Lake Minnetonka in the Fall… ahhh, is there anything better than the sites, smells and breathtaking colors this changing season offers? Don’t get us wrong, every season on the Lake is spectacular, but there’s a bit of magic when it comes to autumn on Lake Minnetonka. The colorful leaves, the fresh crisp air– it’s one of our favorite seasons and there’s so much to do. There are of course the classic fall fun activities like apple picking at the local orchards and carving pumpkins, but here are a few other ideas on how you can escape to the Lake, #ExperienceWayzata and soak in Wayzata’s small-town charm this season!
#1 TAKE A SCENIC DRIVE
The fall foliage is simply stunning. Go for a drive around Shoreline Drive (15) to Shadywood Rd (19) – Along the route, swing by the tranquil Noerenberg Gardens or stop by Minnetonka Center for the Arts to view their latest exhibits. It’s not an official scenic byway, but it ought to be!
#2 TRY OUT THE NEWLY INSPIRED FALL MENUS
- Wayzata is pretty much foodie capital of the Midwest! There are some amazing restaurants to try and many are changing out their menus. Try the new Autumn Cobb seasonal salad from The Grocer’s Table or if you’re really hungry, try the #InstaFamous Fat Pants Friday, at 6Smith – it’s only 3,000 calories!
#3 CHECK OUT THE LOCAL MUSIC SCENE
- City of Wayzata Sundays – Only one more outdoor concert remains, October 10. Click > for details
- Birch’s on the Lake live music and special performances. Click > for details
- Acoustic Open Mic Nights at Excelsior Brewing – Every Tuesday | 6-9 pm. Click > for details
- Ninetwentyfive hosts Live Music Thursdays – Click > for details
#4 BIKE THE TRAILS
You have not one, but TWO beautiful trails to choose from!
#5 A COLD BEER OR SMOKED WHISKEY IS CALLING YOUR NAME
Swing by for a brew at one of these craft beer taprooms or a fall inspired whiskey at J. Carver’s cocktail lounge!
- Luce Line Brewing
- Excelsior Brewing
- Birch’s on the Lake
- J. Carver Distillery > If you have a free afternoon or evening, and love a good cocktail. Wander out to J. Carver Distillery. Pro Tip: Just ask for Gina! You can thank us later.
#6 GET YOUR FALL DECORATING DONE
Grab your pumpkins and mums before they get picked over! Otten Brothers Garden Center’s greenhouse is bursting with fresh fall colors! There’s still plenty of time to get your containers fall ready. Don’t have time to plant them yourself? Otten has a nice selection of beautiful custom pots ready to grab and go.
#7 GET ON THE LAKE
There are several public cruises you can still take advantage of!
- Al & Almas
- Paradise Charter Cruises
- Float – The “Uber” of the Lake!
#8 VISIT THE GARDEN TRAIN
The Historic Wayzata Depot doubles as the the Wayzata Historical Society Museum and is the perfect outing for a train enthusiast of any age. Don’t miss the darling Garden railroad display that runs Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays from Noon – 4 pm.
#9 SNAP A SELFIE AT ONE OF OUR MURALS
Shop Wayzata this Fall. Click Here to view the many wonderful stores around town. While strolling Lake Street, visit Wuollets for a fresh donut, grab a pumpkin spice latte from Penny’s, and snap a pic in front of the #LoveLocal Mural and Stalk & Spade’s colorful mural!
#10 GET YOUR COSTUME READY FOR THE BOO BASH DASH
Join in the Halloween fun at the annual Wayzata Boo Bash Dash, a spooktacular race in downtown Wayzata. Run or walk a timed 10k, 5k, 1 mile and fun run with friends and family. Costumes encouraged! Enjoy pre and post-race festivities, like the Pumpkin Derby, at The Great Lawn at The Promenade. Click > for More Information and to Register
Share your fall adventures with us at #ExperienceWayzata and tag @WayzataChamber!
