Shakopee is a quiet suburb in Minnesota, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of things to do – from wide-open recreational areas to a variety of entertainment and dining options, as well as impressive entertainment. Whether you live in Shakopee or are just in town for a while, here are a few ways to keep yourself entertained – let’s get started.
About Shakopee
From its roots as a small trading post to growing river town to the thriving suburb it is today, Shakopee has had an interesting history. Named after local Dakota leader, Chief Shakpay II, the town slowly transitioned from Native American land into a pioneer settlement in the mid 1800s. In the year 1860, the first steam-engine train access opened in the town, marking the beginning of a future as a thriving trade post.
Thanks to its location along the Minnesota River, the town grew to become one of the most well-known towns outside of the Twin Cities that today is home to 40,000 residents. In recent years, several big-name companies like Amazon and Shutterfly have set-up shop in this tight-knit community, and local improvements have upped things like recreational amenities, public transportation and purchasable land.
Things to Do in Shakopee
There is a lot to see and do in Shakopee, MN – take a look at the following dining, recreation, shopping and other fun ways to spend time in this beautiful town:
Dining in Shakopee
- McCoy’s Copper Pint: With rooftop seating, a friendly staff and an eclectic menu, you don’t need much else.
- Mr. Pig Stuff: Check out this family-owned restaurant serving up classic BBQ lunch and dinner, all within a comfortable, down-to-earth setting.
- Dangerfield’s Restaurant: This high-end restaurant is well-known for its American fare, including prime rib, burgers and other carnivorous tastes. Almost as good as their food is the view overlooking the Minnesota River and Memorial Park.
Sports & Recreation in Shakopee
- Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve: Known for its birdwatching, cross-country ski trails horseback riding and a dog park, this outdoor area has a unique offering of active things to do in Shakopee.
- Cleary Lake Regional Park: This park offers plenty for the recreational enthusiast – from public-access golfing to camping to swimming to hiking and much more.
Shops in Shakopee
- Shakopee Town Square Mall: If you’re looking for an authentic movie-going experience, the on-site cineplex offers a small-town, nostalgic experience. Other side-stores include a dollar store, vintage video game store, coffee shop and fitness center.
- Crossroads of Shakopee: This shopping complex includes a tobacco shop, liquor store, Cub Foods, Wells Fargo and Papa Murphy’s, as well as the closest gas station to Canterbury Park.
Entertainment in Shakopee
- Mystic Lake Casino: Hit the slots at one of Minnesota’s largest Native American-owned casinos, owned and operated by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community. Games include bingo, video roulette and live-dealer blackjack, along with on-site dining, drinking, shows, special events and a hotel.
- See a Horse Race at Canterbury Park: Minnesota’s most impressive horse-racing track is located in Eden Prairie, with events year-round. Not only do they offer horse racing, they have a casino on-site and host other entertainment like golf tournaments, concerts and more.
- Take a Discovery Flight at Flying Cloud Airport: At Flying Cloud Airport, you can take an introductory course through the airport’s premier pilot training company, Inflight. This experience gives you the chance to ride in one of our airplanes, while actually taking the controls yourself. Not only is this a great way to find out whether you want to pursue a more extensive flight training program, you’ll gain a memory you won’t soon forget.
Get in touch with Inflight Pilot Training to find out more. Our team of certified flight instructors can put you on the correct path toward obtaining a pilot license. Gain the power to take flight and travel how you wish — all it takes is a quick call or note to our team to get started. For additional information on Inflight training programs, contact us today or call (952) 698-3000.
