, a community exer-cise facility and the Hopkins High School Auditorium,which annually features dozens of student and profes-sional productions on its stage. Minnetonka High Schoolis home to the Arts Center on 7, a multi-use performingarts center that features student productions and sever-al resident performance groups each year.
Annual community activities in the city includeMusic in the Park and the Minnetonka Farmers Marketat the Minnetonka Community Center. The Farmers’Market will return July 3 this year. Other popular sum-mertime events include the annual Summer Festival andBurwell House Ice Cream Social, which are scheduledfor Saturday, June 23.
Last May, the city celebrated the grand re-opening ofthe Williston Fitness Center. The event showcased thecommunity exercise facility’s newly renovated pool, fit-ness areas and play structure.
Minnetonka has two beaches, Libbs Lake Beach andShady Oak Beach, which are popular destinations forresidents from surrounding cities. The MinnetonkaCommunity Center on Minnetonka Blvd. encompasses
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Minnetonka offers fulfilling life
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City Hall, the city’s senior citizens program and canaccommodate many types of gatherings, from meetingsand luncheons to wedding receptions and anniversaries.City Hall is located at 14600 Minnetonka Blvd.
The city-owned Minnetonka Ice Arena offers publicskating, skating lessons and adult hockey leagues. It isalso where the Lake Minnetonka Figure Skating Club,Hopkins and Minnetonka Youth Associations and highschool hockey programs from both the Hopkins andMinnetonka school districts conduct their operations.City Hall is located at 14600 Minnetonka Blvd.
Though Minnetonka shares its name with LakeMinnetonka, only one small bay of the lake is actually
located in the city – Gray’s Bay, which forms the headwa-ters of Minnehaha Creek. The creek flows east for 22miles and empties into the Mississippi River inMinneapolis.
Information: 952-939-8200 or eminnetonka.com.
• Lindbergh Center, 2400 Lindbergh Drive,Minnetonka, 952-988-4519
• Williston Fitness Center, 14509 Minnetonka Drive,Minnetonka, 952-939-8370
• Arts Center on 7, 18285 Highway 7, Minnetonka, 952-401-5712
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Minnetonka a major metro city
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Minnetonka Professional Building11601 Minnetonka Mills RoadMinnetonka, MN 55305952.938.1443Wayzata Medical Center250 North Central Avenue, Suite 301Wayzata, MN 55391952.473.1993
Excelsior Professional Building348 Second Street • Excelsior, MN 55331952.474.0288
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www.wayzatachamber.com
• Wayzata Art Experience June 23 & 24 • 10 amWayzata Chamber of Commerce and TCF Bank present Wayzata Art Experience.CELEBRATE art on Lake Minnetonka. EXPERIENCE over 100 top artists juried intoone of the most exquisite outdoor shows. ENJOY garden art, live music & deli-cious cuisine! www.WayzataArtExperience.com
• 4th of July Flying Pancake Breakfast July 4 • 8 am-12pmHistoric Wayzata Depot, 402 E. Lake Street Watch Revolutionary Soldiers andbegin your day with a festive celebration for patriots of all ages. Guests delightin “catching ‘em if they can” pancakes tossed from the grill. $6 | USA Veteranseat free
• Music by the Lake Wayzata Summer Concert SeriesWednesdays evenings from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on July 11, 18, 25 and August 1. Dineat a local restaurant before enjoying a variety of performers at the WayzataDepot Park on Lake Minnetonka.
• James J. Hill Days Sat. & Sun., September 8 & 9Celebrate Wayzata at our largest, annual community festival. Enjoy an Open-AirStreet Market, Kids Carnival, Dachshund Races, Car Show, Parade and muchmore! www.JamesJHillDays.com
• Boo Blast Saturday, October 27 • 12pm – 4pmWayzata celebrates Halloween! Trick-or-Treat and enjoy spooky specials andfamily-friendly activities all around town.
