2011
Lake Minnetonka…Paradise Style!
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Public Cruises!
Company Parties, Client Entertaining!
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Birthdays, Sweet 16’s, Anniversaries!
Lake Minnetonka Public Cruise Schedule Through October 16th! Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 11:30 am-1 pm Narrated Sightseeing Cruises Tuesdays 6-8 pm Happy Hour, Pizza & Cocktail Cruise (Free Pizza & Drink Specials!) Sunday Brunch, 11 am to 1 pm Includes our Delicious Brunch Buffet, Juice and Coffee
$13.50 $25.50 $30.50
Children, Senior and Group Discounts Available. All cruises depart from the Port of Excelsior. Reservations required.
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Make Reservations online at TwinCitiesCruises.com
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We l c o m e t o The Gateway to Lake Minnetonka A premiere lake in Minnesota, Lake Minnetonka and its surrounding communities offer much to do including fine dining and shopping, beaches, parks, trails and community events. The lake area has a rich history, which contributes largely to the culture. Many of the events in the lake area pay homage to the area’s history. Land and infrastructure dating back more than 100 years still exists around the lake today. Before the 20th Century began, Lake Minnetonka was not only attracting those from around the Twin Cities, but people from around the state made Lake Minnetonka a weekend get-away destination. In South Lake, a casino and amusement park were favorite attractions in the 1900s. Hotels popped up around the lake after steamboats and trolleys became popular forms of transportation.
• Wayzata Towne Trolley
May - October
• Tails by the Lake June 25
(Wayzata’s day for dogs)
• Flying Pancake Breakfast • Wayzata Summer Concert Services
July
Wednesday Evenings 7-8:30
• • • •
Currently, many people make Lake Minnetonka home, while many more travel to it for all it has to offer. This is the second Lake Minnetonka guide, which will highlight what the area offers. Festivals, food, shopping, recreation and history all make the area so popular. This guide offers information to allow readers to enjoy the lake area and discover what a gem it is.
July 4
Crazy Days James J Hill Days Boo Blast 12pm-4pm Chilly Open 2012
July 14-18 Sept. 10 & 11 October 29 February 11
“Beach Party” For more information: 952-473-9595 www.wayzatachamber.com
Creating Beautiful Smiles
Michael W. Gleysteen D.D.S.
10917 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344 www.minnlocal.com 952-392-6800
Friendly expert care for the entire family. l
Editor .......................................................Chris Dillmann Writers ….....................Chris Dillmann, Stefanie Briggs, Jared Huizenga, Marc Ingber Photography …....................................... Chris Dillmann Layout & Design …..................................... Kari Larson Cover Design …. ...........................................Elli Martin Sales ….. Robbie Shoemaker, Linda Sauer, Beau Siegel, Lisa Nollen Advertising Director …........................ Jeremy Bradfield Executive Editor.........................................Peggy Bakken Publisher … ................................................Jeff Coolman Our appreciation goes out to the many community organizations and local businesses that supported this publication.
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Call today to schedule your FREE initial consultation Office Hours Mon, Tues & Thurs: 8am - 5pm Wed & Fri: 7:30am - Noon
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www.WayzataOrtho.com PAGE 3
Small town charm Settled in 1850 and nestled right on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior has the small town charm, yet is less than 15 miles from downtown Minneapolis. Excelsior is popular in the summer months but remains busy yearround with many activities and events. Water Street in Excelsior offers a shopping experience unlike any other place. Quaint restaurants and independently owned businesses give people a unique departure from the usual. Clothing, antiques, sweets, treats, unique dining experiences and smalltown charm are part of the experience in Excelsior that people are drawn to. The Fourth of July celebration, Art on the Lake, Apple Day and regular events such as Girls Night Out Thursdays during the summer attract visitors from around the Twin Cities metro area. Christkindlmarkt, which takes place over Thanksgiving Day weekend along Water Street is another unique shopping experience
that kicks off the holiday season in Excelsior.
Excelsior Bay in the last three years.
In winter, when Minnesota is at its coldest and Lake Minnetonka is frozen over, things start heating up in South Lake. Arctic Fever offers many activities such as human bowling, an ice bike race, skijoring and cross-country skiing to name a few. This mutli-day event takes place in January with coordinated events in Tonka Bay, Shorewood and Excelsior. Not far after, The Pond Hockey North America Championship in Excelsior Bay brought hundreds of hockey players and spectators to
Lyman Lumber parking lot, which once hosted many events in Excelsior, will soon be home to a new library. The events have been relocated throughout the city, and construction of the library is scheduled to begin in September.
