25 Fun things to do in Waconia MN in 2024
No matter what time of year you visit, there are always fun things to do in Waconia, MN. From year-round outdoor activities to family-friendly attractions, this small town has something for everyone. Explore the best of what Waconia has to offer with our guide to the top things to do and places to eat in the area.
What are the best things to do in Waconia MN?
One of the best things to do in Waconia is to visit any of its picturesque parks. City Square Park is a popular location in downtown Waconia for community events such as movies and concerts during the summer.
Another unique experience is visiting Waconia Farm Supply and Animal Feed, where you can interact with llamas and other animals. This family-owned establishment has been a staple for over 50 years.
Waconia has attractions like the Carver County Historical Society with a scavenger hunt and the Egg-Cetera Café, a unique restaurant serving delicious breakfast all day.
Things to do in Waconia Outdoors
If you love the great outdoors, then Waconia won’t disappoint. Island View Golf Club offers a challenging course and fantastic views of Lake Waconia. Carver Park Reserve has a variety of activities, including hiking trails, ball fields, and tennis courts.
Island View Golf Club
Are you a passionate golfer looking for a challenging course? Located in the town of Waconia, this place is a hidden gem. It offers a beautiful golf course with breathtaking views and challenging holes suitable for players of all skill levels.
This is a semi-private golf course with times for the public to tea off. Whether you’re hitting the ball off the tee or trying to sink that winning putt on the green, Island View Golf Club will test your skills and leave you feeling proud of your game.
City Square Park
City Square Park is a popular outdoor destination located in downtown Waconia. The park on Main Street, between Pine and Spruce Streets, has a playground, a picnic shelter, and a gazebo.There are also meandering walking paths throughout the park for visitors to enjoy.
Restroom facilities are available at the park. In the summer, the park has concerts called “Music in the Park” and is busy during local events like Nickle Dickle Day and Holiday in the Park.
Lake Waconia Regional Park
Lake Waconia is the 2nd largest lake in the 7-county metropolitan area and covers 3,200 acres of freshwater. When the weather is nice, you can enjoy several water sports, including jet-skiing, boating, water-skiing, sailboarding, swimming and fishing.
You can watch birds like bald eagles, egrets, and blue herons nesting on Coney Island thanks to the lake’s beautiful environment.
Carver Park Reserve
Carver Park Reserve, where you can hike, bike, bird watching, and enjoy a picnic. Carver Park Reserve is a beautiful natural area with its scenic trails, abundant wildlife, and tranquil picnic spots.
One of the most popular activities at Carver Park Reserve is hiking. There are over 20 miles of trails to explore, ranging from easy strolls through meadows and wooded areas to more challenging routes through hills and valleys.
The park has several miles of paved trails that are perfect for cyclists.
Brook Peterson Community Park
Brook Peterson Community Park is a 40-acre park that has something for everyone. The park has playgrounds for young children, baseball and softball fields, and ice hockey rinks.
There is also a concession stand where visitors can grab a snack or drink. The park has a popular Skate Park for skateboarding and BMX bike riding.
Schroeders Guiding Service
Schroeder’s Guiding Service offers a wide range of fishing experiences that cater to every angler’s preference. With 39 years of guiding experience on Lake Minnetonka and Lake Waconia, the team ensures a memorable fishing trip.
They offer muskie, northern pike, walleye, bass, and pan fish fishing, giving clients various options to choose from. Fishing enthusiasts can trust the Schroeder’s team to provide excellent service and guidance throughout the trip.
What are some family-friendly things to do in Waconia?
Waconia offers plenty of family-friendly activities. For those who love sports, there are tennis courts available at both Waconia High School and Carver Elementary School. You can also go bowling at Waconia Bowling Center.
Historic Andrew Peterson Farm
Andrews Peterson Farm is located east of Waconia in Carver County. The farm offers tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 am and 1 pm.
The farm tour also includes visits to the Scandia Cemetery and the CCHS museum. This farm is a great spot to learn about the local farming culture and the history of Carver County.
Emagine Theater
Emagine Theater is a top-notch cinema experience designed for the ultimate comfort-seeker. With reclining chairs and reserved seating options, moviegoers can sit back and relax while enjoying their favorite films.
