23 Fantastic Things to do in Chanhassen MN
Chanhassen made national news the day Prince died. There is a reason he chose Chanhassen to live. It’s a quiet community away from the excitement of Minneapolis. It has some pristine lakes and open spaces to play, perfect to spend a weekend in fishing, playing, and seeing the sights. Here are some of the best things to do in Chanhassen.
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Things to do in Chanhassen MN
Paisley Park
When Prince Rodger Nelson died, his family opened their doors to his fans. Inside the gates, you’ll see how the legend lived his life. No cameras or phones are allowed on the tour. They’ll give you a protective case to store it while you take your tour. Bring a flash drive, if you want a picture of yourself near his famed purple piano. In order to get through the gates, you’ll need to have a ticket purchased in advance.
Visitors looking to get a glimpse of the home don’t need to take a tour. There is no parking around Paisley Park. You’ll need to park at Lake Ann Park across the street and walk under the tunnel leading to his property. In the tunnel, fans have left their own artwork and memorabilia on the fence.
Prince Mural
After Prince’s death, a New Zealand named Graham Hoete, wanted to pay tribute to the legend in his hometown. Soon after Prince’s passing, Mr. Hoete flew into Prince’s hometown and created a beautiful tribute to him on the side of the Chanhassen Cinema. It brightens up the town. Find out more about everything Prince in Chanhassen at Visiting Paisley Park and the Prince Mural.
Chanhassen Dinner Theatre
The Chanhassen Dinner Theatre has been offering some of the best entertainment in the Twin Cities for over 30 years. Fun fact, Amy Adams even performed at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre. During the year, they feature big shows like Mamma Mia! Tickets can be purchased for Dinner and a Show or just the Show!
Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret
Inside the Chanhassen Dinner Theater is the Stevie Rays’ Comedy Cabaret happening on Friday and Saturday Nights. Steve Rays Comedy Cabaret is the perfect place to laugh all night long. The live comedy special with drinks and more is always a good time. The comedians always have new material and the audience can expect a good laugh whenever they step on stage.
Cars and Caves at the Auto Plex
Once a month Spring through Fall, people can walk into the Chanhassen AutoPlex and be treated to an amazing Car Show. The AutoPlex is where car enthusiasts go when they have outgrown their garage at home. Most people spend just as much time upgrading and designing their garages as they’ve spent on their cars themselves.
Exotic, classic, and collector car owners to drive in and show their cars. Shows are held o the last Saturday of the month from April through September from 8:00 am-noon. They are the ultimate man caves. Get there early because parking fills up fast.
Watch the Weather Balloon at the National Weather Center
Twice a day, every day the National Weather Service releases 500 weather balloons simultaneously at all their locations across the country. The weather balloons transmit data back to the National Weather Service with information like wind speed, temperatures and so much more.
In Chanhassen, you can see this at 6 am or 6 pm at the National Weather Service off of Audubon Road. Or just look into the sky in the direction of the doppler at 6 pm and watch it float by. The weather balloon that is released in Chanhassen usually lands somewhere in Northern Wisconsin.
Lake Ann Park
Lake Ann Park is the premier park in Chanhassen. They have a small beach, multiple playgrounds for kids, and a fishing pier. They rent Paddleboards, Paddle Boats, Canoes, and kayaks for visitors to enjoy the lake. A snack stand is available in the summertime. When I’m looking for things to do in Chanhassen, it’s usually the place I start.
Lake Susan Hills Park
A favorite park in the area is Lake Susan hills. With its large pavilion and playground, families spend hours there enjoying the amenities. Just down from the park is the lake views, with a fishing dock. Take some time to explore the trails. Or catch a little league game in their ball fields.
Bluff Creek Golf Course
Bluff Creek Golf Course is a public course inside Chanhassen. Offering 18 holes and a dynamic pricing structure to help you get the best rates on non-peak times. The course is good for beginners because it doesn’t offer a lot in the way of obstacles. They have special deals for golfing with children and a driving range.
Rice Marsh Lake Park
Rice Mark Lake Park trail is on the border of Chanhassen in Eden Prairie. This is generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 28 min to complete. This trail is great for road biking, trail running, and walking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. On the Eden Prairie side of the loop is a picnic area, tennis courts, and more.
If you enjoy dirt trail hiking, check out these great hikes in Eden Prairie!
Bandimere Community Disc Golf
This is a challenging 9-hole course located around Bandimere Community Park. The course features a practice basket and 9 holes spread out over a variety of landscapes including hills, woods, and open fields. There are no fees for using the course and play is at your leisure.