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The Commons in Excelsior offer amenities such as large open grass areas, a playground, tennis courts and a beach. The adjacent Port of Excelsior has municipal and commercial docking.
Excelsior FROM PAGE 4
A fifth dock was added to the Commons this year, providing more lake access to residents. The area was once home to the Excelsior Amusement park, which operated 19251973. The Lake Minnetonka Casino was replaced by the Lake View Pavilion in the ‘20s. The city, though growing and bustling, also maintains the historic charm that has made it a destination in demand on Lake Minnetonka. Information: www.ci. excelsior.mn.us.
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Tw o m i l e s o f t r a n q u i l i t y Residents pride themselves on “Two Miles of Tranquility.” Deephaven is located just west of the city of Minnetonka. The city has a population of less than 4,000 residents and offers seven parks, six beaches and the regional trail running along Lake Minnetonka. A lakeside community, summer months in Deephaven are relaxing
and enjoabyle Visit for Deephaven Days in August. Probably Deephaven’s most famous attraction, the General Store opened in 1895. Visitors can purchase treats including ice cream, sandwiches and other items. The store also offers history of how it began and about the surrounding area. The
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Cottagewood community also owns the store. There were 135 residents who pitched in to buy it and maintain the community treasure after it was put up for sale in 1995. The building is being resided with an estimated cost of $13,000. Information: www.cityofdeep haven.org or (952) 474-4755.
Home to commerce, leisure and nature
Home to numerous businesses and 46,000 employees, Minnetonka will welcome many more workers when the expansion to UnitedHealth Group’s campus is complete in 2012. The healthcare company began work on a new 11-story, 342,000 square-foot office building in early 2011 at its campus in the Opus Business Park at Bren Road and Highway 169.
plete in November. In addition to its commercial properties, Minnetonka is home to 50,000 residents and 1,700 acres of parks, recreation areas and preserves. Its natural scenery includes 49 community parks, mature trees, wetlands and prairies.
Ojibway and Dakota Native Americans were the first settlers It’s not the only improvements in the area. After Native American tribes signed an going on in that section of Minnetonka. Construction work agreement allowing settlement of lands west of Fort Snelling, on a new interchange at Bren Minnetonka’s first settlement Road and 169, which began in was established in 1852. The April, is expected to be comPAGE 8
city is located about eight miles west of Minneapolis. It is home to two public high schools – Hopkins High School and Minnetonka High School. The former is home to the Lindbergh Center, a community exercise facility and the Hopkins High School Auditorium, which houses many student and professional productions. The latter is home to the Arts Center on 7, a multi-use performing arts center that houses student productions and several resident performance groups.
Minnetonka FROM PAGE 8
Annual community activities in the city include Music in the Park and the Minnetonka Farmers Market at the Minnetonka Community Center. The Farmers’ Market will return July 5 this year. Other popular warm weather events include the annual Summer Festival/Burwell House Ice Cream Social, which will be held June 25. In May the city celebrated the grand re-opening of the Williston Center. The event showcased the community exercise facility’s newly renovated pool, fitness areas and play structure.
Minnetonka has two beaches, Libbs Lake Beach and Shady Oak Beach, which is a popular destination for residents from surrounding cities. The Minnetonka Community Center houses City Hall, the city’s senior citizens program and can accommodate many types of gatherings from meetings to wedding receptions. The city-owned Minnetonka Ice Arena offers public skating, skating lessons and adult hockey. It is also where the Lake Minnetonka Figure Skating Club, Hopkins and Minnetonka Youth Associations and high school hockey programs from both the Hopkins and Minnetonka school districts conduct their operations. Though Minnetonka shares its
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name with Lake Minnetonka, only one small bay of the lake is located in the city – Gray’s Bay, which forms the headwaters of Minnehaha Creek. City Hall is located at 14600 Minnetonka Blvd. 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, 952401-5712
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A city for all seasons Incorporated in 1956, the city of Shorewood is six miles long and one mile wide encompassing around 3,600 acres. The city remains mainly residential and includes three islands – Spray, Shady and Enchanted. Even with its diminutive size, the city boasts six parks providing a variety of recreation options and access to the LRT trail, which runs through town. Its 7,551 residents and visitors have several options for year-
round activity. Shorewood also took over operation of the Southshore Community Center, 5735 Country Club Road, from surrounding cities in 2009. The community center had been owned and operated by five South Lake Minnetonka cities. After renovations were completed in 2009, the center now offers activities for seniors but along with all-age classes, forums and events. PAGE 11
Artic Fever, which usually takes place mid-January in three South Lake cities, originated in Shorewood. This event was created to celebrate the winter in South Lake and all it has to offer. Winter or summer, those in Shorewood can find much to do within the city or take a short jaunt to neighboring cities. Information: www.ci.shorewood.mn.us or (952) 960-7900.
