Welcome to Orono
A peaceful community on the north shore of Lake Minnetonka.
The city of Orono is west of Minneapolis in Hennepin County along the north shores of Lake Minnetonka. Originally part of Excelsior township, it became a township on April 9, 1889, and was named after Major George Brackett, who came to the area from Orono, Maine, in 1880. Orono is home to several parks, the Orono Public Golf Course – founded in 1924 and the first public course with grass greens in the state – and various retail establishments.
Residential areas of Orono are vast and include homes that are on Lake Minnetonka or offer stunning views. These exclusive neighborhoods offer some of the most exceptional properties in the area and sit on large wooded or semi-wooded lots that provide a rural feeling to this charming city. If you are in the market for a gorgeous property in a private neighborhood surrounded by stunning views and a tight-knit community atmosphere, this is the perfect place.
What to Love
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A friendly community of neighbors
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An abundance of outdoor activities
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Gorgeous homes on large, wooded lots
Local Lifestyle
Residents thrive in this one-of-a-kind Minnesota locale. There is something special about this community that offers a charming small-town feel. Located roughly 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, the town provides a break from the hustle and bustle of the larger Twin Cities suburbs. The beautiful scenic trails that wind through the picturesque scenery, plentiful parks, wildlife, gorgeous homes, exceptional schools, and friendly atmosphere make this a wonderful place to call home.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Residents of Orono are offered an exceptional amount of retail options a short distance away. Whether you head toward the neighboring cities of Long Lake, Wayzata, Spring Park, Navar, Plymouth, or Downtown Minneapolis are plenty of options.
The Narrows Saloon is an eclectic spot in Navar that offers locals and visitors a chance to enjoy exceptional food, craft beer, and live music. Each day of the week provides new food and entertainment specials, so head to their website for everything you need to know.
The Lake Room is a premier dining establishment with refreshing flavors and fresh ingredients. The blissful ambiance allows you to forget everything else while you’re there.
Lord Fletcher’s is the perfect blend of an upscale steakhouse and sports bar with live entertainment. This cozy neighborhood destination offers savory food that is seasonally fresh, has lake views, and exceptional service.
Minnetonka Center for Arts is a go-to spot for family entertainment. They strive to make visual arts available to people of all ages, interests, and abilities. The center focuses on the value of art making and appreciation, through all mediums, with the desire to show how art transforms our lives.
Things to Do
Orono offers various things to do for its residents and visitors. Whether you’re enjoying the miles of trails that wind through the picturesque beauty like the
Luce Line Trailhead, spending the day on the waters of Lake Minnetonka, or enjoying recreational activities like horseback riding, boating, and fishing, you’ll find something to enjoy.
The
Orono Public Golf Course, located near the north shore of the lake, was founded in 1924 and was the first public course in the state with grass greens. This challenging nine-hole course offers gorgeous scenery and varying topography with elevated greens, mature trees, and a wooded perimeter. Another option is the
Spring Hill Golf Club, a beautiful 18-hole course in Wayzata.
Noerenberg Memorial Gardens sits along the shores of Crystal Bay and is well-known for its tranquility and beauty. It is widely known as one of the finest formal gardens in the state and includes a blend of perennials, annuals, trees, shrubs, ornamental trees, and azaleas. It is open for tours and makes the perfect backdrop for weddings and photo shoots.
You can also become a member of the
Wayzata Country Club and have access to exclusive amenities and features. This private, member-owned club is a unique place where families come together. Amenities include golf, a pool, racquet sports, dining options, and a venue.
Schools
Orono residents attend the
Orono Public School District, offering an elementary, intermediate, middle, and high school. Students may attend: