Excelsior Commons - Image 1
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Excelsior Commons

4.7
·1k reviews·Excelsior, United States

A vibrant lakeside park on Lake Minnetonka, perfect for family fun, summer concerts, and scenic strolls.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Concerts & sunsets

CrowdHigh
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Excelsior Commons - Image 1

Excelsior Commons

Best Time

Summer evenings

Concerts & sunsets

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant lakeside park on Lake Minnetonka, perfect for family fun, summer concerts, and scenic strolls.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Excelsior Commons is such a beautiful area to visit. Great play area for kids and a great area you can play Frisbee, catch, or just hang out."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Parking is $3.50/hour. Arrive early or consider street parking. :parking:

🎶 Concert Vibes

Concerts are popular! Expect crowds but plenty of space. Food trucks available. :musical_note:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Minnetonka Views

Lake Minnetonka Views

Lakeside

Breathtaking lake vistas, perfect for relaxing, picnics, or watching boats.

InstagramReddit
Concerts in the Commons

Concerts in the Commons

Amphitheater

Live music events that draw a crowd for a fun, energetic atmosphere.

Instagram+1
Playground & Beach Area

Playground & Beach Area

Near the lake

A fantastic spot for kids with a playground, beach, and waterfront access.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace Lake Life & Events

Excelsior Commons is your gateway to Lake Minnetonka. Enjoy boat tours, lakeside strolls, and vibrant events like 'Concerts in the Commons.' Plan around these for the best experience. Instagram

Parking & Access

Parking can be tricky, especially during events. Street parking or the small lot near the marina are options, but expect to pay hourly. Reddit Consider walking or biking if possible. Instagram

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Concerts & sunsets
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful lake strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨ “Тишина, которая лечит” ✨ Я много раз бывала в Excelsior Commons на озере Миннетонка, и каждый раз это место открывается по-новому. 🌊 Здесь время замедляется, мысли становятся чище, а душа — спокойнее. Миннесота — земля тысяч озёр, и именно в таких уголках понимаешь: счастье в простом. Вдыхать свежий воздух, слушать плеск воды и чувствовать, что ты на своём месте. 💙 🌿 В моём блоге я делюсь та...
dustnigor
9 likes • 297 views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Parking is $3.50/hour. Arrive early or consider street parking. Reddit :parking:

🎶 Concert Vibes

Concerts are popular! Expect crowds but plenty of space. Food trucks available. Reddit :musical_note:

🧡 GRWM FOR MY SPOOKY SPRINT 5K PART 2 🧡 #grwm #part2 #run #runner #running #journey #race #spookysprint5K #excelsiorcommons
caitlyn.juhl
21 likes • 1.6K views
Girls night in Excelsior last week! Drinks at @maynards_excelsior lakeside with the sunning #lakeminnetonka. It doesn't get better than this. . . . . #girlsnight #maynardswharf #minnesotablogger #minnesotasummer #drinkspiration #lakelife #excelsior #excelsiorcommons #minnesotalife #sunset #OnlyinMN #thisisthelife #girlsnightout #boatingseason #wharf #mntravel
daytripper28
24 likes • 1.1K views

☕ Coffee & Shops

Grab coffee at The Lobby and explore Water St. shops before or after. Instagram :coffee:

🛥️ Boat Tour Fun

Enjoy a boat tour for easy lake access and great views. Reddit :ferry:

Gear Daddies “Little Red Corvette” at Excelsior Concerts in The Commons!
jbfahey
18 likes • 154 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Parking is $3.50/hour. Arrive early or consider street parking. Reddit :parking:

🎶 Concert Vibes

Concerts are popular! Expect crowds but plenty of space. Food trucks available. Reddit :musical_note:

☕ Coffee & Shops

Grab coffee at The Lobby and explore Water St. shops before or after. Instagram :coffee:

🛥️ Boat Tour Fun

Enjoy a boat tour for easy lake access and great views. Reddit :ferry:

🏃‍♀️ Active Pursuits

Great for runs, frisbee, or just hanging out. Reddit :running:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Excelsior Commons for its beautiful lakeside setting and family-friendly amenities, especially the playground and beach. It's a popular spot for events like 'Concerts in the Commons' and offers a relaxing atmosphere for walks and picnics. Parking can be a challenge and comes with an hourly fee.

"Did a lunchtime boat tour and enjoyed getting out on the lake. Easy on and off at the marina. Parking was a little challenging... park on the street or in small lot close by. Would recommend for lake charters."

Topher N

"Very nice park for a quick walk. The lake is beautiful and you can see many boats."