Shores & parks
Located in between the upper and lower bodies of Lake Minnetonka, Tonka Bay has more Minnetonka shoreline than any other city of its size. The one square-mile town with slightly more than 1,500 residents was incorporated as a village in 1901. The city’s parks offer yearround activity with beaches and ice skating rinks.
Manitou Park is the largest of four city parks. It is located on County Road 19. It has a hockey rink with warming house, a basketball court, soccer and baseball fields, picnic shelter, playground and other amenities. Old Orchard Park, just down the road on County Road 19 from Manitou Park, is the home of the Tonka Bay City Hall. Here residents have access to the municipal
docks, areas to grill, swings and a fishing pier. Crescent Beach and the beach at Wekota Park have lifeguards on duty during the summer and provides a great gathering point for any group. Information: www.cityoftonkabay.net or (952) 474-7994.
Since 1867
The first residential dwellings were constructed in Woodland in 1867, settled in 1882 and incorporated in 1948. Nested on the shores of Lower Lake Minnetonka, the population is still less than 500 and remains primarily residential. The area of Woodland is less than a square mile. The city
offers approximately 3.6 miles of public roads and nearly 6 miles of shoreline on Lake Minnetonka. Woodland shares the same municipal office building with Greenwood and Deephaven, and it contracts most services with Deephaven, Wayzata and Minnetonka. There are no city employees. PAGE 12
Surrounded by Wayzata Bay to the north and Robinsons Bay to the east, the city has 50 percent of its residents fortunate enough to live on the lakeshore. Information: www.cityofwoodlandmn.com or (952) 4744755.
Lake Minnetonka Community For information on Deephaven beaches: (952) 474-4755
Deephaven Deephaven Beach 19405 Lake Ave. Robinson’s Bay Beach 3344 Robinson’s Bay Road Rocky Beach 20020 Lakeview Ave. Sandy Beach 20300 Lakeview Ave. Walden Beach 19355 Walden Trail
Shady Oak Beach 5200 Shady Oak Road (952) 939-8200
Excelsior Excelsior Commons Beach 339 Lake St. (952) 474-5233
Minnetonka Libbs Beach 16515 Park Lane (952) 939-8200
Tonka Bay Crescent Beach 240 Birch Bluff Road (952) 474-7994 Wakota Beach 300 W. Point Road (952) 474-7994
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Public Schools Minnetonka is one of only three districts in the state and 70 nationwide to earn a bond rating of Aaa by Moody Investment Services. The bond rating puts Minnetonka in a category that is more favorable for borrowing money than 38 states, including Minnesota.
Minnetonka Public Schools is one of the largest school districts in Minnesota.
School East. The facility opened in 2009, and interest in the sport has grown since the addition.
The district serves 10 communities and has approximately 8,600 students enrolled in six elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school.
Along with the 2009 building renovations, eight new tennis courts at Minnetonka High School, the Groveland Elementary playground and the completion of the new Black Box Theater� round out recent additions in the district. The Black Box Theater, which opened in 2011, offers a more intimate performance environment.
Excelsior, Minnetonka, Shorewood, Tonka Bay, Greenwood, Deephaven, Eden Prairie, Chanhassen, Woodland and Victoria are the communities served by the district. The schools integrate the latest technology for learning, and also have an expanding immersion program. National Backstroke winner and 2012 Olympic hopeful David Plummer trains at the state-of-theart Minnetonka Aquatics Center, located at Minnetonka Middle
Athletics are also a strong point in the district. During the 20092010 school year in the Classic Lake Conference, five Minnetonka High School varsity teams took top spot in conference championships, and the Boys Varsity Hockey took second at state. Information: www.minne tonka.k12.mn.us. Minnetonka Aquatics Center 17000 Lake St. Extension, Minnetonka (952) 401-5000 Arts Center on 7 18285 Highway 7, Minnetonka (952) 401-5748
The district boasts a 99.6 percent graduation rate, and test scores continue to rank among the highest in the state.
Minnetonka High School 18301 Highway 7, Minnetonka (952) 401-5700
The class of 2010 had a composite average of 25.5 for the ACT. The class also had 18 National Merit Semifinalists and 32 National Merit Commended students.
