Outdoor Activities and Festivals in Wayzata and Lake Minnetonka from a local

When the weather warms up in Minnesota, Wayzata and Lake Minnetonka become the heartbeat of outdoor adventure and community fun. From scenic lake cruises to lively festivals, this area offers endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, connect with neighbors, and experience everything that makes the west metro so special. 

Whether you’re a long-time resident or considering moving to the area, here’s your guide to the best outdoor activities and festivals around Wayzata and Lake Minnetonka. I offer boat cruises and for sale home tours, when buying as a Lake Minnetonka resident.

Boating and Water Adventures on Lake Minnetonka

Lake Minnetonka is one of Minnesota’s most iconic lakes, spanning over 14,000 acres with endless bays and islands to explore. Popular activities include:

• Boat Rentals & Cruises – A Must-Rent a pontoon, kayak, or paddleboard from local marinas like Wayzata Bay Rentals or enjoy a narrated ride aboard the historic Lady of the Lake.

• Fishing & Water Sports – Anglers love Lake Minnetonka for bass, walleye, and northern pike, while water-skiers and wakeboarders take advantage of the wide bays.

• Dining on the Water – You don't want to miss-Dock-and-dine experiences at lakeside favorites like CōV Wayzata and Maynards in Excelsior make boating a true lifestyle here. Take a boat cruise with dinner at https://www.al-almas.com/

👉 If you’re planning a day on the water, contact me for details 

** Outdoor Activities & Festivals in Wayzata and Lake Minnetonka**

1. Wayzata Art Experience (June 22–23, 2025)

A stunning, two-day lakeside festival featuring over 150 juried artists, live music, food trucks, classic boats, an artisan beer & wine garden, and interactive art for families along Wayzata’s scenic Panoway shoreline. Admission is free.

• Wayzata Art Experience website / organizer (via Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce) Wayzata.com

• Explore Minnesota tourism listing Explore Minnesota

2. James J. Hill Days (September 5–7, 2025)

Kick off school with Wayzata’s largest annual celebration draws 75,000–80,000 visitors with a lively parade, street market, food trucks, carnival, dachshund races, fireworks over Lake Minnetonka, free live music, beer gardens, and more. Kids love the rides and parents love the live music

• Official event site via Wayzata West Metro Chamber James J. Hill DaysExplore Minnesota

3. Dakota Rail Regional Trail-everyday enjoy!

This paved, multi-use trail stretches approximately 28 miles from downtown Wayzata westward, offering phenomenal views of Lake Minnetonka and travels through Orono, Spring Park, Minnetonka Beach, Mound, and beyond. Ideal for biking, hiking, inline skating, running, and dog walking (on leash). Three Rivers has excellent programs and events from full moon walks to how to tap maple trees.

Wayzata is an active, quaint community. Come and explore, stay, walk around, bike the trails, eat at wondeful lakeside restaurants. 

•  Three Rivers Park District official summary Three Rivers Park District

• Wayzata Art Experience 2025

• James J. Hill Days Wayzata

• Dakota Rail Regional Trail Lake Minnetonka

• Wayzata festivals and outdoor activities

• Lake Minnetonka summer events

• biking Minnesota west metro trails

Vicki Peters is a local, top MN realtor residing on Lake Minnetonka and a resident of Wayzata school district for over 20+ years, plus born/raised in Minnesota. 763-443-9084