The food menu at Emagine offers gourmet snacks that can be paired with a favorite cocktail, beer, or wine. Additionally, valet parking is available for added convenience.
Carver County Fair
This could be one of the best parts about Waconia. The Carver County Fair has all of your favorites of the MN State Fair, but on a scaled down version. You can easily do the midway, see the prize-winning veggies, and meet farm animals.
Plus, they have their own grandstand with events like tractor pulls, demolition derbies and so much more. This is my families favorite fair to attend.
Deardorff Orchards
Deardorff Orchards is a must-visit destination for apple lovers. Located near Lake Waconia, this orchard spans across 120 acres and boasts over 4000 apple trees.
Visitors can enjoy tractor rides around the orchard and pick their own apples like Honeycrisp and Zestar. In addition to apples, Deardorff Orchards also offers honey, pumpkins, and pre-bagged apples for those who prefer convenient shopping. We make a point to go every year for our fresh picked appels.
Aspire Artisan Studios & Folk School
Aspire is a community center in Waconia that offers several programs and activities for all ages. They have a group of skilled artisan instructors teaching everything from blacksmithing to block printing.
Find some unique talents and find artistic abilities you didn’t know you had.
Carlson’s Lovable Llamas
If you’re looking to pet llamas in Waconia, you have to go to Carlson’s Lovable Llamas. On a tour of the farm, you’ll be introduced to these gentle creatures and even have the chance to lead a llama or hug a llama.
For a unique experience, try out yoga with llamas. Don’t miss your chance to get up close and personal with these adorable animals. This is the perfect things to do with kids in Waconia. Make sure to plan ahead and reserve a time at the llama farm.
What are some of the best restaurants in Waconia?
When it comes to food, Waconia has an excellent selection of restaurants to try. Iron Tap has great appetizers and burgers, while Lola’s Lakehouse is known for its delicious Italian food and beautiful views of Lake Waconia.
Hoppers Bar and Grill
At Hopper’s Bar & Grill, you can enjoy award-winning burgers and ice-cold beer. Their giant burgers and wings are sure to satisfy any appetite. Pull tabs, karaoke night, and live music make this spot perfect for a night out with friends.
D’Vincis
D’Vinci’s Restaurant is a lively restaurant located in the heart of Waconia. This restaurant has a great atmosphere that is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner.
The restaurant’s menu is made with the best ingredients that are locally sourced whenever possible.
Iron Tap
Iron Tap Craft Brew and BBQ offers 38 craft beers on tap, as well as craft cocktails and craft food. From appetizers to dinner, their menu features hand-crafted cocktails and a wide selection of craft beer. Make sure to check out their rooftop seating.
Garage Bar & Bowl
Garage Bar & Bowl combines bowling with the ambiance of a sports bar. This modern bowling alley offers league bowling, as well as open bowling and party packages.
They stand out by using local products and ingredients in their menu, offering a creative twist on classic bar food like burgers and wings.
With a full bar and plenty of TVs, Garage Bar & Bowl is the perfect spot to enjoy a fun night out with friends.
Lola’s Lakehouse
Lola’s Lakehouse is a charming lakeside dining destination complete with live music every other Sunday. Located in Waconia, Minnesota, they offer a variety of delicious menu options including flatbread, fresh seafood and walleye.
You can rent a slip at our marina and relax on the lake before enjoying a great meal.
Mocha Monkey
Mocha Monkey is a coffeehouse located in a 100-year-old home that boasts the best in espresso drinks. Alongside a variety of handmade coffee drinks, Mocha Monkey also offers panini sandwiches, fruit smoothies, teas, pizzas and more.
The unique atmosphere is also adorned with handcrafted art.
Egg-Cetera Cafe
Egg-Cetera Cafe is known for their delicious home-style cooking, using only the freshest ingredients to create large portions of family-friendly dishes.
Their breakfast menu is particularly popular, with options that cater to those who are gluten-free or looking for low-fat options. Overall, Egg-Cetera Cafe is the perfect spot for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Don’t forget to check out their other location inside a Hometown Bank.
