Excelsior Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in Excelsior, Minnesota with this comprehensive travel guide. Find insider tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.


Introduction to Excelsior

Located in the heart of the Twin Cities metropolitan area, Excelsior is a quaint, historic town in Minnesota. With a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Excelsior is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or a foodie looking for the best local cuisine, Excelsior has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll walk you through the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Excelsior.

List of Places to Visit in Excelsior

Here are some of the top places to visit in Excelsior:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society: Located in the heart of Excelsior, this museum features exhibits and artifacts that celebrate the town’s rich history. Learn about the town’s founding, its growth in the 19th and 20th centuries, and its cultural heritage.
  • The Museum of Lake Minnetonka: Dedicated to the history and culture of Lake Minnetonka, this museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and activities for visitors of all ages.

Natural Attractions of Excelsior: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Minnetonka: With over 14,000 acres of water and over 125 miles of shoreline, Lake Minnetonka is a natural wonder. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and other water sports, or simply take in the stunning views.
  • Excelsior Commons: Situated on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior Commons is a popular park for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park features a beach, picnic areas, a playground, and scenic walking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Excelsior

  • The Luce Line Trail: This 63-mile trail runs from Plymouth to Cosmos, passing through Excelsior. The trail is open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, and offers stunning views of the Minnesota countryside.
  • The Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail: This 15-mile trail runs from Hopkins to Victoria, and passes through Excelsior. The trail offers scenic views of Lake Minnetonka, as well as access to a variety of parks and other recreational activities.

Best Things to Do in Excelsior: Activities and Tours

  • Segway Tour: Take a Segway tour of Excelsior and Lake Minnetonka, and experience the town’s history and stunning natural beauty from a unique perspective.
  • Lake Minnetonka Excursions: Enjoy a variety of boat tours of Lake Minnetonka, including Sunset Cruises, Brunch Cruises, and more.
  • Excelsior Brewing Company: Sample some of Excelsior’s best local beer at this popular brewery, which features a taproom, tours, and events throughout the year.

Week-Long Itinerary for Excelsior

Day 1: Arrive in Excelsior, and relax at Excelsior Commons, enjoying the sunset over the lake.

Day 2: Explore the Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society and Museum of Lake Minnetonka.

Day 3: Take a Segway tour of Excelsior, or go on a boat tour of Lake Minnetonka.

Day 4: Visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, located just a short drive from Excelsior.

Day 5: Enjoy a day of shopping and dining on Water Street, Excelsior’s historic downtown.

Day 6: Spend the day hiking or biking on the Luce Line Trail or the Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail.

Day 7: Depart from Excelsior, feeling refreshed and inspired by your time in this charming Midwest town.

Food and Drink Scene of Excelsior

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Old Log Theater: This historic theater also features a restaurant, which serves up a variety of classic American dishes, including steak, burgers, and more.
  • Patisserie Margo: This charming French bakery serves up an array of sweet and savory treats, including pastries, crepes, and more.

Local Beverages

  • Excelsior Brewing Company: Enjoy a variety of locally brewed beer, as well as tours and events throughout the year.
  • J Carver Distillery: Sample some of Excelsior’s best locally distilled whiskey, gin, and other spirits at this popular distillery.

Where to Stay in Excelsior: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Bird House Inn: This charming bed and breakfast is located in the heart of Excelsior, and features cozy rooms and a delicious breakfast each morning.
  • The Commons Hotel: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and easy access to all of Excelsior’s top attractions.

What to Buy in Excelsior: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Excelsior Bay Books: Purchase a book or two about the history, culture, and natural beauty of Excelsior and Lake Minnetonka.
  • Water Street Antiques: Browse a wide selection of antiques, vintage finds, and other unique treasures.

Local Culture and Customs of Excelsior

Excelsior is a friendly and welcoming town, which prides itself on its rich cultural heritage. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, and take time to learn about the town’s history and culture during their visit.

Best Time to Visit Excelsior

The best time to visit Excelsior is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Excelsior

Do:

  • Do take time to explore Excelsior’s historic downtown, Water Street, and discover its charming shops and restaurants.
  • Do take advantage of the town’s natural beauty and enjoy outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and biking.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash behind when enjoying outdoor activities.
  • Don’t be disrespectful of local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Excelsior

Excelsior is a safe and welcoming town, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. Visitors should take normal precautions to keep themselves and their belongings safe while exploring the town and its attractions.

Health in Excelsior

Excelsior has several hospitals and healthcare facilities for the convenience of visitors, including Ridgeview Medical Center and Park Nicollet Clinic.

Getting to Excelsior: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Excelsior

The closest major airport to Excelsior is Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, located approximately 20 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Excelsior

Greyhound buses operate from the downtown Minneapolis intercity bus station.

Other Options

Renting a car is the easiest and most convenient way to get to Excelsior, as it gives visitors the freedom to explore the town and its attractions at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Excelsior

Walking and biking are popular ways to get around Excelsior, with many of the town’s attractions and amenities located within easy walking or biking distance. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.

Where to Go Next from Excelsior: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Minneapolis/St. Paul: Just a short drive from Excelsior, the Twin Cities offer endless attractions and activities, including shopping, dining, museums, and more.
  • Minnesota Landscape Arboretum: Located just outside Excelsior, the Arboretum is a stunning 1,200-acre garden and natural area, featuring a variety of plants, flowers, and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Excelsior is a charming Midwest town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a quiet weekend getaway, Excelsior has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and come discover this hidden gem for yourself!

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