Tonka Bay MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Tonka Bay, Minnesota.
1. Lake Minnetonka
EXPANSIVE RECREATIONAL LAKE
Lake Minnetonka is the centerpiece of Tonka Bay, offering over 14,000 acres of sparkling water for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. Visitors can enjoy public access points, scenic bays, and a vibrant lakeside community atmosphere. The lake is adored by both locals and tourists seeking a quintessential Minnesotan aquatic experience.
2. Carver Park Reserve
NATURE AND WILDLIFE HAVEN
Carver Park Reserve spans more than 3,700 acres and delights visitors with hiking trails, birdwatching, and serene lakeside views. The park is home to the Lowry Nature Center, where naturalists offer educational programs about local flora and fauna. Families enjoy picnic areas, play spaces, and tranquil paved paths that wind through woodlands and prairies.
3. Dakota Rail Regional Trail
SCENIC CYCLING ROUTE
The Dakota Rail Regional Trail is a 28-mile paved path that meanders along the former Great Northern Railway line, connecting Wayzata to Lester Prairie. Cyclists, runners, and walkers revel in panoramic views of Lake Minnetonka and lush countryside vistas along the way. This popular regional trail offers convenient access points and is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Noerenberg Memorial Gardens
HISTORIC LAKESIDE GARDENS
Noerenberg Memorial Gardens features beautifully manicured flower beds, ornamental trees, and serene walking paths along the shore of Crystal Bay. This historic estate garden is perfect for leisurely strolls, photography, and peaceful reflection. Visitors are treated to unique horticultural displays, especially vibrant during spring and summer blooms.
5. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
BOTANICAL WONDERLAND
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a renowned 1,200-acre public garden featuring 32 specialty gardens and 12 miles of trails. Visitors enjoy themed collections, seasonal events, and the opportunity to learn about plant conservation and landscapes. The arboretum is a year-round destination for families, gardeners, and nature lovers alike.
6. Excelsior Commons Park
LAKEFRONT GATHERING SPOT
Excelsior Commons Park is a lively waterfront park offering sweeping views of Lake Minnetonka, sandy swimming beaches, and public boat docks. The park hosts concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the warmer months. Families enjoy playgrounds, picnic areas, and easy access to charming downtown Excelsior.
7. Gray's Bay Dam Park
RIVER AND LAKE VIEWS
Gray's Bay Dam Park marks the start of Minnehaha Creek and provides excellent vantage points of Lake Minnetonka and the dam. Visitors can enjoy fishing, serene walking paths, and interpretive signage about water flow and local ecology. The park is a peaceful spot for wildlife observation and nature photography.
8. Saint Albans Bay Bridge
PICTURESQUE LAKE CROSSING
Saint Albans Bay Bridge offers striking views of Lake Minnetonka and its surrounding bays, making it a favorite stop for cyclists and walkers on the Dakota Rail Trail. The bridge is a popular spot for sunrise or sunset photography. Its tranquil setting provides a quiet moment for appreciation of the lake's natural beauty.
9. Big Island Nature Park
ISLAND WILDERNESS ESCAPE
Big Island Nature Park is a boat-accessible island featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and forested campsites on Lake Minnetonka. The island's natural environment is ideal for short hikes, wildlife observation, and lakeside relaxation. Its secluded charm attracts those seeking a peaceful retreat from the mainland.
10. Sunny Lake
TRANQUIL LAKESIDE LOOP
Sunny Lake, nestled in Carver Park Reserve, offers a calm and picturesque loop trail perfect for biking and walking. The serene setting is popular for birdwatching and quiet reflection by the water. Its proximity to other park attractions makes it convenient for families and nature lovers.
11. Old Log Theatre
HISTORIC LAKESIDE THEATER
Old Log Theatre, one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the nation, presents a variety of stage productions throughout the year. The theater is set in a charming lakeside environment, drawing audiences for both its performances and its scenic location. Visitors can also enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant, making it a full cultural outing.
12. Wayzata Depot
HISTORIC TRAIN STATION
The Wayzata Depot stands as a beautifully preserved railway station along Lake Minnetonka's north shore. The depot serves as a railroad museum and community event space, filled with historic exhibits. Its lakeside setting and adjacent gardens offer a delightful spot for visitors to explore local history.
13. Gale Woods Farm
WORKING EDUCATIONAL FARM
Gale Woods Farm offers a hands-on experience of sustainable agriculture, inviting guests to meet farm animals, tour gardens, and participate in educational programs. Families and visitors can explore walking trails and learn about farm-to-table practices. The farm's setting on a scenic lake adds to its rustic charm and appeal.
14. Minnehaha Creek Headwaters
NATURAL CREEK SOURCE
Minnehaha Creek Headwaters flows out of Grays Bay into a network of natural and urban environments ultimately leading to Minnehaha Falls. Visitors can witness the birth of this iconic creek, explore walking trails, and enjoy interpretive signs explaining the area's hydrology. The site is especially popular with nature enthusiasts and photographers.
15. Excelsior Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
Excelsior Museum documents the heritage of the Lake Minnetonka region with an array of exhibits, photographs, and artifacts. Housed in a historic building, the museum brings to life the stories of area residents, steamboats, and early resorts. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the unique past of the communities surrounding Tonka Bay.