Wayzata

 

The arcadian, small-town feel of Wayzata is balanced by its close proximity to the dazzling urban pulse of Minneapolis. Located due west of the city, this lakeside village is a trove of gorgeous scenery and beautiful residential neighborhoods. Wayzata’s trendy and historic Downtown area is a must-see for all visitors to the county.

 

Historically, Wayzata is known as a sacred place of importance to its first Native American tribes, including the Dakota. After the Saint Paul and Pacific Railroad extended its tracks to the town, Wayzata quickly became a tourist destination for its calming lake waters and cheerful demeanor.

 

As would be expected of a radiant waterfront community, the village of Wayzata is positively brimming with exceptional residential real estate and lovely neighborhoods. The town is among the wealthiest zip codes in the entire state, a fact that’s emphasized by the plenitude of multimillion-dollar estates. A mixture of new-build homes and historic properties creates a well-blended aesthetic within the town, enhancing the innate aesthetic appeal.

 

 

Life in Wayzata is all about enjoying the area’s natural amenities and embracing a healthful, community-oriented lifestyle. Boutique shopping along the glistening shore, enjoying a picnic while watching sailboats float on by, taking in a show at the local community theater — the residents of Wayzata have no limits on the ways they can enjoy their days in and around town. It’s a place where progress is always happening, evidenced by the city’s recent Panoway initiative to further invigorate Wayzata’s shoreline.

 

Thanks to its status as a tourism hotspot, Wayzata is decked out with a multitude of commercial amenities, including dozens of hip boutiques and top-notch restaurants. Pressed along the sparkling coast of Lake Minnetonka, the village’s Downtown — also known as The Promenade — houses quaint, luxury retailers like Shop 44 North, Highcroft, and Fashion Avenue. Those with a sophisticated palate will be enthralled by the epicurean delights of 6Smith Restaurant, which pairs the best of artisan meat and seafood dishes with a rustic-chic ambiance. The low-key exterior of Sakana is deceptively simple, and inside diners have their pick of premier Asian fusion cuisine.

 

Gianni’s Steakhouse might be a fine dining establishment, but those of all ages can enjoy the sumptuous American fare found on the menu here. CŌV melds Midwestern comfort with the upscale appeal of the East Coast for an environment and menu that’s entirely unique. Part market, cafe, and coffee and wine bar, The Grocer’s Table is a one-stop-shop for foodies looking to satiate a diverse appetite.

 

Summer days in Wayzata are often spent either on the coast of Lake Minnetonka or in its waters, and residents love engaging in a variety of sports and outdoor recreational activities. Other parks in the area offer additional opportunities for enjoying nature, and among them are standout locations including Big Woods Preserve Park, Klapprich Park, Minnehaha Creek Headwaters Park, and Libbs Lake Beach Park.

 

With its vibrant community spirit, Wayzata works hard to maintain a steady stream of village activities for its residents. James J. Hill Days is perhaps Lake Minnetonka’s favorite celebration, and this timeless weekend event is replete with fun for all ages. The festival has been running since 1975, and features everything from food vendors and an open-air street market to live performances, fireworks, and special competitions.

 

The Wayzata Art Experience is a two-day homage to the village’s artist community and includes live music, incredible food, free sailboat rides, and of course, tons of fine art displays and sales. In the frozen wintry months, the Light Up the Lake celebration starts off the holiday season for residents with Santa visits, wagon rides, reindeer, Christmas music, and hot cocoa.

 

The Wayzata Public School District is a top ranked school district in the state serving grades PK & K-12.

 

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