Best Things to Do in Victoria, Minnesota in 2026: Outdoor Adventures Await
Visit Victoria, MN for outdoor activities and a touch of history. With its nickname “City of Lakes and Parks,” it is full of beautiful green spaces.
Victoria, in Carver County, is 20 miles southwest of Minneapolis and St. Paul, making it a great place for a day trip or weekend escape. The town feels like just a blip on highway 5, but if you decide to stop like I did, you’ll find so many fun things to do.
Here are some of the best things to do in Victoria, MN.
Lowry Nature Center
The Lowry Nature Center is one of the hidden gems of Victoria, MN. The center has displays about the region’s natural history, live animals, and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
Visitors can explore hiking trails, go birdwatching, or attend one of the center’s many programs and events.
I really enjoy cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and visiting the maple syrup cooking process when I visit. They also have some outdoor birds on display.
Grimm Farm Historic Site
The Grimm Farm Historic Site is a Minnesota museum that displays the history of farming and shows what the town used to be like.
Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail
This scenic trail spans approximately 15 miles and connects Victoria with other nearby communities. It follows the former railroad corridor, offering a smooth and well-maintained pathway for cyclists.
The trail winds through beautiful landscapes, including wooded areas, wetlands, and glimpses of Lake Minnetonka.
My daughter and I took this route to Excelsior. It’s flat and easy for beginners.
Monarch Mountain Bike Trail
The Monarch Trail in Victoria is a perfect destination for mountain bikers. This trail offers an exhilarating mix of challenging terrain, exciting twists, and turns.
Riders can navigate through scenic landscapes, including wooded areas and open fields. It’s the perfect spot to test your skills, feel the adrenaline rush. They have easy trails for beginners and advanced courses too!
Pro Tip: During the summer, mountain bike teams from the community use the space on weekdays. It might be a little busier than you were planning, so try to make it out during the day, or on weekends.
The expert track is truly challenging. It has some extreme jumps and other features. Luckily, you can bypass most of them. It took my son and I by surprise on the trail.
Concerts in the Park
Victoria Concerts in the Park is a fun summer series of outdoor music performances at Charlson Thun Community Bandstand. It offers a fantastic opportunity for the community to gather, relax, and enjoy live music in a picturesque park setting.
Talented local bands and musicians take the stage, entertaining the audience with a wide range of musical genres. Visitors can bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic baskets while soaking up the tunes and savoring the warm summer evenings.
Victoria Burrow
Victoria Burrow is a fantastic place to eat and have fun! Their mouthwatering menu features a diverse range of delicious dishes, satisfying all taste buds. Stop in for Axe Throwing, Mini Golf, Darts, Classic Arcade and so much more!
The Noble Lion
The Noble Lion is a casual restaurant that brings upscale gastro pub flavors to the table, all within an inviting bistro setting.
The restaurant is inspired by the founder’s European heritage, and it captures tradition in its decor and name.
The Social Ice Cream Parlor
It’s a wonderful destination to satisfy your sweet tooth. The Social Ice Cream Parlor has a delicious variety of flavors and toppings for their ice cream treats.
The friendly service, charming atmosphere, and scrumptious ice cream. Enjoy a delightful treat while sitting outside, taking in the serene view of the lake.
Victoria Farmers Market
Victoria’s Farmers Market is an absolute treasure. Every weekend, this vibrant market comes alive with a colorful array of fruits, vegetables, and homemade goodies.
From farm-fresh eggs to artisanal bread and handmade crafts, there’s something for everyone.
Antiques Worthwhile
Antiques Worthwhile in Victoria, MN, is a total treasure trove for antique enthusiasts and casual browsers alike.
This lovely shop offers a diverse range of vintage items, including furniture and knick-knacks that evoke a sense of nostalgia. With its friendly staff and cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to find nostalgic treasures.
Big Stone Mini Golf
Big Stone Mini Golf in MN is a blend of art and recreation. This artist-inspired mini golf course enthralls visitors with its whimsical sculptures and imaginative holes.
While exploring the greenery, you can also visit a lovely petting zoo filled with adorable animals to enhance your experience.
Schram Vineyards Winery and Brewery
Schram Vineyards Winery and Brewery also hosts live music events, which are accompanied by a glass of wine or beer. Both venues are great for people who love music and want to have a good time. While technically holding a Waconia address, it’s so close, you got to check it out.
Relaxing at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a beautiful botanical garden that features more than 1,200 acres of gardens, woods, and prairies.
Located just outside Victoria, visitors can explore trails, go birdwatching, or attend one of the many events and programs that the arboretum hosts, such as plant sales, concerts, and art exhibits.
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.