• Chilly Open 2013 February 9Join the fun as over 1,000 golfers enjoy winter “golf” on frozen Lake Min-netonka. Sponsors at each of the golf holes provide games, food and fun for thisunique event. 2013 theme: “Back to the 80’s”! www.WayzataChillyOpen.com
The Gateway to Lake Minnetonka
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Excelsior:
Christ Community Church897 3rd Ave., Excelsior (952) 470-7385
Excelsior United MethodistChurch881 3rd Ave., Excelsior (952) 474-5471
The Congregational Church ofExcelsior471 Third St., Excelsior(952) 474-5919
Mount Calvary Lutheran Church301 County Road 19, Excelsior(952) 474-8893
Our Savior Lutheran Church andSchool23290 Hwy. 7, Excelsior (952) 474-5181
St. John the Baptist638 Mill St., Excelsior(952) 474-5812Trinity EpiscopalChurch of Excelsior322 Second St., Excelsior(952) 474-5263
Westwood Community Church3121 Westwood Dr., Excelsior (952) 224-7300
Deephaven:
Grace Evangelical LutheranChurch of Deephaven18360 Minnetonka Blvd., Deephaven(952) 473-2362
St. Therese Church ofDeephaven18323 Minnetonka Blvd., Deephaven(952) 473-4422
Minnetonka:
Episcopal Parish of St. David13000 St. David’s Road, Minnetonka(952) 935-3336
Good Shepherd Presbyterian15321 Wayzata Blvd., Minnetonka(952) 835-6358
Faith Presbyterian Church ofMinnetonka12007 Excelsior Blvd., Minnetonka(952) 935-4481
Immaculate Heart of Mary13505 Excelsior Blvd., Minnetonka(952) 935-1432
Minnetonka Community Church13215 Minnetonka Drive,Minnetonka(952) 935-8636
Minnetonka United MethodistChurch17611 Lake St. Extension,Minnetonka(952) 474-4114
Northern Oaks CommunityChurch16625 Excelsior Blvd., Minnetonka(952) 934-6422
West Oaks Community Church11901 Excelsior Blvd., Minnetonka(952) 938-6406
Shorewood:
Minnewashta Church26710 W. 62nd St., Shorewood(952) 474-8995
Wayzata:
Calvary Memorial Church2420 Dunwoody Ave., Wayzata(952) 471-8511
Redeemer Lutheran Church115 W. Wayzata Blvd., Wayzata(952) 473-1281
St. Bartholomew Catholic FaithCommunity630 Wayzata Blvd. E., Wayzata(952) 473-6601
Unitarian Universalist Church ofMinnetonka605 Rice St., Wayzata(952) 473-5900
Wayzata Community Church125 Wayzata Blvd. W., Wayzata(952) 473-8877
SynagoguesMinnetonka:
Adath Jeshurun Congregation10500 Hillside Lane West,Minnetonka(952) 545-2424
Sharei Chesed Congregation1712 Hopkins Cross Rd.,Minnetonka(763) 545-8800
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Places of worship important here
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Shorewood is unique, like all the South Lake cities, inthat it’s six miles long and one mile wide, encompassingaround 3,600 acres. The city remains mainly residential,and includes three islands – Spray, Shady andEnchanted.
Incorporated in 1956, Shorewood is — even given itsrather diminutive size — home to six parks providing avariety of recreation options and access to the LRTtrail. For its 7,551 residents and thousands of visitors,there are multiple options for year-round activities inShorewood.
The city has also been looking to add trails as part ofits Train Plan to provide a safer alternative method oftransportation in the city. Shorewood also took overoperations of the Southshore Community Center, 5735Country Club Road, in 2009, after having been part of ajoint management arrangement with surroundingcities. The community center had been owned and oper-
ated by five South Lake Minnetonka cities. After reno-vations were made in 2009, the center now not onlyoffers activities for seniors, but all-age classes, forumsand events.
Shorewood also started Artic Fever, which takes placein the middle of January in three South Lake cities.This event was established to celebrate the winter andall it has to offer. The event has grown each year withthe popular sport of skijoring (dog-powered skiing) atthe top of the activities.
