The Best Things to Do in Eden Prairie MN

28 Fun Things to do in Eden Prairie MN 2024

Eden Prairie has found the right mix of well-developed parks, great dining, and a city feel. One weekend and you’ll know why the housing market is so competitive there.

Eden Prairie has so many things to do, it’s hard to narrow down the list. But I’m sharing some of my favorite things to do in my old hometown, Eden Prairie.

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The Best Things to do in Eden Prairie

Lake Riley Park Boating

Location: Riley Lake Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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Lake Riley was where Prince built his home in the ’80s and used it as his studio to record and write music. His official residence was on the Chanhassen side of the lake. Looking at the lake you can see why he chose the property.

The main public access is located on the Eden Prairie side. The park has a great boat launch, beach, and playground for the kids. The playground is massive. It rivals Start Lake in the number of things to do there.

Lake Riley Park in Eden Prairie
Lake Riley Park in Eden Prairie

Right down the street from the beach and boating area is the Riley-Jacques Barn. The barn displays the history of farming in Eden Prairie.

The farm was first built by the Geisler-Rhymer family, from 1854-1859. The farm changed hands multiple times as technology changes affected farming in the area.

Today, walk around the grounds and explore the barns and property. Or rent the space for events.

Riley Jacques Barn in Eden Prairie

Round Lake Park Beach and Splash Pad

Location: 16691 Valley View Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55346
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Round Lake Park is a great smaller park for families. But what makes this park so much fun is the Splash Pad. Every summer, families flock to this place to cool off.

They also have a beach, playground, and skate park. The paved path is about a mile long and goes all the way around the park.

Round Lake is also where the city throws it’s 4th of July celebration, and the town’s Schooner Days carnival is held. It really is a fun place to hang out during the summer. It’s one of the best places for fun things to do in Eden Prairie.

Round Lake Park in Eden Prairie
Round Lake Park in Eden Prairie

Staring Lake Park Amphitheater

Location: 14800 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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Staring Lake Park is where anyone goes to have a good time in Eden Prairie. It has some of the best features in one park. A paved walking path around the lake.

Dog Park, Frisbee Golf, Ampitheater with performances running all summer long, giant playground, and an outdoor center. That’s just the summer run down.

My favorite event is the Eden Prairie Player’s free performances! Last summer we watched the Adams Family and in the past, I’ve seen things like Cinderella, Fiddler on the Roof and more! Check out their schedule to find out when they are playing next or look at the signs around town.

Staring Lake Bandshell
Staring Lake Bandshell
Staring Lake Playground for fun things to do in Eden Prairie
Staring Lake Playground

Staring Lake Sledding Hill

Location: 14800 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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When the snow falls, there is an epic sledding hill at Staring Lake. You can get some serious speed here. Just don’t go when it’s icy. TRUST ME!

They also have cross-country ski trails and an ice-skating rink with their warming house. Whenever we wanted to go to the park when I was little, Starting Lake was where I would beg my parents to take us. It is truly epic.

The Staring Lake Sledding Hill is 700 feet long. Seriously crazy ride. Check out what it’s like to go down by clicking here.

Staring Lake Park Sledding Hill in Eden Prairie

Stargazing at the Staring Lake Observatory

Location: 13765 Staring Lake Pkwy, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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In addition to Staring Lakes Outdoor Center, they also have an Observatory out on the lake. The Observatory has one of the largest telescopes in the country.

A 16” Commercial Mead telescope that uses GPS tracking. Once a month they offer classes through the Community Education program.

Eden Prairie has some city light pollution, but nothing beats being by the water and staring at the stars.

Another great town to check out nearby is Excelsior. They are a lake lover’s dream! Check it out by clicking here.

Staring Lake Observatory
Staring Lake Observatory in Eden Prairie

Santa’s North Pole Experience at the Cummins House

Location: 13600 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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If you have kids, you’ll want to get a reservation at Santa’s North Pole Experience as soon as possible. This is a truly unique experience that beats any mall Santa. It all takes place inside the Historic Cummins House.

Visit with Santa’s reindeer out front of the house, then warm-up inside. Kids color as they wait for their time slot with Santa if they get there a little early. When it’s their time, they go into a special waiting room, to get the picture ready.

