Your Guide to Wayzata, MN

Sip & Savor: Coffee Shops, Dining & Bars

When it comes to your morning cup of joe or an afternoon caffeine boost, you can’t go wrong with a tried-and-true favorite: Caribou Coffee. For a fine dining experience with a lakeside view, head to Gianni’s Steakhouse or 6Smith. In the mood for something more casual? Wayzata Bar and Grill (affectionately known as “The Muni”) is a local go-to offering a laid-back vibe and classic American fare.

For a lively night out, McCormick’s Pub & Restaurant offers a fantastic selection of craft beers and delicious pub food. And no day is complete without a sweet treat — enjoy an ice cream cone at Ben & Jerry’s or visit the award-winning Nadia Cakes.

Retail Therapy: Local Boutiques & Hidden Gems

Wayzata’s downtown area is brimming with charming boutiques and locally owned shops that cater to a variety of tastes. Fashion Avenue 2 is a top pick for fresh and trendy women’s fashion, featuring a chic array of designer clothes and accessories. Find a curated selection of stylish home furnishing and decor at Brick + Linen or Grace Hill. Visit Candlelight Floral & Gifts for spectacular floral arrangements, or check out Five Swans, which offers a mix of home goods, gifts, and accessories. Jewelweed is a must-visit for nature-inspired jewelry and art, while Lakehouse Candle Co. offers a variety of handcrafted candles that capture the essence of Minnesota’s lakeside living.

Nature’s Playground: Outdoor Adventures

Wayzata is an oasis for outdoor recreation, especially in the summer. With Lake Minnetonka at its doorstep, it’s no surprise that water activities are a highlight. Imagine summer days spent on the lake fishing, boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Like to stick close to shore? Wayzata Beach is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, providing a perfect backdrop for family outings.

While the lake is a big draw for residents and visitors alike, Wayzata is also a favorite for land-based adventures. Running through Wayzata, the 28-mile Dakota Regional Trail provides a scenic route for walking, running, and biking with stunning views of the lake and surrounding nature. The Luce Line State Trail also offers miles of trails ideal for biking, jogging, or a leisurely stroll.

In the winter, the lake transforms into a winter wonderland with opportunities for ice fishing, skating, and snowshoeing. The city’s parks, such as Klapprich Park and Big Woods Preserve, provide beautiful settings for year-round outdoor fun.

Fun & Games: Entertainment & Things to Do

There’s no shortage of year-round and seasonal entertainment in Wayzata. For a glimpse into the city’s rich history, visit the Wayzata Depot, a historic train station turned museum. If you’re looking to stay active, head to the Wayzata Community Sailing Center, where you can take sailing lessons or rent a boat for a day on the lake.

In the summer and fall, explore the Wayzata Art Experience and James J. Hill Days, both of which showcase local artists, live music, food, and interactive activities for all ages. And when the lake freezes over, don’t miss Wayzata’s signature winter event: The Chilly Open. Featuring a different theme every year, Lake Minnetonka is transformed into a nine-hole golf course.

Other community events include the annual 4th of July Flying Pancake Breakfast, the Halloween Boo Bash Dash, and the Light Up the Lake holiday celebration.

Learning Hubs: Top-Notch Schools

With some of the best schools in Minnesota, Wayzata is a great place for families to call home. The Wayzata Public School District is renowned for its excellence, offering top-notch education from elementary through high school.

Wayzata High School is one of the largest schools in the state and is known for its rigorous curriculum, excellent sports teams, and wide array of extracurricular activities. Several highly-rated elementary schools, such as Gleason Lake Elementary and Wayzata Central Middle School, provide a supportive and enriching learning environment for younger children. Wayzata also offers several private and charter school options.

Where to Live: Neighborhoods & Communities

Wayzata’s neighborhoods each offer their own unique charm and amenities. Located downtown, Regatta Wayzata Bay and Wayzata Blu provide easy access to shops, restaurants, and the lake. For a more suburban feel, the Gleason Lake and Stonecrest neighborhoods offer spacious homes and a family-friendly environment. Locust Hills is a prestigious community known for its luxury homes and private amenities, while the Ferndale area offers stunning lakeside properties and a peaceful, secluded atmosphere.

With a high quality of life, great schools, and an abundance of activities to suit any lifestyle, it’s safe to say Wayzata is more than a beautiful lakeside city.