The parks offer free community events for childrenincluding bringing in the Minnesota Zoo Mobile andkarate classes. Winter or summer, those in Shorewoodcan find much to do within the city, or in the neighbor-ing cities.
Information: www.ci.shorewood.mn.us or 952-960-7900.
Shorewood offers quiet life
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Beautiful Tonka Bay, WoodlandTonka Bay
Tonka Bay, which is one square-mile, has more shore-line on Lake Minnetonka than any other city of its size.Located in between the upper and lower bodies of LakeMinnetonka connected by the “Narrows,” Tonka Bayhas just more than 1,500 residents and was incorporatedas a village in 1901.
The city’s parks offer year-round activity with beach-es and an ice-skating rink. The city added municipaldock space in 2011.
Manitou Park is the largest of four city parks. It islocated on County Road 19. It has a hockey rink withwarming house, a basketball court, soccer and baseballfields, picnic shelter, playground and other amenities. Agrant was sought to remodel the basketball court in thepark into a sports court to boost its use. Old OrchardPark, just down the road on County Road 19 fromManitou Park, is located adjacent to city hall. Here resi-dents have access to the municipal docks, a picnic area,playground equipment and a fishing pier.
Crescent Beach and the beach at Wekota Park havelifeguards on duty during the summer and providegreat access and viewing points to the lake.
Information: www.cityoftonkabay.net or 952-474-7994.
WoodlandWith a population less than 500, the small residential
community of Woodland is a gem on east LakeMinnetonka. Woodland saw its first constructed abodein 1867 and was settled in 1882 and incorporated in 1948.Woodland, just slightly more than a half square-mile, isamong the top 50 highest-income communities in theUnited States, making it one of Minnesota’s wealthiest.
Woodland comprises approximately 3.6 miles of pub-lic roads and nearly 6 miles of shoreline on LakeMinnetonka. Woodland shares the same municipaloffice building with Greenwood and Deephaven, and itcontracts services with Deephaven, Wayzata andMinnetonka. Therefore, Woodland does not have cityemployees.
Surrounded by Wayzata Bay to the north andRobinson’s Bay to the east, the city has 50 percent of itsresidents lucky enough to live on the lakeshore.
Information: www.cityofwoodlandmn.com or 952-474-4755.
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:07 Page 33
Museums bring past to life
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical SocietyLocated at 305 Water St. in Excelsior, the society’s
museum includes many artifacts and exhibits detailingthe history of the south Lake Minnetonka area,, includ-ing the Excelsior Amusement Park, Excelsior HighSchool and local businesses, as well as the famous LakeMinnetonka sailing vessel the Onawa. It’s open fromMay to September 3-6 p.m. Thursdays, and 10 a.m. to 3p.m. Saturdays.
The archives are located at Old Excelsior PublicSchool Building 261 School Ave., lower level, Suite 102,Excelsior. The society’s archives hold many local his-toric records, including photographs, maps, newspa-pers, historic Excelsior vital records, and other materi-als of special interest to genealogists and thoseresearching building and house history in the area.This is open all year.
For more information, visit elmhs.org.
The Museum of Lake MinnetonkaIt was 1855, and the first steamboat, the “Governor
Ramsey,” graced Lake Minnetonka. The small stern-wheeler was the first of many boats used on the lake,and would pave the way for a big part of the historyaround the lake and surrounding area.
Providing transportation to the developing populari-ty of the lake area, a flotilla of boats cruised the watersof Lake Minnetonka. The boats were designed to cutthrough the waters, providing passengers with a com-fortable riding experience.
The now floating museum is a 70-foot long, 15-footwide and 62,000-pound steamboat built in 1906, whichsank in 1926. The cypress hull seemed to be in good con-dition. There was much struggle getting it out of themud. In 1980, the boat was raised out of LakeMinnetonka. Restoration on the historic boat began in
MUSEUMS: NEXT PAGE
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:07 Page 34
1990, and in 1996 the boat saw its first public cruise.In the 1920s, the vessels began to loose steam in popu-
larity, with ridership dropping off fast. By 1926, theboats were being dismantled.