When it’s your time, go inside Santa’s private room and meet with the big man themselves. Kids have plenty of time to talk without the pressure of a line of kids waiting or other distractions at the mall.

Santa’s brother does all the photography, and you can pick up your photos on the way out.

It was a memorable experience. Make sure to get reservations early, because it books up fast.

Santa's Workshop in Eden Prairie
Cummings Grill House and Santa’s Workshop

Staring Lake Off-Leash Dog Park

Location: 13600 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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This is one of the best dog parks I’ve come across. You can start by taking a walk at Staring Lake trails near Cummins House, where you’ll find the Staring Lake Off-Leash Dog Park. Eden Prairie has another dog park, but it’s nothing compared to this.

The best part about Staring Lakes Dog Park is that it has a wooded hiking trail too. I love this option because it gives the dogs more room to roam. There is also a traditional grassy area if you don’t want to walk through the woods.

Staring Lake Dog Park
Off Leash Dog Park

Green Acres Event Center Barn

Location: 14150 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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One of the most interesting things along Pioneer Trail is the Green Acres Event Center. Most recognizable by a large number of cow statues out front.

Each year, they seem to find a new grazing spot. The Historic Barn was transformed into an event center a few years back, hosting parties throughout the year.

Green Acres Event Center in Eden Prairie
Green Acres Event Center

Watch Planes at Flying Cloud Airport

Location: Victor Ln, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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The Flying Cloud Airport is home to some great soccer fields. Behind the fields is the airplane viewing area. Similar to the one outside MSP Airport, they have a sheltered area, with seating to sit back and watch the planes.

You can see small planes coming here at different times of the day, depending on the wind direction.

This is a fun, relaxed way to watch the airplanes come in. From personal experience, I think you can get a better view of the planes. But if you are looking for more about the MSP Airport, check out the 28 Things to do in Bloomington Minnesota.

Flying Cloud Airport Viewing Area
Flying Cloud Airport Viewing Area Seating

Fly a Kite at the Soccer Fields

Location: 15219 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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Another thing locals love doing at the soccer fields is flying a kite. It’s one of my favorite best places for fun things to do in Eden Prairie. The best place is on the lower field because it’s used less.

There is nothing but wide-open skies and if there is a small breeze, your kites will fly straight up into the air. The last time I was there, we had eagles coming over to check out what was in their airspace.

My favorite kite for kids to fly is the Box Kite, pictures below. It’s the one the eagle was checking out. Pick one up today!
or
For more of a challenge, try out a Stunt Kite. They are a little trickier but so much fun!

Flying a Kite as the Flying Cloud Soccer Fields
Flying Kites at the Flying Cloud Soccer Fields
Soccer Field in Eden Prairie
Soccer Field in Eden Prairie

Wings of the North Museum

The Wings of the North Air Museum in MN is a great little museum in Eden Prairie. The Museum found a new hangar to showcase their museum, with full size aircraft on display.

They are open 11AM-3PM Saturday and Sunday. Cost is $5.00 for children 7-17 years old. and $10 for Adults. One child free with an adult admission.

The Wings of the North also hosts an AirExpo each summer. This gives people the opportunity to see a few of these planes in action as well as several ground displays.

MN hosts some amazing airshows. Check out the list of shows happening this year!

Hike one of Eden Prairie’s Amazing Nature Trails

Location: All corners of Eden Prairie
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Eden Prairie has some of the best nature trails. What’s so fascinating about them all is that they are so diverse. There are 5 in all corners of Eden Prairie.

Hiking along them will make you forget you are in the city. If you like hiking and being outdoors, you need to check out these fun best places for fun things to do in Eden Prairie.

Click here for a recap of all the nature trails in Eden Prairie!

Purgatory Creek Hiking Trail
Lower Purgatory Creek Hiking Trail

Fredrick-Miller Spring

Location: 9995 Spring Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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Residents have been making their way over to the Fredrick-Miller Spring for generations. They have records of some of the first European Settlers making use of the water source.

The city of Eden Prairie acquired the property and made some improvements to it over the years, but little has changed.

Water is constantly flowing as it is piped up from underground. Yes, you can get great tap water from most faucets, but when you can get fresh water from the ground, why not fill up a few jugs?