Minnetonka Public Schools Administration District Service Center 5621 County Road 101, Minnetonka (952) 401-5000
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Public Schools From a one-room log school built in the 1850s, Wayzata Public Schools has grown to become a national leader in education quality. Today, more than 10,000 students attend its seven elementary schools, three middle schools and its high school. Wayzata High School, opened in 1997, is the largest in Minnesota, enrolling more than 3,500 students. Students at all grade levels consistently score near the top in state assessment tests. High school students routinely score as much as three points higher than the national average on ACT tests. The district’s boundaries cut a huge swath through the West Metro, including all or part of Corcoran, Maple Grove, Medicine Lake, Medina, Minnetonka, Orono, Plymouth and Wayzata. The district encompasses 38 square miles. In addition to being an educational powerhouse, the district also is a significant employer in the area with about 1,300 workers, more than half of them teachers. Throughout its history, the district has enjoyed strong community support. Voters have approved several key levies, including an operating levy in 2005 that allowed the district to add more than 55 new teaching positions and lower class sizes. A
technology levy boosted the number of computers and their use throughout the district. The tradition of taxpayer support harks back to 1870 when voters approved spending $900 to build a new school on Bald Hill, the site of the current Wayzata City Hall. In 1880 it was replaced with a red brick building that featured folding doors between two rooms – the forerunner of the open school concept. The district’s schools have spawned talented politicians, athletes and actors. Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar is a 1978 graduate of Wayzata High School. James Laurinaitis, stand-out linebacker for The Ohio State Buckeyes who was drafted by the St. Louis Rams of the NFL, is a 2005 graduate. Benjamin Salisbury, who played Brighton Sheffield on the hit series “The Nanny,” is also an alumnus. Information: www.wayzata.k12.mn.us
Central Middle School 305 Vicksburg Lane, Plymouth (763) 745-6000 East Middle School 12000 Ridgemount Ave., Plymouth (763) 745-6200 West Middle School 149 Barry Ave. N., Wayzata (763) 745-6400 Birchview Elementary 425 Ranchview Lane, Plymouth (763) 745-5300 Gleason Lake Elementary 310 County Road 101 N., Plymouth (763) 745-5000 Greenwood Elementary 18005 Medina Road, Plymouth (763) 745-5500 Kimberly Lane Elementary 17405 Old Rockford Road, Plymouth (763) 745-5600 Oakwood Elementary 17340 County Road 6, Plymouth (763) 745-5700
Wayzata Public Schools 210 County Road 101 N., Wayzata (763) 745-5000
Plymouth Creek Elementary 16005 41st Ave. N., Plymouth (763) 745-5800
Wayzata High School 4955 Peony Lane N., Plymouth (763) 745-6655
Sunset Hill Elementary 13005 Sunset Trail, Plymouth (763) 745-5900
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F R E E E S T I M AT E S
Centers Southshore Community Center 5735 Country Club Road, Shorewood
the Minnetonka Community Center.
The SouthShore Community Center continues to grow and expand its impact in the South Lake community. In July 2009, the city of Shorewood took over operations of the Southshore Community Center. The cities of Excelsior, Greenwood, Tonka Bay and Deephaven, who all are part owners of the center as well, make contributions to keep the center ever expanding.
The community room and dining room can be combined as a banquet room, fitting up to 250 people. Tables and chairs, a podium, dance floor and a commercial kitchen are included to accommodate many gatherings. Gatherings include large meetings, an anniversary parties, family reunions, conferences and wedding receptions.
While the center has become a popular spot for events such as weddings, reunions, community events and meetings, it still offers popular daily senior programs. An array of programs has cropped up to attract all-ages. Dance, gardening, woodworking, art, aerobics and cooking classes are only some of the activities intended to attract South Lake Minnetonka area visitors and beyond. Information: www.southshorecenter.org or (952) 474-7635. Minnetonka Community Center 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka The city of Minnetonka operates the Minnetonka Community Center, which offers senior citizen programs and is also available for the community in general. Several meeting rooms, a conference room, art room and a dining and community room are in the center. The City Council Chambers are also in
The dining room area is reserved for senior citizen programs between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on weekdays. Otherwise, the rooms can be reserved during regular hours. Information: www.eminnetonka.com or (952) 939-8390. Minnetonka Center for the Arts For years if somebody said they were taking a class at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts, it meant they were actually going to the center in Wayzata. The arts center in Wayzata offers year-round art classes for adults and children. Classes are offered in a variety of mediums and subjects. Some 4,000 people enroll every year. And, children can take Minnetonka Center for the Arts’ classes in Minnetonka - in the unlikely setting of the bustling Ridgedale Center. The Minnetonka PAGE 21
shopping center and the Wayzatabased arts center have teamed up to open a satellite location, offering drop-in visual arts classes for children, art birthday parties and a retail space where artwork will be sold to benefit the art center. The spring 2010 schedule had drop-in pre-school children and children from ages 6 to 12. The classes cover a variety of projects and mediums including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, bookmaking, fibers, cartoons and illustration. Information: www.minnetonkaarts.org. Minnetonka Center for the Arts 2240 North Shore Drive, Wayzata (952) 473-7361, ext. 16 Satellite location Ridgedale Center 12401 Wayzata Blvd., Minnetonka (952) 473-7361, ext. 16
The City on the Lake
Known as “The City on the Lake,� Greenwood is surrounded by St. Albans and Excelsior bays. The city was founded in 1956 and now is home to approximately 800 residents. The South Lake city is also home to the Old Log Theater, which happens to be the oldest theater in Minnesota. The theater is owned by Don Stolz who joined the theater in 1941, a year after it opened. The city has the charm of a quiet lakeside community yet is only minutes from the bustle of the Twin Cities.