Where can I find unique artisanal creations in Waconia?
Waconia has many shops and businesses selling handmade artisanal products like handcrafted art, artwork, and clothing.
The Stash of Waconia
The Stash of Waconia is a small boutique located in Minnesota that offers a collection of girly things. The shop specializes in affordable shoes, clothes, and accessories for women of all ages and sizes.
Discover a wide range of fashionable tops and stylish handbags. This boutique is the perfect place to shop for those who want to stay on-trend without breaking the bank.
Trending Upward Thrift Shoppe
Trending Upward Thrift Shoppe is a popular destination for those seeking affordable clothing and household goods.
This shop sells gently used items at a fraction of the cost of new, focusing on sustainability and community.
Yetzer Home Store
Yetzer Home Store sells various furniture products, such as bedroom, dining room, and home office furniture, motion upholstery, leather upholstery, area rugs, and special order furniture.
Their collection also includes accessories like lamps, pictures, and flooring options such as carpets.
Where can I grab a beer in Waconia? Or some wine?
Waconia has a few breweries, like Waconia Brewing Company, where you can find a variety of handmade beers and a comfortable lounge area.
Waconia Brewing Company
Waconia Brewing Company handcrafted beers are made with the best ingredients, and they never compromise on quality.
They have five key flagship beers, but also offer a constant tap rotation of seasonal selections and limited time offerings.
In addition to beer, they also have a warm and family-friendly taproom. They offer beers and seltzers for adults and root beer for children.
There’s popcorn and games for all, making it the perfect destination for a relaxed afternoon with friends and family.
Schram Vineyards Winery and Brewery
Schram Vineyards Winery and Brewery is a working farm winery and tasting room situated in the heart of stunning Minnesota. This popular place by the lake offers a variety of wines and beers that you can enjoy by the glass, in flights, or buy by the bottle.
Visitors can enjoy tasty drinks and get something to eat at the food trucks. Seating is available indoors and outdoors. Additionally, two bocce ball courts make for a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
This is one of my favorite date night locations.
Parley Lake Winery
Parley Lake Winery is a destination that celebrates art and wine. They offer a range of award-winning handcrafted Minnesota wines. During the summer, keep an eye out for their concerts in the vines.
The winery also provides food trucks on-site and snacks, ensuring guests can have a complete culinary experience.
Experience a variety of wines with their tasting flights. They also offer beer and non-alcoholic drinks. Northern Soda and sparkling soda complete the range of refreshments available to guests.
The Winery at Sovereign Estate
The Winery at Sovereign Estate is a beautiful winery located in Waconia, Minnesota, offering an array of experiences for visitors.
Guests can enjoy Guided Wine Tastings that allow them to immerse themselves in the taste and aroma of their wines. This is perfect for group events.
The Patio Bistro is great for enjoying fresh bistro foods with a beautiful view of the lake. Visitors can also reserve the cozy Courtyard Cabanas for an intimate experience.
The winery holds various events all year round, like the Spirit of the Vine Music Festival, Waconia Wine Festival, Grape Stomp Harvest Weekend, Spirit of Winter and Chili & Bonfire Fest.
They also have a great location for parties. We hosted one there and had our own private tasting.
Other questions about Waconia MN
Can you walk around Lake Waconia?
Yes and no. You can walk around Lake Waconia, but there is no official path around the lake. Some of the shoreline is on private land.
To walk the whole lake, you’ll end up on public roads a ways from the lake. Lake Waconia Regional Park has some trails in the works, but it covers a small part of the path.
Does Waconia have a downtown?
Yes, Waconia does have a downtown. It consists of a few blocks of locally owned businesses, restaurants, and shops on the southern part of Lake Waconia. The best place to park is on Main Street between Mapel St N and Elm St N.
The downtown area has a historic feel with buildings dating back to the early 1900s. It serves as a central hub for events, festivals, and community gatherings.
Why I love Waconia so much!
Waconia is a great place to find everything you need, whether you want a special outing or a fun day with the kids.
The town offers year-round activities that enrich the community by providing educational opportunities that encourage students to develop new skills. So, come explore all that Waconia has to offer, and enjoy a slice of small-town charm! MN