M _

"Excelsior commons is such a beautiful area to visit. Great play area for kids and a great area you can play Frisbee, catch, or just hang out."

myra wang

What People Like

Beautiful lake views
Great playground & beach
Lively summer concerts

What People Dislike

Parking fees & availability

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Excelsior Commons is located in Excelsior, MN, right on Lake Minnetonka. You can drive there, with parking available for an hourly fee. It's also accessible by bike and is a popular spot for those enjoying lake activities. Instagram

While direct public transit routes might be limited, it's a scenic destination that can be reached by car or bike. Check local transit schedules for options that might connect to the Excelsior area. Instagram

Parking is available in a small lot near the marina and along the streets. Be aware that parking costs $3.50 per hour, and it can fill up quickly, especially during events. Reddit

Yes, the marina is adjacent to Excelsior Commons, making it easily accessible for those arriving by boat. It's a popular spot for boat tours and charters. Reddit

Absolutely! The commons area is perfect for walking, with beautiful lake views and access to shops and restaurants along Water Street. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Excelsior Commons is a public park and generally free to enter. However, parking does have an hourly fee. Reddit

Concerts in the Commons are typically free to attend, though there might be options to purchase wristbands for drinks or food from vendors. InstagramReddit

As a public park, Excelsior Commons is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. Specific event hours will vary. Instagram

Information on booking private events or reserving spaces within Excelsior Commons may be available through the local parks department or event organizers. Check official city resources for details.

The playground and beach area within Excelsior Commons are free to use for the public. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy lakeside walks, picnics, playing frisbee, visiting the playground and beach, attending concerts, and exploring nearby shops and restaurants. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, it's very family-friendly with a great playground, beach area, and plenty of open space for kids to play. Reddit

Public restrooms are typically available within the park facilities, especially near the playground and marina areas. Reddit

Absolutely! There are picnic benches available, and the open green spaces are perfect for spreading out a blanket for a picnic. Reddit

Excelsior Commons hosts various events, most notably 'Concerts in the Commons' during the summer, featuring live music. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there aren't permanent restaurants within the commons itself, food trucks are often present during events like 'Concerts in the Commons.' Reddit Nearby Water Street offers numerous dining options. Instagram

Water Street in Excelsior has many dining choices, including Olive's, Coalition, Maynard's, and Layline. Instagram+1

Yes, picnicking is encouraged, so feel free to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in the park. Reddit

Yes, there's a good ice cream stand located right next to the commons, perfect for a treat after enjoying the park or a concert. Reddit

Excelsior Brewing and other bars like Maynard's are located nearby, offering a great spot for drinks after visiting the commons. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The lakeside offers stunning views, especially during sunset. The playground and the concert stage area also provide unique photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The western-facing views over Lake Minnetonka make it a prime location for capturing beautiful sunset shots. Instagram

Yes, you can take personal photos during the concerts. However, professional photography might require special permits. Instagram

The park features some public art pieces that can add an interesting element to your photographs. Reddit

Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon/early evening, offers the best natural light for photography. Sunsets are particularly spectacular. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Excelsior Commons is a fantastic choice for families. The playground and beach area are a major draw, offering hours of fun for children. Reddit You'll find plenty of space for kids to run around, play frisbee, or enjoy a picnic. Reddit Consider packing beach toys and snacks for a perfect day out. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers

For a delightful day trip, Excelsior Commons offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. Start your day with coffee and a stroll along Water Street, then head to the commons for lake views and perhaps a boat tour. InstagramReddit Enjoy lunch at one of the many nearby restaurants before spending the afternoon by the water or at a concert. Instagram+1

🎶 Music Lovers

If you're a fan of live music, plan your visit around the 'Concerts in the Commons' series. Instagram+1 These events are a highlight of the summer, offering a chance to enjoy local bands in a beautiful lakeside setting. Pack a blanket or chairs and soak in the atmosphere. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Lake Minnetonka

Excelsior Commons serves as a fantastic launchpad for experiencing Lake Minnetonka. Visitors can embark on boat tours directly from the adjacent marina, offering a unique perspective of the lake and its surroundings. Reddit Many Reels highlight the beauty of the lake, suggesting it's a must-do for anyone visiting the area. Instagram+1

Beyond boat tours, the lakeside promenade at Excelsior Commons is perfect for leisurely walks, jogging, or simply enjoying the fresh air. The presence of numerous boats often adds to the picturesque scenery, making it a popular spot for relaxation and photography. Reddit The area is also known for its vibrant summer events, including 'Concerts in the Commons,' which transform the park into a lively hub of music and community gathering. Instagram+1

Family Fun at the Commons

Excelsior Commons is a hit with families, largely due to its well-equipped playground and adjacent beach area. Reddit This combination provides ample opportunities for children to play, build sandcastles, and splash in the water, making it an ideal destination for a family outing. The open green spaces are also perfect for games like frisbee or catch, ensuring there's something for every child to enjoy. Reddit

Parents often appreciate the convenience of having these amenities in one accessible location. The park's layout allows for easy supervision while children play. Coupled with nearby dining options and the general pleasant atmosphere of the lakeside, Excelsior Commons offers a stress-free and enjoyable experience for families looking for outdoor recreation. Reddit

Events and Entertainment

The 'Concerts in the Commons' series is a major draw during the summer months, transforming the park into a vibrant venue for live music. Instagram+1 These events are known for their energetic atmosphere, attracting locals and visitors alike. While the concerts themselves are often free, attendees can expect food trucks and vendors offering refreshments, adding to the festive experience. Reddit

Beyond concerts, the commons is a hub for community gatherings and casual recreation. The park's layout is conducive to various activities, from sports games to simply relaxing by the lake. The proximity to Excelsior's charming downtown area, with its shops and eateries, further enhances the appeal, making it a versatile destination for entertainment and leisure. Instagram

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