Though summer is the primary season to enjoy the beauties of Greenwood, winter too offers plenty for those who enjoy the outdoors. The Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail runs through Greenwood, popular PAGE 22
with runners, bikers, cross-country skiers or those just out for a stroll. Information: www.greenwoodmn.com or (952) 4746633.
Lake Minnetonka Community The Lake Minnetonka communities offer many beautiful parks, which offer a variety of amenities to walkers, bikers, family gatherings and those looking for a relaxing bench.
Wayzata Klapprich Park 340 Park St. E., Wayzata Klapprich Park is one of six parks in the city. It includes an outdoor hockey rink, picnic area, playground and softball field.
Minnetonka Big Willow 11522 Minnetonka Blvd. Amenities at the 90-acre park include a football and soccer field, four baseball fields, two softball fields, playground, picnic area, picnic shelter and trails. Civic Center 14600 Minnetonka Blvd. The park is home to City Hall, the police station, a fire station and events like Minnetonka Summer Fest and the Minnetonka Farmers Market. Amenities include a football and soccer field, picnic area and trails. Lone Lake 5624 Shady Oak Road The 146-acre park has several athletic fields, almost two miles of trails, a skate park and two picnic areas. Meadow 2724 Oakland Road Hockey rinks, a playground, tennis courts and trails are included in the 100-acre park. It also has a warming house for outdoor hockey.
Deephaven
Purgatory 17315 Excelsior Blvd. Purgatory Park is the largest city park at 155 acres. It has more than two miles of trails and includes picnic areas.
Thorpe Park 3725 Hamilton Ave., Deephaven Thorpe Park is one of 11 parks and beaches in the city. It includes a picnic shelter, a playground, flower gardens, two baseball fields, two tennis courts, hockey and skating rinks, a basketball court and horseshoe pit
Excelsior The Commons 339 Lake St., Excelsior The Commons in Excelsior has been a public meeting place since the 1850s when the town was settled. It is also the location of the Port of Excelsior, which has commercial and municipal docking. A fifth dock was added to the Commons this year. The Commons features a beach, band shell for concerts, playground equipment, tennis courts, softball diamonds and picnic area. The park also features many local events, including a free community Easter egg hunt, Art on the Lake and the 4th of July celebration. PAGE 23
Shorewood Freeman Park 25800 State Highway 7, Shorewood Free Fridays at Freeman Park - Various children’s activities are offered over the summer months in Freeman Park. 2011 summer events include kite making, bugs and critters, music and dancing, puppets, karate, fishing, zoo mobile and more. Manor Park 20630 Manor Rd, Shorewood. One of five parks, Manor Park was revamped in the fall of 2010 getting all new equipment and an updated shelter.
History Around 11,000 years ago when glaciers formed Lake Minnetonka, it attracted residents and visitors. It has been home and a destination since.
ed in 1853, with many other cities following. Wayzata, Dakota for “north shore,” was founded in 1854 when Oscar Garrison surveyed and claimed much of what is now Wayzata after building a cabin there two years prior.
