Things To Do
Downtown Excelsior
We both grew up spending our summers in Downtown Excelsior, and had our Engagement Shoot here! Stroll down Water Street and browse their boutique shops, then grab a bite at our favorite spot, Lago Tacos (Steak Tacos is Anna's favorite, Gordo loves the Walleye Tacos). Then rent a couple of paddle boards at Wai Nani at the Excelsior Beach to see beautiful Lake Minnetonka. After you've built up your appetite paddling, grab a sweet treat at Lick's (or head down the street to Adele's if you love cookie dough). Then end your evening at Maynard's Wharf Patio, a staple to Downtown Excelsior.
The Winery at Sovereign Estate
A 15-minute drive from the venue, The Winery at Sovereign Estate offers award-winning wine with a beautiful view of their vineyard on Lake Waconia. They have a Patio Bistro with an assortment of sandwiches, pizzas, and boards to munch on. Hours are 12 PM-9 PM Fridays and Saturdays. Make it a day tour and visit neighboring wineries, Parley Lake Winery and Schram Vineyards, a short 10-minute drive from each other.
OMNI Brewery & Taproom - Victoria (Formerly ENKI Brewing)
OMNI Brewing (formerly ENKI Brewing) is a short 5-minute drive from the venue in charming Downtown Victoria. They offer craft beer, handcrafted pizzas, and shareable plates. Plus, they have a fun outdoor patio with games and volleyball in the summer months! Hours are 12 PM-11 PM Fridays and Saturdays.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
One of our first dates we picnicked at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Take the 3-mile loop (you can also walk since it's warm and sunny out!) and set up a nice picnic spot near the Crabapple Blossom Trees.
Watershed Spa
Take the edge off and spend it relaxing at the Watershed Spa Bathhouse. They offer a six-step communal bathing ritual and a full menu of holistic spa services and integrative wellness treatments. They also offer a variety of services including massages, acupuncture, energy work, cupping, and skincare treatments. Fun Fact: Anna works here as an Advanced Practice Esthetician!
Paisley Park
Paisley Park is a place where art, music, fashion, and culture are celebrated, energized, and inspired by the visionary creative spirit of Prince.
Big Stone Mini Golf
A fun way to enjoy the beauty of Minnesota's summers! The gardens display unique sculptures throughout the grounds of rolling hills, organic gardens, life-size games, picnic areas, ponds, and an open pasture that also serves as home to a variety of grazing animals.