Stock and Barrel
If you want to let off a little steam, Stock and Barrel is just where to go for a little fun. This indoor shooting range has 14 lanes, each 25 yards long. If you don’t have a weapon or never have shot before, they will take care of you. They have a large selection of weapons to rent along with all the safety gear and targets. You are also welcome to bring your own. On your first time there, a range master will be there to go over the safety rules.
If you are not ready for the real thing, they also have a virtual range that can be rented out for groups. Stock and Barrel also offers classes for conceal and carry and advanced techniques for shooting. Visit during the week or first thing in the morning on the weekends to ensure a lane. It fills up fast.
The Temple of ECK
Normally I would not call a religious temple a ‘Must See Attraction’ but you’ll understand why in a second. Driving down Hwy 5, you can see the pyramid shining in the distance. It would be a disservice to ignore its unique presence in the community. The temple is the original home for the religious organization Eckankar.
The members of the Temple of Eck believe the Soul’s whole purpose for being in this world is to find divine love. The recognizable pyramid roof according to ECK Master Harold Klemp, symbolizes mankind’s spiritual journey up the plateaus of life. If you like unique architecture, keep your eyes peeled for it.
Lake Minnewashta Park
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park borders Chanhassen and Excelsior. I’ve actually seen both cities claiming it as their own, so for that reason, I’m adding it to the Chanhassen list. In winter, they have great sledding hills, ice fishing, and more. In summer they have tons of hiking opportunities, lake access, a beach, and a beautiful dog park.
Trunk Highway 5 Regional Trail
This is a great new multi-use trail added to Chanhassen. Following along much of highway five but without the highway feel. The trial is great for walkers, runners, inline skaters, and of course bikers. The crown jewel of the trail is the Arboretum Section with the wooden bridge that stretches over the wetland.
If you haven’t been to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum you need to check it out. Officially in Chaska, you can find all the details about it below. MN Landscape Arboretum’s | Amazing Spaces Places and Escapes
Farmers Market
Get some fresh veggies at the local farmers’ market. The market is held every Saturday during the summer. They have a good selection of fresh veggies to choose from. During the early season, pick up your garden plants there, or buy some local crafts. Or stop by one of the great fresh-made bread and other treats available!
Golf Zone
Golf Zone in Chanhassen is a year round practice and put-put location. They have a driving range and everything else you need to make sure your game is in shape for the season. Inside kids will enjoy playing put put with the family. The course is nicely landscaped and maintained.
Love mini golf? Make sure you check out some of the other great courses around the Cities.
24 Best Mini Golf Courses in Minnesota
Where to Eat in Chanhassen
Axels
Axels is a local restaurant with only a few other locations in the Twin Cities. They serve up classic American foods, like char-grilled steaks, seafood and more. This fine-dining restaurant brings in people from neighboring cities. You may need a reservation to get into Axels on peak times.
Jungle Kitchen
Jungle Kitchen is where you go for the best Southeast Asian cuisine. They incorporate Cambodia, Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese flavors in their dishes. I highly recommend their orange chicken. It is the best in Minnesota, and they deliver if you are staying in a hotel!
Cafe Thyme
Café Thyme is the newest addition to Chanhassen. They offer fresh wholesome ingredients for all sourced locally. Their menu is diverse with things like Parmesan Thyme Scones, Chicken curry, and Wild Rice Tukey Burger.
Made from Scratch Bakery
If you are looking for a sweet treat, you need to head to Made from Scratch Bakery. They specialize in cakes, cookies, and other treats. They even have gluten-free treats But my favorite thing to get there is the Cinnamon Stacks and their Donuts. It’s not a traditional fried donut. Instead, it’s got a decedent moist center packed with flavor.
Tequila Butcher
A recent addition to Chanhassen is the Tequila Butcher. Serving up flavors from Mexico with a blend of barbecue. They have some amazing tacos, ribs, and cornbread that you’ll keep all to ourself. Check them out!
Chanhassen Brewing Company
Looking for a fun night? You gotta head over to the Chanhassen Brewing Company. They have an amazing atmosphere with food trucks, patio games, and more. Not to mention fresh-brewed drinks!
Where to Stay in Chanhassen
AmericanInn is the most centrally located hotel in the middle of a bustling Chanhassen. You’ll be able to get to everything staying here. There is also a Holiday Inn Express & Suites is a few miles down the road but with how small Chanhassen it’s not a big deal.
Book your trip today by clicking here!
Ready for a Weekend in Chanhassen?
Chanhassen is a fun community to visit. It has the small-town charm but is close enough to Minneapolis you don’t feel isolated. You could easily spend a weekend exploring different things to do during your weekend in Chanhassen.
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