With numerous bays, there is approximately 300 miles of shoreline. Several Native American tribes occupied the lake area until 1862. Traveling through the Minnetonka area often, the Dakotah and the Chippewa were thought to be traveling to Shakopee and Lake Mille Lacs. The Minnehaha Creek where the old Minnetonka Mills were located provided an easy crossing. In 1851, 2 million acres of land was transferred from the Native Americans to the U.S. Government in the Treaty of Mendota. Many chiefs refused to sign the treaty due to a denial of a request to keep the area around Lake Minnetonka Indian land. The treaty was enacted despite the lack of signatures. In 1850s when settlers returned to the communities of
St. Anthony and Minneapolis from an expedition telling of the Lake Minnetonka area’s abundant resources. Settlements sprouted, and in 1852 Gov. Alexander Ramsey gave the lake its name “Minnetonka,” translated from the Sioux word for “big water.” The area continued to remain vibrant and grow with more people arriving and boosting the economy of the area. The city of Excelsior was foundPAGE 24
It was in 1855 when the first steamboat, The Governor Ramsey, cut through the waters of Lake Minnetonka. The railroad eventually was completed to Wayzata and in 1905 the streetcars rolled into Excelsior. With expanded transit opportunities to Lake Minnetonka, it quickly became a hot destination. With much easier access to the lake, hotels, casinos and amusement parks to name a few, people from all over flocked in. By one account, more than 60 hotels and boarding houses opened and closed around Minnetonka between 1853 and 1964. HISTORY: TO PAGE 26
Lake Minnetonka Community
The Museum of Lake Minnetonka It was 1855, and the first steamboat traversed Lake Minnetonka. The vessel would lead the way in forming a big part of the history of progress around the lake. The small sternwheeler was the first of many boats used on the lake. A fleet of boats eventually cruised the waters of Lake Minnetonka providing transportation to the growing populartion of the lake area. The boats were designed to cut through the waters providing passengers with a very stable ride. The now floating museum is a 70-foot long, 15-foot wide and 62,000-pound steamboat built in 1906. It sank in 1926. In 1980, the boat was raised out of Lake Minnetonka. Restorations on the historic boat began in 1990, and in 1996 the boat took its first public cruise. It was discovered in the summer of 1979, submerged in 60 feet under the water. The cypress hull seemed to be in good condition. A massive project to bring it out of the mud was the last step before restoration began. The 2011 regular operations were
set to begin May 28. Lake cruises and trips between Excelsior and Wayzata occur Saturdays, Sundays, during holidays and special events. The excursions include $5 rides during Excelsior Girls Night Out on Thursday nights during the summer. The “Minnehaha” departs from Wayzata and Excelsior docks. For a detailed schedule, ticket prices and more information: www.steamboatminnehaha.org.
The streetcar system developed in Minneapolis in 1875, and in 1904 plans were in the works to bring them to Lake Minnetonka. The Minnesota Streetcar Museum was created in December 2004 as part of the restructuring of the Minnesota Transportation Museum, which led to the streetcar and steamboat operations being transferred to MSM and the Museum of Lake Minnetonka, respectively, during the winter of 2004-05. Currently, four streetcars are located in Excelsior, which operate Saturdays and Sundays, May to September, and on Thursdays May through October.
Minnesota Streetcar Museum During the time steamboats were gaining popularity on Lake Minnetonka, their land cousins — the streetcars — were also playing a large roll in the transportation of people to and from Lake Minnetonka. The boat schedules were designed to dovetail with the streetcars.
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The streetcar runs between Water Street and Old Excelsior Road in Excelsior. Riders can board the trolley near the intersection of Excelsior Boulevard and Minnetonka Boulevard. They can also board adjacent to the Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Museum, 305 Water St.
Schedule and Information: (952) 922-1096.
History FROM PAGE 24
Things have come and gone around Lake Minnetonka, but what remains still draws thousands each year. Historical preservation has been a big part of the lake area, and many of its attractions showcase the rich history. The Excelsior Commons was platted as public ground after the area was first settled, and remains a popular public gathering place today. The Old Log Theater in Greenwood is one of the oldest running theaters in the country. The Wayzata Depot stands today largely unchanged from
when it was built in 1906 as part of James J. Hill’s Great Northern Railroad.
261 School Ave., Suite 102, Excelsior Information: www.elmhs.org
A historic walking tour of Minnetonka Mills is offered. The Burwell House, former home of Minnetonka Mills Company manager Charles H. Burwell, is still a meeting point for city events, just like other historical treasures around Lake Minnetonka.
The museum serves Deephaven, Excelsior, Greenwood, Shorewood, and Tonka Bay.