Lake cruises and trips between Excelsior andWayzata occur Saturdays, Sundays, during holidays andspecial events, such as $5 rides during Excelsior GirlsNight Out on Thursday nights during the summer.
The “Minnehaha” departs from Wayzata andExcelsior docks. For a detailed schedule, ticket pricesand more information, visit steamboatminnehaha.org.
Minnesota Streetcar MuseumDuring the time steamboats were popular on Lake
Minnetonka, their counterparts on land, the streetcars,were also playing a large role in the transportation ofresidents and visitors. The boats and streetcars sched-ules worked in tandem. The streetcar system reachedMinneapolis in 1875, and in 1904 plans were in the
works to bring them to Lake Minnetonka. Created in December 2004 as part of the restructur-
ing of the Minnesota Transportation Museum, theMinnesota Streetcar Museum led to the streetcar andsteamboat operations of the Minnesota StreetcarMuseum and the Museum of Lake Minnetonka, respec-tively, during the winter of 2004-05.
Currently, four streetcars are located in Excelsior,which run Saturdays and Sundays, May to September,and on Thursdays May through October.
The streetcars travel between Water Street and OldExcelsior Road in Excelsior. Riders can board the trol-ley near the intersection of Excelsior Boulevard andMinnetonka Boulevard. They can also board adjacent tothe Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical SocietyMuseum, 305 Water St.
Schedule and Information: 952-922-1096.
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Streetcars part of today’s history
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:07 Page 35
34
DRYDRRYDDRRYRRYDRAINCLEAN
Photos courtesy of Minnesota DNR
Prevent the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species
SAVEOURSUMMERS
www.minnehahacreek.org/AIS Artful Home & Gifts
A cool place to shop for artistic, colorful and unique home accessories and gifts!
952-474-7300 Tues. - Sat. 10:30-5
432 2nd St. Excelsior MN
OUR NEWS CYCLEIS ALWAYS RUNNING
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10917 VALLEY VIEW ROAD, EDEN PRAIRIE • 952-829-0797
Peace on the lakeSometimes the best place to find solace is in your boat on Lake Minnetonka. Summer sunsets and sunrises are amongsome of the most beautiful in the state.
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:07 Page 36
The Lake Minnetonka communities offer many beauti-ful parks, which offer a variety of amenities to walkers,bikers, family gatherings and those looking for a relax-ing bench.
Minnetonka
Big Willow11522 Minnetonka Blvd.
Amenities at the 90-acre park include a football and soc-cer field, four baseball fields, two softball fields, play-ground, picnic area, picnic shelter and trails.
Civic Center14600 Minnetonka Blvd.
The park is home to City Hall, the police station, a firestation and events like Minnetonka Summer Fest andthe Minnetonka Farmers Market. Amenities include afootball and soccer field, picnic area and trails.
Lone Lake5624 Shady Oak Road
The 146-acre park has several athletic fields, almost two
Parks bring nature to the city
35
Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
PARKS: TO PAGE 36
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:07 Page 37
miles of trails, a skate park and two picnic areas.
Meadow2724 Oakland Road
Hockey rinks, a playground, tennis courts and trails areincluded in the 100-acre park. It also has a warminghouse for outdoor hockey.
Purgatory17315 Excelsior Blvd.
Purgatory Park is the largest city park at 155 acres. Ithas more than two miles of trails and includes picnicareas.
Excelsior
The CommonsLake StreetThe Commons in Excelsior has been a public meetingplace since the 1850s when the town was settled. It isalso the location of the Port of Excelsior, which hascommercial and municipal docking. A fifth dock wasadded to the Commons this year. The Commons fea-tures a beach, band shell for concerts, playgroundequipment, tennis courts, softball diamonds and picnicarea. The park also features many local events, includ-ing a free community Easter egg hunt, Art on the Lakeand the 4th of July celebration.
Wayzata
Klapprich Park340 Park St. E., Wayzata
Klapprich Park is one of six parks in the city. Itincludes an outdoor hockey rink, picnic area, play-ground and softball field.
