Escape to a small, quaint and naturally beautiful suburb in Hennepin County, Long Lake. Known for its large namesake lake and outstanding recreational opportunities, in addition to plenty of dining, shopping and entertainment options, you’re sure to have a fun time here. Whether you’re a resident or or just visiting, here are some of the best fun things to do in Long Lake, MN – let’s take a look!
About Long Lake
Originally belonging to the Dakota and Chippewa tribes, Long Lake was first permanently settled in 1855 by a group of Pennsylvanians, the Fleming and Knettles families. They officially proclaimed the land “Cumberland Town”, named after their home county back east. This small initial group of settlers was active, eventually founding a religious center, post office, sawmill, school district, general store and a railroad next to similarly growing suburbs of Minnetonka, Shorewood and Wayzata. Toward the turn of the 20th century, Long Lake officially became known for its increasing fruit production, as the Minnesota Fruit Growers Association officially set-up camp in the city. This group focused on scaling the production of strawberries and raspberries, and it’s since become a local specialty. The town continued to grow through the start of the first world war, with higher implementation of public amenities like libraries, government offices and transportation systems. In the following decades, the town started to slowly see a reduced role of agriculture in the Long Lake economy and an expansion in its tourist industry thanks to its ideal location as a summer destination for Twin Cities residents.
Today, Long Lake remains a popular, affluent suburban destination for all types of residents and visitors, thanks to its gorgeous natural setting, small town charm and friendly neighborhoods.
Fun things to do in Long Lake
With its ideal mix of recreational opportunities, dining, shopping and entertainment venues, Long Lake has a wide variety of things to do – take a look at some of the following recommendations:
Recreational Areas in Long Lake
- Take in the view of Long Lake at Nelson Lakeside Park, where you can watch a shoreline sunset, enjoy swimming at the local beach, or a stroll into downtown for shopping and dining.
- Get away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Lake Minnetonka at the smaller, more private Long Lake Beach. Walk to the nearby Wood-Rill Nature Preserve which contains some of the oldest sugar maple and oak savannah forest in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, and is a great place for a hike year round.
- Check out golfing at three separate courses within very close proximity to Long Lake: Orono, Woodhill and Wayzata Country Clubs.
Dining in Long Lake
- Dine in true lakeside-style at Birch’s on the Lake Brewhouse & Supperclub, an expansive gastropub and brewery specializing in seafood and in-house beers.
- Enjoy a classic tavern menu, tap beers and weekly live music at Red Rooster Restaurant, all in a neighborhood-bar setting.
- Primo Plates & Pours lives up to its name thanks to a menu filled with fine Italian fare, as well as an extensive wine selection – great for a romantic date.
Shopping & Fun things to do in Long Lake
- Take a day trip to The Dumas Apple House, a family-run orchard with many varieties available throughout the summer and autumn seasons.
- Gear West Ski & Run has everything you need to accommodate the active side of life, from bikes to winter gear to athletic apparel and more.
- Partner with the top flight instructors in Long Lake, Inflight Pilot Training and take to the skies. Try a Discovery Flight, where you get to pilot an airplane under the direction of a professional, while soaring thousands of feet above the northwestern suburbs.
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. Whether you’re interested in a Discovery Flight or are ready to sign up for training, we’re here to help. Gain the chance to take flight and experience the lifestyle of a pilot — 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.