Historical Societies Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society 305 Water St., Excelsior Information: (952) 473-3631
Minnetonka Historical Society City of Minnetonka offices 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka Information: (952) 930-3962 Wayzata Historical Society 402 E. Lake St., Wayzata Information: (952) 473-3631 Archives 620 Rice St., Wayzata Information: (952) 473-3631
Archives Old Excelsior Public School Building
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Lake Minnetonka Community
Excelsior Christ Community Church 897 3rd Ave., Excelsior (952) 470-7385 Excelsior United Methodist Church 881 3rd Ave., Excelsior (952) 474-5471 The Congregational Church of Excelsior 471 Third St., Excelsior (952) 474-5919 Mount Calvary Lutheran Church 301 County Road 19, Excelsior (952) 474-8893 Our Savior Lutheran Church and School 23290 Hwy. 7, Excelsior (952) 474-5181 St. John the Baptist 638 Mill St., Excelsior (952) 474-5812 Trinity Episcopal Church of Excelsior 322 Second St., Excelsior (952) 474-5263 Westwood Community Church 3121 Westwood Dr., Excelsior (952) 224-7300
Deephaven Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church of Deephaven 18360 Minnetonka Blvd., Deephaven (952) 473-2362
St. Therese Church of Deephaven 18323 Minnetonka Blvd., Deephaven (952) 473-4422
Minnetonka Episcopal Parish of St. David 13000 St. David’s Road, Minnetonka (952) 935-3336 Good Shepherd Presbyterian 15321 Wayzata Blvd., Minnetonka (952) 835-6358 Faith Presbyterian Church of Minnetonka 12007 Excelsior Blvd., Minnetonka (952) 935-4481 Immaculate Heart of Mary 13505 Excelsior Blvd., Minnetonka (952) 935-1432 Minnetonka Community Church 13215 Minnetonka Drive, Minnetonka (952) 935-8636 Minnetonka United Methodist Church 17611 Lake St. Extension, Minnetonka (952) 474-4114 Northern Oaks Community Church 16625 Excelsior Blvd., Minnetonka (952) 934-6422 West Oaks Community Church 11901 Excelsior Blvd., Minnetonka (952) 938-6406
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Shorewood Minnewashta Church 26710 W. 62nd St., Shorewood (952) 474-8995
Wayzata Calvary Memorial Church 2420 Dunwoody Ave., Wayzata (952) 471-8511 Redeemer Lutheran Church 115 W. Wayzata Blvd., Wayzata (952) 473-1281 St. Bartholomew Catholic Faith Community 630 Wayzata Blvd. E., Wayzata (952) 473-6601 Unitarian Universalist Church of Minnetonka 605 Rice St., Wayzata (952) 473-5900 Wayzata Community Church 125 Wayzata Blvd. W., Wayzata (952) 473-8877
Synagogues Minnetonka Adath Jeshurun Congregation 10500 Hillside Lane West, Minnetonka (952) 545-2424 Sharei Chesed Congregation 1712 Hopkins Cross Rd., Minnetonka (763) 545-8800
Calendar of
Minnetonka: Music in the park 7-8:30 p.m., Tuesdays, June 7 to Aug. 2 Minnetonka Civic Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka. Information: www.eminnetonka.com Farmers’ Market 3-7 p.m., Tuesdays, July 5 to Sept. 27 Minnetonka Civic Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka Information: www.eminnetonka.com Tour de Tonka bike rides 7:30 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 6 Races and rides begin at Minnetonka High School 18301 Highway 7, Minnetonka Information: www.tourdetonka.org
Boo Blas Saturday, Oct. 29 Downtown Wayzata Information: (952) 473-9595
Wayzata
Excelsior
Trolley Kick-Off 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday May 21 Downtown Wayzata Information: wayzatachamber.com
Apple Day 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 10 Downtown Excelsior Information: 952-474-5880
Summer Concert Series 7-8:30 p.m., Wednesdays, July 5, 12, 19 and 26 The Depot, 402 E. Lake St., Wayzata Information: (952) 473-9595
Excelsior Farmers’ Market 2-6 p.m., Thursdays, May through October Mount Calvary Lutheran Church parking lot Information: (952) 474-6461
Tail by the Lake Saturday, June 25 Downtown Wayzata Information: (952) 473-9595
Excelsior Girls Night Out 5-9 p.m. Thursdays, June through September Downtown Excelsior PAGE 28
Information: www.excelsiorgirlsnightout.com Art on the Lake Saturday, June 11 and Sunday, June 12 The Commons of Excelsior 339 Lake St. Information: (952) 474-6461 Excelsior Summer Concerts 7 p.m., Thursdays, June to August The Commons band shell 339 Lake St. Information: www.tonkatrolley.com Lake Minnetonka Fourth of July Celebration Monday, July 4 The Commons of Excelsior 339 Lake St. Information: (952) 474-6461
Lake Minnetonka Community Minnetonka Burwell Open House and Ice Cream Social 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, June 25 Charles H. Burwell House, 13209 E. McGinty Road, Minnetonka Information: www. eminnetonka.com This event along Minnehaha Creek usually draws around 3,000 people who tour the historic house, eat ice cream, browse the antique market and listen to music. Minnetonka Summer Festival 4-10:30 p.m., Saturday, June 25 Minnetonka Civic Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka Information: www. eminnetonka.com As a follow-up to the day’s activities at the Burwell House, music, food, games, fireworks and more round-out the day and evening during the popular Minnetonka Summer Festival at the Minnetonka Civic Center.