The natural spring is at 9995 Spring Road in Eden Prairie.

Fredrick-Miller Spring in Eden Prairie
Spring Water

There is another fresh spring a few short minutes away at the trailhead for the Richard T Anderson hiking trail.

Richard T Anderson Spring
Spring outside the Richard T Anderson Conservation Area

Visit a Movie Location at Eden Prairie Center

Location: 8251 Flying Cloud Dr., Eden Prairie, MN 55344
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The Eden Prairie Center holds a special place in movie history. Looking at it, you would never know. Cult Classics like Kevin Smiths’ Mall Rats and Drop Dead Gorgeous were both filmed there.

Shortly after the movies were filmed, the Eden Prairie Mall went through a major renovation.

You’ll need to take a local to find out where your favorite scenes were filmed because it looks nothing the same. Kevin Smith even revised the mall a few years ago and commented on how much everything changed.

The elevator scene and escalator still remain the same. But I always giggle when I ride the elevator.

Today the mall has a variety of different stores that attract visitors year-round, including places like Von Maur.

They also have a multi-level Eden Prairie Scheels Sporting Goods Store complete with a Ferris Wheel and 16,000-gallon aquarium inside. This is one of those fun things to do in Eden Prairie you need to do!

Eden Prairie Mall
Eden Prairie Store
Inside Sheels in Eden Prairie MN
Inside Scheels Store

Paul Bunyan and Babe Statue in Eden Prairie

Location: 8301 Flying Cloud Dr., Eden Prairie, MN 55344
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There are Paul Bunyan Stateus hidden all over the state. Most are colossal roadside attractions. But there is a lesser-known one inside the Scheels Store in the Eden Prairie Shopping Center!

Stop in and get a picture, ride on the Ferris Wheel, or stock up on your camping gear! They also have the Fuzziwig’s Candy Store inside. The whole family will have fun shopping!

Scheels is home to one of the 6 Paul Bunyan Status in MN. Click here to find them all!

Scheels Paul Bunyan in Eden Prairie

Viking Ship at the Old Vikings Training Center

Location: 9520 Viking Dr, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
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Before the Vikings decided to move to Eagan, their training center was in Eden Prairie. Outside they had a giant Viking ship.

It was a popular spot for Vikings fans to get pictures taken outside. Life Time Sport has taken over the facility, but the Viking ship still remains.

The ship can be seen off Highway 494 if you are stuck in traffic or on the frontage road. Really, the only spot to stop safely is in the Life Times Parking lot. I’m not sure how much they want visitors doing that.

Viking Ship in Eden Prairie
Viking Ship

Walk Around Purgatory Creek Park

Location: 13001 Technology Dr., Eden Prairie, MN 55344
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Purgatory Creek Park is a playground for grownups. In the middle of downtown Eden Prairie, you wouldn’t expect to find a park as beautiful as this.

Purgatory Creek, located in Eden Prairie, is a popular spot for events like 5K races due to its paved paths and open gazebo.

The trails are used for walking, hiking, and bike riding. A small walking bridge goes over the water where locals love to fish.

Its green landscape and freshwater make it a perfect retreat. It’s also home to Veterans Memorial Park. This is one of the top best places for fun things to do in Eden Prairie.

Purgatory Creek Walking Paths
Purgatory Creek Park
Veterans Memorial Park
Purgatory Creek Park

Let your kids unleash their inner Ninja

Location: 7000 Washington Ave S, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
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Drop in for some open gym time at Conquer Ninja. This is a great place for your kids to climb walls, jump across rings, and even do the warped wall.

For those looking to do more, sign up for some of their teams. These experienced coaches will train your kids to do all the obstacles.

Go Disc Golfing at Bryant Lake Regional Park

Location: 6800 Rowland Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
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Bryant Lake Regional Park is on 170 acres of beautiful rolling hills, woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands. Enjoy activities such as disc golf on the 18-hole course and swimming in the sand-bottomed Bryant Lake.

There is also an off-leash dog park there, paddling, playground equipment, fishing and so much more! Bring some lunch and relax in their picnic area. It’s one of the best places to visit in the Twin Cities area.