Deephaven
Burton ParkBurton Park is located next to the back bay of Carson’sBay. Burton Park is a beautiful nature trail offering sce-nic views of the back bay of Carson’s Bay and a fishingpier.Located next to the LRT Trail, Burton Park provideshikers with a unique view of Lake Minnetonka.
Cottagewood Children’s ParkCottagewood Avenue between Western Road and ParkPlace.It offers two playgrounds, gazebo, picnic tables, sculp-ture, water fountain. Cottagewood Children’s Park pro-vides a wonderful opportunity for small children toplay on the two playgrounds with plenty of benchessurrounding a beautiful water fountain where parentscan relax while watching their kids play. TheCottagewood General Store is located right across thestreet for refreshments.
Thorpe Park3725 Hamilton Ave., Deephaven
Thorpe Park is one of 11 parks and beaches in the city.It includes a picnic shelter, a playground, flower gar-dens, two baseball fields, two tennis courts, hockey andskating rinks, a basketball court and horseshoe pit
Village Hall Park20225 Cottagewood RoadIt offers one modular playground, three tennis courts,gazebo, ice rink, warming house, ball field, benches,walking path to LRT Trail. Village Hall Park adjoinsDeephaven city offices and provides a variety of recre-ational activities, from tennis, baseball and playgroundequipment in the summer to hockey and ice skating inthe winter. The parking lot also allows many residentsto easily access the popular LRT Regional Trail.
Shorewood
Freeman Park25800 State Highway 7, Shorewood
Free Fridays at Freeman Park - Various children’sactivities are offered over the summer months inFreeman Park. 2011 summer events include kite mak-ing, bugs and critters, music and dancing, puppets,karate, fishing, zoo mobile and more. This is also hometo Arctic Fever and other community events.
Manor Park20630 Manor Rd, Shorewood.
One of five parks, Manor Park was revamped in the fallof 2010, getting all new equipment and an updated shel-ter.
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Lake Minnetonka Guide to the AreaMinnetonka
Cottagewood • DeephavenExcelsior • Long Lake
WayzataGreenwood • Tonka BayWoodland • Shorewood
Parks abundant near the lake
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:07 Page 38
SALE & LEASEin the West Metro
For Lease - Excelsior
287 Water Street Impeccably renovated 5600 SF retail center in Excelsior’s shopping district. This is a great opportunity to be amongst retailers known for exceptional products, services & customer service.
436 2nd Street Charming multi-tenant retail and offi ce building in the heart of downtown Excelsior. Approximately 9,600 SF with adjacent municipal parking lot. Steps to Lake Minnetonka. Great long term investment.
153 East Lake Street Rare Owner user or investment opportunity on Lake St. in downtown Wayzata . This two story offi ce building offers 3,954 SF with reception area, private offi ces, conference room & open work space and some lake views from the second fl oor.
2045 Merrimac Lane– Located just North of Hwy 101 & Cty Rd 6 this offi ce building boasts 3,204 SF on a 5.78 acre setting on Snyder Lake near Wayzata. Cur-rently North West Animal Hospital. Equipment in the building sold separately. Client list is available.
261 School Avenue Charming renovated schoolhouse with 1100 SF offi ce space available on the main level. Well maintained & well managed offi ce building.
434 Lake Street Stately Ryan Building has 2 small private offi ces remaining. Three story building, with brick exterior, high quality fi nishes throughout and elevator. Great rates.
120 Broadway Well appointed brick 2 story building offering 4000 SF of Class A offi ce space, located on the second level. Built in 2005 by Keith Waters with great attention to detail. Walk to Lake Minnetonka and Wayzata’ s shops & restaurants.
For Sale/ Lease - Excelsior For Sale/Lease - Wayzata For Sale - Wayzata/Plymouth
For Lease - Excelsior For Lease - Excelsior For Sale - Wayzata
Sales – Leasing – Consulting – Buyer & Tenant Representation
LakeMtkaGuide2012revisedkeith_2010 Guide 5/10/12 6:07 Page 39
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