outdoor art shows of the season. Experience artist demonstrations and strolling musicians. Taste delicious local cuisine. Enjoy art! Shop the works of more than 100-juried artists, including the unique Garden Art Exhibit showcasing art and ideas for outdoor living Information: wayzataartexperience.com Crazy Days July 15-18 Downtown Wayzata
Wayzata Art Experience Saturday and Sunday May 21-22
James J. Hill Days Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 10-11 Downtown Wayzata Information: www.wayzata chamber.com
Celebrate spring as you shop along the shores of Lake Minnetonka at one of the first
For 35 years the James J. Hill Day festival has been the pride of Wayzata. Dachshund races,
Wayzata
PAGE 29
art, a cart derby, car show and parade always go well with the food and entertainment served during this event that can’t be missed.
Excelsior Apple Day Saturday, Sept. 10 Downtown Excelsior Information: (952) 474-6461 It celebrates what the name says. Dating back 143 years, when orchards were a staple of the local economy. Vendors from around the metro and state line Water Street selling everything from unique clothing, antiques, food and many other products not found anywhere else. Boat and trolley rides, music and other activities also highlight the day.
Lake Minnetonka Community
There are many different libraries in the Lake Minnetonka area for people to enjoy. Here is some information on libraries in the Hennepin County Library system. Minnetonka Library The Minnetonka Library is a small, but busy library located on the corner of Highway 101 and Excelsior Boulevard, at 17524 Excelsior Boulevard in Minnetonka, on a lovely wooded lot adjacent to nearby public trails. The library is within close proximity to several preschools, two local elementary schools, Minnetonka High School and shopping centers at Highways 7 and 101. The generous Friends of the Minnetonka Library provide funding for many programs. The Friends welcome new members; by joining the Friends, you’ll also be a member of the Library Foundation of Hennepin County. Many wonderful volunteers assist with tasks that help staff and keep the building attractive and inviting for all customers. Generations of customers appreciate the excellent customer service provided by Minnetonka Library staff. A grandfather shared with staff how wonderful the Minnetonka library is and how important it has been in his and his family’s lives. He related how he and his wife used to bring their grandchildren to summer programs and what a big part staff has played in helping his granddaughter develop a love of books. He said she is now 13 and has her nose in a book every time he sees her, he said. For more information: 612-5435725 or www.hclib.org
Excelsior Library The Excelsior Library has been located in the Excelsior City Hall complex since 1965, and in an earlier location served south Lake Minnetonka residents since 1922. The Excelsior Library is located at 343 Third Street in Excelsior. People of all ages value the programs and services of this small, but busy library. “Baby Storytime” on Mondays and “Family Storytime” on Wednesdays are popular with families and daycare groups. “Storytime programs are so much more than the good selection of books that are read. It is a wonderful introduction to words and the seed has been planted for a love of books,” said one grandmother who frequents the library. “Children love to hug Brary Beaver, the library’s wooden mascot, on their way back to the children’s area.” Students from three grade schools within walking distance of the library visit several times during the school year as part of their curriculum. The highlight at the end of first grade for students at Excelsior Elementary School is a trip to the library to receive their first library card. Adult customers visit for Internet access, tax forms and access to Hennepin County Library’s collection. Librarian Jane Stein is a wellknown expert in adult reader’s advisory and has lots of local fans. The very active Friends of the Excelsior Library provide funding for programs and library participation in community events such as Apple Day, Arctic Fever and “One Book One Community” programs. New members are welcome. Many wonderful volunteers assist with tasks that help PAGE 30
staff and keep the building attractive and inviting for all customers. For more information: www.hclib.org or 612-543-6350. Wayzata Library In the heart of Wayzata, at the top of the hill overlooking beautiful Lake Minnetonka, the Wayzata Library enjoys the perfect spot for reading every season of the year. Books, magazines, DVDs and CDs for all ages are available for checkout. Comfortable reading areas with breathtaking views of the lake are perfect for enjoying a few minutes or a few hours. The children’s area is rich with learning for readers and pre-readers. Literacy activities keep changing throughout the year. The Wayzata Library Children’s Garden is open during the growing season for exploring the native plants, relaxing on a reading bench, discovering secrets in the wall and under the troll bridge or watching the butterflies. Teens have their own room with computers and space for working on group projects. The Friends of the Wayzata Library, in addition to raising money at their semi-annual book sales, enrich the library with many hours of volunteer work. Friends always welcome new members to help in facilitating programs, shelving books, tending the garden, creating displays and representing the library in the community. The Wayzata Library is located at 620 Rice Street in Wayzata. For more information on the Wayzata Library: 612-543-6150 or www.hclib.org.
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