Round Lake Skate and Bike Park

Location: 16691 Valley View Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55346
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Hidden inside Round Lake Park is a skate park. The Skate Plaza has concrete ramps, Hubba and grinds ledges, a china bank, stairs, a handrail, a flat bar, and more.

Skateboarders, in-line skates, and BMX bikes are all welcome. The Bike Park is inside the hokey rink and includes nine features, including ramps, beams, and rumble strips.

Eden Prairie Archery Range

Location: 13600 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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Check out the Eden Prairie Archery Range for all your archery needs, whether you’re practicing your skills or preparing for hunting season like Katniss Everdeen.

Located behind the Cummins-Phipps-Grill House, the range has 12 shooting stations.

With targets 10, 20, 30, and 40-yard distances. It’s free to use whenever it’s not being used by Parks and Recreation programs.

MN River Bluffs Bike Trail

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The Minnesota River Bluffs Bike Trail is an aggregate trail that follows the old railroad route from Hopkins to Chaska.

The trail is 9 miles long. What I love about the trail is how much of Eden Prairie you’ll see. Official trailhead parking is in either Hopkins or Chanhassen.

Get a Legendary Burger at Lions Tap

Location: 16180 Flying Cloud Dr., Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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Eden Prairie attracts some of the best restaurants. One of the oldest in the City is Lions Tap. The popular bar has been serving burgers since 1958.

Lions Tap has found a recipe for success and hasn’t altered its ways. It only serves, burgers, fries, and onion rings.

They do one thing, and they do it right. Lions Tap consistently wins awards for best burgers. You won’t find chicken, veggie burgers, or even the ‘impossible best burger on their menu.

There definitely isn’t a Juicy Lucy either. I wouldn’t want it any other way. One bite of their burgers, and you’ll be hooked. I highly recommend stopping by. This is my favorite restaurant and fun best place for fun things to do in Eden Prairie.

Lions Tap Burgers in Eden Prairie
Lions Tap Burgers

Get some coffee at a Historic Inn

Location: 8107 Eden Prairie Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
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The shop is in the historian Smith Douglas House. Built in 1877 with red brick in a Greek Revival style. The home has 5 bedrooms and served as a place for an overnight stop for train passengers from the nearby Mpls./St. Louis Railway. It is a breathtaking property. 

Today, it has been transformed into a charming coffee shop. Smith Coffee is a great spot to get a handcrafted brew, or snack, or stop in for Wednesday Night Pizza!

Smith Coffee and Cafe

Fat Pants Brewing

Location: 8335 Crystal View Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
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Eden Prairie’s first taproom. They have a variety of beers, including an IPA, pale ale, and brown ale. The brewery also offers food such as pizza and flatbread.

What I love most about Fat Pants Brewing is its stance on the environment. All the equipment they use to brew is 100% compostable or reusable dishware,

Flying Dutchman Spirits

Location: 6801 Flying Cloud Dr., Eden Prairie, MN 55344
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Looking for a great cocktail? You need to try Flying Dutchman Spirits. They create artisan alcohol inspired by flavors around the world.

Whenever possible, they source ingredients locally, as their NAS-DROV-VIA VODKA is made with corn from Minnesota.

Schedule a brewery tour to see everything in action or visit their cocktail room to try some out for yourself. They are open Wednesday – Saturday.

Flying Dutchman

Tavern 4 & 5

Location: 16396 Wagner Way, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
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Looking for some good tots, or wood-fire pizza? Tavern 4 & 5 is a fun play on its location. But inside they make amazing classic pub fare.

My favorites are the wood-fired margarita pizza, the Boursin Juicy Lucy, and the Chester’s Turkey Avocado Burger. They also have a brunch and breakfast menu!

Woody’s Grille

Location: 6399 City W Pkwy, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
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On the border of Eden Prairie, there is a great dining place called Woody’s Shaky Oak Grill. They have mouthwatering pasta burgers and sandwiches. They recently added a breakfast menu too!

What are your favorite things to do in Eden Prairie?

There are so many things to do in Eden Prairie you could spend a whole weekend there. If you need to spend the night, my favorite places are the Fairfield Inn & Suites and Hyatt Place. Of all the different things to do, the Parks are where I would start because they stand out more than anything else.

Book Your Stay Today in Eden Prairie by Clicking Here!

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