Welcome to Wayzata
An affluent city along the shores of Lake Minnetonka.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Minnetonka, roughly 11 miles west of Minneapolis, is the luxurious lakeside community of Wayzata. It was established in 1853 by Oscar E. Garrison and A.B. Robinson. The city, named after the Dakota word for “north shore,” expanded after the railroad came to the area. Wayzata is rich in history, has a thriving business district that lines the lakeshore, and is ever-growing. The expanse of parklands and open space give Wayzata a small-town feel, while the continued development of the vibrant downtown allows the city’s reach to expand to neighboring communities. Residents and visitors enjoy specialty boutiques, fine dining, coffee shops, walking paths, and lake living in this vibrant town.
You’ll find a mixture of homes and neighborhoods here, whether it’s something downtown or along the lake. Quaint neighborhoods surround the lake, and Downtown offers luxurious townhomes and proximity to everything you need. The houses on Lake Minnetonka are show-stoppers, towering over the lake in magnificent styles and providing easy access to lake life. No matter your preference, life in Wayzata is sure to please you.
What to Love
- Lake Minnetonka’s plentiful activities
- Numerous restaurants and shopping downtown
- Affluent community
- Where luxury meets opportunity
Local Lifestyle
Residents of Wayzata thrive on the vibrancy of the area, especially the walkable downtown area with restaurants and shopping. Lake Minnetonka offers activities year-round, whether you are boating and swimming in the summer or ice fishing and snowmobiling along the frozen bays in the winter. The quiet neighborhoods outside the lake provide residents with quiet comfort, while those who prefer being in the heart of the city thrive on living downtown or along the gorgeous lake. There are plenty of fun things to do year-round, whether strolling the Panoway on Wayzata Bay, ice fishing, or enjoying community events.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Downtown Wayzata offers residents more than a mile of restaurants and shops, from unique boutiques to fine dining establishments. The
Panoway on Wayzata Bay overlooks the lake and allows ample space for shoppers to stroll.
Judd Frost is dedicated to classic menswear and is one of many high-end boutiques along the way. This custom clothing store offers only the best quality in everything and is guaranteed to have you leaving satisfied.
COV Wayzata is a lovely restaurant along the lake coveted by locals. A steak and seafood stop featuring nautical decor and a light and airy feeling, the high style and relaxing atmosphere appeal to everyone. The vast menu features a fresh, seasonal selection highlighted by local flavors.
Gianni’s Steakhouse is a family-owned fine dining establishment with USDA-certified, aged, center-cut beef, chicken, pork, and fresh seafood. Those in the mood for Italian, enjoy!
Look into
Josefina, the newest restaurant by Daniel del Prado. Enjoy dishes like caviar, oysters, fried scallops, Osso Bucco, and carbonara with a unique twist.
Hotel Landing is an exciting boutique hotel along the lake and the first one built in over 50 years. It is the perfect destination for everything. This luxurious hotel features a bright, open, and airy atmosphere, a fine dining restaurant, a Nordic-inspired spa, and elegant guest rooms.
Things to Do
Whether you’re enjoying lake life, spending your days downtown among the various shops and restaurants, or enjoying the many seasonal events, there’s so much to do in Wayzata.
James J Hill Days is a tradition that brings the community together to celebrate while enjoying family festivities, food, and fun. Another popular festival is the
Wayzata Art Experience, which brings art lovers from all over to celebrate art, music, and fun. It’s held on the shores of Lake Minnetonka and highlights a variety of mediums.
Once the lake freezes, you’ll know it’s soon time for Wayzata’s signature event: The Chilly Open. Inaugurated in 1984, the Open is a frozen golf tournament with three nine-hole courses carved from the lake ice. Each year brings a new theme, and you can count on more to do besides tundra golf. The event typically includes activities like a cook-off and snowkiting.
Other fun community events include the Fourth of July Flying Pancake Breakfast, a festival celebration for everyone, and the Boo Bash Dash, a Halloween race held downtown. Light up the Lake is a festive holiday celebration featuring a parade of lights.
Schools
Residents in this city attend
Wayzata Public Schools, which offers nine elementary schools, three middle schools, and one high school. Students may attend: